Caring For Your German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a typically healthy breed that can live an average of 12 to 16 years. It is unlikely that a German Shepherd will have any major health problems if they are well bred. However, like all pets German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health conditions. Some German Shepherd health conditions that can occur include Canine Hip Dysphasic or CHD, which is a developmental problem of the skeleton in which the femur doesn't sit correctly in the hip socket. Von Willebrand's Disease is another common German Shepherd health problem in which the dog's blood is unable to form clots. A German Shepherd can also develop skin allergies if they do not receive proper care and regular baths.

When caring for your German Shepherd you need to make sure you feed them a balanced diet. For a long happy life they need fresh food such as turkey, chicken and beef. Although some vegetables, rice and eggs need to be added to the mix for a balanced diet.

By feeding a good and healthy diet, brushing the teeth as often as possible, regular grooming and providing plenty of exercise and attention you can make sure you keep your German Shepherd in excellent health. In order to spot any common German Shepherd health conditions before they become serious it is a good idea to perform a weekly home health exam. This can also help you to easily detect any changes that can occur due to injury, disease or dog related emergencies because you will be aware of your dog's body.

Taking your dog to the veterinarian on a regular basis is the best way to care for your German Shepherd. All vaccinations should be current and you should have a regular physical and health exam done. It is best to choose a veterinarian that is familiar with the health problems specific to a German Shepherd and can deal with any specific hereditary disease of the breed.

Maintaining good German Shepherd health relies greatly on diet. An adult German Shepherd can eat at least forty pounds of dry food a month, although this amount can change for a dog with a higher metabolism or a dog with an increased activity level. For example, a younger dog that is more active will require more fuel in the form of food than an older dog or one that is more inactive. Most owners choose to feed a high quality commercial food and then supplement it two to three times a week with a little bit of meat. Again the amount of food you feed depends on the dog's activity level but most will take two cups of food a day and you should take away any uneaten portions after thirty minutes.

You want a food that will be high in protein so it should focus on lamb, fish or chicken rather than wheat, rice or corn. Meat based foods will benefit your German Shepherd in the long run even though they are more expensive. It is also best to avoid feeding your dog anything that has additives if possible.

The Jan Ryan has spent time research the best ways to keep your German Shepherd healthy and happy. While there are many aspects to German Shepherd care the most important is diet. Finding the best German Shepherd diet is the key to keeping your dog healthy and happy.