3 Common German Shepherd Skin Issues

German Shepherds are well-known for their intelligence, confident disposition, and luxurious double coats – a soft inner “guard coat” hidden beneath a glossy outer layer. Although their medium-length fur provides considerable protection, German Shepherds are far more susceptible to uncomfortable skin conditions than many other breeds. Skin conditions are some of the most common German Shepherd health issues.

The average lifespan of German Shepherds is 9 to 13 years (and German Shepherds stop growing around 18 months). So during that time, expect health problems every now and then. If your German Shepherd seems to be scratching more than usual, if you discover lesions, rashes, hair loss, or other skin problems, it’s important to take immediate action. Knowing the three most common causes of German Shepherd skin issues can help reduce the risk of recurrence and potential complications.

The more time you spend with your German Shepherd, the easier it is to pick up on subtle cues of them having a skin issue. When your four-legged companion starts biting at their fur, licking their limbs, or scratching a persistent itch, you might naturally assume a flea treatment, tick check, or bath will alleviate their discomfort. While that’s a great place to start, you may not get the immediate results you’re hoping for. A skin condition may be causing all these symptoms. Said skin condition can also indicate other causes, such as a secondary infection. Many canine researchers believe that German Shepherd skin issues are hereditary, meaning they have a strong genetic component. ¹

German Shepherds are susceptible to many of the same health and wellness concerns as their human family members, including allergies. However, you may not realize your German Shepherd has a significant problem with common allergens until the reaction affects their skin. Although allergies can develop at any age, the allergic reactions most likely to trigger German Shepherd skin issues generally appear between the ages of one and three years. ²

Of course, it’s best to consult a veterinarian any time you have concerns about your canine’s overall health and well-being. Until then, you may find it helpful to consider the three most common causes of German Shepherd skin issues.

Hots Spots (polytraumatic dermatitis) are areas of inflamed, infected skin. Although most often found on the paws, ears, hips, rump, or chest, hot spots can emerge anywhere your dog has been licking or scratching. If you don’t catch a hot spot in its earliest stages, your canine can develop painful, oozing lesions that can spread to other areas of their body. If your German Shepherd dog seems uncomfortable, consider examining your pet for the following symptoms ^3,4:

• A swollen, inflamed area of skin that feels warm to the touch
• Areas of moist, blistered skin that cause pain or discomfort
• Itchy, round patches of skin ora  skin rash that increase in size
• Hair loss or patches of matted fur crusted with discharge
• Scarring caused by continuous scratching, licking, or biting of inflamed, infected skin

The main triggers for German Shepherd hot spots tend to fall into one of four main categories: allergic reactions (pollen, insect bites), breed-related (genetic disorders), parasites (dust mites, fleas), and pathological (autoimmune, arthritic). Once you know the primary cause of your German Shepherd’s hot spots, it’s much easier to prevent recurrence.

German Shepherds are also prone to a rather complex medical disorder known as Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD), a chronic inflammatory condition comparable to eczema in humans. ⁵ German Shepherds diagnosed with CAD develop uncomfortable symptoms when exposed to specific triggers. The triggers that can cause symptoms to flare include seasonal pollen, human dander, soil fungi, and harsh shampoos, among others. German Shepherds living with CAD may develop any number of the following signs and symptoms:

• Red Eyes or patches of raw, irritable skin
• Itchy, dry skin, eyes, or paw pads
• Recurring ear infections
• A “corn chip” aroma from the ears, feet, or hindquarters
• Hair loss, skin abrasions, scabs, or signs of infection

Although environmental allergens are often to blame for symptom flares, CAD is also known to have strong genetic components. Current investigations suggest the risk of developing CAD increases by 50% when one or both parents of a German Shepherd have the skin disorder. ⁶

Many German Shepherds have allergic skin reactions to common ingredients used in commercial dog food options and treats. The most common culprits are the animal proteins commonly found in chicken, beef, and eggs. Your canine could also be allergic to grains, dairy, root vegetables, or preservatives. If your vet suspects food allergy, they may suggest an elimination diet or allergy testing to help identify the cause of the following symptoms ^7,8:

• Excessive itching, scratching, hair loss, or a dull coat
• Dry, flaky skin or a red underbelly
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
• Constant sneezing, wheezing, or chronic ear infections
• Watery eyes, nasal congestion, or clogged tear ducts

When beginning an elimination diet, you’ll feed your dog a protein they don’t usually eat and a single source of carbohydrates. If your German Shepherd responds well to this very basic diet, you’ll re-introduce a new food each week while watching for signs of an allergic reaction.

Although your German Shepherd will try to resolve their discomfort on their own, their efforts often increase the risk of pain, inflammation, and infection. Proper dog training can help discourage your pet from excessive scratching or licking, which is crucial for dog health. While you’ll find many over-the-counter treatments intended to help treat canine skin issues, they’re not all the same.

Vetericyn is leading the at-home animal care market. Whether you’re looking for a product to calm an itch, soothe irritation, or reduce the risk of infection, consider how the following Vetericyn products could help your German Shepherd feel better fast.

German Shepherds are highly intelligent and remarkably loyal. Although most require only a quick brush and occasional bath, the breed is prone to developing uncomfortable itching, allergic skin reactions, hot spots, and other skin issues that could potentially cause a serious skin infection.

If your canine companion needs fast, effective relief from the discomfort of breed-related skin issues, visit Vetericyn to browse our selection of innovative products. Vetericyn products are made without antibiotics or steroids, are safe at every stage in life, and are recommended by veterinarians worldwide.

Sources: 

1. German Shepherd Corner. 20 Potential Health Issues in German Shepherds + How to Prevent Them. https://germanshepherdcorner.com/health-issues-in-german-shepherds/
2. VBOCaucasion. How to Treat German Shepherd’s Skin Problems? (Solution).  https://vbocaucasian.com/german-shepherd/how-to-treat-german-shepherd-skin-problems-solution.html
3. Vetericyn. What is a Hot Spot in Dogs?  https://vetericyn.com/blog/what-is-a-hot-spot-in-dogs/
4. Shepherd Sense. German Shepherd Hot Spots? Here’s How to Quickly Treat and Prevent Them.  https://www.shepherdsense.com/german-shepherd-hot-spots-how-to-prevent-treat/
5. AAFRC. How to Treat Dog Dermatitis at Home. https://www.aafrc.org/how-to-treat-dog-dermatitis-at-home/
6. Shepherds’ Bone. German Shepherd Skin Issues and Treatment Options.  https://shepherdsbone.com/german-shepherd-skin-issues/
7. Train Your GDS. 7 Common Types of German Shepherd Skin Allergies (and How to Treat Them).  https://trainyourgsd.com/types-of-german-shepherd-allergies/
8. Dogs Naturally Magazine. 5 Signs Your Dog Has Food Allergies. https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/5-signs-your-dog-has-food-allergies/