Hypothyroidism is a condition which develops in older dogs, particularly dogs of certain breeds. This type of condition occurs when the dog’s body is unable to produce enough thyroid hormone, and it normally begins to develop between 4 to 10 years of age. It is not an uncommon disease, and many veterinarians have a long list of canine clients that have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism.
The two most common and easily-spotted symptoms of dogs suffering from hypothyroidism are hair loss and weight gain. The hair loss is a direct result of the lack of the thyroid hormone, and can manifest itself in thinning hair in the lumbar area or on the back of the legs, loss of hair around the tail which makes the tail have a rat-like look, or excessive shedding.
While hypothyroidism generally requires treatment for the rest of the dog’s life, the condition can be easily treated with affordable daily oral medication. Daily medication will resolve the hypothyroidism symptoms, and many dogs with this condition go on to lead long, healthy, and happy lives.