The thyroid gland, through production of thyroid hormones, functions to influence nutrient and oxygen utilization within the body, hence affecting overall metabolism. As a result, deficiencies in thyroid hormone or interference with its function can have profound effects on the body. In dogs, immune system malfunctions, iodine deficiencies, incomplete thyroid gland development, and pituitary gland malfunctions can all lead to a condition of hypothyroidism. Predisposed breeds include cocker spaniels, Dobermans, dachshunds, beagles, and golden retrievers.
Clinical signs associated with this disorder are varied, owing to the tremendous scope of thyroid hormone function. Dogs with hypothyroidism tend to be lethargic, sleeping a lot and tiring easily after exercise. Some exhibit a profound intolerance to cold floors or cool environmental temperatures. Puppies so affected might seem to be slow learners when it comes to training. As the skin around the face of these dogs often thickens as a result of the disease, a dog’s voice might change to a lower pitch, and facial features might appear droopy or sad.
In addition, hypothyroid dogs may also have poor appetites, yet still gain weight. Over 50 percent of dogs afflicted with hypothyroidism will exhibit changes to the skin and haircoat. A loss of the undercoat occurs, resulting in a thinned, poor-looking coat. Skin thickening occurs, and secondary seborrhea is not uncommon. Finally, eye problems, neurologic disorders, reproductive infertility, arthritis, and aggressive behavior could all have their roots in a thyroid disorder. A veterinarian can evaluate your pet’s thyroid function right at the office. A simple blood test can be used to screen thyroid hormone levels within the body (Fig. 18.1). If a problem is found, then more extensive thyroid function tests may be ordered to help determine the extent of the problem. If a dog is taking corticosteroid hormones for other problems at the time of the testing, the results could come back falsely low. As a rule, however, if clinical signs correlate with blood test results, then it is safe to assume that a condition of true hypothyroidism exists.
Regardless of the underlying cause, treatment of hypothyroidism in dogs involves daily supplementation with synthetic thyroid hormone tablets. Thyroid hormone levels will need to be monitored during the initial stages of treatment to ensure that the proper dosage is being met. For the most part, this is a medication that affected dogs will need to stay on for the rest of their lives. Clinical response to medicating is usually seen within 2 weeks after initiation, with resolution of signs occurring soon after.
Clinical signs associated with this disorder are varied, owing to the tremendous scope of thyroid hormone function. Dogs with hypothyroidism tend to be lethargic, sleeping a lot and tiring easily after exercise. Some exhibit a profound intolerance to cold floors or cool environmental temperatures. Puppies so affected might seem to be slow learners when it comes to training. As the skin around the face of these dogs often thickens as a result of the disease, a dog’s voice might change to a lower pitch, and facial features might appear droopy or sad.
In addition, hypothyroid dogs may also have poor appetites, yet still gain weight. Over 50 percent of dogs afflicted with hypothyroidism will exhibit changes to the skin and haircoat. A loss of the undercoat occurs, resulting in a thinned, poor-looking coat. Skin thickening occurs, and secondary seborrhea is not uncommon. Finally, eye problems, neurologic disorders, reproductive infertility, arthritis, and aggressive behavior could all have their roots in a thyroid disorder. A veterinarian can evaluate your pet’s thyroid function right at the office. A simple blood test can be used to screen thyroid hormone levels within the body (Fig. 18.1). If a problem is found, then more extensive thyroid function tests may be ordered to help determine the extent of the problem. If a dog is taking corticosteroid hormones for other problems at the time of the testing, the results could come back falsely low. As a rule, however, if clinical signs correlate with blood test results, then it is safe to assume that a condition of true hypothyroidism exists.
Regardless of the underlying cause, treatment of hypothyroidism in dogs involves daily supplementation with synthetic thyroid hormone tablets. Thyroid hormone levels will need to be monitored during the initial stages of treatment to ensure that the proper dosage is being met. For the most part, this is a medication that affected dogs will need to stay on for the rest of their lives. Clinical response to medicating is usually seen within 2 weeks after initiation, with resolution of signs occurring soon after.
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