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Health Please report your dogs genetic problem. This will provide us with knowledge and information enabling us to breed sounder dogs in future BREEDERS
AIMS When we are breeding dogs, in addition to producing better show animals, we should also be trying to breed as sound an animal as possible. This encompasses all of the following:- physical, mental and genetic soundness as well as breed type (ie. it must still resemble the breed!). All of these areas are of great importance; some are weighted more heavily than others in different breeds. Over time various areas come under heavier pressure, eg. With all the current adverse publicity from dog attacks, heavier emphasis is being placed on temperament issues (as it should). Compromises often have to be made when balancing out the relative importance of different problems both within that animal and the breed as a whole. The bigger the number of issues we attack at any one time, the slower the relative rate of improvement of the breed as a whole. With breed improvement schemes, the larger the number of genes involved in any one condition, again the slower the rate of improvement as well as the larger the environmental effects. Genetic problems that result in a high incidence of
crippling arthritis or vastly shortened life span, where there is pain and
suffering on behalf of both the dog and the owner (be it monetary or
emotional stress), the greater the effort that should be made to decrease the
incidence of these problems. The most
important point is to keep the problems a breed has within perspective. This
means that if there is a minor problem that does not affect the animal's
soundness either as a working animal or its quality and length of life, that it should be kept in proportion relative to
other problems within the breed. DEFINITIONS Inherited Disorders - covers genetic disorders that have been inherited from one or both parents. Many of these disorders do not have a well documented means of the exact mode of inheritance. Hopefully over time this situation will improve. As a loose rule of thumb, the more genes involved in an inherited condition, the greater the effect of the environment (weight, diet), the greater the range of symptoms seen and the harder it is to control and/or reduce the incidence within the breed. Where there are exact tests that can positively identify affected and carrier animals for a condition (be it a blood test or DNA marker), then a condition can be readily removed from a breed within 2-3 generations if desired. In the polygenetic conditions, until reliable DNA tests are developed, the policy of removing the worst affected animal from breeding programs and promoting the soundest sires (with the best progeny results) is the only slow but sure long term policy. Congenital Disorders - Means those present at birth. These conditions can be simple malfunctions during development (can be secondary to environmental insults, chemicals etc) while others can be inherited defects within that breed. Acquired Disorders - Are those that develop over time and are listed here as conditions seen with some degree of frequency within the GSD breed. Breed Predispositions - These are conditions where the breed in question, the GSD, shows a higher than average incidence of these diseases or conditions occurring than would be expected in the general population. Immunological Disorders - Are defined by a diminished ability of the body to mount an effective immune response to a perceived threat. Cutaneous
- Of the skin General Information Immunodeficiency
disorders are defined by a diminished ability by the body to mount an
effective immune response to a perceived threat, eg.
infection. Primary immunodeficiency disease is
caused by hereditable defects in the immune system. Primary immunodeficiencies involving the cell-mediated, humeral, complement and phagocytic systems have all been described in veterinary literature. Defects involving the humeral immune response are associated with a high susceptibility to bacterial infection. Defects involving the cell-mediated immune response are associated with a high susceptibility to viral, fungal and protozoal infections. Defects in the phagocytic or complement system are associated with disseminated infection. Clinical Signs - Depend on the level at which the immune response is defective and range from chronic respiratory and gastro-intestinal signs and skin infections to life threatening conditions. Gross and Histopathological Findings - Lesions vary, most are the result of recurrent or opportunistic infection involving the skin, ear canal, respiratory and gastro-intestinal infections. Refer to “The 5 Minute Veterinary Consult 1997”. Ig A Dysfunction - A primary Ig A Deficiency has been described in the GSD and is probably at the root cause of several GSD specific immunological disorders. Aspergilosis in the GSD has been related directly to the Ig A deficiency and has an almost 100% death rate. Other disorders including Staph folliculitis and suppurative otits externa (ear infections) have also been directly linked to Ig A deficiencies. Selective IgA
deficiency is the most common primary immunodeficiency in man (approx. 1 in
600). BONE DISEASES IN DOGS - The consequences of increasing weight and rapid growth. Many of the joint diseases
that occur in the dog arise often as the consequence of rapid growth in an
increasingly heavy breed of dog (over time). Osteochondrosis
(cartilage degeneration and damage) and joint dysplasias
have been studied in many species, in particular in pigs. In pigs, where the animals were selected for increasingly heavy
end weight and rapidity of weight gain, the higher the incidence of
symmetrical lesions in certain sites in joints and many growth plates.
