Common Dog Health Problems

Dog Health Issues

Be aware of common dog health problems. Your dog's health is a priority.

As soon as you bring home your new German Shepherd, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

It is important to establish a relationship with a vet that you trust. Your GSD will need regular checkups and a series of vaccinations to ensure proper health. Work together with your vet to help your pup avoid common dog health problems.

If you received your dog from a breeder, you should have documentation on the first round of puppy shots. Discuss with your vet a proper puppy immunizations schedule as over-vaccinating can also be detrimental.

Common Dog Health Problems for German Shepherd Health

In addition to routine vaccinations and regular check-ups, there are other dog health issues you should be aware of.

• canine bloat
  Tips for preventing canine bloat
  
• canine degenerative myelopathy
  Noel's story of degenerative myelopathy
• bone cancer in dogs
• canine coronavirus
• canine heart worms
• canine kennel cough
• canine lyme disease
• canine parvovirus
• dog acl
• dog lump
• dog distemper
  
• dog allergies
• dog warts
• dog grooming bathing
• flea bites
  
• hip dysplasia in German Shepherds
  
• leptospirosis in dogs
  
• mange
• pancreatic insufficiency
• panosteitis
• rabies
  
• spay/neuter
  
• ticks
  
• vaccinations
  

Have a Question for the Vet?

If you have a non-emergency situation, you can use the form to ask the Vet a question. You will normally have an answer within a few hours.

For a nominal fee, this may save you a costly trip to the vet.

Of course, if you suspect your dog has a bloated stomach, or another medical emergency which needs immediate attention, do not hesitate to rush to the vet.

Dog First Aid

You can save your dog's life with Dog First Aid 101.

Learn how to prevent, prepare for and treat injuries, illnesses, and poisonings before something unbearable happens to your canine companion.

Don't wait.

It's much harder to learn a new skill in the heat of the moment. Should the unthinkable happen, you will know what to do.

Pet Insurance

You might consider getting pet insurance for your pooch. Unfortunately, German Shepherds are susceptible to a number of different conditions and diseases. Make sure your GSD is protected should unexpected medical bills arise, due to an illness or accident.

Be sure to compare pet insurance plans to find the one that is best for your situation. This page focuses on US based pet insurance companies.

If you are looking outside the US:
Read all about the best and worst pet dog insurance companies online!

You Are What You Eat

This holds true as much for dogs as it does for humans. Nutrition is important for optimum German Shepherd health.

The quality of food that you provide will have a strong impact on the well being of your dog. Skimping here will make your dog much more susceptible to common dog health problems, including preventable diseases, such as cancer and diabetes.

The chances of getting these and other lifestyle diseases will be greatly diminished if you feed natural pet food.

Do NOT feed your dog commercial pet food. Poor nutrition will inevitably result in a sick dog. Instead, choose holistic dog food made from human grade ingredients, such as Innova Pet Food or Wellness Pet Food.

Dog Supplements

German Shepherds are notorious for joint and hip issues. Protect your GSD with a high quality supplement containing glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM. Nutri-Vet Hip & Joint Plus contains everything you need to keep your dog's joints healthy.

Take good care of your dog and you will both be rewarded with many happy years together.

The information and products recommended by german-shepherd-lore.com are not intended to take the place of expert veterinarian care. Please consult with your vet and ask about using a natural and alternative approach for the healthcare and treatment of your pet. Find a holistic vet.