Canine hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder that occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones play a vital role in regulating your dog’s metabolism. When levels are low, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms and significantly impact your dog’s quality of life. Early recognition and treatment are key to helping your dog live comfortably.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

The signs of canine hypothyroidism can be subtle and progress gradually. Common symptoms include:

• Lethargy and reduced activity levels
• Unexplained weight gain despite normal or reduced appetite
• Seeking warmth and intolerance to cold
• Hair loss, especially on the body and tail
• Chronic skin infections or dry, flaky skin

In some cases, neurological symptoms may also be present, such as:

• Generalized weakness or lack of coordination
• Head tilt
• Seizure-like episodes in rare cases

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your veterinarian promptly.

Diagnosing Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Diagnosis requires a blood test that measures thyroid hormone levels, particularly T4 (thyroxine) and TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). Since other diseases may cause similar signs, your veterinarian may run additional tests to rule out infections, autoimmune diseases, or other underlying conditions.

A thorough diagnosis is essential for choosing the right treatment plan and ensuring long-term success.

Treating Hypothyroidism: A Lifelong Commitment

Once diagnosed, canine hypothyroidism is typically managed with daily hormone replacement therapy, usually in the form of levothyroxine tablets. This synthetic thyroid hormone restores your dog’s metabolic balance and alleviates symptoms.

In addition to medication, other aspects of care include:

• A high-quality, balanced diet: This supports healthy weight and energy levels.
• Controlled exercise: Increase activity gradually under veterinary guidance to avoid overexertion.
• Regular veterinary checkups: Ongoing monitoring through bloodwork helps adjust the medication dosage and assess treatment effectiveness.

Long-Term Outlook

With appropriate care and regular monitoring, dogs with hypothyroidism can live happy, active lives. However, because treatment is lifelong, it requires a consistent routine and commitment from pet owners.

Early intervention not only improves symptoms but also reduces the risk of complications related to untreated thyroid dysfunction.

If you notice signs of hypothyroidism in your dog, don’t delay. Speak with your veterinarian to begin testing and develop a treatment plan tailored to your dog’s needs.