Experimentally the incidence and severity of osteochondrosis
was directly related to rapid growth, ie. rate of weight gain. When the diet was restricted and the
animals were grown at a low growth rate, the incidence of OCD
was dramatically reduced (almost to zero). All dog studies in this area have
shown to support the concept that the high caloric intake rather than the
specific intake of protein, minerals or vitamins influences the frequency and
severity of osteochondrosis and HD. The causes of
ED while not as thoroughly studied, show similarities and probably similar
outcomes. The common conclusion from studies in dog is that excessive
calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D along with a high energy diet and rapid
weight gain causing rapid growth, are almost a sure fire recipe for pushing
the parameters for normal structural growth and joint soundness well beyond
their normal limits, resulting in joint disorders. The higher incidence of osteochondrosis in males versus females is probably a
direct reflection of this as males are often ¼ heavier than females at any
one time, despite being born at a comparative weight. Equally this is not to
say that genetics does not pay an important part in the body’s
structural soundness, however excessive rates of weight gain and thus rapid
growth result in pushing the body’s parameters beyond which they can
cope, particularly if they were not the most structurally stable to start
with, ie. excessive rate
of growth and weight will not create severe HD in itself; however, it can
make an existing problem considerably worse. Rate of Weight Gain - The causes of the development of hip dysplasia, as discussed below, are from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Rapid weight gain and rate of growth through excessive nutritional intake can cause a disparity of development of supporting tissues. Factors affecting cartilage integrity (thickness and stability) and joint fluid composition, such as repeated trauma from excessive looseness of the joint and /or bacterial infections, can increase joint fluid production, thickening of the joint capsule, resulting in both joint pain and reduction in joint stability. These factors contribute to the development of joint looseness and subsequent subluxation, resulting in early clinical signs and joint changes. Control of the rate of weight gain, while it will not prevent hip dysplasia, it will allow a steady growth pattern allowing the hip structure to mature in concert with the strength of ligamentation in order to minimize excessive stress being placed on the hip joint. Conversely to osteochondrosis, in breeds with a high incidence of HD, females generally have a higher average than males; due it is thought to the influence of female hormones. (a 4 point difference on average in the GSD). HIP
DYSPLASIA Hip Dysplasia (HD) - This
is a disease that is very common throughout the dog breeds from Cocker
Spaniels to Saint Bernards. It is most commonly
seen in the heavier bone to muscle ratio breeds where the overall ligamentation is slightly loose. Hip
dysplasia is by definition an ill fitting hip. The hip is a ball and socket
joint, and the deeper the socket (ideally sufficiently deep to hold 2/3rds of the head of the femur), the better fit of the
femoral head and angle of the neck and the tighter the ligaments, the better
the hip. The various components that combine to give an unstable hip are
combinations of the following:- shallow
hip socket (the acetabulum), an ill fitting head of
the femur (head too small, neck too short and steep), Pain
from hip dysplasia - Is largely from
wearing of the cartilaginous surface within the joint, exposing pain fibers
in subchondral bone. There are two groups of
animals affected :- 1. Young
group - 4.5 -10 months (rapid growth phase) and Examination
for HD Symptoms - Dogs with HD have a history of intermittent hindquarter lameness, pain on rising, poor hindquarter muscle development, narrow hindquarter action, reduced arc of movement, reduced exercise tolerance. Examination under anaesethic may show looseness while X rays will (if correctly positioned) give more definitive view of anatomical details as well as arthritic changes and the degree of joint looseness. In should be remembered younger, overweight dogs will be looser in ligamentation than older, fitter individuals. Different anaesethic agents and depths of anesthesia can vary slightly the looseness of ligamentation seen. Positioning for X rays for HD assessment - It is most important that of the pelvis should be level, both from front to rear, and side to side. Too steep an angle of the pelvis front to rear will give the appearance of a shallower joint. Twisted, crooked pelvis side to side will have adverse effects on the hip tilted further away from the X ray plate. Heavier, larger and looser ligamented breeds (and individuals) will exhibit the greatest arthritic changes. Some breeds tolerate looseness better than others. # Clinical signs often do not correlate with radiographic changes. Some dogs with moderate or even severe HD are asymptomatic. Differential Diagnosis - In both groups of affected dogs but particularly in the younger group, the back should be assessed, especially when accompanied by generalized soreness from excessively rapid growth. Soreness along the back, usually obvious by arching along the middle (lumbar section), will affect the dog in both rising and extension during movement and manipulation. Rule outs - In the younger dog, lameness from other rapid growth associated conditions eg. Panosteitis, OCD, HOD or other injury to joints in the hindquarters. In the older dog, conditions such as cauda equina (neurological), acute or chronic knee injuries, bone neoplasia need to be taken into account. # HD rarely if every presents as a sudden acute injury or onset. Methods
of Treatment of HD Treatment depends on the age of the patient and the severity of the symptoms, physical and radiographic findings and economics of the owner. Conservative and surgical options should both be looked at. Many younger dogs (60%) spontaneously improve with increasing age after conservative management and return to acceptable clinical function (Barr, Denny, Gibbs 1987). The remainder requires further medical or surgical treatment at some time in their life. Surgical intervention is indicated where conservative treatment is not effective, where athletic performance is desired, or in young patients where owners wish to slow the progression of degenerative joint disease and enhance the probability of good long term limb function.(Small Animal Surgery 1997). Medical
