The thyroid hormone helps regulate many body functions, and the lack of sufficient thyroid hormones cause hypothyroidism in dogs. This condition can create medical and behavioral problems that affect house training.
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Primary
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Generally seen in mature adult dogs, primary hypothyroidism accounts for more than 95 percent of cases, according to Newman Veterinary. The thyroid malfunction may be due to an autoimmune response attacking and destroying the thyroid as a result of fat cells replacing thyroid cells or tumor growth.
Secondary
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Pituitary problems create secondary hypothyroidism. Causes include disease, medications, diet or congenital defects, according to Newman Veterinary. Congenital hypothyroidism symptoms that may affect house training include cognitive or mental development that causes learning difficulties.
Symptoms
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Hypothyroidism may contribute to housebreaking problems. For instance, cold intolerance may make the dog reluctant to go outdoors and an increased appetite may cause more eating and an increased need to go to the bathroom. According to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, some symptoms impair mobility or cause weakness, balance problems or nerve damage that can lead to unsteady movement. These symptoms may interfere with normal housetraining ability. In addition, seizures, a severe symptom, may cause a loss of bladder and bowel control.
Diagnosis
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A complete blood test can determine the level of thyroid hormones and diagnose hypothyroidism, according to Vet Info.
Treatment
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Treatment depends on the type of hypothyroidism. The most prevalent treatment is thyroid hormone replacement medication. However, it is not considered effective in treating congenital hypothyroidism.
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