Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Canine Thyroid Disease

Hypothyroidism is the most common endocrine disease in dogs, causing significant welfare harm when unrecognised, but responding well to treatment.

Key Facts

Hypothyroidism affects an estimated 0.2-0.5% of dogs and is most common in middle-aged dogs
Clinical signs include weight gain, lethargy, cold intolerance, and skin and coat changes
Diagnosis requires TSH and T4 measurement - clinical signs alone are unreliable
Levothyroxine replacement is highly effective, with most dogs showing full clinical resolution
Golden retrievers, Labradors, and Dobermans are predisposed to hypothyroidism

Welfare Considerations

Hypothyroidism causes chronic, often unrecognised suffering that is entirely treatable. Including thyroid screening in wellness panels for predisposed breeds enables early diagnosis.

What You Can Do

Include thyroid screening in senior wellness panels for predisposed breeds
Seek veterinary assessment if your dog shows lethargy, weight gain, or coat changes
Maintain lifelong levothyroxine supplementation for hypothyroid dogs