If you’re wondering about the illnesses and diseases that your dog can get, as well as how to prevent and treat them, you might be surprised to learn that hyperthyroidism is a possibility. While this condition is more common in older cats, it can also occur in dogs. Hyperthyroidism occurs when your dog’s glands are overactive and produce an excessive amount of hormones, leading to constant metabolic activity.
The good news is that hyperthyroidism in dogs is treatable, and your pup can still live a happy, long life. If you want to learn more about this condition, how to recognize if your dog has it, and how to help prevent and treat it, keep reading!
Signs Your Dog May Have Hyperthyroidism
Diagnosing hyperthyroidism in dogs can be challenging, as the signs may not be obvious. Some signs to look out for include fatigue, significant weight gain, a dull coat, constipation or diarrhea, skin infections or odor, reproductive problems, and aggression.
Body Language
If you’re unsure whether your dog has symptoms of hyperthyroidism, observe their body language for signs such as growling, head tilting, cowering, pacing, and weakness.
Other Signs
If you notice these signs along with other symptoms, it’s possible that your dog is suffering from hyperthyroidism: excessive bleeding, diarrhea, constipation, infections, lethargy, weight gain, hair loss, cold intolerance, dull coat, and greasy or dry skin.
Have Dogs Always Had Hyperthyroidism?
It’s difficult to determine exactly when dogs were discovered to have hyperthyroidism, but studies have shown that dogs have likely had this condition for a long time. Many case studies have pointed to diet as the main cause of hyperthyroidism in dogs, with raw food containing thyroid gland tissue being a potential trigger for the condition.
What’s the Science Behind Hyperthyroidism?
To understand how to treat hyperthyroidism in dogs, it’s important to know what it is. Typically, it is caused by an aggressive thyroid tumor that over-produces thyroid hormone and leads to constant metabolic hyperactivity. If left untreated, it can cause kidney and heart failure. Hyperthyroidism can be triggered by factors such as diet, genetics, environmental chemicals, viruses, and immune system challenges.
How to Train Your Dog – and Yourself – to Deal with Hyperthyroidism
When it comes to training your dog to manage hyperthyroidism, it’s essential to train yourself as well. Get your dog accustomed to the treatment plan, which may involve a new diet, medication, and exercise. Train your dog to take pills by hiding them in food, using them as treats, playing games, or teaching gentle pill-taking behavior.
Additionally, establish a daily exercise routine to help your dog maintain a healthy weight. Regular blood tests are also necessary for monitoring the condition, typically every six to 12 months. It’s important to follow the dietary restrictions and requirements set by your vet to manage your dog’s hyperthyroidism effectively.
“Understanding the Signs and Treatment of Hyperthyroidism in Dogs”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Look out for signs of hyperthyroidism in your dog, such as fatigue, weight gain, dull coat, and reproductive problems. These signs may be difficult to diagnose, so it’s important to pay attention to your dog’s behavior and body language as well.
2️⃣ Understand the causes of hyperthyroidism in dogs, which can include diet, genetics, and environmental factors. Studies have shown that feeding raw food containing thyroid gland tissue can contribute to the condition.
3️⃣ Train yourself and your dog to manage hyperthyroidism through dietary restrictions and medication. This may involve hiding pills in food, incorporating exercise into your dog’s routine, and getting comfortable with blood tests. Follow your vet’s recommendations to effectively manage your dog’s condition.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. How can I tell if my dog has hyperthyroidism?
– Signs of hyperthyroidism in dogs can include fatigue and lethargy, significant weight gain, a dull coat, constipation or diarrhea, skin infections or odor, reproductive problems, and aggression.
2. What are some body language signs that my dog may have hyperthyroidism?
– Watch for signs such as growling, head tilting, cowering, pacing, and weakness.
3. Are there any other signs that may indicate my dog has hyperthyroidism?
– Other signs to look out for include excessive bleeding, diarrhea, constipation, infections, lethargy, weight gain, hair loss, cold intolerance, dull coat, and greasy or dry skin.
4. Have dogs always had hyperthyroidism?
– While it’s difficult to determine when dogs were first discovered to have hyperthyroidism, case studies have shown that dogs have suffered from the condition for quite some time. Diet has been identified as a possible cause.
5. What is the science behind hyperthyroidism in dogs?
– Hyperthyroidism in dogs is typically caused by an aggressive thyroid tumor that over-produces thyroid hormone, leading to constant metabolic hyperactivity. It can be triggered by various factors such as diet, genetics, environmental chemicals, viruses, and immune system challenges.
