Often the German Shepherd is a very healthy breed that is capable to living an average of 12 to 16 years. For those with a well-bred German Shepherd it is unlikely that they will have any major health problems. However, all German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health conditions. This includes Canine Hip Dysphasia or CHD in which the skeleton has a developmental problem and the femur doesn't sit correctly within the hip socket. Another condition is Von Willebrand's Disease, which is a blood disease that affects the ability to the dog's blood to form clots. Without proper care and regular baths a German Shepherd can also develop skin allergies.

When caring for your German Shepherd you need to make sure you feed them a balanced diet. For a long happy life they need fresh food such as turkey, chicken and beef. Although some vegetables, rice and eggs need to be added to the mix for a balanced diet.

You can have excellent German Shepherd health by feeding a good and healthy diet, brushing the teeth as often as possible, grooming regularly and providing your dog with plenty of exercise and attention. It is a good idea to perform a weekly home health exam to keep your German Shepherd healthy since this will allow you to spot any of the common German Shepherd health conditions before they turn into anything serious. It can also make you aware of your dogs body so that you can easily detect any changes that occur due to injury, disease or dog related emergencies.

The best way that you can care for your dog is by taking them to the veterinarian on a regular basis. A veterinarian will make sure all vaccinations are current while performing a regular physical and health exam. You want to have a veterinarian that is familiar with the health problems of a German Shepherd and can successfully deal with any hereditary disease common to the breed.

Diet plays an important part in maintaining good German Shepherd health. Each month an adult German Shepherd will easily eat about forty pounds of dry food. Although the metabolism of the individual dog and their activity level can change this amount.

Younger dogs that are more active will require more food for fuel than older or inactive dogs. It is best to feed a high quality commercial food and supplement it two or three times a week with a small amount of meat. While the activity level of the dog will determine the amount of food you give the dog, most will take two cups of food a day and you should remove any uneaten portions after thirty minutes.

You should choose a food that is high in protein. Instead of wheat, rice or corn your food choice should focus more on lamb, fish or chicken.

It is also best to avoid feeding your dog anything that has additives if possible.