Basenji Thyroid Symptoms
Basenjis are one of the dog breeds that have a higher percentage of thyroid problems. Watch your dog for symptoms as thyroid problems can develop at any age. Blood tests should be done regularly to determine if your dog has a thyroid problem.
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Thyroid Significance
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The thyroid makes hormones. The most important hormones are the T4 and T3 because they control how your dog burns energy and makes proteins. The most common thyroid problems are not making enough hormones, hypothyroidism, or making too much, hyperthyroidism.
Immune-mediated Thyroiditis
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The most common type of thyroid problem in basenjis is caused by autoimmune thyroiditis. This problem causes the body to destroy the thyroid. Because the destruction results in decreased hormones, the symptoms are the same as for hypothyroidism.
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Hypothyroidism Symptoms
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If your dog has hypothyroidism, you might notice it has a poor coat condition, skin problems, hair loss, ear or skin infections, weight gain and low energy. It is treated with hormone-replacement therapy.
Hyperthyroidism Symptoms
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A dog with hyperthyroidism may lose weight, be hyperactive and act hungry more often. Some also have diarrhea and vomiting. Hyperthyroidism is usually treated with an anti-thyroid drug. In extreme cases it is removed and then hormones given.
Advanced Symptoms
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Untreated, your dog may have more system wide symptoms that affect its vision, bleeding, bone marrow, blood cell count, muscle control, reproduction abilities and heart rate and rhythm.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit D. Levey
