Developmental bone and joint disease is a problem common to many large dog breeds, affecting the younger animals. If your dog is affected, he may show no symptoms at all, or he may demonstrate pain or lameness, and seem cautious about movement. Hip dysplasia may cause leg muscles to actually waste.

A first step to avoiding these German Shepherd dog health issues is to make sure that your dog does not come from a breeder where other dogs had these issues. Watch your dog carefully, and be sure to consult your Vet if your dog displays any symptoms, or behavior out of the ordinary.

What your dog eats is very important in preventing dog health issues. Make sure your dog has a healthy diet specific to his needs. A healthy diet for your dog would include a large portion of protein. Meat should comprise the majority of the diet. Their ancestors were carnivores and in the wild they would also eat herbs, grains, fruits, and vegetables.