The German Shepherd is an amazing dog with a host of great qualities. He has a lifespan of 9 to 13 years, which is average for most dogs. Several factors can affect the length of their lives. It is important to recognize these factors and hope to prolong life as long as possible. German Shepherds are a wonderful family and a type that will be loyal until they arrive. Because of your wonderful friendship and the joy you bring, we want you to stay as long as possible. Here are healthy tips to increase the life expectancy of the German Shepherd.

Research shows that limiting your dog's calorie intake increases his lifespan and decreases with age-related changes. Dogs fed a low-calorie diet lived longer and suffered fewer age-related chronic diseases. Control your dog's calories so that he does not gain or lose weight once he has reached his ideal weight. Do not overfeed your adult dog, especially a large breed puppy like the GSD, as this can cause lifelong problems. 56% of dogs in the United States are overweight, and this weight can cause life-changing health complications. Talk to your vet about calorie restriction for a longer life.

Brushing your German Shepherd's teeth can prevent periodontal disease and increase your dog's life expectancy by up to 3 to 5 years. According to studies, up to 90% of dogs have periodontitis scores greater than three. In fact, it is the most common infectious disease affecting adult dogs. It is an inflammatory condition caused by bacteria in the mouth that targets the supporting structures around the dog's teeth. It is progressive and gets worse over time. Unchecked periodontitis in dogs can cause teething and eventually make its way into the German Shepherd's bloodstream, damaging some of the major organs, such as the heart, kidneys, and lungs.

Eating a good quality diet will help boost your GSD's immune system, maintain his gut health, increase his mental sharpness, and keep his joints and muscles in better shape. Some vets claim that a high-protein diet increases a dog's life expectancy. Dogs fed high-protein diets showed fewer signs of age-related disease. A high carbohydrate diet is a sign of tooth decay in dogs, which leads to cavities and bacteria and can reduce life expectancy. However, that doesn't mean you should avoid grains, as grain-free diets have recently been shown to have a potential link to heart disease.

A dirty food or water bowl can harbor bacteria and make your pet sick. Wash their food and water bowls daily with warm, soapy water. Replace all ceramic bowls with stainless steel dishes, as crevices in a ceramic bowl trap bacteria. You may not see all the cracks in a ceramic bowl, as many are too small to see with the naked eye. Your bedding needs a regular weekly wash with an unscented detergent to remove dander and dust, as well as any parasites you may not notice at first. And make sure their bed is away from high-traffic areas so they have a quiet place to rest and cool off, helping them stay healthy.

According to the Humane Society of Ontario, stress increases a dog's chance of getting sick, not to mention exhibiting undesirable behavior. Avoid punishment that contributes to stress and keep your workouts lively. Give your dog plenty of soothing massages, which have been shown to reduce stress levels. Some owners report personality changes in their GSDs after daily massages. Work at times when you and your dog are having individual quiet sessions to calm the health of both of you.

German shepherds are one of the smartest breeds in the world. To keep them mentally content and happy, mind games and brain challenges have been included. Even older shepherds who are not that physically active can enjoy a fun brain teaser. A mind game can be as simple as consciously preparing your meal without your plate once a week. Use a food puzzle instead to make your GSD sweat and sniff your food.

There is no one action that extends the life of your best friend, but rather a series of actions that you have control over. Help your dog live the fullest and healthiest life possible by making wise decisions about daily grooming. I hope it helps. Your dog will live a long and happy life. The more time you spend with your furry friend on this earth, the better!