Clinical and therapeutic approaches to canine hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an increasingly common endocrine disorder in dogs, with breed predisposition, as certain breeds are more sensitive than others. The main cause of this condition is usually an autoimmune disease that leads to decreased production of thyroid hormones. Clinical signs include lethargy, weight gain, alopecia, bradycardia, hypothermia, and behavioral changes. Additionally, hypothyroidism can affect lipid metabolism, causing hypercholesterolemia and hyperlipidemia, so monitoring these levels is essential during treatment. Diagnosis is based on the measurement of serum thyroid hormone levels, such as total T4, TSH, and other thyroid markers. The first-line treatment involves administering levothyroxine (synthetic T4), and the dosage is adjusted based on the clinical response and serum thyroxine levels.