Hypothyroid animals are often overweight, sometimes markedly so. In addition, most owners report that the dog seems less active, or listless at home. In our practice, we see canine hypothyroidism most frequently in Dachshunds, Cocker Spaniels, Pomeranians, and Golden Retrievers. Diagnosis of hypothyroidism relies on clinical signs and measuring blood levels of thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone. The treatment of canine hypothyroidism is straightforward.
Supplemental thyroxine is administered orally to the dog, usually twice daily.
Thyroxine is available in tablet form, in strengths appropriate for any size dog. Most patients are given the medicine twice daily, at least initially. Some may be maintained satisfactorily on once daily dosing. Positive results are usually reported by the owner within a few weeks of starting treatment. Treatment is generally maintained for the life of the dog, fortunately the medication is reasonably priced.