A "shepard" is a person who takes care of sheep. They make sure the sheep are safe, provide food and shelter for them, and guide them when they move from one place to another. Full definition
My German shepherd / Akita mix is collapsing spontaneously our 10 year old akita german shepard mix dog has for the last couple of weeks been having her back legs give out while she is stretching for a treat. (total-german-shepherd.com)
She is a mut (looks like a hound and maybe german shepard mix) and I know Interceptor is recommended for the dogs that may have the MDRI - allele mutation. (1800petmeds.com)