Hypothyroidism or Low Thyroid Problem in Dogs

Got a dog who has been extremely tired lately or has been having issues with their skin or hair? He/she might be suffering from hypothyroidism.

Thankfully, thyroid problems in dogs are easy to diagnose and manage. While the exact cause of thyroid problems in our Furry Friends is not clear, we do know how hypothyroidism affects dogs and how to treat it.

What Is the Thyroid?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck of the dog and humans. The thyroid gland is a part of the endocrine system and produces the hormones necessary for the cells to function normally. The thyroid controls the body’s metabolism.

If a dog’s thyroid gland starts producing too much thyroid hormone, it is called hyperthyroidism and produces visible symptoms including diarrhea, increased heart rate, anxiety, and hyperactivity.

Whereas, If the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, it results in hypothyroidism which has exact opposite symptoms.

Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid problem in dogs.

Which Breeds are more prone to hypothyroidism?

Low Thyroid Problems affect all dog breeds, mostly medium to large breeds such as golden retrievers, Doberman, dachshunds, cocker spaniels, and boxers. Spayed and neutered dogs are at increased risk.

At What age dogs are more susceptible to Low Thyroid Problems?

Hypothyroidism is usually found in middle-aged dogs of ages between 4 to 10 years.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Low thyroid hormone in dogs affects every system of the body. The most common symptoms of Hypothyroidism in dogs include:

• Excessive tiredness without playing
• Unusual Weight gain despite regular diet or less diet
• Skin infections
• Cold intolerance
• Change in skin or coat such as excessive hair loss, dry or dull coat, and hyperpigmented skin.
• Unusually longer heat cycles in female dogs (non-spayed)
• General Weakness
• Loud breathing

Diagnosis of Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Unlike humans, hypothyroidism in dogs is easy to diagnose and manage. If your doggo is showing any of the above symptoms, make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian.

The vet will ask some simple questions and most probably run some blood & urine tests which can easily detect hypothyroidism.

Treatment for Hypothyroidism in Dogs

If your dog is diagnosed with Low Thyroid Problems, don’t panic or worry! Although there is no cure for hypothyroidism in dogs, it’s very easy and inexpensive to manage your dog’s hypothyroidism with an oral thyroid supplement.

If the supplement or medicine is working, your dog will regain his energy, lose weight, stop shedding hair, and will start behaving normally again.

After starting your dog on thyroid medication, the vet will likely take a follow-up blood test in a week or two to make sure your dog’s thyroid hormone levels are back in range.

Once their hormone levels are normal, the vet will probably want to get him checked once or twice a year.

Nutrition for Dogs With Low Thyroid Problems

Providing proper balanced nutrition to a dog with hypothyroidism is critical to support his health.

Dogs with hypothyroidism need food that contains balanced levels of protein, iodine, probiotics, antioxidants, and the right amount of calories that can help in maintaining a healthy weight.

Hypothyroidism in dogs is common and can be easily managed. With proper medication and a balanced diet, your dog can easily live a long, healthy, and happy life.