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German Shepherds: Genetic Predisposition
Many breeds of dogs, particularly those that are pure bred, are prone to developing various genetics defects. The German Shepherd is no exception, with over 50 hereditary diseases currently cited. Canine hip dyspepsia (CHD) is one of the most common cases present in German Shepherd dogs; causing symptoms of lameness, osteoarthritis and weakness. Comparable studies have all inclined that there is genetic factors involved in this predisposition of CHD. One study by Fels and Distl, in 2014, suggested findings of various single nuecleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the CFA14 gene, of which were significantly associated to CHD. In particular, the SNP BICF2S2367279 was located on the sarcoma viral oncogene (SRC) gene. This gene is known to be related to bone reformation and osteoclast survival. Pancreatic acinar atrophy (PAA), causing symptoms of inflammation, enlarged rough endoplasmic reticulum, abscessing of the mitochondria and ultimately dangerous exocrine cells in the pancreas. The exact chromosome and gene related to PAA are not completely known. What is known is that there is an up-regulation in genes related to mitochondrial function, pancreatic cancer and endoplasmic reticulum function seen in PAA German shepherds. Any defect of the pituitary gland arising during fetal development can lead to pituitary hormone deficiencies, and ultimately dwarfism. Within the German Shepherd, cysts on the pituitary gland are the msot common defects. Generally, dwarfism is rare in all dog breeds, however this recessive trait is linked more often to German Shepherds, and leads to a short stature, stunted hair follicle development and other more detrimental symptoms. Some of the pituitary hormones include, growth hormone (GH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), making it clear as to why a deficiency of these hormones may lead to a halt in development and coat issues. Finally, German Shepherds have been noted as having a high genetic predisposition to acromegaly. Acromegaly results in symptoms such as; weight gain, skin folds, masses on mammary glands and lameness. The actual cause of acromegaly in German Shepherds is genetic heritable, leading to higher GH and IGF1 blood levels, as well as increased calcium and phosphorous concentrations in the body.

German Shepherds: Skin and Coat Health
The German Shepherd is at high predisposed risk of developing an allergic skin disease commonly known as atopic dermatitis (AD), infectious skin irritants developed from Aspergillus species and eczema. Along with these skin disorders, the coat appearance, texture and quality is a good indicator of overall physiological health both inside and outside of the dog. Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) are one of the most influential nutrients in skin and coat health, along with a multitude of other health benefits ; this is why low fat diets can be potentially problematic if the correct omega6 to omega3 ratio is not present. Omega 6 fatty acids are important in maintaining and improving the water barrier of the skin; with a well developed skin water barrier there has significant support of reduced dullness, dryness and scaling of skin in dogs. Some sources of omega 6 fatty acids that you can safely feed your dog, come from vegetable oils, liver and black current seeds. Omega 3 fatty acids have an antiinflammatory response in the body, aiding in the reduced risk of allergic skin reactions, decreased itchiness caused by flea bites and eczema and result in softer skin preventing scaling, peeling and dandruff. Omega 3 food sources include; marine oils and flax seeds. Vitamin E is a nutrient that protects the skin from oxidative damage and helps preserve essential fatty acids, therefore reducing brittle damaged fur. Some sources of vitamin E include; wheat germ, spinach and eggs. Zinc is a trace mineral that can reduce water loss through the skin, as well as reduce inflammation. Sources of Zinc for your German Shepherd come from meat products and whole grains. Biotin is another nutrient which maintains healthy connective tissue and is important for hair, nail and skin health. Biotin can be found in foods such as barley and oats. Overall, skin irritants and coat issues can be either reduced or prevented through proper nutrition; ensuring an adequate omega6 to omega3 ratio and high dosages of vitamins and minerals.