Like humans, dogs have thyroid glands in their necks that secrete hormones to regulate bodily functions like internal temperature and metabolism. Thyroid diseases occur because of hormonal imbalances and are among the most common health issues that affect canines. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of thyroid problems in dogs so you and your local veterinarian can devise a customized treatment plan for your pooch.

Top 4 Signs of Canine Thyroid Problems

1. Skin & Coat Changes

Canine coats often lose their luster when dogs have hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid is overactive and increases the metabolism in an unhealthy way. Hypothyroidism, where the thyroid is underactive, also causes skin and coat changes, including excessive shedding and hair loss, overly-dry skin, recurring skin infections, skin thickening, and poor hair growth.

2. Weight Gain

When the thyroid fails to secrete enough hormones due to hypothyroidism, it cannot regulate the metabolism and results in weight gain. Unexplained weight gain despite no changes in your dog’s feeding schedule is a common symptom of this condition. Medium and large dog breeds are at greater risk for hypothyroidism, including Irish Setters and Golden Retrievers.

3. Lethargy & Inactivity

Metabolism changes from hypothyroidism frequently affect a dog’s energy and activity level. Many become lethargic and uninterested in activities they used to love such as playing fetch and going for runs. Additional hypothyroid symptoms such as sensitivity to cold weather and muscle weakness can also result in inactivity. Dogs may experience other behavioral changes depending on the thyroid issue, such as hyperactivity from hyperthyroidism.

4. Elimination Increases

Unhealthy metabolism increases due to hyperthyroidism can make your dog extra thirsty and prone to frequent urination. The condition also increases the appetite, resulting in more solid waste. Since hyperthyroidism is often caused by thyroid carcinoma, a type of cancer, visit your veterinarian as soon as you notice symptoms. Your vet may recommend chemotherapy and surgery depending on the dog’s age and overall health.

If your dog is experiencing these or other thyroid-related issues, contact PetPlex Animal Hospital in Buckeye Lake, OH. The veterinarians at this animal hospital provide Licking County, Granville, and Reynoldsburg with emergency vet services and Heath and Newark with general services. They use pet CT scanners among other state-of-the-art equipment to provide detailed diagnoses and the best possible care. Call (740) 929-3300 today to schedule an appointment or visit the veterinarians online for mobile pet service information. Get more pet wellness tips on Facebook.