Management The younger patient - Rest, correction of diet and weight if needed, use of drugs such as cartrophen to improve circulation to, and repair of cartilage, use of other anti-inflammatory drugs. Rest and recuperation for as short as 2-3 weeks can make remarkable improvements. The older patient - Again weight should be considered as too heavy in condition will acerbate wear all the joints, not just the hips. Also use of the same drugs as above can give remarkable results. Rest with severe cases is always advised. Non steroidal drugs include Aspirin, PBZ (phenylbutazone), Rimadyl*, Metacam*, Cu Algesic*. If dogs in either group fail to respond to appropriate treatment, dietary changes and rest, then surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical Intervention 1. Pectinomyotomy - This is the mildest (also cheapest and quickest) way to get some relief in the HD patient. This was used quite frequently in the past where there were fewer options available. This muscle cutting operation transects the pectinius muscle, a muscle that runs high on the inside of the thigh and pulls the leg medially. Cutting this muscle relieves tension on the joint capsule and eases movement by reducing medial pull of the limb. This can be very useful in the younger patient, particularly where funds do not permit the more radical operations. Can get good pain reduction, and does not interfere with any other surgical option at a later date. 2. Triple Pelvic Osteotomy - This is ideally done in dogs before they reach 9 months of
age, where the pelvis has not yet finished growing. This is done to axially
rotate and lateralize the acetabulum in order to
increase the dorsal coverage to the femoral head. This operation is not
suitable where there is insufficient depth of acetabulum
to hold the femoral head. The results are best where there is minimal
degenerative change. Generally both hips are done at once, cost is around
$6000. 3. Total Hip Replacement - This is the replacement of a degenerative hip joint with a prosethetic acetabular cup and
a femoral head/neck component. This is used on the older patient where
conservative treatment is not effective. The success rate is good to
excellent with an orthopedic specialist. This is usually not done much on
breeds or individuals that weight less than 20kg
(very hard to get small enough prosthetics at this time). Costs per hip is
$3000 and up. 4. Femoral Head and Neck Excision - Limits boney contact between the acetabulum
and the femur and a fibrous joint is formed. This is a type of operation
routinely used with dislocations of the hip from trauma, in the case of HD
dogs it is used where conservative treatment has failed and there are
financial constraints against a total hip replacement. The results are no
where near as good as with (3), as there are fibrous changes and restrictions
of movement, but this is largely seen as a salvage procedure. However, many
dogs do very well and have improved function. (# Once this operation has been
done, other surgical options are virtually nil.) Discussion Given the very high percent of
younger dogs that respond to rest, conservative treatment and weight/dietary
management (60%), ideally the first route of treatment should be
conservative, medical management. Many breeds are quite loose in their ligamentation when young and if weight factors are above
breed norms for that age and sex, then conservative treatment with calorie
limitation should be tried. Unless there are substantial
abnormalities present, ie. very
shallow sockets, excessive luxation of the joint
with arthritic changes developing and significant pain that is unresponsive,
conservative treatment should be tried. If there are significant changes that
are unresponsive to rest and treatment within the short term, then surgical
options should be considered. Older dogs should be tried on
conservative management first, and again if not responsive, surgical options
considered. The best responses are from total hip replacement, but the cost
is high. If this cannot be afforded, the age of the dog should be considered,
the older the dog, the more one leans to medical management, the younger the
dog with severe symptoms, the more a surgical option should be considered. Breed Aspects in relation to Control
Schemes of HD Hip Dysplasia is a polygenetic condition, that is many genes can affect the outcome. The
more genes affecting a characteristic, the harder and slower it is to
eradicate or affect the characteristic, and the more environmental effects
come into play (diet, weight, rate of growth etc). Where there are ways to
measure the condition, then progress can be made in controlling the effect of
the polygenes in the overall population, eg. Hip Dysplasia - X raying of individuals and their
progeny. The schemes currently in use for
control/reduction in severity of HD and ED aim to reduce the incidence and
overall severity of these conditions across the breed (a) as a whole and (b)
over time. Trying to shift the genetic structure of polygenetic conditions
within a breed is a long term goal, and cannot be pushed rapidly without
severe consequences in other areas (eg. type,
temperament etc). The overall picture must be
considered. - Trying to eliminate all dogs with
hip dysplasia did not work (attempted in both GSD's
and Until there are very reliable breed
specific DNA markers or gene tests, rapid change within breeds, and therefore breed averages, will not be possible. HD X-Ray Control Schemes Grading - Where various aspects of hip construction, looseness of
joints is looked at and assessed. The current international grading system
has 0-6 grades, also called A-F (in some countries). The worst grade per hip
gives the overall grade (ie. if grade 0 in 1 hip
and 3 in the other, the overall grade is 3). Scoring - Using the BVA System where 9
different areas of the hips are measured and scored (generally out of a 0-6
scale). Total score per hip given as well as overall total (maximum 106).
Very useful in determining the breed average. If combined with a grading
system, again the hip with the highest score will determine the overall grade
(the ED scheme works on a similar score/overall grade basis). PENN Hip - Dogs are anaesthetized and subjected to standard pressure, then X rayed, to determine the degree of joint laxity.
