Introduction
Hypothyroidism is a relatively common problem usually found in middle-aged dogs. Caused by a malfunctioning thyroid gland which fails to produce enough thyroid hormone, the condition is often accompanied by symptoms that mirror those of other diseases. Certain combinations of symptoms are a good indicator that hypothyroidism may be at work.
Symptoms of 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. If the dog suffers this type of hair loss, but doesn’t itch like it would in the case of an infection, then hypothyroidism may be the reason.
Weight gain obviously can be a sign of a dog that is eating too much and not exercising enough. But if the dog’s normal diet or exercise routine hasn’t been altered in any way and it appears to be gaining weight, the weight gain could be a sign of hypothyroidism.
One of the more subtle symptoms of the disease that is common in the majority of cases is listlessness or overall lethargy. Other possible symptoms include slow heart rate, constipation, intolerance to cold, or even anemia. These more general symptoms point toward hypothyroidism if they are bunched up with other possible symptoms. Even the sexual functions of the dog can be affected, with female dogs cycling erratically or being infertile and male dogs having low sperm count or decreased libido.
Because the symptoms of this disease are so general, dog-owners should take their pet to a veterinarian if these symptoms arise. Hypothyroidism is easily diagnosed with a blood test, so owners shouldn’t be afraid to seek professional counsel even if they think this condition is only a remote possibility.