Strong, intelligent, and endlessly loyal, German Shepherds are more than just iconic they’re beloved companions, hardworking partners, and family protectors. But behind their impressive stature and sharp instincts, this breed is also prone to a number of health challenges.

In this article Nexus-Pets takes a closer look at the most common health issues German Shepherds face and what you can do to keep your dog thriving.

Major Genetic and Degenerative Disorders

German Shepherds, like many large and active breeds, are prone to several inherited and age-related health conditions that can affect their mobility and quality of life. Understanding these disorders is key to early detection, effective treatment, and improving long-term outcomes.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is one of the most well-known genetic issues affecting German Shepherds, with an estimated 20% of the breed experiencing some degree of this condition. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the socket, leading to joint instability and eventual degeneration.

• Common symptoms include limping, reluctance to rise, stiffness after rest, and signs of pain during exercise or climbing stairs.
• Diagnosis typically involves physical exams and X-rays to assess the structure of the hip joint.
• Treatment options range from weight management and anti-inflammatory medications to physical therapy and, in severe cases, corrective surgery such as a total hip replacement.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is another joint disorder frequently seen in German Shepherds. Like hip dysplasia, it involves abnormal development—in this case, of the elbow joint—causing uneven weight distribution and leading to cartilage wear and osteoarthritis.

• Symptoms often mirror those of hip dysplasia and may include forelimb lameness, pain during movement, and a stiff gait.
• Management focuses on reducing discomfort and slowing joint damage through a combination of weight control, joint supplements, physiotherapy, and, when necessary, surgical intervention.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive neurological disease that affects the spinal cord, commonly emerging in older German Shepherds. It is comparable to ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in humans.

• Early warning signs include weakness in the hind limbs, unsteady walking, dragging of the back paws, and trouble standing up.
• There is currently no cure for DM, but supportive treatments—such as physical therapy, hydrotherapy, and mobility aids—can help maintain comfort and prolong mobility for as long as possible.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

IVDD involves the degeneration or herniation of spinal discs, leading to pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Though more common in smaller breeds, German Shepherds are also susceptible, particularly as they age.

• Symptoms can vary from mild back pain and reluctance to jump to severe nerve damage and paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the disc issue.
• Treatment may include rest, pain management, physical therapy, and, in serious cases, surgical correction to remove or stabilize the affected disc.

Autoimmune and Immune-Mediated Conditions

German Shepherds are genetically predisposed to certain autoimmune and immune-mediated diseases—conditions where the dog’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. These disorders can be chronic and often require long-term management to prevent complications and preserve quality of life.

Pannus (Chronic Superficial Keratitis)

Pannus is a progressive, immune-mediated eye condition that causes inflammation of the cornea. If left untreated, it can lead to scarring, pigmentation, and eventual blindness. German Shepherds are particularly prone to this disorder, especially those living in areas with high ultraviolet (UV) exposure.

• Symptoms may include a cloudy appearance in the eyes, excessive tearing, redness, or a visible film across the cornea.
• Management involves minimizing UV exposure—often by limiting outdoor time during peak sunlight hours or using protective dog goggles—as well as long-term treatment with topical corticosteroids or immunosuppressive eye drops.
• While pannus cannot be cured, early diagnosis and consistent treatment can preserve a dog’s vision and greatly improve comfort.

Perianal Fistulas (Anal Furunculosis)

Perianal fistulas are another painful and serious immune-mediated condition commonly seen in German Shepherds. This disorder causes deep, inflamed, and draining lesions around the anus, leading to significant discomfort and, if untreated, secondary infections.

• Clinical signs include straining to defecate, excessive licking of the anal area, foul odor, and visible open sores or fistulas.
• Veterinary treatment is essential, and management may involve immunosuppressive medications, specialized diets to reduce inflammation, pain control, and—in some cases—surgical removal of affected tissue.
• Early intervention can help control flare-ups and prevent complications, though lifelong monitoring is often needed.

Common Allergies

Environmental Allergens

German Shepherds often react to substances in their surroundings such as pollen, grasses, dust mites, and molds. These allergens can trigger atopic dermatitis, causing symptoms like intense itching, redness, skin inflammation, hair loss, and recurrent ear infections. The allergic reaction may be seasonal or persist year-round, depending on the specific triggers and exposure levels.

Food Allergies

Food sensitivities are also common in German Shepherds and typically involve reactions to proteins and grains such as chicken, corn, rice, and other cereals. Food allergies can cause both skin problems—including itchiness, rashes, and secondary infections—and digestive symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Sometimes food allergies coexist with environmental allergies, complicating diagnosis.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Persistent scratching or licking, especially around the ears, paws, belly, and face
• Recurring ear infections
• Red, inflamed or flaky skin
• Hair thinning or bald patches
• Gastrointestinal upset including vomiting or diarrhea

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing allergies in German Shepherds typically involves a combination of methods:

• Intradermal skin testing or blood tests to identify specific environmental allergens
• Elimination diet trials to determine food sensitivities by feeding a novel or hydrolyzed protein diet
• Thorough veterinary history and physical examination

Treatment plans focus on managing symptoms and minimizing exposure to allergens. For environmental allergies, allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or oral drops) may be recommended to desensitize the immune system. Food allergies are managed through strict dietary control, avoiding identified trigger ingredients. Additionally, medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, or antibiotics may be prescribed to relieve itching and control secondary infections.