Many breeds exhibit varying degrees of joint laxity both across the breed and
within the breed. The relevance of the joint laxity when done at an early age
(4-6 months) needs to be seen relative to long term hip results (ie. against standardized HD X-rays at 12-18 months of
age. Some breeds are more “laxity tolerant”, ie.
the rate of change predicted is not as high in some
breeds as others. Breed Averages and Medians Breed Average - Means all the scores from all the submitted animals being
totaled and the divided to find the average for any member of a breed being
checked for that characteristic (HD) will have a result (score or grade)
close to that average score. Breed Median - A breed median is the result for that breed where 50% of the
breed will be better than that figure and 50% will be worse. In breeds where
there are smaller populations being scored, the breed average may be
considerably higher than the breed median. With increasing numbers
(thousands) these figures are considerably closer. With HD Schemes, we are working with
empirical tests with large degrees of variability within them, it is therefore
essential that every breed be looked at from as broad a spectrum as possible
so that a relevant decisions can be made as to the breed worth of that
individual. As we discussed above, when looking at a population, the spread
of the population as well as the population mean is essential if making
decisions as to what one can afford to discard from that population. Combined
with this we need to estimate how many other individuals that are being
culled for various other reasons so that in looking at a breed population as
a whole, we need to retain at least 75% of the population for any one
characteristic being selected for. When breeding we
obviously wish to breed from the best, soundest dogs, but as started before,
this should be kept in perspective in relation to other genetic and breed
soundness characteristics that are necessary. For that reason, we generally
breed up to and often slightly past a breed average if we wish to retain
sufficient breeding stock for the overall health and viability of the breed. When discussing HD in the GSD, are breed average (BVA
total score) is somewhere around 13 in Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) Links -
Treatments for Hip Dysplasia - Elbow Dysplasia (ED) - There are 4 main subgroups of elbow dysplasia, which may
occur alone or in combination. Generally they are considered inherited in
most breeds and the incidence may be adversely affected by incorrect diets in
some breeds. Excessive rate of weight gain can affect the incidence of many
elbow conditions, often leading to joint incongruity (uneven rate of growth
between the radius and ulna), and OCD seen
particularly in males. 1. UAP - Ununited Anconeal Process - This process is a large triangular
shaped piece of bone situated at the back of the elbow joint. This has a
separate ossification center in a handful of breeds notably the GSD, Labrador, Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, Symptoms - Clinically signs are seen from as young as 5-6 months with
often an intermittent lameness, which is exaggerated by exercise. Full
flexion and extension of the elbow will elicit pain. There is often an
accompanying lateral bursitis (fluid swelling). X rays of the elbow in the
flexed lateral position will readily show whether the process has unified or
not. Long standing cases often have boney arthritic changes as well. Treatment - Either (a) removal of the process, if done while young,
reasonable prognosis with some arthritis later, or (b) fixation of the loose
fragment by a lag screw, for reasonable prognosis in early cases. As the anconeal process is not a weight bearing surface, results
following early surgery gives much better long term prospects than in the FCP cases (as loss of that process affects the weight
bearing surfaces of the joint). The majority of UAP
cases in the GSD have good congruity of the head of
the radius relative to the ulna. Where there is poor congruity, ie. the radius is too long for
the ulna, osteotomy (cutting) of the ulna to allow
it to lengthen naturally is another option. Affected dogs should not be breed
from. UAP is generally considered to be inherited
as a separate condition from OCD and FCP in the GSD. 2. OCD - Osteochondrosis Dessicans - this occurs in many larger breeds, almost any breed greater
than 18-20kg at adulthood. There is a higher incidence
in males versus females. This can affect many joints, the commonest being the
elbow. Breeds that see with a reasonably high incidence of elbow OCD would cover the following :- Rottweiler (high
incidence), GSD, Golden Retriever, St Bernard,
Great Dane, Border Collie, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Labrador. Symptoms - Generally seen as a shifting lameness in the forequarter from
around 5-8 months of age, some joint capsule swelling and usually a turning
out of the front legs at stance as the inner edges of the elbow are most
commonly affected. The cause of the problem is considered to be due to a
faulty blood supply to the joint cartilage secondary to very rapid growth. On
X ray the signs are often quite subtle in mild cases with minor
“fluffiness” of the joint surfaces to the more distinct pot holes
of larger lesions. Generally diagnoses of a straight extended and slightly
medially rotated view of the elbow. Treatment - If this condition is mild, treatment with drugs such as Cartrophen which increases the blood supply to cartilages, can be very effective along with complete
rest, slowing down of the rate of weight gain, and low doses of anti-inflammatories. Repair and recovery can take up to 6-8
weeks of age depending on the severity of the condition, very heavy puppies
may have to be kept reasonably restricted until 9 months of age by which
stage all rapid growth has slowed dramatically. Severe cases of OCD are often found in conjunction with a FCP, and may require surgical intervention. Most cases
>80% show good responses to medical, dietary and exercise management. 3. FCP -
Fragmented Coronoid Process (of the Ulna) - this is generally referring to the medial coronoid
process, a process that stabilizes the medial edge of the joint.
