What is the function of the thyroid gland? (dogs hypothyroidism)
The thyroid gland is a gland in your dog's neck that produces several important hormones, including levothyroxine (T4) and levothyroxine (T3). These hormones control your dog's metabolism, which affects how they utilize the nutrients they take in. The AKC calls the thyroid gland "the body's thermostat." "Too much thyroid hormone flowing through your dog's body can cause weight loss, while too little can cause weight gain."
The most common thyroid problem in dogs is hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland. This causes your dog's metabolism to slow down, leading to problems like weight gain. Hypothyroidism is more common in dogs than in other farm animals, but it's easily treated with synthetic hormone injections.
What types of dogs are susceptible?
Hypothyroidism is more common in medium and large dogs, and certain breeds are more prone to problems, including Doberman Pinschers, Irish Setters, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Old English Sheepdogs, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Boxers, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels.
Neutered dogs between the ages of 4 and 10 are most likely to suffer from hypothyroidism.
Dangers of hypothyroidism in dogs
If not diagnosed and treated, hypothyroidism in dogs may cause the following hazards:
1. Worsening health problems: Untreated hypothyroidism in dogs can cause thyroid hormone levels to continue to drop, which in turn worsens the dog's health problems. Symptoms may gradually worsen, including weight gain, hair problems, skin infections, fatigue, muscle weakness, etc., affecting the dog's quality of life.
2. Heart problems: Thyroid hormones have a great impact on the cardiovascular system. Untreated hypothyroidism in dogs may cause heart problems such as slow heart rate and irregular heartbeat, increase the burden on the heart, and even cause serious complications such as heart failure.
3. Neurological problems: Thyroid hormones also have an important impact on the nervous system. Untreated canine hypothyroidism may cause neurological problems, including changes in mental state and abnormal behavior.
4. Metabolic problems: Thyroid hormones are important hormones that regulate metabolism. Untreated canine hypothyroidism may lead to a lower metabolic rate, affect energy metabolism, and thus affect the overall health of the dog.
5. Other complications: Long-term untreated canine hypothyroidism may also cause other complications, such as anemia, immune system problems, reproductive system problems, etc., which pose a more serious threat to the dog's health.
So if you find that your dog has been inactive/gained weight/behaved abnormally/dry or hair loss recently, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time.
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