How long do German Shepherds live? Is 11 years a good age for them?

An average life span of a GSD is 12-15 years. Health issues in GSDs include hip dysplasia, bloat, pancreatitis insufficiency, epilepsy, and cancer. Cancer is a middle aged to older dog disease, but it's really hard to see at what age they die from illness as it can vary within the breed. Some GSDs can live longer than others. It's important to make sure Bruno is a health weight, he is exercised daily, is kept up to date with his vaccines, and if you have any health concerns or questions, take him into the vet right away.

The most common diseases seen in the [German Shepherd](https://www.petcoach.co/breed/german-shepherd-dog) breed that can cause death are [hemangiosarcoma](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/hemangiosarcoma/) (cancer of the spleen) or [osteosarcoma](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/osteosarcoma/) (bone cancer). However, there are lots of disease processes (i.e. [Addison's Disease](https://www.petcoach.co/article/addison-s-disease-hypoadrenocorticism-in-dogs), [Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/exocrine-pancreatic-insufficiency/), etc) that can afflict this breed and shorten the lifespan. While [hip dysplasia](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/hip-dyspasia/) is common in the breed, it is rarely fatal but can greatly affect quality of life. This is just what I commonly have seen in my professional experience, it is by no means an all inclusive list. Also[ German shepherds](https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-facts-you-should-know-about-german-shepherds) average life span is about 9-13 years of age. Technically, they are considered senior dogs once over the age of 8.

No German Shephards are not particularly prone to kidney disease. Your pet was never on an antibiotic according to this record. The Cetrizine is an anti-histamine, basically over the counter Zyrtec. The prednisolone is a steroid that usually affects the liver over time and can cause UTI's if used daily for more than 3-4 weeks at a time, not particularly kidney problems. The anti-fungal medication (Terbinafine) can affect the kidney but typically over if it is used over a very long period of time, such as weeks to months consecutively. So I would say that with the information you have provided, the risk of damage to Bruno's kidneys is pretty low to non-existent. I hope this helps! Best wishes and take care.

I am so sorry for the recent loss of your beloved pet. It is so difficult losing a pet that you clearly loved very dearly. With regard to Danny, without knowing his weight or seeing the wound it is difficult to say if this is the best antibiotic for him or if the dose is appropriate. The veterinarian who prescribed the medications will be better able to advise you in that regard. German Shepherd Dogs typically live for between 10 and 12 years, barring any severe health issues. But antibiotic therapy such as the one you are giving Danny now, will not extend his life span. Keeping your dog up to date on his vaccinations and taking him to the veterinarian every 6 to 12 months for wellness visits are the best way to ensure that Danny lives a full and healthy life.

Unfortunately, once all permanent teeth have erupted (generally around 6-7 months of age), there is no way to definitively determine a dog's age. The best that you can do is closely examine all teeth for any evidence of tartar or dental staining. While trace amounts of tartar and staining may be present by 18 months of age, more significant tartar accumulation would be highly unlikely. If the seller has any previous vet records or vaccine certificates, these would also help to prove her age. I understand your concern about lifespan as well. As a larger breed, German Shepherds generally live 9-11 years, but in my opinion, the quality of that life and time together is even more important than the quantity. :-)

Keeping Bebo normal weight throughout his life is the most important factor in longevity for dogs. Also regular steady exercise without a lot of jumping will protect his joints and reduce painful arthritis as he ages. With German Shepards hip issues can cause problems so the best thing to do is keep his rear legs strong to suppor his hips. I also give omega 3, and a good quality joint supplement in addition to a good quality dog food. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Bebo.

You should weight his quality of life, if he is suffering more at this point, than he is enjoying life, then it might be best to opt for euthanasia. at his age it is unlikely that his condition will get better.