Fragmentation of this process means that the inside edge of the elbow is not
stable, hence the very typical lateral rotation of the leg away from the
pain. Again, the same age group as above. On X ray the process can be seen as
separated on a plate with the elbow extended straight out and a second view
with slight medial rotation. If these are diagnosed when young, surgical
intervention gives reasonable results, in the older dog where there are
considerably secondary arthritic changes, medical management with tablets if
probably preferred. Regardless of the treatment, the resulting joint
incongruity (unevenness) will lead to ongoing osteoarthritis over time. 4. Joint Incongruity - While most forms of elbow dysplasia can by their development
result in joint incongruity, here we are looking at where there has been a
possible early closure of a distal growth plate in the foreleg resulting in
uneven growth of the radius (usually slightly shorter) in relation to the
ulna. The resulting uneven ends of the bones within the joint can cause excessive
wear on cartilages and in the worst cases, force the anconeal
process distally (ie. create a UAP).
Relatively uncommon in the GSD, however severe
cases require surgery. Other forms of elbow
“dysplasia” exist, these forms generally involve the lateral displacement
of the top of the radius in relation to the ulna (giving a cabriole effect)
but these very rarely affect the GSD. General Treatment of Elbow Dysplasia - As with any painful bone disorder, regardless of the age presented,
common treatment is aimed at pain management, sensible diet and weight
control and a restricted, suitable exercise regime. Where there are only
minor changes in joint surfaces, medical management and conservative
treatment with anti-inflammatory agents and rest is generally all that is
needed. Those animals with UAP require surgical
intervention to minimise future arthritis. Dogs
with FCP or those with loose cartilaginous flaps, should in the younger dog be removed in order to minimise future damage to the joint. However due to the
incongruity of the joint, there will be ongoing changes regardless. In the
older dog with advanced arthritic changes, medical management and
conservative exercise regimes is generally the preferred method of treatment.
Diet and Elbow Dysplasia - While diet may not of itself create elbow dysplasia, it can
affect the severity OCD seen. Rapid weight gain
will push factors such as joint congruity, as well as blood supply to the
cartilages within the joints. Rule outs (differential diagnosis) - Not all forelimb lameness is due to elbow dysplasia. Panosteitis and simple injuries should be checked for,
particularly where there is a very sudden onset of lameness. Controlling the incidence of Elbow
Dysplasia - As elbow dysplasia is highly inherited, breeding from severely affected dogs should be
heavily discouraged. Generally dogs with a UAP, FCP and arthritis of greater than 5mm
are not used for breeding in the GSD in Dogs with normal elbows and those
with Grade I and Grade II changes are given the ‘Z’ Stamp by the GSDCA Council and are deemed to be within normal breeding
limits for the breed. Care should be taken in breeding with Grade II elbows,
preferably to normal status partners. Panosteitis - Affects any of the long bones with a shifting lameness
pattern, one or more legs may be affected at any one time. Growth associated
problem. Triggering factor(s) unknown, poorly understood inflammatory
condition. Breeds - Affected breeds :- most common in
the Dobermann, relatively low incidence in the GSD. Age - Dobermann s affected at about 4-8 months of age. GSD’s are affected at about 5-8 months of age. Symptoms - Shifting lameness in young dogs, no swelling of growth
plates. Affects long bones of any leg with a shifting lameness pattern,
usually only one leg affected at any one time. Pain exhibited when firm
pressure applied across the mid-shaft of the affected long bone. The pain can
be quite acute. Most commonly affected bones are the humerus
and femur. X-rays show increased intra-medullary
density in the affected long bone. Treatment - responds well to rest, the use of low grade anti-inflammatories and antibiotic therapy. May be required to
treat for a minimum of 3-6 weeks. Diet should ideally ease off concentrated
high protein foods in order to slow down the rate of weight gain. Recovery
generally excellent. There is no known hereditary
component, and affected animal can be used for breeding. Epilepsy - Exact mode of inheritance not fully understood. Age first
seen - 5-6 months to 5 years; average 6 months to 3 years. Breeds - Affects many breeds, GSD included. Signs - Most seizures occur at night or early morning, animal stiffens
up, falls to the ground on its side, and various combinations of the
following are seen - jaw champing, salivation, urinating, defecating,
paddling of all 4 limbs; this lasts 2-3 minutes and is followed by a short
period of disorientation that usually lasts 5-10 minutes. Seizure frequency
tends to increase over time if the animal is left untreated. Treatment - Can be treated quite successfully for many years. Drug of
choice generally the phenobarbitone family of
drugs. Tail Chasing - This has been linked with both behavioral abnormalities and
with epilepsy. Breeds - Affects several breeds, most commonly the Australian Cattle
