How do you know if your dog has an underactive thyroid?

How do you know if your dog has an underactive thyroid?

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 when hypothyroidism goes untreated in dogs?

Untreated hypothyroidism can shorten your dog’s life span, as nearly every organ in the body is affected by thyroid hormone and by the metabolism. Dogs with untreated hypothyroidism develop high cholesterol, decreased immune function, a slowed heart rate, and neuromuscular signs.

How does a dog act with thyroid problems?

Hyperthyroidism is caused by excess of the thyroid hormones, T 3 and T 4. Signs include weight loss, increased appetite, excitability, increase in thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased heart rate, all of which reflect an increased metabolic rate. Hyperthyroidism is much more common in cats.

How do you treat low thyroid in dogs?

There is no cure for hypothyroidism. Dogs must be treated for life with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Two drugs are FDA-approved for replacement therapy for diminished thyroid function in dogs. Both FDA-approved products are prescription drugs containing levothyroxine sodium as the active ingredient.

What do you feed a dog with low thyroid?

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.

What causes a dogs thyroid to be low?

What causes hypothyroidism in dogs? The vast majority of cases of hypothyroidism in dogs are caused by either lymphocytic thyroiditis or idiopathic atrophy of the thyroid gland. While these conditions are poorly understood both result in damage to the dog’s thyroid.

What foods are good for underactive thyroid?

Eat iodine-rich foods, such as seafood, seaweed dairy, and eggs. Overall, people with hypothyroidism should aim to eat a diet based on vegetables, fruits, and lean meats. These are low in calories and very filling, which may help prevent weight gain.

How can I boost my dog’s thyroid naturally?

Dogs with hypothyroidism need to eat a healthy diet that includes balanced levels of amino acids, iodine, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, antioxidants, proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Your veterinary professional will be able to recommend the best diet for your dog based on your pet’s precise needs.