The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the body. It is located in the neck near the trachea or “windpipe” and has two lobes, one on each side of the trachea. This gland is controlled by the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain.
The thyroid gland regulates the body’s metabolic rate. If the thyroid is overactive (hyperthyroidism), the body’s metabolism is elevated. If it is underactive (hypothyroidism), the metabolism slows down.
Hypothyroidism is usually caused by one of two diseases: lymphocytic thyroiditis or idiopathic thyroid gland atrophy. The former disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism and is thought to be an immune-mediated disease. This means that the immune system decides that the thyroid is abnormal or foreign and attacks it. It is unclear why this occurs. In idiopathic thyroid gland atrophy normal thyroid tissue is replaced by fat tissue. This condition is also poorly understood.
These two causes of hypothyroidism account for more than 95% of the cases in dogs. The other five percent are due to rare diseases, including cancer of the thyroid gland.
When the metabolic rate slows down, virtually every organ in the body is affected. Most dogs with hypothyroidism have one or more of the following symptoms:
Some dogs also have other abnormalities such as:
The most common screening test is a Total Thyroxin (TT4) level. This is a measurement of the main thyroid hormone in a blood sample. If it is low to below normal and clinical signs are present, this is suggestive of hypothyroidism. Definitive diagnosis is then made by performing a Free T4 by Equilibrium Dialysis (Free T4 by ED). If this test is low, then your dog has hypothyroidism. Some pets will have a low TT4 and normal Free T4 by ED. These dogs do not have hypothyroidism. Additional tests may be necessary based on your pet’s condition.
Hypothyroidism is treatable but not curable. It is treated with oral administration of thyroid replacement hormone. This drug must be given for the rest of the dog’s life.
There is a standard dose that is used initially based on the dog’s weight. After one month of treatment, further testing is done to verify that the thyroid hormone levels are normal. The dose will need to be further adjusted and maintained by performing TT4 levels every six months on your pet. Close communication with your veterinarian is necessary in order to ensure that your dog is neither over nor under-dosed.
Signs of hyperthyroidism can result. These include hyperactivity, lack of sleep, weight loss, and an increase in water consumption. If any of these occur, please contact your veterinarian immediately.
