Diarrhea in German Shepherds is a common problem, often caused by parasites or food intolerance. It is important to visit your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. Dietary factors that can cause diarrhea include milk, grains, fats and heavy fiber. To prevent diarrhea, avoid feeding your dog these foods, as well as any foods containing these ingredients.
Gastric dilatation volvulus
Gastric dilatation volvulus in German shepherds is a potentially life-threatening medical condition in which the stomach twists and fills with gas. This causes further distention and pressure on other internal organs. In severe cases, it can even cause death. Fortunately, treatment options are quite simple.
The most common symptom of this condition is bloating. In some cases, the stomach can be completely blocked. In this case, the stomach will twist and dilate, obstructing blood flow to the major organs. This can lead to other complications, including coagulopathy and shock. Fortunately, gastric dilatation and volvulus are preventable with quick, immediate veterinary attention.
If the condition does not improve on its own, surgical correction is necessary. A gastropexy is a surgical procedure that involves suturing the stomach to the abdominal wall. The goal of this procedure is to return the stomach to its original position and decrease abdominal pressure. This surgery is very effective in decreasing the risk of recurrence. However, it may not be suitable for all cases.
AKC’s Canine Health Foundation has launched a comprehensive study to identify the causes of gastric dilatation volvulus in dogs. This research has identified genetic correlates for the condition.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Exocrine pancreatic insupiciency is a type of intestinal problem that is most common in young German Shepherds, Rough Collies, and Eurasians, but can affect any breed. Dogs with this condition often have pale or malodorous feces. Treatment involves antibiotics and low-fiber diets.
A trypsin-like immunoreactivity test can be used to confirm a diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic insufficency in dogs. Trypsin is a digestive enzyme that breaks down proteins. Insufficient levels of trypsin can cause malnutrition and weight loss. The pancreas also produces insulin, which is essential to regulate blood sugar.
While this condition is rare, it can cause devastating results for a pet’s life. German Shepherds with EPI will display a fixation on food and have frequent diarrhea. Their stools will be large in volume and have a distinctive foul smell. In some cases, their diarrhea can last for weeks. The stools also have a greasy sheen from fats.
If your dog is starving or has diarrhea, your veterinarian will need to do some testing to diagnose the condition. Using a blood test for trypsin activity will reveal if EPI is the cause of your dog’s symptoms.
This condition is hereditary. Breeders will typically screen German shepherds for the EPI trait. Although the hereditary form has the most severe symptoms, the disease can affect any breed. However, it is more common to develop EPI as a complication of another disease.
Toxic gut syndrome
Toxic gut syndrome is a dangerous condition in German shepherds and can lead to a number of health problems. It is characterized by a buildup of fungi and bacteria in the dog’s digestive tract. This condition can lead to infertility and weight loss. Treatment is available with antibiotics and probiotics. But, before you start using these supplements, make sure to consult your vet.
If you suspect that your German Shepherd is suffering from toxic gut syndrome, it is important to take action right away. The condition is most commonly caused by inadequate exercise, and can cause digestive problems, inflammation of the intestines, and problems with absorption of nutrients. It can also lead to other serious conditions such as allergies and diabetes.
When this disease is severe, it can even lead to sudden aggression. The immune system, the brain, and the gut are closely connected. A dog experiencing chronic inflammation may also be more prone to developing arthritis. Since the cartilage in the joints wears down over time, inflammation in the joints increases. Chronic inflammation will lead to more joint pain and swelling.
German Shepherds are also susceptible to gastroduodenal ulcers. Medications can be effective, but the outcome of treatment will depend on what is causing the ulcer. For ulcers in the German Shepherd, the veterinarian will prescribe a bland diet and antibiotics. If it is associated with other health issues, the treatment will involve correcting the underlying problem. A stool sample may be necessary to diagnose the condition. A steroid can also reduce the swelling.
Food intolerances
German Shepherds are known to be sensitive to different types of food. Some of them can even develop food allergies. The most common food allergens are beef, eggs, chicken, and soy. These substances can cause digestive and skin symptoms. To help your German shepherd cope with these symptoms, it is important to avoid the trigger.
If you notice your German Shepherd having any of these symptoms, you should visit your veterinarian. Performing a food allergy test on your German Shepherd is inexpensive and will help you eliminate the source of the problem. In many cases, the cause of an allergy is not obvious. Your veterinarian can help you determine the underlying cause of your dog’s condition.
German Shepherds may suffer from food intolerances if they have a food allergy to chicken or another ingredient in dog food. Food allergies can be triggered by genetics and are similar to food poisoning. In some cases, they can also be caused by bad food, but the two conditions are different.
If you suspect your German Shepherd has a food allergy, you should rotate your dog’s diet regularly. A new diet will help your dog avoid a reaction and could potentially cure your dog of food allergies.
Cancer of the digestive tract
German shepherds are particularly prone to anal disease. This condition can result from poor air circulation around the anal area and can be caused by a variety of factors. Symptoms of this disease can be difficult to detect, but they usually resolve on their own with appropriate treatment. If your dog is experiencing pain and discomfort, consult a veterinarian to learn more about the various types of treatments available for this condition.
German shepherds are also susceptible to gastric ulcers, an inflammatory disease of the digestive tract. These ulcers cause painful defecation, bleeding and licking of the anus. Treatment for this condition involves lifelong medication, special diet and sometimes surgery. The pain can make your dog unable to enjoy food.
Another disease that can affect German Shepherds is pancreatitis, which causes inflammation of the pancreas. This organ sits close to the stomach and helps digestion and regulate blood sugar. It can be mild or severe, and can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of these causes include recent surgery, drugs or toxins, or improper diet. German Shepherds with pancreatitis may have diarrhea, restlessness, and loss of appetite. They may also exhibit signs of weakness and dehydration.
German shepherds are at risk for developing several types of intestinal cancer. The most common types include adenocarcinomas, lymphomas, and adenomas. Although they can occur anywhere in the digestive tract, they are more likely to develop in the large intestine than in the small.
Treatment
A German shepherd’s digestive system is prone to problems and requires special care. If you notice persistent diarrhea or blood in the stools, consult your vet to determine the exact cause and proper treatment. You can also administer probiotic supplements to help restore good bacteria to the digestive tract. The added benefit of probiotics is that they can help your dog’s immune system. In addition, a bland diet is an important part of treatment for German shepherd intestinal problems.
German shepherds can also be prone to anus inflammation and sores. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, he may need to be treated with anti-sickness or pain medication. The good news is that most dogs recover after receiving proper treatment. Inflammatory bowel disease in dogs is difficult to diagnose and can occur at any age. The symptoms can be vague, but most cases can be successfully treated with medications or prescription food.
Diarrhea and vomiting are non-specific symptoms, and the proper diagnosis is usually a complicated process. Symptoms such as pain and fever can be a sign of other underlying health problems. If you suspect your dog of suffering from gastroenteritis, you may opt to use antidiarrheal drugs. These drugs work to increase the motility of the intestines. Anti-vomiting medications are also a good choice.
