Dog Hypothyroidism

Treatment and Symptoms of Dog Hypothyroidism

Dogs Symptoms and Canine Health - Description of Dog Hypothyroidism

Description of Dog Hypothyroidism. The definition of Dog Hypothyroidism is a deficiency of the Thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is responsible for the body's metabolism. If there is a deficiency in thyroid hormones then the dogs' metabolic rate is reduced which causes the body to slow down and it becomes unable to function properly. Dogs between the ages of two and six years are more likely to develop Hypothyroidism.

The symptoms vary and begin gradually and certain breeds are more susceptible to developing this condition. Boxers, Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers, Old English Sheepdogs and Poodles.

Dogs Symptoms & Canine Health Index


Symptoms of Dog Hypothyroidism

Dogs Symptoms and Canine Health - Dog Hypothyroidism - General Canine Observations
When you are worried about your pet dogs or puppies it is wise to make general observations and a note of your dog's general well-being before considering a health issue and problem such as Dog Hypothyroidism. Overall physical condition? Mental attitude? Appetite? Condition of bowels and urinary apparatus? The nose of healthy dogs or puppies is moist and cool but in sick dogs it is usually hot and dry. Hair loss? Dry skin? Discharges? These general observations are useful to consider whilst checking out the symptoms of Dog Hypothyroidism.

Dogs can be affected by two forms of Hypothyroidism.

Primary Hypothyroidism - Also known as Acquired Hypothyroidism, it is the most common form of this disorder. It occurs when the thyroid gland is attacked by the body's immune system or when the thyroid gland wastes away for unknown reasons. In both cases, the result is the inability of the thyroid gland to secrete essential hormones that maintain the body's metabolism.

Secondary Hypothyroidism - This form of hypothyroidism involves the destruction or incorrect function of the pituitary gland which is located in the brainstem. When the pituitary gland is unable to function correctly it cannot produce the hormone TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone thyrotropin). TSH is a peptide hormone which is synthesized and secreted by the thyrotrope cells in the anterior pituitary gland. This hormone regulates the endocrine function of the thyroid gland.

Dogs Symptoms and Canine Health - Symptoms of Dog Hypothyroidism
Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms may include the following:

  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Weight Gain
  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Change in Behaviour
  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Lethargy
  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Drowsiness
  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Reluctant to Exercise
  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Seizures
  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Dragging Feet
  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Infertility
  • Dog Hypothyroidism symptoms - Hair Loss

Treatment and Remedies - Canine Treatment of Dog Hypothyroidism
The remedies and treatment of Dog Hypothyroidism may include the treatment of dogs as follows. Blood tests to measure the levels of the thyroid hormones Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3) are initially carried out to confirm diagnosis. Decreased levels of this hormone being released indicate hypothyroidism if the dog is also displaying symptoms of the disease. Dogs with primary Hypothyroidism can be treated with a thyroid hormone supplement have a good prognosis and can have a normal life span. Dogs suffering from secondary Hypothyroidism unfortunately have a poor prognosis because there is a chance that cancer will develop or the pituitary gland which is situated in the brain stem will become damaged. Hypothyroidism can be caused by a variety of disorders including congenital disorders, cancer, infection and drugs such as glucocorticoids.

  • Canine Hypothyroidism treatment - Treatment for Hypothyroidism involves synthetic thyroid hormone supplements as well as other medication.
  • Canine Hypothyroidism treatment - Supplements are usually required to be given daily in oral form for the remainder of the dog's life.
  • Regular checkups are also required by your Vet or Canine health care professional to monitor the levels of thyroid hormone in the blood and to confirm that the correct dose has been prescribed.
  • Canine Hypothyroidism treatment - If too much hormone supplementation is given, a condition called Thyrotoxicosis can develop but is rare. Symptoms of Thyrotoxicosis are panting, anxiety, weight loss, diarrhoea, increased thirst urinating, change in behaviour and increased appetite.
  • Canine Hypothyroidism treatment - Thyroid hormone replacement medications usually are effective in regulating the dog's metabolism and improving its quality of life, but when the Hypothyroidism is a result of a damaged pituitary gland or cancer, additional complications may occur.

Dog Symptoms and Canine Health - Canine Insurance / Pet Health Insurance for Dog Hypothyroidism
Pet Insurance for Dog Hypothyroidism. Remember canine insurance / pet dogs health insurance for treatment of health and medical problems such as Dog Hypothyroidism. Unexpected visits to the vet and veterinary treatments for your dogs and puppies due to illnesses such as Dog Hypothyroidism can quickly add up so get quotes for canine health / pet insurance coverage for treatment due to accidents, treatment of illnesses, prescriptions, surgeries and possible hospitalization treatment for your dogs or puppy. Get the best deals for pet insurance from pet insurance comparison websites - make sure you get the best rates for canine health insurance to cover visits to the Vet for the diagnosis and treatment of unexpected ailments such as Dog Hypothyroidism.

Disclaimer - Dog Hypothyroidism Section of Dogs Symptoms and Canine Health Website
The sole purpose of the Dog Hypothyroidism section on the Dog Symptoms and Canine Health website is to act as a reference guide to provide useful information to the owners of dogs and puppies. This article on Dog Hypothyroidism is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat sick dogs or as a substitute for obtaining professional veterinary advice. Please remember that if you are in any doubt about your Dog's Health, or problems associated with Dog Hypothyroidism, please consult your Canine Veterinary Specialist immediately for professional treatment. Your vet will diagnose whether Dog Hypothyroidism is the problem and prescribe appropriate medication and treatment.

Treatment and Symptoms of Dog Hypothyroidism
Dog Symptoms and Canine Health

Dog Hypothyroidism Symptoms and Treatment

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  • Description of Dog Hypothyroidism
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Dog Hypothyroidism

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