Introduction
Like many purebred dogs, German Shepherds have a list of diseases they are prone to. However, the most common issue for this breed stems from their extremely sensitive stomachs. Let’s explore the potential problems that can arise.
Twisted Stomach: Symptoms and Treatment
This is a very serious condition—painful and potentially life-threatening. It affects many large, deep-chested dogs. The condition is usually related to swallowed air and can obstruct veins in the abdomen, leading to organ damage, shock, and high blood pressure.
Bloat can be combined with twisted stomach symptoms, trapping air, food, and water inside, which increases the risk of death. The symptoms of bloat include:
- Vomiting
- Strange behavior, anxiety, pacing, and licking the air
- A “hunched up” appearance
- A hard and bloated stomach
- Changes in gum color (from dark red initially to blue at a later stage)
- Absence of normal gurgling noises in the abdomen
- Coughing and gagging
- Salivating and drooling
- Panting, shallow breathing, and a weak pulse
- Searching for a place to hide and reluctance to lie down or even sit
There is no 100% way to prevent bloat. However, you should feed your German Shepherd 2-3 smaller meals a day instead of one large meal, avoid exercising them right after eating, and limit the amount of water they drink at once.
“In my experience, the most effective way to manage bloat is by being proactive with your dog’s eating habits. I once had a German Shepherd that developed bloat, and we were able to save him because we recognized the symptoms early and had Simethicone on hand. By adjusting his feeding schedule and monitoring his activity after meals, we avoided further incidents. This approach not only improved his overall health but also reduced our anxiety about recurring bloat.”
Tumors
While no breed is specifically predisposed to stomach cancer, it is a relatively common type of malignant tumor in older dogs. Unfortunately, the prognosis for this type of cancer is often poor, and there is usually little that can be done. Symptoms include:
- Vomiting, sometimes with blood
- Loss of appetite
- Blood in the stool
- Ineffective defecation
- Abdominal pain
Stomach Noises
As mentioned earlier, a sensitive stomach is a general issue for all German Shepherds. You may often hear their intestines growling or making noises. They may experience diarrhea and other stomach issues from time to time.
Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
You can help manage this by ensuring your pet gets the best dog food available. Opt for high-quality products that are rich in fiber, or prepare the food yourself. Avoid choosing the cheapest option from the supermarket shelf—your dog deserves better.
Conclusion
Whatever stomach problems your dog may have, don’t rely on guesswork. Seek veterinary help as soon as possible. With prompt care, even bloat doesn’t have to pose a significant danger to your German Shepherd.
Reference
Simethicone link
