Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid gland, located in the neck, which causes a failure to produce an adequate amount of thyroid hormone, decreasing the body's metabolism. While the actual thyroid dysfunction often has its onset at puberty, canine hypothyroid symptoms most commonly become evident in animals between 4 to 7 years of age as the condition gradually worsens. This chronic condition affects every cell in the animal's body, causing a wide range of signs and symptoms, but can be successfully managed with timely diagnosis and treatment.
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Prevalence of Canine Hypothyroid Symptoms
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Hypothyroidism is quite rare among miniature or toy breeds, and most likely to affect mid-sized and larger dogs, with certain breeds more susceptible than others. Among the breeds most likely to develop canine hypothyroid symptoms are Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Greyhounds, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles and Airedale Terriers. Thyroid disorders affect male and female dogs in relatively equal proportions, although spayed females carry a higher risk of developing hypothyroidism than unspayed ones, and purebred animals are more often affected than mixed-breed dogs.
Physical Symptoms
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Among the symptoms of canine hypothyroidism are a number of physical signs that can be present in any combination. These can include weight gain, hair loss, dry skin and thickened, scaly patches of skin in spots where hair has fallen out. The coat may become dull and greasy, and skin infections, ear infections and unpleasant skin odors can become recurrent issues. Constipation, diarrhea and vomiting can also occur with hypothyroidism.
Activity Levels
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One of the most common canine hypothyroid symptoms present in affected animals is lethargy. Dogs can exhibit symptoms similar to those of depression, sleeping or lying down much more than usual. Often, weakness is an issue, further decreasing the activity level of the animal, as well as stiffness and sore muscles. In severe cases, breathing can become labored, discouraging normal activity levels. A symptom that is less common, but present in some dogs, is hyperactivity due to hypothyroidism.
Behavioral Symptoms
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Canine hypothyroidism can be the source of behavior changes in some animals. Thyroid dysfunction can lead to mood swings and irritability in affected dogs, as well as severe anxiety. Unprovoked, uncharacteristic aggression can often become a problem in animals with hypothyroidism, as can destructive behaviors and incontinence.
Neurological Symptoms
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Some dogs with thyroid dysfunction can have periods of disorientation, described by some pet owners as a trance-like state. Drooping eyelids can be a symptom of canine hypothyroidism, as can be the sudden onset of epilepsy, often characterized by periodic seizures.
Diagnosis and Treatment
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Many of these signs and symptoms of canine hypothyroidism can be caused by a number of other ailments as well, making it necessary for testing to be done in order to make a conclusive diagnosis. Veterinarians test for hypothyroidism by drawing blood, then measuring the levels of several key hormones that are regulated by the thyroid gland. Animals with hypothyroidism will show abnormally low levels of these hormones and will require treatment. Today, there are a number of treatment options available, ranging from medications to surgical solutions that can restore the health and vitality of animals affected by canine hypothyroidism.
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