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German Shepherd

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Working dogs are intelligent, loyal, and protective of their owners. Suitable for people with experience, space and time to practice and exercise every day. In Thailand you have to be careful of the heat because of their double coat and large size. You should avoid strenuous activities in the sun.
typedog
Place of originGermany
SizeLarge · Double layer
Life expectancyAbout 10-12 years
HabitLoyal and protective of its owner · Intelligent, easy to train · Suspicious of strangers · Alert, suitable for working dogs
Thailand weatherThey have two layers of fur and are large. Therefore easily gets hot when exercising in the sun. There should always be shade and water. and organize activities in the morning and evening when the weather is cool
fur careBrush their coat several times a week because they shed heavily throughout the year.
exerciseNeed lots of exercise and brain-training activities every day, including walking, running, and obedience training.
Common diseases in the breedhip and elbow dysplasia (hip/elbow dysplasia) · bloat/GDV · degenerative spinal cord disease (degenerative myelopathy) · Intestinal and pancreas problems
suitable forAble to get along with children · Lots of energy · Needs space

Breed diseases that you should know before raising them

Each disease below is based on veterinary resources listed at the end of the section. And also tell what the general maintenance is like. This does not mean that every dog ​​or cat of this breed will. But it is a more common risk than other breeds.

spinal cord degeneration (Degenerative Myelopathy) (Degenerative myelopathy)

It is a slowly progressive disease of the spinal cord. This causes the hind legs to gradually become weaker. Until finally being paralyzed It is one of the health conditions listed as being specific to the German Shepherd breed.

Care guidelines: There is still no cure for it. Care focuses on physical therapy and mobility devices to maintain the dog's quality of life as the disease progresses.

www.petmd.com

Hip Dysplasia (Hip dysplasia)

It is a degenerative joint disease that affects the back of the body. It is caused by a hip joint that doesn't develop or fit together properly. It is one of the most common joint problems in this breed.

Care guidelines: Mild cases are taken care of by weight control. limit exercise and joint tonics or pain relievers In severe cases, surgery may be required.

www.petmd.com

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) (Gastric dilatation-volvulus)

GDV is a sudden and life-threatening emergency. The stomach expands with gas and twists. cut off blood flow Dogs with deep chests, like German Shepherds, are at higher risk for this condition.

Care guidelines: GDV requires emergency surgery and immediate veterinary care to relieve the pressure and fix the torsion of the stomach. Delaying can be life-threatening.

www.petmd.com

This information is used only to help you make an informed decision before adopting. It is not a diagnosis or medical advice. If your pet has abnormal symptoms Take him to see a veterinarian.

Frequently asked questions

Is a German Shepherd suitable for living in a condo?

Not very suitable, has two layers of fur and is large. Therefore easily gets hot when exercising in the sun. There should always be shade and water. and organize activities in the morning and evening when the weather is cool

How long does a German Shepherd live?

Generally around 10-12 years (according to veterinary sources)

What genetic diseases do German Shepherds have?

hip and elbow dysplasia (hip/elbow dysplasia) · bloat/GDV · degenerative spinal cord disease (degenerative myelopathy) · Intestinal and pancreas problems

Can German Shepherds tolerate the hot weather in Thailand?

They have two layers of fur and are large. Therefore easily gets hot when exercising in the sun. There should always be shade and water. and organize activities in the morning and evening when the weather is cool

Sources: vcahospitals.com · www.akc.org — Last checked 2026-07-28

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