Disorders of the Thyroid Gland in Dogs

In hypothyroidism, decreased levels of thyroid hormones result in a slower metabolic rate. More than 95% of cases of hypothyroidism in dogs are caused by destruction of the thyroid gland itself. Another cause is a tumor of the pituitary gland, which usually causes deficiencies of other pituitary hormones as well.

Hypothyroidism is most common in dogs 4 to 10 years old. It usually affects mid- to large-size breeds and is rare in toy and miniature breeds. Breeds most commonly affected include the Golden Retriever, Doberman Pinscher, Irish Setter, Miniature Schnauzer, Dachshund, Cocker Spaniel, and Airedale Terrier. Hypothyroidism occurs equally in both males and females.

Because a deficiency of thyroid hormone affects the function of all organ systems, signs vary. Most signs are directly related to slowing of metabolism, which results in lethargy, unwillingness or inability to exercise, and weight gain without an increase in appetite. Some dogs have trouble keeping warm and seek sources of heat. Changes in the skin and coat are common, including dryness, excessive shedding, delayed regrowth of hair, and hair thinning or hair loss (usually the same pattern on both sides), sometimes associated with increased pigmentation over points of wear. In more severe cases, the skin can thicken, especially on the forehead and face, resulting in a puffy appearance and thickened skin folds above the eyes. This puffiness, together with slight drooping of the upper eyelid, gives some dogs a “tragic” facial expression.

In non-neutered dogs, hypothyroidism may cause various reproductive disturbances. Females may have irregular or no heat cycles and become infertile, or litter survival may be poor. Males may have lack of libido, small testicles, low sperm count, or infertility.

During the fetal period and in the first few months of life, thyroid hormones are crucial for growth and development of the skeleton and central nervous system. Animals that are born with thyroid deficiency or that develop it early in life often show dwarfism and impaired mental development. An enlarged thyroid gland also may be detected, depending on the cause of the hypothyroidism.

Accurately diagnosing hypothyroidism requires close evaluation of signs and various laboratory tests, including demonstration of low serum concentrations of thyroid hormones (especially T₄) that do not respond to administration of thyroid-stimulating hormone.

Treatment involves increasing or replacing the missing thyroid hormone. Thyroxine (T₄) is the thyroid hormone replacement most often used in dogs. The success of treatment can be measured by the amount of improvement in signs. Usually, treatment must be tried for 4 to 8 weeks before any changes in coat and body weight can be evaluated. Serum thyroid hormone concentrations are also monitored to determine whether the dosage of thyroid hormone needs adjustment. Once the dose has been stabilized, thyroid hormone levels are usually checked once or twice a year. Treatment is generally lifelong.

Hyperthyroidism is caused by excess of the thyroid hormones, T₃ and T₄. Signs include weight loss, increased appetite, and increased heart rate, all of which reflect an increased metabolic rate. Hyperthyroidism is much more common in cats than in dogs.

Also see professional content regarding the thyroid gland.