What is canine hypothyroidism and how does it affect my dog? Today we will solve your doubts!
What does it mean for my dog to have hypothyroidism?
If your dog has hypothyroidism, it will mean that his metabolism works slower than he should. This is because the gland responsible for producing thyroid hormones produces less than necessary.
If you have a case of canine hypothyroidism, simply give your dog the care it needs! In this way, you will enjoy good health and reach a normal life expectancy for your race.
What causes canine hypothyroidism?
Why are there dogs that develop hypothyroidism and there are dogs that don't? The factors that cause hypothyroidism to develop are several, but we highlight two.
When, progressively, thyroid gland tissue is replaced with adipose tissue, idiopathic atrophy occurs, causing hypothyroidism.
On the other hand, it can happen that the immune system itself can damage or destroy the thyroid. This is known as thyroid lymphocyte disease. When the immune system attacks, the system responds by producing more amounts of the hormone, but there comes a time when it runs out. That's when your dog's metabolism will be affected, acting slower.
Another cause may be the presence of a tumor or sebaceous cyst, which would be removed with an operation.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs
There are many symptoms of a dog with hypothyroidism.
The main and most observable is a considerable weight gain, reaching obesity. However, with the right treatment, the weight of the can will be the right one again.
Dermatological symptoms: hair loss, dry and irritated skin.
Hair without shine.
Exercise intolerance, apathy, tiredness.
Trend towards aggression.
Depression and anxiety.
Intolerance to the cold.
Cholesterol.
Ear and eye infections.
Diagnosis of canine hypothyroidism
To detect that your dog has hypothyroidism, several tests will be done.
Thyroid hormone analysis is first performed to determine the concentration of the hormone thyroxine (T4). If the hormone concentration is normal after testing, hypothyroidism may be ruled out. If it's low, it may mean you have it, but not at all. That's why we have to move on to the next study.
This is known as a "TSH-induced stimulation test". In this case, a low t4 presence claim would confirm hypothyroidism in your dog.
In addition to these, more tests may be performed, such as a measurement of the antibodies that affect the thyroid gland or a thyroid ultrasound.
Treatment of hypothyroidism in dogs
Once the cause of hypothyroidism is determined, treatment will be established.
Sometimes surgery is necessary, but this is not usually the case. It is normal to prescribe a pill that will synthesize the hormones that the thyroid gland must produce, thus achieving the appropriate levels. This would be in the case of an autoimmune disorder and your dog should take the pill for a lifetime.
If there is no autoimmune disorder, the veterinarian will recommend another treatment depending on your health status. And if your pet's case is that the thyroid gland has been depleted very soon, it may regenerate more naturally.
Oh, remember: don't confuse hypothyroidism as canine hyperthyroidism.