Minimizing Health Issues

[debbiebrown]

i have only had one gsd that had some pretty bad health issues, but even at that i was able to help him through with alternative non evasive methods, and he lived to be 12 1/2.....
after him i had a few with minor issues and they lived to be ripe old ages.........

any animal is a living thing and going to have a few things pop up but i think through research of the line and breeder selection you can avoid alot of major health issues.....

any breed has their issues if you love the gsd i wouldn't avoid them because of prior issues.........take a look at the great dane, their life span is only 7-8 years, you could say why bother getting one they have such a short life.......but people love the breed and still have them.........

you have had some bad luck, but i wouldn't let that stop you........

[Josiebear]

It sure does seem that way that shepherds seems to have the most health issues.

Right now Josie is dealing with EPI and she's not even an year old yet.... My sheltie who just turned 5 never had one drop of health issues *knock on wood*.

I have to admit when i look at the long list of health issues that GSDs have it does somewhat scare me away from the breed, but I try to do the best i can to find the right breeder. I definately do hope Josie does not pop up with anything more.

I guess it's the matter of doing your research on breeders, all i can say is i wish i have looked further than just doing my main focus on temperment.

[dhenson]

My old girl was 13 when she died and healthy until the last two years when she developed arthiritis. We had none of the other issues you mention.

I now have two gorgeous GSD pups, both from responsible breeders where health screening and temperament are the most important indicators for breeding - there are great, healthy dogs out there!