[CorkyMax]

I feel that it is very important that all of you are aware of the problem that German Shepherds have with being able to get the nutrients from their food. German Shepherds have more 'breed specific health problems' then any other breed. They also die sooner than other breeds. I just know it is because they are not getting the nutrients out of what they eat----which means their immune system is compromised--which means they are susceptible to everything and are not in the best of health--or over a period of time it will break down. (Teenagers who eat a lot of junk and seem very healthy until they get older start having "age-related" problems--not the healthest immune system by now) The immune system 'is where it is all at' I am posting here a post I did back on Jan. 17-09 because I love all dogs and want to see them live a healthier, longer life!!

Came back in here to stress this point--A young dog will prob. not show that it's immune system is being compromised---but when the immune system can no longer function properly, then there may be a breakdown and the immune system can no longer 'protect' the dog from diseases and other probs.---THE IMMUNITY IS GONE!! It may appear that the dog is sick overnight and start going ' down hill' fast! Please make sure your GSD is getting the proper nutrition now---NO MATTER HOW HEALTHY IT APPEARS AT PRESENT!!

Just want to get this info out from a book I have (Earl Mindell's nutrition & Health for Dogs)---German Shepards are prone to a digestive enzyme defiency that causes many intestinal problems, including poor digestion and the inability to absorb the nutrients from foods. Nutrient deficiencies cause a long list of chronic problems, including skin problems, allergies, diarrhea, and vomiting. A diet of fresh, raw foods would be all these German Shepards would need to properly digest and absorb their food. For severe cases, there are digestive enzyme supplements for dogs. Digestive enzymes help break down your dog's food enabling the nutrients to be absorbed. Normally, living creatures begin life w/plenty of digestive enzymes, which may be depleted if they are never given any fresh, raw food. The enzymes in raw food do not replenish your dog's reserves as much as they digest a portion of that food so that your dog's body does not use as many.(end of quotes) Of course much of this info is for the good of all dogs!! And a raw food diet is what I feed my 2 cockers.

Adding this very good link on this subject:

Pancreatic Insufficiency

[beklouise30]

hi i have just read your post and found it really helpful i have a 17 week old gsd and she has just had antibiotics for severe collitis i am feeding her on chicken and rice on the advice of the vet but she hasnt had a poo now for 3 days so i am worrying again x