As with all Breeds the German Shepherd can also have medical problems.
Achalasia (Megaesophagus)
Achalasia is a common inherited disorder of the esophagus. . It usually is first noticeable when a puppy begins to eat solid food. Instead of the food going down the esophagus and into the stomach, the esophagus balloons out instead of contracting, and the pup regurgitates. He usually will immediately attempt to eat the food again and send it back down, only to have most of it come back up again Affected puppies may develop inhalation pneumonia as a side effect of achalasia. If you think your puppy has this problem see a Vet. Talk with your Vet and Breeder to find out what your options are. Here is a website http://www.gdhfa.org/Megaesophagus.htm
PERIANAL FISTULAS - WHAT ARE THEY?
Perianal Fistulas (PFs) are abnormal openings around the dog's anus. This is a deadly killer disease.
Here's a list of things to look for that could indicate PFs.
Early symptoms include scooting butt, licking butt, pain and or constipation passing stool, bloody stool, diarrhea and a very putrid smell (like when anal glands are expressed). PFs begin from the inside out so they have been there awhile if you see pinholes or slits around the anal opening. Sometimes, as in my PF dog Teddy's case, his anal gland sacs ruptured and revealed PFs. REMEMBER - PFs can travel up the inside of the dog's tail (if it has a tail) and down the back legs. This is not something to mess around with!! PFs are being seen more in German Shepherds but can occur in ANY dog breed or mixed breed so be alert to the symptoms! Contact your vet!!! Here is a website that can help you!
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/1672/
Bloat or Gastric
Dilatation
GASTRIC DILATATION-VOLVULUS
This is a fatal disease unless recognized and treated early.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is an acute, life threatening disorder that is a medical and surgical emergency. Early recognition and treatment are essential for a successful outcome. Gastric dilatation refers to distension of the stomach, usually with swallowed air. Gastric dilatation may or may not be complicated by volvulus. GDV occurs when the stomach rotates on its long axis, resulting in complete gastric outflow obstruction. Concurrent obstruction of the gastro-esophageal junction (beginning of the stomach where it attaches to the esophagus) prevents relief of fluid and gas accumulation by vomiting or belching. Massive gastric distension impairs blood flow through the veins of the abdomen causing shock and toxicity. The intestines are affected causing the body to become acidoic and predisposes the body to a coagulation disorder in which the body is unable to clot blood properly. The spleen is often affected and it swells causing more toxicity. The stomach wall due to loss of blood supply may also die.
CAUSE:
The cause of GDV is unknown.
Deep- chested dogs are more commonly affected.
Overeating, exercise immediately after or before eating may predispose to GDV. Drinking large amounts of water after eating.
SIGNS:
Acute onsets with abdominal distension, which will feel, like a drum.
Nonproductive retching and belching
Salivating, restlessness, and respiratory distress are also observed.
GDV is a true emergency. If you know or even suspect your dog has bloat, immediately call your veterinarian or emergency service. Do not attempt home treatment.
Do take the time to call ahead.; while you are transporting the dog, the hospital staff can prepare for your arrival. Do not insist on accompanying your dog to the treatment area. Well-meaning owners are an impediment to efficient care. Someone will be out to answer your questions as soon as possible, but for now, have faith in you veterinarian and wait.
Here is a link that you can go to and read up on Bloat/Torsion
http://www.gdhfa.org/Bloat-TheMotherofAllEmergencies.htm
http://www.canismajor.com/dog/bloat.html#Intro
Here are links to other health problems.
Canine Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome
