Symptoms of Canine Hypothyroidism: What to Look Out For

Section 1: Causes of Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Identifying the exact reasons behind a dog's hypothyroidism can often be elusive. Typically, hypothyroidism in dogs is an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, often leading to its atrophy. Some dogs are genetically predisposed to this condition, so if you're aware of any issues with your dog's parents or littermates, it's wise to investigate further.

Hypothyroidism can affect dogs of any age, but it's most commonly seen in dogs between the ages of 4 to 10. Gender does not appear to influence the risk of developing hypothyroidism.

Section 2: Symptoms of Dog Hypothyroidism

Dog hypothyroidism can manifest a wide range of systemic symptoms, with variations depending on the severity of the condition. Unfortunately, some symptoms can also indicate other health issues, so if you notice any signs of illness, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include obesity or weight gain, lack of motivation to be active, symmetrical hair loss on both sides of the body, dry, brittle, sparse, and lackluster coat, frequent skin problems like infections or dandruff, ear infections, fatigue and weakness, unsteady gait, irregular heartbeat, and ataxia.

Less common but serious complications of hypothyroidism include vestibular dysfunction (dizziness), neurological disorders, heart problems, and various health issues related to obesity.

Even dogs without symptoms can develop hypothyroidism, so it's important to have your dog examined by a vet at least once or twice a year, including routine blood tests.

Section 3: Treatment for Dog Hypothyroidism

Currently, the primary treatment for dog hypothyroidism involves the conservative use of hormone replacement therapy. However, this method does not cure the condition; it merely helps control thyroid hormone levels to keep the dog's body as normal as possible.

Therefore, it's essential to follow your vet's advice to determine the correct dosage of thyroid hormone supplements for your dog. Typically, this involves taking the medication 12 times a day. These hormones usually have no side effects, but it's crucial for pet owners to monitor the dosage carefully. Overdosing can lead to symptoms like increased urination, thirst, irritability, rapid breathing, diarrhea, and increased appetite.

After about a month of consistent medication, it's advisable to bring your dog back to the vet for a checkup and adjust the dosage based on the current hormone levels. Unfortunately, there are few other treatment options available for canine hypothyroidism, and many dogs may need to be on hormone replacement therapy for life. While the cost of hormone supplements is not exorbitant, longterm use does require a financial commitment.

Dr. Oxygen Pet Tips: The above information provides an overview of canine hypothyroidism. For more on feline hypothyroidism, click to read 'What is Feline Hypothyroidism?'