Dog and the GSD. The tail chasing starts at around
the same age as epilepsy (5-6 months), but has been linked with boredom
syndromes. Treatment - Some dogs can with good activity programs grow out of the
problems, others are unresponsive, will continue to tail chase, often heavily
chewing the tail and these dogs may require an ongoing treatment regime with
similar drugs as the epileptic dogs. *As a
general comment, both epileptics and tail chasers are found to be very
“hyper” (or over the top) dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy - This is a slowly progressing degeneration of the myelin
around the nerves of the middle of the back, slowing down the transmission of
messages which results in increasingly severe effects on the mobility and manoeuvrability of the hindquarters. Breeds - This disease is almost exclusive to the German Shepherd Dog
and is generally seen from 7-8 years onwards, the most common age is around
10-11 years, the earliest age I have seen this is in a 6 year old. Symptoms - There is a characteristic scraping of the hind feet,
knuckling of the hind feet, wearing of the tops on the nails, a tangling of
the hocks if they turn fast, troubling negotiating stairs especially
descending, a very characteristic swaying pacing gait (almost an inability to
trot correctly). There are proprioreceptive
deficits in both hindlegs, one leg can be more affected than another. To test this,
turn the toes of the hind foot underneath and see if they remain in that
position for any length of time. In a normal dog, the return to the normal
position is instantaneous (“righting reflex”), in affected dogs this
is significantly slower and may take up to 10-15 seconds or longer. There are several characteristics in
this disease that are similar to multiple sclerosis (MS) in that similar abnormalities of the immune system and the
type of nerve degeneration. The degeneration in these dogs always only
affects the hindquarters. The dogs follow a course of always
step wise degeneration, plateauing out for a while
before gradually getting worse again. The course of the disease generally
takes 12-18 months, from the time symptoms are recognised,
some dogs may last up to 2 years before the hindquarters no longer support
them in any significant degree. Treatment - The only good point in this disease is that it is not
painful. Cortisones and other anti-inflammatory drugs have no effect on the
progression of the disease but can help to cover any other degenerative joint
disease present (HD, spondylitis etc). Some dogs
benefit from additional Vitamin E (300-500 iu
daily) and I find, some Selenium (Selim E tabs, 1
tab 2 x weekly). Some therapeutic benefit has been
reported with the use of aminocaproic acid (Amicar, Lederle), 500mg given every 8 hours - progression of the
degenerative process was slower in about 50% of treated dogs, and improvement
occurred in some, benefits usually occurred within 8 weeks. [Neurology
Textbook - reference - ] This condition is an immune system
failure. As it occurs almost exclusively in the GSD,
there are obviously genetic factors involved. In my experience I have not
been able to directly link and family groups/lines etc, and I feel, reflects
more a failing in the immune system in general across the breed. This
condition would affect around 5-8% of older German Shepherd Dogs. Congenital Mega-oesophagus - Inherited, seen in various breeds including the GSD (possibly an autosomal
dominant with incomplete penetration.). These present at around 4-5 weeks of
age when solid feeds are started. The typical picture is one of vomiting
within 5-10 minutes of eating, puppies affected are
often small and weedy due to lack of adequate food getting through to the
stomach. Many have a dilation of the throat after eating and a persistent
gurgle. There are two basic types of
congenital mega-oesophagus, Persistent Right
Aortic Arch and Mega-oesophagus : 1.
PERSISTENT RIGHT AORTIC ARCH Persistent Right Aortic Arch (PRAA) - This is actually a
vascular abnormality that results in constriction of the oesophagus
over the base of the heart, causing a build up of food forward of the
obstruction. Symptoms - Signs are regurgitation of solid foods almost immediately
after eating (seen from 3-4 weeks of age). These are diagnosed by their very
characteristic appearance on barium X ray. In this type of abnormality, the
actual musculature of the oesophagus is normal. Treatment - These can be corrected surgically (usually not before 12-14
weeks of age), however as the operation is intra-thoracic, the puppy usually
has to be of a reasonable size and weight before operation. The prognosis can
be guarded as the puppies are often thin, undersized and there can be
secondary pneumonia. Prognosis - Most improve dramatically after the operation, however some
can persist in having some dilatation in the 1st 1/3 of the oesophagus. Feeding of these puppies is by giving them a
more liquid diet and feeding them with the food in an elevated position so as
to provide a straighter passage through the chest to the stomach. Mega-oesophagus - These puppies have a grossly dilated oesophagus
affecting the entire length of the oesophagus.
These cases often have secondary chest infections due to vomiting and
regurgitation. Symptoms - Regurgitation of solid foods almost immediately after eating.
