Low thyroid levels in dogs, otherwise known as hypothyroidism, is becoming increasingly common. There are a few common causes which need to be considered before any healing protocol is started.
Hypothyroidism, the most common thyroid issues in dogs, is considered to be an autoimmune disorder. Vets will often only test for T4 but this can be influenced by other factors. So, to be sure, the full range of the antibody thyroid profile needs to be taken – T3. T4, Free T3, Free T4, TgAA. These need to be considered along with the age and breed of the dog.
Early Hypothyroid Symptoms
These may come soon after the cause and include:
- uncharacteristically aggressive or fearful
- obsessive compulsive disorders
- submissive disorders
- phobias
- weight gain
- a change in facial expressions- especially the eyes and around the eyes
Established Hypothyroidism Symptoms
These normally takes a much longer time period to emerge, often years after the early symptoms. They can include:
- weight gain
- lack of energy, lazy
- hair loss
- skin conditions
- bad doggy smell
- dislike of the cold
Causes of Thyroid Issues
The common ones include:
- a tight collar
- jerking or jabbing at the neck
- constant pulling on the collar
- any neck injury, which is the location of the thyroid
- veterinary medication, as they are chemicals
- parasite medication
- vaccinations, which can cause havoc with the thyroid
- illnesses
Low thyroid levels in dogs is rarely picked up early on. The uncharacteristic behavioural disorders are normally either left untreated or treated on their own, without looking for causes. Yet, these early signs needs to be seriously considered as when there are established symptoms, the thyroid is already permanently damaged.
The natural solutions to this complex problem includes feeding your dog a species-specific diet and using a natural system of medicine. The right diet for the species ensures the immune system becomes fully functioning again.
Homeopathy is perhaps the most complete system of holistic healing as it can de-tox as well as heal at a deep, even genetic, level. This means that you most likely won’t need to resort to synthetic thyroid medications for your dog.
Don’t wait until the thyroid is damaged. Low thyroid levels in dogs needs to be picked up early to ensure no permanent damage occurs.
As an integrative and holistic practitioner, ask if I can help you with your dog.
