Introduction
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 symptoms and effects of hypothyroidism will eventually begin to interfere with a dog’s quality of life and longevity if life long medications are not administered.
How Hypothyroidism Affects Dogs
The thyroid glands, located just under a dog’s throat around the windpipe, are responsible for producing thyroid hormones. Over 90% of the hypothyroidism cases occur because an incorrect trip in the immune system caused the body to attack its own thyroid. As the thyroid gland is destroyed, the levels of thyroid hormone in the body drop and hypothyroidism occurs. In rare cases, hypothyroidism can be caused by iodine deficiency, a pituitary tumor, or because the thyroid glands did not develop properly.
Thyroid hormones are necessary because these hormones help to regulate a number of important body functions including: basal metabolic rate, manufacture of proteins, and break down carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and proteins. When these systems become interrupted, vital metabolic functions slow down and the dog experiences symptoms such as weight gain, increased appetite, lethargy, and the inability to exercise. Various other symptoms appear as well because almost every organ of the dog’s body, including the skin, is affected.
Which Dogs Are at Risk?
Hypothyroidism occurs most often in mid to large breeds of dogs. Dog breeds that seem to have a higher risk for developing hypothyroidism include: the Dachshund, the Doberman Pinscher, the Golden Retriever, the Great Dane, and the Irish Setter. There are tests specifically designed to diagnose hypothyroidism, and once a diagnosis has been confirmed treatments in the form of oral thyroid hormones are prescribed.