Hypothyroidism
Many hormones in the body control weight, and the thyroid (located in the neck) produces one of these hormones. In the case of dogs, the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormone which slows down metabolism and causes weight gain. We also tend to see a decrease in activity in dogs with hypothyroidism as well as a less shiny haircoat.
Hypothyroidism is usually on a list of rule outs when we see dogs gaining weight and it's important to run blood tests to determine what the cause actually is (if a cause can be found). After an examination your veterinarian will decide if one or both tests are necessary to determine what's going on. In addition to “full blood work” which takes a look at various body functions including liver and kidneys, we can also run a T4 test in house that tests the amount of T4 hormone circulating in the blood. Based off the results of the blood work the veterinarian will be able to come up with a plan for your dog.
In most cases, your dog will be on medication for hypothyroidism the rest of his or her life. The levels of T4 circulating in their system can change however, and it is important to check your dog's T4 on a regular basis. When your dog is first diagnosed, you will need to bring him or her back in one month. It is important your dog receives their medication every day and we will need to check your dog's T4 4-5 hours after having their medication. Any time your dog's dosage changes we will need to retest the T4 in one month until we have the medication regulated. After that your veterinarian will tell you if you need to return in 6 months or 12 months for your dog's next recheck.
Many owners notice their dogs become more active and energetic once their hypothyroidism is properly managed. Dogs whose hair coats are affected will develop a healthier looking coat, and their weight will decrease over time. Just like people, it is important for your dog to not lose weight too quickly. Please talk with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog's weight loss schedule.
Hypothyroidism is usually on a list of rule outs when we see dogs gaining weight and it's important to run blood tests to determine what the cause actually is (if a cause can be found). After an examination your veterinarian will decide if one or both tests are necessary to determine what's going on. In addition to “full blood work” which takes a look at various body functions including liver and kidneys, we can also run a T4 test in house that tests the amount of T4 hormone circulating in the blood. Based off the results of the blood work the veterinarian will be able to come up with a plan for your dog.
In most cases, your dog will be on medication for hypothyroidism the rest of his or her life. The levels of T4 circulating in their system can change however, and it is important to check your dog's T4 on a regular basis. When your dog is first diagnosed, you will need to bring him or her back in one month. It is important your dog receives their medication every day and we will need to check your dog's T4 4-5 hours after having their medication. Any time your dog's dosage changes we will need to retest the T4 in one month until we have the medication regulated. After that your veterinarian will tell you if you need to return in 6 months or 12 months for your dog's next recheck.
Many owners notice their dogs become more active and energetic once their hypothyroidism is properly managed. Dogs whose hair coats are affected will develop a healthier looking coat, and their weight will decrease over time. Just like people, it is important for your dog to not lose weight too quickly. Please talk with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog's weight loss schedule.
