"He's Just Slowin' Down, Doc"
Hypothyroidism is a common condition of dogs in which their body fails to make enough thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone is produced by the thyroid glands located in the neck and is responsible for regulating the metabolism of all other tissues in the body. Therefore, a lack of thyroid hormone can affect almost any other organ.
The most common signs of hypothyroidism in dogs:
- Weight Gain
- Lethargy
- Skin Problems
- seborrhea
- thin hair coat
- dandruff
- ear infections
- skin infections
- Mental Dullness
- Neurological Problems
- weakness
- exercise intolerance
- seizures
- trouble swallowing or breathing
Since hypothyroidism occurs in so many breeds at a wide variety of ages and with a wide variety of signs, it is probably the most common hormonal problem we see in our canine patients. Unfortunately, it is also one of the hardest to diagnose with 100% accuracy. Although a number of tests are available to diagnose this illness, dogs don’t always “read the textbook” so sometimes the diagnosis is not clear cut. Frequently dogs can have all the signs of the disease but their blood tests don’t “fit the picture”. Sometimes we will place patients on a trial therapy for one or two months to test their response to the medication. Luckily, the treatment for hypothyroidism is safe and inexpensive. To replace the thyroid hormone which the body is not making, we give a synthetic hormone replacement therapy. Normally this tablet is given twice a day and once a diagnosis has been made, the medicine needs to be given for the rest of the dog’s life. Periodically, blood tests need to be done to make sure the dog is receiving the proper dose. Too little thyroid hormone means the disease is not being controlled and too much thyroid hormone can do more harm than good. In the case of thyroid supplements, if a little is good a lot is definitely NOT better. The timing of these blood tests is also very important. To be accurate, the blood sample needs to be collected approximately 8 hours after the morning dose of the medication. If your dog is exhibiting any of the signs of hypothyroidism — or if you have any questions — please give us a call today. |
Quick facts about Canine Hypothyroidism:
Affects dogs from 2 years old and up
Many problems usually start in “middle age”, from 2 to 6 years old Male & female dogs are affected equally Although hypothyroidism is rarely life-threatening, it can have a significant impact on the quality of a dog’s life Certain breeds are more likely to be affected:
- Doberman Pinscher
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Cocker Spaniel
- Dachshund
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Poodle
- Great Dane
- Boxer
- Rottweiller
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