Hypothyroidism in Boxer Dogs-Thyroid Problems

Hypothyroidism and thyroid problem are  common among all dog breeds and all diseases related to the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is known to perform various functions and in which, the topmost is to administer the metabolism by creating thyroid hormones. When there is deficiency of the production of thyroid hormones, Hypothyroidism occurs. In case of Hypothyroidism, a dog usually becomes bulky and overweight. There are also other symptoms like hair loss and skin irritations. Many dogs can live for years without their thyroid hormones level unchecked and without any medications.

Hypothyroidism in Boxer Dogs
Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems in a boxer dog

Boxer dog also possesses the thyroid glands on the both sides of its necks and if these glands are disordered then the boxer dog suffers from many types of diseases in which Hypothyroidism is the post prominent. Hypothyroidism and thyroid problem can be genetically transmitted after breeding to the young ones but not at their very early stage; when a boxer puppy (male) is of one year and (female) is of 2 years, it might face thyroid disease.

This disease is not considered as deadly and so potentially fatal but still it can badly influence the healthy lifestyle of a boxer dog. There is also a unique fact associated with the Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems in a boxer dog as it spreads gradually and slowly as compare to other diseases. Sometimes for years, it remains hidden and the boxer dog owner can be unaware for this disease.

The definition of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism which also means ‘underactive thyroid’ or ‘low thyroid’ is caused by insufficiency of thyroid hormone as a result of which an object experiences obesity, tiredness, frustration and other stomach related issues. The word hypothyroidism literally means; (hypo) which means low level, (thyroid) the endocrine gland and (ism) which means behavior. The thyroid gland is known to produce triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) hormones for managing the metabolism. In case of the failure of thyroid gland, the hormones which become reduced in number are unable to enliven crucial substances for the cellular level.

The hypothyroidism and thyroids may be of three types including juvenile onset, secondary hypothyroidism and the primary hypothyroidism. The boxer dogs are mostly infected with the primary hypothyroidism including both the male boxer dogs and boxer bitches. The primary hypothyroidism normally occurs due to Autoimmune thyroiditis and the pain in the thyroid gland and in both of these cases, the cells of the thyroid gland are eliminated. So this is also the reason, it is also known as autoimmune issue in a boxer dog.

Diagnosis of hypothyroidism and thyroids in boxer dog

Nowadays with the advancements in dog’s medical science, there are plenty of choices available for the vets to diagnose hypothyroidism and thyroids in boxer dog including different types of tests. The baseline T4 test is taken by withdrawing of a blood sample and through which the level of T4 thyroid hormone in the bloodstream is assessed. If the test is positive, then some other detailed examinations and tests can also be recommended. Another Free T4 by Equilibrium Dialysis is done to know the small quantum of free T4.

Also to know the proportion of TSH in the bloodstream, TSH level test is done. If the Baseline T4 and Free T4 by Equilibrium Dialysis have shown the low levels and the TSH is inflated, the hypothyroidism diagnosis will be further added to the treatment. In this method, a fewer quantity of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone is put into the vein and after few hours the T4 level is again checked. After this, the boxer dog which is not suffering from hypothyroidism will subsequently obtain a higher T4 level after the insertions of TSH.

On the other hand a boxer dog which is infected with hypothyroidism will not have the increase in T4. As you have heard, the prevention is better than cure. Maintaining a nice and balanced food schedule for a boxer dog can avoid the dangers of Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems in a boxer dog. Particularly if a boxer dog owner is mixing fruits and vegetables in the dietary plan for his/her boxer dog, he/she must pick the right and suitable fruits and veggies. For this, our other articles related to the diet plan and fruits for boxer dog breed can be read. In the vegetables, broccoli and cabbage are not suitable and these veggies can give birth to the Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems in a boxer dog. Adding slight amount of iodine in the dietary plan of a boxer dog can also minimize the effects of Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems.

Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems in a boxer dog and its treatment

The treatment of Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems in a boxer dog is not much complicated. But the exact reasons and medications can be determined after the thorough medical examination by the vet. Normally, the vets recommend giving a daily dose of a synthetic thyroid hormone called thyroxin to the affected boxer dog. These medicines are today available in the pharmacies under numerous company labels. The dose and frequency of this medicine is dependable upon the severity of the Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems in a boxer dog.

Vets normally keep in mind the weight of a boxer dog while suggesting the dose and during the regular check-ups, the blood samples are also examined for the addition or minimizing the dosage. Sometimes, a boxer dog can remain under the treatment for the rest of the life. The symptoms start to be diminished gradually with the continuation of the medication and therapy. As it is mentioned earlier that as a result of Hypothyroidism and thyroid problems in a boxer dog, the affected dog might suffer from hair loss but after the medication, the fur will be starting to be recovered and in few weeks, it will be restored back. In the beginning, the vet might also suggest the management of the diet of boxer dog especially to deplete the fatty elements from its food. It can be a part of the treatment plan.

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