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Category: Canine
Hypothyroidism
Thyroid deficiency, hypothyroidism
AffectedAnimals:
Generally, hypothyroidism affects middle-aged dogs between the ages of two and six years. Any dog can develop hypothyroidism, but boxers, cocker spaniels, golden retrievers, miniature schnauzers, Old English sheepdogs, poodles, Shetland sheepdogs, and Doberman pinschers have a higher incidence of the disease. Very rarely, cats may develop the disease as well.
Overview:
The thyroid gland maintains the body's metabolism. When there is a decrease in levels of the thyroid hormones, the dog's body essentially "slows down" because of a lower cellular metabolic rate. As a result, the body will begin to lose its ability to function properly. The signs of slowed function vary and occur gradually, but tend to include drowsiness, weight gain, personality changes such as depression, and an inability or unwillingness to exercise. The animal's skin also may be affected, and patches of hair loss and darkened pigmentation are not uncommon. In more severe cases, the heart rate may slow and the dog may have neuromuscular complications such as seizures.
Generally, dogs show signs of hypothyroidism when they are in middle age, between the ages of two and six years, although some animals are affected earlier. Thyroid hormone replacement medications usually are effective in regulating the dog's metabolism and improving its quality of life, but when the hypothyroidism is a result of a damaged pituitary gland or cancer, additional complications may occur.
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