MATHIEU LAIDIN

G3 S218449

HYPOTHYROIDISMIN DOGS
 UNDERSTANDING
HYPOTHYROIDISM IN DOGS
CAUSES, SYMPTOMS,
MANAGEMENT
WHAT IS HYPOTHYROIDISM IN DOGS? DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES
DEFINITION AND OVERVIEW OF
HYPOTHYROIDISM
ROLE OF THE THYROID GLAND IN DOG’S
METABOLISM AND OVERALL HEALTH
PREVALENCE AND BREEDS PREDISPOSED
TO HYPOTHYROIDISM
CAUSES OF HYPOTHYROIDISM
PRIMARY, SECONDARY AND TERTIARY
HYPOTHYROIDISM
AUTOIMMUNE THYROIDITIS AS A COMMON
CAUSE IN DOGS
OTHER POTENTIAL CAUSES: CONGENITAL
DEFECTS, IODINE DEFICIENCY, CERTAIN
MEDICATIONS
SYMPTOMS AND CLINICAL
PRESENTATION
LETHARGY, WEIGHT GAIN, SKIN ISSUES…
VARIABILITY IN SYMPTOM PRESENTATION
AMONG DIFFERENT DOG BREEDS
DIAGNOSTIC CHALLENGES, IMPORTANCE
OF COMPREHENSIVE TESTING
THYROID FUNCTION TESTS: T4, TSH AND
FREE T4
INTERPRETATION OF TEST RESULTS AND
SIGNIFICANCE OF THYROID ANTIBODY
TESTING
IMAGING TECHNIQUES
TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT
THYROID HORMONE REPLACEMENT
THERAPY: LEVOTHYROXINE
ADMINISTRATION
PROPER DOSING AND MONITORING OF
THYROID HORMONE LEVELS
DIETRAY CONSIDERATIONS AND
LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS
COMPLICATIONS AND PROGNOSIS
POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS OF
UNTREATED HYPOTHYROIDISM
PROGNOSIS WITH PROPER MANAGEMENT
AND ADHERENCE TO TREATMENT
PROTOCOLS
LONG-TERM CONSIDERATIONS FOR DOGS
WITH HYPOTHYROIDISM
WHAT IS HYPOTHYROIDISM IN DOGS?
Hypothyroidism in dogs is a hormonal disorder characterized by insufficient
production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland.
Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and
overall bodily functions.
When the thyroid gland fails to produce an adequate amount of thyroid hormones,
various physiological processes are affected, leading to a range of symptoms and
health issues in dogs.
WHAT IS HYPOTHYROIDISM IN DOGS?
The thyroid gland produces two main hormones: thyroxine (T4) and
triiodothyronine (T3) which influence nearly every organ and system in the body,
including:

Dysfunction of the thyroid gland can have widespread effects on the dog's health
and wellbeing.
WHAT IS HYPOTHYROIDISM IN DOGS?
Prevalence estimates varying by region
and population studied. Certain dog
breeds are predisposed to developing
hypothyroidism due to genetic factors.

1. Golden Retrievers
2. Labrador Retrievers
3. Doberman Pinschers
4. Boxers
5. Dachshunds

While these breeds may have a higher

genetic predisposition to
hypothyroidism, the condition can affect
dogs of any breed or mixed breed.
Additionally, factors such as age, sex,
and environmental influences may also
contribute to the development of
hypothyroidism in dogs.
CAUSES OF HYPOTHYROIDISM
1. Primary Hypothyroidism:
Occurs when there is dysfunction or damage to the thyroid gland itself,
leading to decreased production of TH (T4 and T3).
Common causes of primary hypothyroidism in dogs include autoimmune
thyroiditis, thyroid gland atrophy, congenital defects, and iodine deficiency.
The majority of hypothyroid cases in dogs

2. Secondary Hypothyroidism:
Results from dysfunction or damage to the pituitary gland, which produces
thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). As a result, there is decreased stimulation
of the thyroid gland, leading to reduced TH production.
Causes of secondary hypothyroidism may include pituitary tumors, pituitary
gland trauma, or other disorders affecting the pituitary gland’s function.

3. Tertiary Hypothyroidism:
The least common type and occurs due to dysfunction or damage to the
hypothalamus, which produces thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). Without
proper TRH stimulation, the pituitary gland fails to produce sufficient TSH,
leading to decreased TH production by the thyroid gland.
Causes of tertiary hypothyroidism may include hypothalamic tumors, trauma,
or congenital defects affecting the hypothalamus.
CAUSES OF HYPOTHYROIDISM
Autoimmune thyroiditis in dogs is a condition where the immune system
mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and dysfunction.
It's the primary cause of hypothyroidism in dogs, particularly in breeds like
Golden Retrievers and Doberman Pinschers.

Genetic Predisposition: certain breeds are more susceptible.

Clinical Signs: lethargy, weight gain, skin issues…
Diagnosis: involves thyroid function tests and thyroid antibody testing.
Treatment: hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine.
Management: regular monitoring and dosage adjustments as needed.

Early detection and management are essential for maintaining the health and
wellbeing of affected dogs.
CAUSES OF HYPOTHYROIDISM
1. Congenital Defects: dogs can be 2. Iodine Deficiency: iodine is an
born with abnormalities in the essential nutrient for thyroid
development or function of the hormone synthesis. In areas where
thyroid gland, leading to there is insufficient iodine in the
hypothyroidism. These defects may diet, dogs may develop
include incomplete thyroid gland hypothyroidism due to inadequate
formation or dysfunction in hormone TH production.
production.

