Hypothyroidism
Also known as: Schilddrüsenunterfunktion · Hypothyreose · Autoimmunthyreoiditis · Canine Hypothyroidism · Thyroiditis · …
Overview
What it is
Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder where the thyroid gland, located in the neck, fails to produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones are essential for regulating the body's metabolic rate, which is the speed at which cells convert nutrients into energy. When hormone levels are too low, the dog's entire metabolism slows down, affecting multiple organ systems.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms in middle-aged dogs, including unexplained weight gain without an increased appetite, low energy levels, and a sensitivity to cold. Symmetrical hair loss on the flanks and a dull, dry coat are also common signs of this condition.
Treatment
While hypothyroidism is not curable, it is highly manageable with lifelong daily hormone replacement medication. Regular blood tests are required to monitor hormone levels, with lifetime treatment costs typically ranging from €1,500 to €5,000.
How it's tested
Schilddrüsen-Profil(Thyroid Panel)
Primary testClinical examEin Bluttest zur Bestimmung der Schilddrüsenhormonkonzentrationen (T4, freies T4) und des caninen TSH-Werts zur Diagnose einer Schilddrüsenunterfunktion.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Schilddrüsenprofil(T4/TSH-Test)
Primary testClinical examDie Diagnose erfolgt über eine Blutuntersuchung zur Bestimmung der Schilddrüsenhormone (T4, freies T4) und des thyreotropen Hormons (TSH) sowie eventuell von Autoantikörpern.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
24 of 48 breeds
Mandatory testAlaskan Klee Kai
Mandatory testAustralian TerrierMandated by Australian Terrier Club of America (ATCA) / CHIC
Mandatory testBelgian TervurenMandated by American Belgian Tervuren Club
Mandatory testEnglish PointerMandated by American Pointer Club
Mandatory testEurasierMandated by Eurasier-Klub e.V. Sitz Weinheim
Mandatory testKorean JindoMandated by Korean Jindo Dog Association of America
Mandatory testLeonbergerMandated by Leonberger Club of America
Mandatory testManchester TerrierMandated by AMTC
Mandatory testOld English SheepdogMandated by Old English Sheepdog Club of America (OESCA)
Mandatory testSalukiMandated by OFA/SCOA
Mandatory testSpanish Water DogMandated by SWDCA
Mandatory testWeimaranerMandated by Weimaraner Club of America (WCA) / AKC CHIC
RecommendedAfghan Hound
RecommendedAiredale Terrier
RecommendedAmerican English Coonhound
RecommendedAzawakh
RecommendedBasenji
RecommendedBearded Collie
RecommendedBoxer
RecommendedBriquet Griffon Vendéen
RecommendedCanaan Dog
RecommendedCesky Terrier
RecommendedChinook
RecommendedChow Chow
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder where the thyroid gland, located in the neck, fails to produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones are essential for regulating the body's metabolic rate, which is the speed at which cells convert nutrients into energy. When hormone levels are too low, the dog's entire metabolism slows down, affecting multiple organ systems.
How is Hypothyroidism tested?
Tests currently in our database: Schilddrüsen-Profil, Schilddrüsenprofil.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Alaskan Klee Kai, Australian Terrier, Belgian Tervuren, English Pointer, Eurasier, Korean Jindo, Leonberger, Manchester Terrier.