How does an underactive thyroid affect a dog?
How does an underactive thyroid affect a dog?
Hypothyroidism is a common condition in dogs that can lead to unexplained weight gain, skin and coat issues, as well as behavioral changes and reduced energy.
Is hypothyroidism in dogs life threatening?
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.
What are the symptoms of a dog with a thyroid problem?
Here are some of the more common symptoms:
- 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 do you feed a dog with thyroid problems?
Sources such as fish, poultry, and meat are your best bets as they support lean muscle mass. Animal-based fats such as salmon oil and chicken fat will give him some much-needed energy. Essential fatty acids also address coat and skin issues your dog may have developed as a result of the hypothyroidism.
How can I help my dog with thyroid problems?
It is treated with oral administration of thyroid replacement hormone. This drug must be given for the rest of the dog’s life. The most commonly recommended treatment is oral synthetic thyroid hormone replacement called levothyroxine (brand names Thyro-Tabs® Canine, Synthroid®).
Can hypothyroidism cause kidney problems in dogs?
Renal failure can progress due to glomerulosclerosis, proteinuria and oxidative stress. Hypothyroidism has a more negative influence on kidney function.
Is my dog in pain with hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroid dogs often have ear infections and show ear pain, redness, and odor. Hypothyroid dogs may also develop skin infections that may be itchy and result in sores on the body.
Can hypothyroidism cause leg weakness in dogs?
Up to 40% of humans with hypothyroidism have clinical signs of skeletal muscle weakness at initial diagnosis. Similarly, dogs can present with muscle pain and stiffness as well as generalized weakness. In one hypothyroid dog, pelvic limb paresis progressed to tetraparesis over the course of 6 weeks.
What are the symptoms of thyroid problems in dogs?
Thyroid disease is a relatively common problem in dogs….Here are some of the more common symptoms:
- 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.