Canine Hypothyroidism

Learn about Canine Hypothyroidism such as symptoms and treatment.. Find out which dog breeds are most prone to developing this condition.

There is 2 primary types of canine hypothyroidism, and they are referred to as primary and secondary. There is also a few less common forms of this illness. The neoplastic and congenital types of hypothyroidism are oftentimes dog breed specific. Primary hypothyroidism makes up for over ninety-five percent of all canine hypothyroidism cases and generally comes about between the ages of four and six.

Situated on either side of the trachea in the dog's throat, the thyroid gland creates hormones which are responsible for metabolic function. When the thyroid gland is not working right, hormone production is interrupted.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

• Skin changes, like dark patches or dry skin
• Hair loss or changes in coat
• Tired or increase in sleep
• Weight gain
• Chills, poor cold tolerance
• Slow heart rate
• Constipation
• Infertility

Dog Breeds Most Prone to Hypothyroidism

1. Golden Retrievers
2. Labrador Retrievers
3. Dachshunds
4. Boxers
5. Cocker Spaniels
6. Greyhounds
7. English Bulldogs
8. Great Danes
9. Doberman Pinschers

Other dog breeds at high risk of hypothyroidism

• Mastiff
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Rottweiler
• Siberian Husky
• Border Collie
• Maltese
• Weimaraner
• Chinese Shar-Pei
• Dalmatian
• Bernese Mountain Dog

Types of Hypothyroidism

• Secondary hypothyroidism is induced by a tumor intruding on the thyroid gland. Luckily, this form of canine cancer is a fairly infrequent illness, however Beagles, Golden Retrievers and Boxers are more probable to acquire tumors of this form.

• Neoplastic hypothyroidism results in an abnormal growth or death of thyroidal tissue and is induced by iodine deficiency. This illness is encountered in giant schnauzers and boxers.

• Congenital or juvenile onset hypothyroidism is an genetic illness that is encountered in Giant Schnauzers and German Shepherd Dogs. Toy Fox Terriers also carry a gene for congenital hypothyroidism.

Canine Hypothyroid Diagnosis and Treatment

Nearly all types of hypothyroidism are diagnosed by means of a blood test. Samples of blood are taken and tested for thyroidal hormone concentrations. There are numerous different tests available and the test answers can be inconclusive at times. Your vet might prefer to do more than just one test to get an exact diagnosis.

Primary hypothyroidism can be very well managed with daily thyroid medications. As hormone replacement treatment advances, the hormone doses could change.

Treatment of secondary hypothyroidism is also best treated or managed with daily thyroid hormone medications, mixed with treatment of the underlying sickness.

The more common type of thyroidal hormone replacement is L-thyroxine. Depending on the maker, it's available in liquid, tablet or chewable form. The majority of dogs will demonstrate melioration within just weeks of commencing HRT. 

 

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