Digestive and Pancreatic Issues

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency is a condition where the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes necessary for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. This insufficiency leads to maldigestion and malabsorption, causing affected dogs to lose weight even though they maintain a strong appetite. Common clinical signs include chronic diarrhea, increased flatulence, and occasional bloating or abdominal discomfort.

The underlying cause in many cases, especially in breeds like German Shepherds, is pancreatic acinar atrophy, which results in the progressive destruction of enzyme-producing cells in the pancreas. Since the pancreas has a large functional reserve, symptoms typically manifest only after significant loss of pancreatic tissue.

Management of EPI requires lifelong supplementation with pancreatic enzyme preparations to aid digestion. Additionally, vitamin supplementation (such as vitamin B12) and dietary modifications may be necessary to support the dog’s nutritional status. With consistent treatment, many dogs can lead a good quality of life despite this chronic condition.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis refers to inflammation of the pancreas, which disrupts normal digestive functions and can cause varying degrees of gastrointestinal distress. This inflammation may be acute or chronic and results in pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and reduced appetite. In severe cases, pancreatitis can lead to systemic illness requiring intensive veterinary care.

Risk factors for pancreatitis include physical trauma, obesity, and diets high in fat content. Early identification and management—often involving dietary control, hydration, and medication to reduce inflammation and pain—are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing recurrence.

Cardiac Conditions

German Shepherds are prone to certain heart-related conditions, most notably dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and heart murmurs. DCM is a serious disease where the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged, reducing its ability to pump blood efficiently throughout the body. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, coughing, difficulty breathing, fainting, and exercise intolerance.

Heart murmurs, which are abnormal heart sounds caused by turbulent blood flow, can be an early sign of underlying cardiac problems, including valve disease or cardiomyopathy. Although not all murmurs indicate serious disease, any new or persistent murmur should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Regular cardiac check-ups are crucial for early detection and monitoring of heart issues in German Shepherds. These evaluations often include physical exams, auscultation with a stethoscope, and diagnostic imaging such as echocardiography.

Treatment for cardiac conditions typically involves the use of medications to support heart function, control symptoms, and prevent complications. Additionally, special diets formulated to support cardiac health may be recommended to manage the condition and improve quality of life.

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV)

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV) is a serious and potentially fatal condition where a dog’s stomach fills with gas and then twists, cutting off blood flow and trapping the contents inside. This leads to rapid swelling, severe pain, and can cause shock if not treated immediately.

Large, deep-chested breeds like German Shepherds are especially at risk. Signs include a swollen abdomen, repeated unsuccessful vomiting, drooling, restlessness, and difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary care is critical, as GDV requires emergency treatment, often including surgery to correct the twist and prevent recurrence.

Other Notable Health Problems

In addition to the more commonly known conditions, German Shepherds are susceptible to a range of other significant health issues that can affect their quality of life.

• Diabetes Mellitus: German Shepherds can develop diabetes mellitus, a chronic disease where the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels properly. This condition requires careful management through insulin therapy and dietary control to maintain the dog’s health and prevent complications.
• Panosteitis: This is an inflammatory bone condition often seen in young, growing German Shepherds. Panosteitis causes sudden onset of lameness and pain in the long bones, typically resolving with age but requiring supportive care during flare-ups to manage discomfort.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Cataracts: PRA is a group of genetic eye disorders leading to gradual degeneration of the retina, resulting in vision loss and potentially blindness. Cataracts, characterized by clouding of the eye lens, can also occur and impair vision. Both conditions require regular eye exams for early detection, and while treatment options are limited, management may help preserve sight.
• Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of joint cartilage, or osteoarthritis, is common in German Shepherds, particularly those with hip or elbow dysplasia. This chronic condition causes joint pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. Treatment often involves anti-inflammatory medications, weight management, and physical therapy to improve comfort and function.
• Epilepsy: Epilepsy, a neurological disorder causing recurrent seizures, affects some German Shepherds. While the exact cause may be unknown (idiopathic epilepsy), seizure management through medication can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.
• Congenital Idiopathic Megaesophagus: This disorder involves abnormal enlargement and decreased motility of the esophagus, leading to difficulty swallowing and regurgitation. It requires specialized care, including feeding techniques to reduce aspiration risk and maintain nutrition.
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): SLE is a rare autoimmune disease where the dog’s immune system attacks its own tissues, causing a wide variety of symptoms such as skin lesions, joint inflammation, and organ involvement. Diagnosis can be complex, and treatment typically involves immunosuppressive medications.

These are inherited bleeding disorders affecting the blood’s ability to clot properly. Von Willebrand disease is more common in German Shepherds and can lead to excessive bleeding after injuries or surgery. Hemophilia is rarer but also serious. Both conditions require careful management to prevent bleeding complications.

While the German Shepherd is a beloved companion, the breed is susceptible to several common health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia and digestive sensitivities. Owners must be vigilant, prioritizing responsible breeding, consistent veterinary care, and a balanced diet. By taking these proactive steps, you can effectively manage these risks and ensure your German Shepherd enjoys a long, active, and happy life.