The future of the German Shepherd Dog depends on the choices we make today. Every breeding decision, every health evaluation, every commitment to transparency has the potential to strengthen or weaken the generations that follow.
At Lowemond, we believe preserving this remarkable breed begins with knowledge. German Shepherds are admired for their intelligence, versatility, loyalty, and athleticism, but they are also affected by inherited health conditions that deserve careful attention. Understanding these conditions empowers breeders and owners alike to make informed decisions that supports heathier dogs and a stronger future for the breed.
Our commitment extends beyond producing puppies. We believe responsible breeding means continually learning, making difficult decisions when necessary, and placing the long-term health, temperament, and soundness of the German Shepherd Dog above all else. That philosophy is known as breed stewardship – the responsibility to protect, preserve, and improve the breed for future generations.
This page is dedicated to education. Here you’ll find information on common health conditions, genetic testing, orthopedic evaluations, and trusted resources to help you better understand the German Shepherd Dog. Whether you’re a prospective puppy owner, a long time enthusiast, or a fellow breeder, we invite you to learn alongside us as we work to safeguard the future of this extraordinary breed.
Breed Stewardship
Breed stewardship is the lifelong responsibility of protecting, preserving, and improving the German Shepherd Dog. It is the understanding that every breeding decision has a lasting impact on future generations and should always be made with the breed’s best interests in mind.
At Lowemond, breed stewardship means looking beyond pedigrees and titles. It means prioritizing health, stable temperament, sound structure, working ability, and genetic diversity when making breeding decisions. It also means accepting responsibility when a dog does not meet those standards. Not every exceptional dog should be bred, and making those difficult decisions is an important part of preserving the integrity of the breed.
Transparency is an essential part of breed stewardship. You will notice that not every dog featured on our website is part of our breeding program. We believe it is important to celebrate every member of our family while also being honest about the decisions we make as breeders. When a dog does not meet our health, structural, or breeding standards, that dog remains a cherished companion, but is not included in our breeding program. Those decisions are never easy, they can be painful when a dog checks all the boxes but risks carrying inheritable diseases, but they reflect our commitment to the long term health and preservation of the German Shepherd Dog.
We believe stewardship extends beyond our own breeding program. It includes educating puppy buyers, supporting scientific research, encouraging ownership, and sharing reliable information so others can make informed decisions. By working together, breeders, owners, trainers, veterinarians, and enthusiasts all play a role in protecting the future of the German Shepherd Dog.
Our goal is not simply to produce puppies – it is to leave the breed stronger, healthier, and more capable for generations to come.
Common Health Conditions
Knowledge is one of the most valuable tool we have in protecting the future of the German Shepherd Dog. While no breeding program can eliminate every health concern, understanding inherited diseases and orthopedic conditions helps breeders and owners make informed decisions that support healthier dogs for generations to come. The following topics provide an overview of some of the most significant health conditions affecting the breed, along with trusted resources for those who wish to learn.
What is degenerative myleopathy?
Degenerative myleopathy (DM), similar to ALS in humans is a progressive neurological disease that affects the spinal cord. It gradually damages the nerves responsible for communication between the brain and the hind limbs, leading to weakness, loss of coordination, and eventually paralysis. Although, DM is not considered painful, it is a devastating disease that significantly impacts a dog’s mobility and quality of life. At Lowemond, our breeding dogs must be DM clear. We do not breed carrier or at risk dogs.
https://ofa.org/degenerative-myelopathy/
https://www.akcchf.org/clinical-corner/summary-of-canine-health/
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What is hip/elbow dysplasia?
Dysplasia is a developmental condition where a joint does not develop or fit together normally, which can lead to instability, abnormal wear, inflammation, arthritis, and changes in mobility over time. Most common German Shepherds dysplasia is in the hips and elbows. The severity can vary greatly. Some dogs may show few outward signs while others can experience pain, reduced mobility, and progressive joint changes. Because dysplasia is influenced by genetics and environmental factors, responsible breeders use health evaluations, careful selection, and appropriate management practices to help reduce risk and support healthier generations. At Lowemond, our breeding dogs must receive OFA evaluations demonstrating normal elbows and Good or Excellent hip ratings. While Fair hip rating is considered an acceptable result by OFA for breeding purposes, we have chosen to hold our program to a higher standard. We believe selecting toward stronger hip evaluations provides an additional level of confidence in joint health and supports our goal of producing sound, functional German Shepherd Dogs for future generations.
https://ofa.org/diseases/hip-dysplasia/
https://ofa.org/diseases/elbow-dysplasia/
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https://www.akcchf.org/research/research-portfolio/program-area/muscles-bones-joints-research/
What is bloat (GVD)?
Bloat or Gastric Dialation-Volvulus (GVD), is a serious and potentially life threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and may twist, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and other organs. Without immediate veterinary intervention, GVD can become fatal. Deep, large chested breeds such as the German Shepherd are considered at increased risk. While the exact causes of GVD are complex and involve multiple factors, responsible ownership includes understanding the warning signs and seeking emergency care when needed. Signs of bloat may include: a distended or painful abdomen, restlessness, repeated attempts to vomit without producing anything, excessive drooling, weakness, or collapse. At Lowemond, we believe education is an important part of responsible dog ownership. Understanding conditions like GDV allows owners to recognize emergencies quickly and make informed decisions to support the health and longevity of their dogs. For dogs considered at high risk, owners may wish to discuss preventative options with their veterinarian, including a procedure called gastropexy. Many owners discuss the timing and benefits with their veterinarian during another planned procedure such as a spay or neuter.
https://www.akcchf.org/research-progress/chf-working-to-find-the-cause-of-bloat/
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/bloat-in-dogs/
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What is exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is a digestive disorder that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes needed to properly digest and absorb nutrients from food. Without adequate digestive enzymes, affected dogs may struggle to maintain weight and absorb essential nutrients.
Common signs of EPI can include weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite, loose or abnormal stools, poor coat quality, and digestive upset. With proper diagnosis and lifelong management, many dogs with EPI can live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Because EPI has a genetic component in German Shepherd Dogs, understanding the condition and supporting ongoing research are important parts of responsible breeding and breed stewardship.
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What is hemophilia A, von Willebrand disease?
Hemophilia A is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of clotting factor VIII, a protein essential for normal blood clotting. Affected dogs may experience prolonged bleeding after injury or surgery and, in more severe cases, spontaneous bleeding into joints, muscles, or internal tissues.
Because Hemophilia A is an inherited condition, responsible breeding practices and appropriate genetic testing play an important role in reducing the risk of passing the disorder to future generations. Early diagnosis and veterinary management are important for affected dogs, helping owners recognize the condition and minimize the risk of serious bleeding complications.
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/test/hema-gs
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What is hemangiosarcoma?
Hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive cancer that develops from the cells lining blood vessels. It most commonly affects the spleen, heart, and liver, where tumors can grow silently before suddenly rupturing and causing life-threatening internal bleeding.
Because early signs are often subtle or absent, hemangiosarcoma is frequently diagnosed only after an emergency develops. While there is currently no genetic test to predict or prevent the disease, ongoing research continues to improve our understanding of its causes, risk factors, and potential treatments.
Although hemangiosarcoma cannot be eliminated through responsible breeding alone, supporting scientific research, maintaining regular veterinary care, and remaining aware of the breed’s increased risk are important steps in protecting the long-term health of German Shepherd Dogs.
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