Hypothyroidism in dogs: signs and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of the disease

Dogs with hypothyroidism frequently suffer from a hormonal condition that can impair their general health and wellbeing. It happens when the thyroid gland isn’t producing enough thyroid hormones, which can cause a range of mild to severe symptoms. Any dog owner must understand this condition because treatment outcomes can be significantly affected by early detection.

Hypothyroidism in dogs can cause a variety of symptoms, such as weight gain, lethargy, and coat quality changes. Some may even go through behavioral shifts. Early detection of these symptoms can assist pet owners in getting veterinary care as soon as possible.

Blood tests to measure hormone levels are often used in conjunction with clinical signs to diagnose hypothyroidism. Treatment options that can help manage the condition and enhance your dog’s quality of life are available once it has been diagnosed. This post will examine the symptoms, diagnosis, and management of hypothyroidism in dogs, giving dog owners the knowledge they need to maintain the health and well-being of their pets.

Description of the disease

The illness is precisely described by its name, thyreoidea (derived from the Latin for thyroid gland), which means hypodeficiency. The body reports thyroid gland dysfunction and an acute chronic shortage of hormones containing iodine when there is such a pathology.

This illness is quite recent. It was found in animals in the middle of the 20th century, and in humans at the end of the 19th. Physicians are currently researching hypothyroidism in order to advance veterinary endocrinology.

• Serious helminthic invasion (due to the active release of toxins by helminths);
• Congenital or acquired autoimmune disorders.

According to data on disease incidence, hypothyroidism is prevalent in large breed dogs younger than ten years of age. Pathology affects small dogs far less frequently. increased occurrence of the issue in the following breeds: Irish Setter, Dachshund, Golden Retriever, and Schnauzer Doberman.

There are guidelines for preventing hypothyroidism in these breeds. First and foremost, early sterilization can shield the tissues of the mammary glands and genital organs from infectious or malignant damage.

Symptoms with photo

The disease’s symptoms are difficult to describe because the condition has not been thoroughly studied. Pathology presents itself in various ways in different animals. Age, size, and lifestyle all play a role. The following are the most typical indicators of hypothyroidism:

• Quick weight gain in the previous nutrition and normal activity;
• Quick fatigue, lack of desire to play, train, play sports;
• General weakness, weakness in the muscles and joints;
• Apathy, lethargy, a sharp increase in temperature (up to 40 degrees);
• Chills;
• Uaves;

• Muscles paralysis on the muzzle (only on one half) – lowering the corners of the mouth, century;
• Poor blood coagulation;
• Violation of the perception of taste, refusal of food;
• Increased salivation;
• Swelling of the whole body or muzzle separately, the skin is cold, inflamed;

• Dullness of the coat, fragility, loss of color, single or complete baldness, alopecia foci (symmetrically, first on the tail, then on the back and the entire body);

• Weak, barely perceptible pulse, arrhythmia, shortness of breath;
• Dermatitis, skin inflammation (superficial and deep with suppuration), wet dermatitis;

• The appearance of bruises, slow healing of wounds;
• Constipation, intestinal dysfunction;
• Laryngeal paralysis, frequent vomiting;

• Infertility, irregular cycles, decreased sexual activity.

Stages of the disease

The slowest and most advantageous course of the disease development is when the body produces more other hormones to balance out a sharp drop in tyrosine, or thyroid hormone. Yet autonomous recovery is extremely uncommon.

When the thyroid gland sustains irreversible damage and hormone production is at its lowest point, the illness swiftly progresses from mild to severe. The animal’s condition is rapidly getting worse.

Since the condition may not show any symptoms in the beginning, veterinarians advise an annual examination for all breeds that are susceptible to hypothyroidism.

Diagnosis of hypothyroidism

The main symptoms of hypothyroidism determine the diagnosis and course of treatment. When the dog is brought to the vet, the doctor will do a general examination, have a chat with the owner, and explain the reasons behind any unusual symptoms. In addition to the required general blood and urine tests, an ultrasound or electrocardiogram (ECG) of the various organ systems may be performed.

The hormones TSH, T3, and T4 in the blood serum are used to diagnose "hypothyroidism." Studies are conducted in tandem to make sure the dog is not experiencing acute or chronic inflammation.

Hypothyroidism cannot be cured on your own, and even if it can, there is no guarantee that the condition won’t recur. You should follow the veterinarian’s advice to the letter and administer the recommended dosage of medication.

• The main thing in the treatment of the disease is to make up for the balance of hormones and establish the work of the gland. Therefore, hormone -containing drugs are prescribed (Levotyriksin 30 μg per 1 kg, 1 time per day).
• Focal symptoms (ulcers, dermatitis, obesity, etc.D.), introduce Mexidol, which improves metabolism that helps to reduce cholesterol levels. With a correctly selected improvement scheme, it will be already in the second week.
• The full course is at least 3 months.

Secondary hypothyroidism in dogs – what is it

Divide the two categories of illness:

1. Primary – acquired (Hashimoto disease, independent inflammation of the gland or caused by pathological processes);
2. Secondary – congenital hypothyroidism, leading to dystrophy, rickets, oncology in puppies, is diagnosed in the first months; less often, secondary hypothyroidism occurs due to improper treatment with glucocorticoids or an unbalanced diet.

Video lecture from a veterinarian about hypothyroidism in dogs

Diet for the disease

A crucial aspect of patient care is nutrition. While a proper diet won’t cure hypothyroidism, it will help all organ systems function more steadily. It is chosen on an individual basis based on the pathology’s symptoms.

Liquid portions, primarily from broths and milk porridges, are recommended in cases of constipation. rice mixed with bits of meat when stools are frequent. The portion is cut in half if weight is increasing quickly and physical activity is being minimalized. For pets who are sedentary, you can select a special diet food with a low carbohydrate content.

Stabilizing the levels of zinc, selenium, and iodine is crucial. You can accomplish this by buying a vitamin and mineral complex that includes these trace elements. Seared fish, eggs, oatmeal, chicken, lean beef, and raw pumpkin seeds should all be included in the diet.

Dogs with hypothyroidism may have substantial quality of life reductions, but early detection of the symptoms can greatly improve the prognosis. Lethargy, weight gain, and coat condition changes are typical symptoms. By being aware of these symptoms, pet owners can ensure that their furry friends receive the care they require by promptly seeking veterinary advice.

Hormone level measurements via blood tests are commonly used in diagnosis. Don’t worry if your dog is diagnosed with hypothyroidism; there are effective treatment options available. Daily medication helps restore vitality and balance hormone levels in most dogs, and they respond well to it.

Dogs with hypothyroidism can live happy, active lives if their condition is properly managed. Frequent monitoring and check-ups are necessary to make necessary treatment adjustments. Pet owners may guarantee that their dogs remain healthy and energetic for many years to come by remaining knowledgeable and watchful.

Dogs with hypothyroidism, a common endocrine disorder, experience weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems as a result of the thyroid gland’s insufficient hormone production. Early detection of these symptoms is essential for a proper diagnosis and course of treatment, which usually entails lifelong medication to help manage the condition and blood tests to confirm hormone levels. Knowing about this illness can help dog owners make sure their pets live active, healthy lives.

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