What are the symptoms of low thyroid in dogs?
Some of the common symptoms are a: 1 Sudden change in attitude and activity level – from being full of energy to having no energy 2 Sudden weight change without a significant change in food or activity level 3 Dry coat or hair loss
What causes a dog to have hypothyroidism?
It is thought that in some cases of hypothyroidism, your dog’s immune system attacks his thyroid. Other causes are the shrinking of his thyroid and, although rare, a tumor of the thyroid gland. No matter the cause, symptoms and treatments are the same.
Can You diagnose a dog with thyroid disease?
Some conditions or clinical signs even improve with thyroid medication. Other diseases also affect the thyroid levels, but are not hypothyroidism. This can make diagnosing a thyroid condition tricky, so be patient as you work with your veterinarian to get to the root of your dog’s symptoms.
How often should a dog have his thyroid levels retested?
Your veterinarian may need to adjust your dog’s dosage over time, and you should expect to see results after one to two months. Once your veterinarian has determined a stable dose, your dog will most likely need to have his thyroid levels retested once or twice a year and continue the stable dose of medication, for the rest of his life.
What causes low thyroid levels in dogs?
Causes of low thyroid levels in dogs Lack of energy can be a signal of hypothyroidism in dogs. Dachshunds are one of the breeds susceptible to hypothyroidism in dogs. Weight gain may be the last signal of hypothyroidism in dogs that pup parents notice. Your vet should determine if your dog has canine hypothyroidism.
What causes low T4 in dogs?
Medicine use can sometimes make dogs show low T4 results, as well. Some examples of these medications are various antibiotics, corticosteroids and sulfonamides. For example, roughly six weeks of taking sulfonamide can lead to reduced T4 levels in canines.
What is the best thyroid medication for dogs?
For canine hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone supplements are the best treatment. Levothyroxine is the medication used, either once or twice a day.
What are the side effects of hypothyroidism in dogs?
Hypothyroidism is when your pet’s thyroid gland isn’t producing enough thyroid hormone. Levothyroxine replaces the hormone and allows your dog to live a normal life. Common side effects include cough, loss of appetite, dizziness, drowsiness, sleep problems, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting.