Hypothyroidism is a relatively common condition in dogs aged 4 to 10. The skin, coat and more may be affected. In this post, our vets in explain the causes and symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs.
What is hypothyroidism in dogs?
The thyroid gland is located near the top of your dog's neck and produces a hormone called thyroxine, which controls metabolism (the process of converting food into fuel).
Health issues occur if the thyroid becomes overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). If your dog is suffering from hypothyroidism, it means that the thyroid isn't producing enough thyroxine to maintain a normal metabolism.
In dogs, hypothyroidism is most often caused by one of two diseases:
- Lymphocytic thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in dogs and is believed to be an immune-mediated disease. This means that your dog's immune system determines that the thyroid is foreign or abnormal and attacks it. While this condition is not well understood, genetics are believed to play a role.
- Idiopathic thyroid gland atrophy happens when fat tissue replaces normal thyroid tissue.
Any breed of dog can develop hypothyroidism, but the condition is most often diagnosed in medium to large breeds such as dachshunds, Doberman pinschers, golden retrievers, cocker spaniels, boxers and Irish setters, between about 4 to 10 years of age. Neutered males and spayed females also run a higher risk of developing hypothyroidism, though it's unclear why this is the case.
What are the most common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs?
A lack of thyroid hormone in the bloodstream can lead to numerous changes in a dog's body since thyroid hormones are responsible for maintaining normal tissue repair levels, a healthy immune system and normal metabolism. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs may include one or more of these:
- Excess shedding or scaling
- Black patches on skin
- Slow heart rate
- Repeated superficial skin infections
- Scabs and sores on skin
- Weight gain without increased appetite
- Muscle loss
- Drooping facial muscles
- Infertility in male dogs
- Black patches on skin
- Inability to tolerate cold temperatures
- Excessive dandruff
- Ear infections
- Reduced physical activity
- Lack of coordination
- Lack of heat periods or miscarriage in females
- Darkening of skin
- Skin infections that do not clear up
- Rough, dull coat
- Thinning of fur
- Flaky, itchy skin
- Toenail infections
- Head tilt
- Fatty deposits in eyes
How is hypothyroidism diagnosed in dogs?
While not life-threatening, this disease can make your dog very uncomfortable and unhappy if not promptly treated. If your vet believes that your dog's symptoms are being caused by hypothyroidism, a series of blood tests can be done to diagnose this condition so that treatment can begin.
What is the treatment for hypothyroidism in dogs?
Dogs diagnosed with hypothyroidism are frequently prescribed a manmade hormone called levothyroxine (L-thyroxine) which will need to be taken orally on a daily basis for the rest of your dog's life. Other therapies and treatments include low dose natural hormone replacements, homeopathy and glandulars that may help healing, fermented foods, high-quality, gluten-free natural foods, increased exercise in nature, and fluoride-free filtered water.
Changes to your dog's diet may also help to reduce the symptoms of their hypothyroidism. If your dog shows signs of having sensitivities to certain foods or substances your vet will need to identify the problematic substances so that you can avoid them, or your vet may recommend integrating a few natural fibrous nutrients such as green beans, carrot, cucumber, cooked broccoli, and mushrooms into your dog's diet.