What is a common symptom of hypothyroidism in dogs?
Signs of hypothyroidism include hair loss, usually on your dog’s trunk, back of the rear legs, and tail. Their coat will be dull and thin, their skin flaky, but not itchy or red (which is usually tied to fleas or an allergic reaction). They may also have black patches of skin.
What happens if hypothyroidism is left untreated in dogs?
A dog is hypothyroid when their thyroid does not produce enough metabolism-regulating hormones. This deficiency, if left untreated, can lead to a host of other debilitating diseases including corneal ulcers, anemia, and a devastating disease called adult-onset megaesophagus, which will eventually lead to death.
How long do dogs live with hypothyroidism?
Pets treated for canine hypothyroidism have an excellent prognosis and their life expectancy is normal. Although it is not curable, it is a manageable disorder. Clinical abnormalities (flaky skin, hair loss, lethargy) may take a few weeks to a few months to resolve.
What does hypothyroid do to a dog?
Hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid condition, is a relatively common endocrine disorder in dogs. It is less common in other species. Hypothyroidism causes the bodily functions to slow down. Clinical signs of the disorder include lethargy, weight gain, and haircoat and skin changes.
How do you know if your dog has a thyroid problem?
What Are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Dogs?
- Lethargy.
- Exercise intolerance.
- Mental dullness.
- Weight gain without a change in appetite.
- Obesity.
- Cold intolerance.
- Changes in coat and skin, like increased shedding, hair thinning, and hair loss.
- Thickening of the skin.
What are the symptoms of a dog with thyroid problems?
What do you feed a dog with low thyroid?
There are a number of fresh vegetables that may help to support thyroid function which you may want to include in your pet’s diet in small amounts such as asparagus, green beans, beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots, celery, lettuce, mushrooms, and spinach.
Can you reverse hypothyroidism?
Many types of hypothyroidism can be reversed. The process may not be simple, but it is possible. Even some cases of so-called “permanent” hypothyroidism can be effectively treated.
Is hypothyroidism in dogs fatal?
Hypothyroidism is easily treatable and not life-threatening as long as it’s taken care of. But if left untreated, the disease will negatively affect your dog’s quality of life. The clinical way to treat hypothyroidism is with synthetic thyroid replacement medication to offset low thyroid function.
How should I diagnose hypothyroidism in dogs?
Dark spots on the skin
What are the side effects of hypothyroidism in dogs?
Though you may see similar skin disorders and dull coat as with hypothyroidism, additional symptoms include dramatic weight loss paired with increased appetite and behavior changes such as anxiety and hyperactivity. Your dog may also drink a lot more and may suffer from vomiting or diarrhea.
What is the best dog food for dogs with hypothyroidism?
Commercial pet food is also commonly high in salt, and preparing a diet at home including fresh vegetables, rice and lamb or chicken will reduce your dog’s salt intake and potentially prevent the dog’s condition from worsening.
Does my dog have hypothyroidism?
While any breed, sex, and age of dog can have hypothyroidism, there are some that are more at risk than others. Aside from these breeds, dogs between the ages of 4-10 years are more prone, as are altered dogs. If you suspect your dog may have hypothyroidism, take them to the vet for a urinalysis and complete blood work.