# An In\-Depth Guide to Australian Shepherd Health: What Every Aussie Lover Should Know

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- Published: 2024-03-26
- Author: Savanna Read
- Categories: [Dog](https://33rdsquare.com/category/dog/)

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Australian Shepherds, or Aussies, are beloved for their stunning coats, keen intelligence, and incredible versatility. These medium-sized herding dogs excel at everything from agility to therapy work, making them a popular choice for active dog owners. While generally healthy and long-lived, Aussies are still prone to certain genetic health conditions that every owner or prospective owner should be aware of.

In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll take an in-depth look at the most common Australian Shepherd health issues, from joint disorders to eye diseases to cancer. We‘ll explore the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of each condition, as well as steps Aussie owners can take to prevent problems and keep their dogs healthy. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to be the best advocate for your Aussie‘s wellbeing.

## Australian Shepherd Health Overview

On the whole, Australian Shepherds are a hardy and healthy breed. According to a 2004 breed health survey conducted by the Australian Shepherd Health & Genetics Institute (ASHGI), the median lifespan for Aussies is 12 years, with some living up to 15 years or more. This is on par with other similar-sized breeds.

However, like all purebred dogs, Australian Shepherds are prone to certain inherited health problems. Many of these are orthopedic or eye-related issues common in herding and working breeds. The most prevalent health concerns seen in Aussies include:

- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye diseases like cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and collie eye anomaly (CEA)
- Epilepsy
- Cancers like lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma
- The MDR1 gene mutation

A 2000 breed health survey by the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) found that the top three most common health issues reported by owners were hip dysplasia (12.7% of dogs), cataracts (11.7%), and epilepsy (11.4%). Cancer was the leading cause of death, accounting for 34% of Aussie deaths, followed by old age (20%).

It‘s important to note that these statistics don‘t mean every Aussie will develop these problems. Many dogs live their whole lives without any major health issues. However, understanding the breed‘s predisposition can help you make informed decisions about your dog‘s care.

| Health Condition | Prevalence in Australian Shepherds |
| --- | --- |
| Hip Dysplasia | 12.7% |
| Cataracts | 11.7% |
| Epilepsy | 11.4% |
| Hypothyroidism | 5.5% |
| Elbow Dysplasia | 2.4% |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | 2.2% |
| Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) | 2.1% |
| Hemangiosarcoma | 1.6% |
| Lymphoma | 1.5% |

_Data from 2000 ASCA Breed Health Survey_

## Orthopedic Issues: Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia

As medium-to-large herding dogs originally bred for demanding physical work, Australian Shepherds are prone to joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia occurs when the hip or elbow joint develops abnormally, leading to a loose or poorly-fitting joint. Over time, this malformation causes the cartilage and bone to grind together, rather than smoothly sliding. The result is pain, inflammation, stiffness, and eventually, crippling arthritis.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are both inherited conditions with complex genetic and environmental risk factors. They tend to be more common in larger breeds, and unfortunately, Australian Shepherds have relatively high rates of both. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), 18.8% of Aussies evaluated have abnormal hips. Meanwhile, the elbow dysplasia rate is 11.1%.

Veterinarian Dr. Ernest Ward explains, "Hip and elbow dysplasia begin in puppyhood, with subtle signs like bunny-hopping, limping, or stiffness that worsen as a dog ages. Early diagnosis is key to preventing a lifetime of pain. Large-breed puppy owners should have their dog‘s hips and elbows evaluated by their veterinarian, and then potentially x-rayed after 2 years of age."

