Your dog’s endocrine system helps regulate the hormones and bodily functions, and it consists of many organs and glands. As a result, endocrine disorders cause numerous symptoms, some of which can severely impact the life of your pet. The below guide explains what pet owners can look for so that they can make an appointment with a veterinary medicine specialist. 

How Different Endocrine Disorders Impact Dogs

1. Addison’s Disease

This disorder affects your dog’s ability to produce hormones. Specifically, it affects cortisol, which is integral in their metabolism, blood pressure, and production of red blood cells.

Without cortisol and other hormones, dogs with Addison’s disease experience weight loss, low body temperature, and hair loss. Dogs may also appear lazy when they are normally energetic. Veterinarians can prescribe medication to boost hormone production in your pet, which resolves many of the symptoms.

2. Cushing’s Syndrome

While Addison’s disease causes less cortisol, Cushing’s syndrome happens when dogs produce too much cortisol. It often occurs because of a tumor in the pituitary gland, and less frequently because of a tumor within the adrenal gland. Symptoms include increased hunger and thirst, regular skin infections, excessive panting, and more frequent urination. After the diagnosis, your veterinary medicine specialist can remove the tumor to restore normal cortisol production.

3. Hypothyroidism

This endocrine disorder affects the function of the thyroid gland. This results in decreased thyroxine production, which impacts metabolism. Symptoms include skin issues, a dull coat, reduced heart rate, weight gain, and lethargy. Problems with immune system function can cause it to attack the thyroid and lead to hypothyroidism, but it could also be a tumor. Much like Cushing’s syndrome, dogs with this disorder can receive a medication regimen to stop symptoms from occurring.

Many endocrine disorders impact a dog’s skin and coat, so pet owners should schedule an appointment with a pet dermatologist when symptoms emerge. Veterinary Dermatology Services in Cincinnati, OH, will review your dog’s symptoms to diagnose them. They’ll also help you determine the best treatment for your pet, whether that involves surgery or medication. This clinic serves pet owners throughout Ohio, northern Kentucky, and southern Indiana. Schedule an appointment by calling (513) 489-4644. For more information about their services, visit them online.