Description: Hypothyroidism occurs when a defect in the endocrine system occurs in the insufficient production of thyroid hormone. Most cases are brought about by autoimmune responses and more prevalent in middle-age dogs. Since the clinical signs are usually non-specific (lethargy, hair loss or alopecia, lethargy, and high cholesterol levels), diagnosis is obtained via blood tests. Administration of synthetic thyroid hormone (Thyroxine) can correct Hypothyroidism. Almost all cases of canine Hypothyroidism need lifetime Thyroxine therapy.

Breeds Commonly Affected: Airedale Terrier, Alaskan Malamute, American Staffordshire Terrier, Australia Shepherd, Basenji, Belgian Sheepdog, Bernese Mountain Dog, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bloodhound, Border Collie, Borzoi/Russian Wolfhound, Bouvier des Flandres, Boxer, Britatany, Bullmastiff, Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, Doberman Pinscher, English Setter, Field Spaniel, German Wirehaired Pointer, Giant Schnauzer, Gordon Setter, Italian Greyhound, Kuvasz, Maltese, Manchester Terrier, Mastiff, Miniature Pinscher, Old English Sheepdog, Petit Basset GriffonVendeen, Pointer, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Rottweiler, Saluki (Gazelle Hound), Samoyed, Schipperke, Scottish Deerhound, Shar Pei, Shetland Sheepdog, Siberian Husky, Tibetan Mastiff, Tibetan Terrier, Toy Manchester Terrier, Vizsla, Weimaraner