Catching dysplasia early allows for interventions to slow joint deterioration. These include:

- Maintaining a lean, healthy body condition
- Providing joint supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Physical therapy and controlled exercise on soft surfaces
- Cold laser therapy and acupuncture
- Anti-inflammatory and pain control medications
- Surgical procedures in severe cases, such as juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS), total hip replacement (THR), or elbow osteotomies

Choosing an Aussie puppy from a breeder who health tests their stock for hip and elbow dysplasia and only breeds dogs with normal joint conformation is crucial. Organizations like the OFA, PennHIP, and BVA evaluate joint x-rays and grade them as excellent, good, fair, borderline, or dysplastic. Responsible breeders aim to produce puppies with the best possible hip and elbow ratings.

| Breed | Hip Dysplasia Rate | Elbow Dysplasia Rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Australian Shepherd | 18.8% | 11.1% |
| German Shepherd | 19.8% | 18.6% |
| Labrador Retriever | 12.4% | 11.2% |
| Golden Retriever | 22.2% | 12.5% |
| Rottweiler | 22.2% | 39.5% |

_Data from OFA Health Statistics_

## Eye Problems in Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherds are also overrepresented for several inherited eye diseases that can cause vision loss or blindness. The most common include:

### Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a group of genetic diseases that cause the retina, the light-sensing structure at the back of the eye, to slowly deteriorate. It often begins with night blindness and progresses to complete vision loss over months to years. Most forms of PRA are late-onset, with signs appearing around 3-5 years of age or later.

There are several different genetic mutations that can cause PRA. In Aussies, the most well-known is prcd-PRA, named for the affected gene. A 2007 study in the journal Molecular Vision found a prcd-PRA frequency of 4.5% in Australian Shepherds. There is a DNA test available to detect this mutation in breeding dogs.

### Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

CEA is an inherited disease that causes improper development of the eye, leading to defects in the retina, sclera, and optic nerve. It occurs in many herding breeds, including Aussies. Most affected dogs have mild changes that don‘t impact vision. However, severe cases can result in retinal detachment, inward-curling eyelids (entropion), and blindness.

CEA is present at birth, with signs usually evident by 12 weeks of age. It is diagnosed through a veterinary ophthalmology exam. There is no treatment for the disease itself, but any resulting complications can be addressed. There is a DNA test for CEA, and breeders can largely eliminate the disease through selective breeding.

### Cataracts

A cataract is an opacity or cloudiness in the lens of the eye that can occur in one or both eyes. Cataracts range in size from pinpoint dots to the complete lens. They are a leading cause of vision loss in dogs and frequently require costly surgery to restore sight.

Cataracts can have many causes, including genetics, aging, diabetes, and eye trauma. In Aussies, inherited or juvenile cataracts that develop in young to middle-aged dogs are the biggest concern. According to the 2000 ASCA survey, 11.7% of Aussies had cataracts, with 4.5% having the juvenile form. Responsible breeders perform annual eye exams on their breeding dogs through the OFA or CERF registry to ensure they are not passing on genetic cataracts.

Veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. Natasha Mitchell stresses the importance of early detection. "Cataracts can progress quite rapidly in some cases. If you notice any cloudiness or change in the appearance of your dog‘s eyes, it‘s best to have them examined right away. Surgical outcomes are better when cataracts are caught early, before they cause severe vision impairment or inflammation within the eye."

Other eye issues Aussies may face include distichiasis (extra eyelashes that rub the cornea) and iris coloboma (a hole in the iris). Overall, the best way to promote your Aussie‘s eye health is to choose a puppy whose parents have passed eye clearance exams and to schedule annual checkups with your veterinarian or a veterinary eye care specialist.

## Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy and MDR1

Epilepsy, or recurrent seizures with no identifiable cause, is relatively common in Australian Shepherds. Dr. Karen Becker, a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian, explains, "Seizures can manifest as unusual behaviors like fly biting or chasing imaginary objects, or as the classic full-body convulsions and loss of consciousness. Epilepsy is a very frightening condition for dog owners to witness."

Seizures typically begin between 1-5 years of age in Aussies. The exact prevalence is hard to pin down, but epilepsy rates of 1.5-12% have been reported in the scientific literature. The disease has a complex inheritance pattern, meaning there is likely more than one gene involved.

If your Aussie has a seizure, try to stay calm, clear away any hazards, and time the event if possible. Seizures lasting more than a few minutes or occurring in clusters warrant an immediate trip to the vet or emergency clinic. Once epilepsy is diagnosed, it is usually managed with anti-convulsants like phenobarbital, potassium bromide, zonisamide, and/or levetiracetam. Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, diet changes, and CBD oil, may also help reduce seizure frequency.