3. Certain Medications: some medications,

particularly those containing compounds
that interfere with TH synthesis or
function, can induce hypothyroidism in
dogs. These medications may include
certain anti-thyroid drugs, chemotherapy
agents, or medications used to treat other
medical conditions.
SYMPTOMS AND CLINICAL PRESENTATION
1. Recognizing Signs: Common signs of hypothyroidism in dogs include
lethargy, weight gain despite a decreased appetite, skin issues (dryness, hair
loss, thickening), intolerance to cold, muscle weakness, and behavioral
changes (depression, aggression).
SYMPTOMS AND CLINICAL PRESENTATION
2. Variability Among Breeds:
While many symptoms are consistent across breeds, there
can be variations in presentation.
For example, certain breeds may exhibit breed-specific skin
issues or metabolic changes associated with hypothyroidism.

3. Diagnostic Challenges:
Hypothyroidism can mimic other health conditions, leading to
diagnostic challenges.
Additionally, some dogs may present with subtle symptoms
or may show conflicting test results, requiring careful
interpretation.

4. Importance of Comprehensive Testing:

Comprehensive testing is crucial for accurate diagnosis. This
includes thyroid function tests (T4, TSH, free T4), evaluation of
clinical signs, and consideration of breed predispositions.
Thyroid antibody testing can help identify autoimmune
thyroiditis.
 DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES
1. Thyroid Function Tests:
• Total Thyroxine (T4): Measures the total amount of circulating thyroxine in the blood. Low
T4 levels are indicative of hypothyroidism.
• TSH: Measures the level of TSH, which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid
hormones. Elevated TSH levels along with low T4 levels suggest primary hypothyroidism.
• Free T4: Measures the unbound, biologically active form of thyroxine. Low free T4 levels
indicate hypothyroidism.

2. Interpretation of Test Results:

• Low T4 levels with elevated TSH levels are consistent with primary hypothyroidism.
• Normal or low TSH levels with low T4 levels may indicate secondary or tertiary
hypothyroidism.
• Thyroid antibody testing (e.g., thyroglobulin autoantibodies, thyroid peroxidase
autoantibodies) can help diagnose autoimmune thyroiditis, especially in cases with
inconclusive thyroid function test results.
DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES
3. Imaging Techniques:
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound imaging can assess the size, shape, and texture of
the thyroid gland. It helps detect abnormalities such as nodules, cysts, or
inflammation. Ultrasound can also aid in guiding fine-needle aspiration biopsy
for further evaluation of thyroid lesions.
TREATEMENT AND MANAGEMENTS
1. Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy:
• Levothyroxine Administration: The primary
treatment for hypothyroidism in dogs involves
lifelong supplementation with synthetic thyroid
hormone (levothyroxine). This medication
replaces the deficient thyroid hormones and
restores normal metabolic function.
• Proper Dosage: Initial dosage is based on the
dog’s weight and severity of hypothyroidism.
Dosage adjustments may be necessary based
on clinical response and periodic monitoring of
thyroid hormone levels.

2. Monitoring:
• Thyroid Hormone Levels: Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels (T4
and/or free T4) is essential to ensure adequate hormone replacement
therapy. Adjustments to levothyroxine dosage may be made based on test
results and clinical response.
TREATEMENT AND MANAGEMENTS
3. Dietary Considerations and Lifestyle Modifications:
• Balanced Diet: Providing a balanced diet with appropriate levels of nutrients,
including iodine, is important for supporting thyroid health.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy body weight through proper diet
and exercise can help manage hypothyroidism-related weight gain.
• Environmental Factors: Minimizing exposure to environmental toxins and
stressors can help support overall thyroid function.
TREATEMENT AND MANAGEMENTS
1. Potential Complications:
• Heart Disease: Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to cardiovascular
abnormalities, including bradycardia (slow heart rate), arrhythmias, and
cardiomyopathy.
• Reproductive Issues: Hypothyroidism can affect reproductive health, leading
to infertility, irregular estrous cycles, and complications during pregnancy.

2. Prognosis with Proper Management:

• With proper diagnosis and management, the prognosis for dogs with
hypothyroidism is generally favorable.
• TH replacement therapy with levothyroxine effectively controls clinical signs
and restores metabolic balance, improving overall quality of life.

3. Long-Term Considerations:
• Lifelong Treatment: Hypothyroidism requires lifelong thyroid hormone
replacement therapy. Adherence to treatment protocols is crucial for
maintaining optimal thyroid hormone levels and managing clinical signs.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels and periodic
veterinary check-ups are necessary to assess treatment efficacy, adjust
medication dosages as needed, and detect any potential complications or
comorbidities.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Owners may need to make long-term dietary and
lifestyle adjustments to support their dog’s thyroid health and overall
wellbeing.
CONCLUSION
Hypothyroidism is a manageable condition in dogs with proper diagnosis and
treatment. As responsible pet owners and veterinarians, it’s crucial to be
vigilant about recognizing the signs of hypothyroidism and seeking prompt
veterinary care. By working together, we can ensure the health and well-being
of our canine companions affected by this condition.
MATHIEU LAIDIN
G3 S218449

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