Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition which results from inadequate thyroid hormone production. The problem could be due to immune-mediated destruction of the thyroid gland, thyroid gland atrophy, dietary iodine deficiency, or a congenital problem.

We see it most commonly in middle-aged to elderly dogs. Some breeds are more predisposed to this disease than others. The list includes Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, beagles, poodles, Doberman Pinscher, Irish Setters, Great Dane, Dachshund, and Boxer.

Symptoms

Most common signs can be occasionally attributed to the age. Those include increase sleepiness, overweight, poor coat condition, flakiness and skin dryness, and hair loss. Sometimes a pet can have skin infection and anemia. One classical sign is a thickening of the facial and head skin folds which gives a dog impression of a “sad face”. If your pet suffers from chronic skin infections and ear problems, ask your veterinarian to test him/her for a hypothyroidism.

Diagnosis

To diagnose whether your pet has hypothyroidism your veterinarian will run a blood test measuring T4 (or total T4), T3, free T4 and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). Depending on values of those hormones your doctor will be able to establish if you pet is suffering from thyroid disease.
Treatment

The treatment for hypothyroidism is quite straight forward. Your doctor will prescribe oral thyroid hormone supplement. It is very important to realize that thyroid treatment is for life.

Usually there will be a rapid improvement in your pet’s activity. Regrowth of the hair may take up to 4 months.

Re-testing

It is standard to recheck T4 levels after 4-6 weeks of treatment. That will give your doctor an idea whether your pet needs a dose adjustment. Every time the dose of the medication is changed it is good idea to recheck the levels 4-6 weeks later. When your pet is well regulated, the blood test will be needed only every 6 months

Other thyroid resource

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