Another neurological concern in Aussies is the MDR1 gene mutation. This mutation makes dogs overly sensitive to the effects of many common drugs, including ivermectin, acepromazine, and chemotherapy agents. These drugs can build up in the brain and cause severe neurological reactions or even death.

A 2004 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that 29.7% of Australian Shepherds carried at least one copy of the mutant MDR1 allele. This high frequency is likely due to the mutation being passed down from a popular sire or dam many generations ago. Genetic testing is available to determine if your Aussie has the MDR1 mutation, allowing you to avoid problem drugs and adjust dosages.

| Drug | Reaction in MDR1 Mutant Dogs |
| --- | --- |
| Ivermectin | Ataxia, tremors, blindness, coma, death |
| Acepromazine | Profound sedation, respiratory depression |
| Loperamide | Respiratory depression, coma, death |
| Doxorubicin | Myelosuppression, gastrointestinal toxicity |
| Vincristine | Myelosuppression, gastrointestinal toxicity |

## Australian Shepherd Longevity and Leading Causes of Death

With proper care and a bit of luck, Australian Shepherds often enjoy a long lifespan, even into their early teens. A 2010 survey by the UK Kennel Club found a median Aussie lifespan of 12 years, but many live to 15 or beyond. The oldest Australian Shepherd on record, Bluey, lived to be 29 years and 5 months old!

Still, no dog lives forever, and it‘s important for owners to understand the most common health issues that take Aussies from us too soon. According to the 2004 ASHGI survey, the leading causes of death in Australian Shepherds were:

1. Cancer (32% of reported deaths)
2. Old age (22%)
3. Epilepsy (7.2%)
4. Autoimmune diseases (6.2%)
5. Bloat (3.1%)

Cancer, especially hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma, claims far too many Australian Shepherds. However, some deaths can be prevented through regular veterinary care, screening tests, and an awareness of your dog‘s day-to-day health and behavior. Even something as simple as knowing the signs of bloat, a life-threatening stomach twist, can make the difference between life and death.

## Caring for Your Australian Shepherd‘s Health

As an Aussie owner, you have the power to help your dog live the healthiest, happiest life possible. Dr. Ward sums it up well: "The key is being proactive. Find a breeder who invests in health testing, feed a high-quality diet, keep your dog fit and active, and partner with a veterinarian you trust for regular check-ups. Educate yourself about signs of illness, and don‘t hesitate to seek care if something seems off. You are your dog‘s greatest health advocate."

Here are some of the best ways to maximize your Aussie‘s well-being:

- Purchase your puppy from a responsible breeder who performs orthopedic, eye, and genetic testing on their breeding dogs
- Feed a balanced, species-appropriate diet and maintain a lean body condition
- Brush your dog‘s teeth daily and have regular professional dental cleanings
- Use year-round flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives
- Take your Aussie for a comprehensive annual veterinary exam, including bloodwork and early disease screening
- Monitor your dog at home for any changes in behavior, appetite, activity level, or bathroom habits, and alert your vet to any concerns
- Consider health insurance or setting aside a savings account for unexpected medical expenses

Most importantly, cherish the incredible bond you share with your loyal, loving Aussie. At the end of the day, health challenges are just one part of our journey with our canine companions. Even in sickness, their presence brings immense joy and meaning to our lives. As the saying goes, dogs aren‘t our whole lives, but they make our lives whole.

Australian Shepherd health is a complex topic, but it need not weigh heavily on your mind as an owner. Armed with knowledge and a proactive mindset, you can give your Aussie every possible chance at a vibrant, active life by your side. The road may have some bumps and detours, but focusing on the love between you will always lead you back home. That is the true heart of canine health and wellness.

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Source: [An In\-Depth Guide to Australian Shepherd Health: What Every Aussie Lover Should Know](https://33rdsquare.com/an-in-depth-guide-to-australian-shepherd-health-what-every-aussie-lover-should-know/)