The German Shepherd is an amazing dog with tons of excellent qualities. Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, German Shepherds have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. If you’re a proud German Shepherd owner or are considering welcoming one into your family, understanding their life expectancy is key to providing the best possible care. So, how long do German Shepherds typically live, and what factors influence their lifespan? Let’s dive in!
Decoding the German Shepherd Life Span
The average lifespan of a German Shepherd typically falls between 9 and 13 years. However, like any living being, this number is not set in stone. Several factors can influence how long your German Shepherd will grace your life with their presence.
- Genetics: Just like humans, genetics play a significant role in a dog’s overall health and longevity.
- Lifestyle: An active and stimulating lifestyle contributes to a happier and healthier life.
- Diet: Nutrition is a cornerstone of health. A balanced diet can have a profound impact on your German Shepherd’s well-being.
Major Health Concerns That Can Impact Life Expectancy
Unfortunately, German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan. Being aware of these potential problems can help you take preventive measures and seek timely treatment.
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This condition can cause pain and arthritis.
- Degenerative Myelopathy: This progressive neurological disorder affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness and paralysis in the hind legs.
- Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): EPI is a degenerative disease of the pancreas.
- Von Willebrand Disease: This inherited bleeding disorder can lead to prolonged or excessive bleeding, even from minor injuries.
- Degenerative Spinal Stenosis: 45% of police working dogs were affected by degenerative spinal stenosis.
Top 5 Tips to Extend Your German Shepherd’s Life
Want to give your German Shepherd the best chance at a long and happy life? Here are five essential tips to incorporate into your dog care routine:
- Maintain a Lean Body Condition: Studies have demonstrated that keeping your German Shepherd lean can increase their life expectancy by 18-24 months. Avoid overfeeding and ensure they receive the appropriate amount of food daily.
- Feed a High-Quality Diet: Choose a dog food that is low-carb with a protein range of 18%-22%.
- Provide Regular Exercise: German Shepherds need at least two hours of exercise each day. This can include walks, off-leash play, training sessions, and other activities to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
- Prioritize Preventative Care: Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial for early detection and management of potential health problems.
- Address any unusual scents: An unusually bad scent could be a sign of inadequate grooming, a skin infection, or dirty bedding.
- Active Adult German Shepherd: 1,740 and 2,100 calories per day.
- Inactive Senior German Shepherd: 1,272 and 1,540 calories per day.
- These caloric intakes are based on a 60-90 lb German Shepherd. Calories will vary for the different stages of a German Shepherd puppy.
The Power of Diet and Nutrition
What you feed your German Shepherd has a direct impact on their health and longevity. Here’s what to keep in mind when it comes to diet and nutrition:
- Choose High-Quality Food: Opt for dog food made with real, whole-food ingredients.
- Avoid Fillers and Additives: Steer clear of foods loaded with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- Consider a Raw Diet: Some owners have reported improvements in their dog’s health and well-being after switching to a raw food diet.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
German Shepherds are intelligent, energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Without enough activity, they can become bored, destructive, and prone to behavioral problems.
- Daily Walks: Aim for at least two long walks per day to help your German Shepherd burn energy and explore their surroundings.
- Playtime: Engage in interactive games like fetch, frisbee, and tug-of-war to provide both physical and mental stimulation.
- Training: Obedience training, agility, and other dog sports are excellent ways to challenge your German Shepherd’s mind and strengthen your bond.
- Puzzle Toys: Keep your dog entertained with puzzle toys that dispense treats or require them to solve problems to access rewards.
Routine Vet Visits and Preventative Care
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining your German Shepherd’s health and detecting any potential problems early on. Your vet can perform screenings for common health conditions, administer vaccinations, and provide guidance on nutrition and preventative care.
- Annual Check-ups: Schedule a comprehensive check-up with your vet at least once a year, or more frequently if your dog has any underlying health concerns.
- Vaccinations: Keep your German Shepherd up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations to protect them from infectious diseases.
- Parasite Prevention: Use year-round parasite prevention to protect your dog from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other internal and external parasites.
- Dental Care: Brush your German Shepherd’s teeth regularly and schedule professional dental cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Time Together
While the average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 9-13 years, you can take proactive steps to help your furry companion live a longer, healthier, and happier life. By providing a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, regular veterinary care, and lots of love and attention, you can maximize your time together and create lasting memories with your beloved German Shepherd.