Again these are diagnosed by barium X ray. Prognosis - This is extremely poor as the major defect in the muscles
affects the passage of food to the stomach and the condition is not readily
correctable. Bloat or Gastric Dilation and Volvulus (GDV) - This is common in large deep chested
breeds of dogs, often those with a rather narrow spring of rib being at
higher risk. Breeds - Affected breeds include the Borzoi, Bloodhound, Great Dane,
St Bernard, Irish Setter, Basset, GSD and the list
goes on. There are a group of
conditions/disorders that affect the digestion and/or intestinal stability of
the GSD. Many of these probably have an allergy or
immunological basis. On an overview of these type of
problems, as they affect our breed, the GSD is
certainly overrepresented. Wheat (Gluten) Allergies - Tests run have suggested that over 30% of dogs suspected of
having food allergies are sensitive to gluten. Many of the features seen in
gluten allergies are also seen in other types of inflammatory bowel diseases eg. lympocytic-plasmacytic
enteritis, and it highlights the need with this group of diseases to try
elimination diets to ensure that what appears as a chronic disease is not a
simple allergy driven condition. Many dogs that exhibit this condition often
show few signs prior to 8-9 months of age (the earliest I have seen this is
around 5 months), as it takes time to sensitise an
individual by continual low grade insult. Breeds - These are very common in many breeds. Symptoms - Usually present as failure to maintain body weight, often
despite increasing the food intake; chronically loose to sloppy motions. Treatment - As this is around a similar age to the diagnosis of
pancreatic insufficiency in GSD’s, my first
step is to try these dogs on a wheat or gluten free diets for a minimum of 6
weeks and limit the type of meat proteins fed (usually I limit the meat to
either chicken or mutton, cut out beef entirely). If using a dry food, the
safest cereal base to use is rice. The other grains that contain some gluten
include barley, rye, buckwheat and oats. I would estimate around 10-15% of GSD’s have a definite
wheat/gluten sensitivity and this figure can be higher within certain
bloodlines. EXOCRINE PANCREATIC INSUFFICIENCY Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency - Assumed to be inherited in the GSD
and postulated to be inherited as an autosomal
recessive trait. Age from 8 months onwards, usually in the younger dog. Diagnosis - Tests TLI - fasted TLI <2.5mg/L is diagnostic -
Low serum cobalamin is associated with EPI and distal bowel malabsorption.
Low serum folate is associated with proximal small
bowel malabsorption, small bowel intestinal
bacterial overgrowth may raise serum folate and
lower serum cobalamin Symptoms - Chronic diahorrea, often pasty coloured motions, weight loss/failure to hold weight. Treatment - Low fat diets, supplementation with panreatic
enzymes. Place these dogs on low allergy diets in addition to pancreatic
supplementation. If the dog picks up really well over 4-6 weeks (good weight
and firm motions), try gradually removing the pancreatic enzyme supplement,
if the weight stays good and the motions stay firm, the majority of the
problem could have been a chronic allergic response. Pancreatic Atrophy - The causes for this are considered possible abnormal immune
mediated responses. GSD’s represent over ½
the cases seen. In the older dog, these cases are often as the result of
chronic bouts of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas which results in
loss of enzyme producing cells). Diagnosis - In the GSD however, these dogs are
seen at a young age. Even so, signs do not appear prior to 6-12 months of
age, so presumably sufficient enzymes are produced prior to this time. #
Ensure that the diagnosis of the chronic bowel condition your GSD is diagnosed as having, is correct, as chronic wheat
(gluten) allergy can present a similar picture of poor absorption of food
and/or irritable bowel symptoms. Treatment - Remove wheat/gluten sources from the diet and see if symptoms
abate, try a rice based diet, remove beef proteins as well as this is the
most common meat based protein that dogs can be allergic to. If symptoms
still exist, these dogs require ongoing pancreatic enzyme supplementation. The number of GSD’s
affected by pancreatic insufficiency or atrophy, once the chronic allergy
cases are eliminated would be quite small, certainly less than a tenth of the
number with gluten allergies. Inflammatory Bowel Disease - This is a name covering several different types of diseases,
usually classified according to the type of inflammation present and the area
of the intestine where the majority of the inflammation occurs. These
diseases have an immune mediated component. Symptoms - As the Ig A system is intricately
involved in dampening the body’s reaction to gut antigens, a defect in
the system will have an immune response reacting to various gut antigens, be
it a bacterial product, a food antigen, or a self antigen (autoimmune). The
resulting response induces gastrointestinal irritation and inflammation. Breeds - Some breeds are more predisposed to more than one type of
inflammatory bowel disease such as the Boxer and the GSD,
reflective of these diseases having an immune mediated component. Treatment - For these dogs, aims at stabilizing the gut sufficiently that
food can be absorbed. The food given should ideally be concentrated, of
easily assimilated form so as to be highly digestable
with low residue. Despite these diets, some dogs have to remain on a
combination of drugs including metronidazole,
motility modifiers, pancreatic enzyme replacers and/or low doses of
cortisone. Pituitary Dwarfism- Thought to be inherited as a simple autosomal
recessive. Symptoms - Affected puppies fairly obvious by 8-10 weeks of age. Puppies
affected fail to develop beyond ¼- 1/3rd normal size, bilateral symmetrical
alopecia (hair loss, abnormal coat, hyperpigmentation), most are also hypothyroid as well. Adrenal and gonadal abnormalities also occur. Treatment - Some supplementation with thyroid hormones can assist hair
growth, some increase in final size (marginal at best). Growth hormone would
obviously be of more use, however its use is
