Dogs
An elongated structure found in the frontal portion of the neck is referred as the thyroid gland. The size of the thyroid will vary from one dog breed to another. Proper functioning of the thyroid gland is very important to control the body's normal metabolic rate. The gland secretes the thyroid hormone which regulates various metabolic processes of the body.
Thyroid disorders are commonly observed in dog breeds such as Greyhounds, Golden Retrievers and Irish Setters. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the two types of thyroid conditions diagnosed in dogs. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which under active thyroid glands are no longer capable to produce the thyroid hormone in sufficient amounts. On the other hand, a dog diagnosed with hyperthyroidism has abnormally high levels of thyroid hormones due to overactive thyroid glands.
Symptoms
A dog suffering from a thyroid condition shows acute lack of interest in his day-to-day activities. The affected dog appears less energetic and prefers to be alone, resting in one corner of the room. Other symptoms are given below:
Unexplained Increase in Weight: As the metabolism is not being maintained properly, rapid weight gain is commonly observed in such dogs. The dog appears lethargic and shows signs of fatigue.
Sudden Loss of Hair: The decreased metabolic rate leads to a poor hair coat in dogs. Few patches devoid of hair are seen on the neck and head.
Dry Flaky Skin: Malfunctioning of the thyroid gland can affect the skin significantly. The skin looks pale and cold. The sebaceous glands that produce sebum to keep the skin warm and moist also work inefficiently.
Unusual Sleepiness: Thyroid problems makes the dog feel more exhausted, hence, it tends to sleep more than normal hours.
Causes
Damage to thyroid gland results in thyroid condition in dogs. Studies have shown that hypothyroidism occurs when the dog's immune system attacks the cells of the thyroid gland and destroy them. However, few medications or diseases related to thyroid gland can also reduce the quantity of thyroid hormone being produced. Hyperthyroidism results when thyroid hormone supplements are taken in excess amounts.
Treatment
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Dogs
Thyroid Problems in Dogs
An elongated structure found in the frontal portion of the neck is referred as the thyroid gland. The size of the thyroid will vary from one dog breed to another. Proper functioning of the thyroid gland is very important to control the body's normal metabolic rate. The gland secretes the thyroid hormone which regulates various metabolic processes of the body.
Thyroid disorders are commonly observed in dog breeds such as Greyhounds, Golden Retrievers and Irish Setters. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the two types of thyroid conditions diagnosed in dogs. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which under active thyroid glands are no longer capable to produce the thyroid hormone in sufficient amounts. On the other hand, a dog diagnosed with hyperthyroidism has abnormally high levels of thyroid hormones due to overactive thyroid glands.
Symptoms
A dog suffering from a thyroid condition shows acute lack of interest in his day-to-day activities. The affected dog appears less energetic and prefers to be alone, resting in one corner of the room. Other symptoms are given below:
Unexplained Increase in Weight: As the metabolism is not being maintained properly, rapid weight gain is commonly observed in such dogs. The dog appears lethargic and shows signs of fatigue.
Sudden Loss of Hair: The decreased metabolic rate leads to a poor hair coat in dogs. Few patches devoid of hair are seen on the neck and head.
Dry Flaky Skin: Malfunctioning of the thyroid gland can affect the skin significantly. The skin looks pale and cold. The sebaceous glands that produce sebum to keep the skin warm and moist also work inefficiently.
Unusual Sleepiness: Thyroid problems makes the dog feel more exhausted, hence, it tends to sleep more than normal hours.
Causes
Damage to thyroid gland results in thyroid condition in dogs. Studies have shown that hypothyroidism occurs when the dog's immune system attacks the cells of the thyroid gland and destroy them. However, few medications or diseases related to thyroid gland can also reduce the quantity of thyroid hormone being produced. Hyperthyroidism results when thyroid hormone supplements are taken in excess amounts.
Treatment
- Canine hypothyroidism that involves insufficient production of thyroid hormone is treated with thyroxine tablets or pills. The drug contains synthetically prepared thyroid hormone, which helps to restore normal range of natural thyroid hormone. However, it needs to be given in the prescribed dosage to avoid any side effects. For thyroxine to be effective, the dosage is administered every 12 hours (twice daily).
- When it comes to treating hyperthyroidism (over production of thyroid hormone), veterinarians commonly prescribe Tapazole (Methimazole) pills. This medication has extremely effective to manage thyroid conditions in dogs effectively. As hyperthyroidism lasts for quite some time, long-term usage of tapazole is needed. Hence one should be well aware of the side effects associated with this medication. Tapazole works by restricting the amount of thyroid hormone being produced and tries to bring it in the desired range.
- In some dogs with hyperthyroidism, surgery is performed and the entire thyroid gland is removed.
- There are quite few herbal supplements such as 'Thyro-Pet' and 'Thyroid Soothe' that can help to relieve thyroid symptoms. These supplements contain ingredients such as ginseng, kelp and chamomile that can bring this thyroid condition under control.
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