A poor coat quality in your dog may indicate a condition called 'HYPOTHYROIDISM' meaning low thyroid hormone production. Dogs can be tested by your veterinarian.
Signs to look for are anxious or uptight dogs with poor coat quality.
Hypothyroidism veterinary treatment consists of iodine supplementation and synthetic hormone therapy. If you are worried about your dog you can find a vet in your area in The Pet Directory. The condition is usually only found in dogs not puppies. Vets have found that most cases of hypothyroidism have been found in dogs aged between 4 and 10 years of age. It occurs in male and female dogs. Large dogs tend to be more frequently affected by hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism can include: lethargy, weight gain, dog seeks warmth, skin may become blackish, skin or ear infections, incontinence, seizures, joint pain, hearing loss, erratic temperament, fearfulness, hoarse throat, irregular seasons in bitches, thickening of the skin around face which may look puffy with extra folds of skin. More cases of hypothyroidism tend to occur in desexed male or female dogs however that may be because these days most dogs are desexed.
Hypothyroidism tends to affect particular breeds: American Cocker Spaniels, Akitas, Beagles, Boxers, Borzois, Dachshund, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Greyhounds, Irish Setters, Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, Rottweilers, Shetland Sheepdogs and Schnauzers, although any dog breed can contract the disease. Care should be taken by dog breeders to breed from healthy dogs because it can be genetically passed on. To find reputable dog breeders of purebred dogs and puppies visit our Dog Breeder Directory.
A high quality dog shampoo and conditioner such as Troy Selederm Medicated Wash for dogs and cats will assist with skin and coat conditions that may present with Hypothyroidism.
Information supplied by:
Good Dog Behavioural Clinics
Dr Jacqueline Perkins BVSc Hons MACVSc (Animal Behaviour) BA
Ph: +61 7 3351 0600
Email: gooddog@dodo.com.au
Address: PO Box 2101 Keperra, Qld 4054 Australia
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