severely restricted and is not available for use in animals in Number of puppies affected per year
is hard to determine but would have to be around 20-50 per year PERIANAL FISTULA (ANAL FURUNCULOSIS) Perianal Fistula (Anal Furunculosis) - Anal skin condition probably of an auto-immune basis. Breeds - Seen in the predominantly in the GSD
and less commonly, the Irish Setter. Generally seen in the older dog (over
5-6 years) but can be as young as 2 years of age. Intact dogs have a higher
prevalence. GSD’s have a high density of
sweat glands around the edge of the rectum. Causes - Many have been proposed. Thought to have an auto-immune basis
- there is a high incidence of ongoing diarrhea in affected dogs, such cases have been identified as having chronic
colitis. Combined with the broad based and low set tail, there is a reduced
aeration of the anal area. Chronic diarrhea may contribute by increasing
soiling of the anal area. Additionally, infections of the anal glands are
thought to be a contributing factor. Symptoms - Often detected when the dog show pain on defecation,
excessive licking in the anal area, painful tail movements etc. Symptoms can
vary with the severity of the condition. Small ulcerations appear which when
examined penetrate quite deeply into the tissue behind. Over time these
sinuses become deeper and more extensive. Treatment - Can be either extensive antibiotic therapy, more recently
with cyclosporins and/or surgery. Re-occurrence is
very common. Good local hygiene with trimming of the hair at the base of the
tail and on either side of the rectum (creating a ‘breezeway
effect’), can be very beneficial in long term
controlling the condition. Removal of the anal glands where the sinuses are not
extensive can in the early cases be very beneficial. Prognosis - Long term for severely affected dogs, control can not always
be attained and it can be very frustrating to owners. Often there is repeated
surgery, antibiotic courses. More recently there have been good results with
the use of cyclosporins. These courses are
generally for a minimum of 6 weeks, are expensive and may have to be
repeated. PANNUS (CHRONIC
SUPERFICIAL KERATITIS) Pannus (Chronic Superficial Keratitis) - Affects the cornea of the eye resulting in the increasing
deposition of black pigment across the cornea. Breeds - Pannus occurs in the older GSD; probably affecting less than 5% of the population
and could possibly be inherited recessively with variable expression. Pannus also occurs in quite a few other breeds including
the Pug, Pekingese, American Cocker Spaniel to mention but a few.
Environmental factors, eg. altitude
and solar radiation may modify the occurrence of this disease. Age - Usually
found in dogs older than 6 years of age, most are greater than 8-9 years of
age. Symptoms - Usually bilateral, symmetrical inflammation of the cornea
with variable pigmentation (from pink to black), often starting at the lateral
or lower-lateral edges of the cornea. The pannus
(black pigmentation) gradually covers the majority of the cornea and
blindness can occur. Treatment - This condition is controllable, but not curable. Long term
use of cortico-steriod eye drops and/or cyclosporin eye drops can slow the progression of the
disease, usually flares up in the hotter months. Treatment is often used
daily until there is good control, then ongoing
treatment is usually 2-3 x weekly. If the condition flares up, treatment is
again stepped up for short periods. This is considered to be an
auto-immune disorder due to the type and chronic nature of the inflammatory
response. Plasmoma - Similar condition to pannus,
affecting the conjunctiva and 3rd eyelids. Not seen very often, affecting GSD’s primarily. Incidence within the breed is less
than 1%. Not necessarily seen in conjunction with pannus.
Age - Seen
usually in dogs older than 6 years of age. Symptoms - Inflammation affecting the conjunctiva and the 3rd eye lid. Usually
bilateral, can be unilateral. Results in inflammed
thickened areas of conjunctiva and the loss of pigmentation and thickening of
the 3rd eyelid. The affected tissue is invaded with lymphocyte and plasma
cells. Treatment - Like pannus, this condition in
controllable to a large degree, but not curable. Similarly treated to pannus. Long term use of cortico-steriod
eye drop and/or cyclosporin eye drops can slow the
progression of the disease, flares up in the hotter months. Treatment is
often used daily until there is good control, then
ongoing treatment is usually 2-3 times weekly. If the condition flares up,
treatment is again stepped up for short periods. The cornea in these cases is
unaffected. This is considered to be an auto-immune disorder due to the type
and chronic nature of the inflammatory response. Haemangiosarcoma - These are predominantly tumours of
the spleen and/or of the liver, the majority of cases involve primarily the
spleen in the earlier stages of the disease. Breeds - While this is probably the most common tumour
affecting the GSD, this is also the most common
abdominal tumour seen in all breeds of dogs across
the board. Seen more commonly in males but can occur in both sexes, usually
over the age of 8 years, highest incidence at around 11-12 years. Symptoms - Often seen as a sudden onset of weakness, pallor in the gums
and increased abdominal girth – these symptoms are usually secondary to
a bleed from the tumor into the abdomen. While the initial bleed can kill
some dogs outright, the majority will survive this, and if only the spleen is
involved (over 80% of cases), the spleen can be removed and most dogs will
get another 12 months of good quality living. If however the dog has had
several bleeds over a period of time, the possibility of secondarys
(immunodeficiency diseases) already developing is quite high and the odds for
these dogs is often much shorter (3-6 months). Treatment - It is a good idea when your older GSD goes to the vet for their annual check up that the
abdomen is palpated as well. Any concerns with this, an ultrasound
examination should be done. If these are picked up prior to any bleeding into
the abdomen, and the liver or other organs are unaffected, the prognosis is very good. Veterinary Paediatrics |
