Hypothyroidism in Dogs
The thyroid gland located in the neck regulates the body's rate of metabolism ,if it produces more thyroid hormone than normal ,metabolism speeds up.
If it produces less thyroid hormone than normal, metabolism slows down .
Causes of Canine Hypothyroidism :
Hypothyroidism is a condition caused by :
- The reduction of thyroid hormone in dogs this problem is most often due to a degenerative disease .
- An immune system defect that caused the dog's own immune system to attack the thyroid gland .
Neither cause is very well understood yet, it has been shown that certain breeds are at increased risk for hypothyroidism these include the :
Golden Retriever ,Doberman Pinscher , Shetland Sheepdog, Irish setter ,Cocker Spaniel and Dachshund .....Whatever the cause of hypothyroidism the dog's metabolism slows down so much that clinical signs become evident .
Clinical Signs of Hypothyroidism :
- The most common sign is :
- Thinning hair even to complete hair loss often on the tail ,the hindquarters is common .
- Other common signs include dry brittle hair with excessive shedding.
- Increased pigmentation or darkening of the skin.
- Increased susceptibility into skin and ear infections .
- Cold temperature intolerance .
- Weight gain without an increase in appetite.
- Decreased activity and high blood cholesterol.
- Less typical clinical signs of hypothyroidism may include lameness without pain, fatty deposits on the surface of the eye "dry eye" due to very thick tears or infertility .
Diagnosis of hypothyroidism :
-Hypothyroidism may be diagnosed after a comprehensive physical exam medical history and blood tests.
- The most common blood test called the t4 level measures the main thyroid hormone in a dog's blood sample .
-Additional tests may be performed to rule out other diseases or when the t4 level is normal and the clinical signs of hypothyroidism are present.
Treatment of hypothyroidism :
- In some cases treatment with thyroid replacement hormone is prescribed to see if the clinical signs resolved .
- Hypothyroidism is not curable however it is treatable with oral administration of thyroid replacement hormone which must be given for the rest of the dog's life .
- Follow-up examinations are important .
- Blood tests to monitor thyroid hormone levels must be done on a regular basis to regulate the medication dosage .
- Weight loss ,hyperactivity ,sleeplessness or excess water consumption are all signs indicating that the thyroid hormone dose is too high .
- With early detection and proper medication levels a hypothyroid dog can have a good quality of life and a near normal lifespan ,however dogs that have hypothyroidism should not breed as it can be an inherited trait,,,,,,
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