Dysplasia is a condition usually occurring in large boned dogs, especially German Shepherds. It can occur at both the hips and elbows, but more commonly the hips. Symptoms include an inability to run without pain, reluctance to rise from a sitting position and a swing gait. Animals with sever or minor conditions of dysplasia should not be bred. When in doubt, a veterinarian may require an x-ray.
Ear mites are parasites that live in the ear canal causing irritation.
Animals may frequently scratch or shake their heads. Ear mites cause excessive production of a substance called cerumen which results in the ear canal being filled with a hard brown mass. Mites can be seen with the use of an ocoscope and should be treated for an extended period of time to ensure eradication. Heartworms are diagnosed by a blood test. Symptoms include exhaustion, heavy breathing, coughing, fatigue, and loss of weight.