Table of Contents
Hypothyroidism - Signs and Symptoms
Other Problems Hypothyroidism Can Cause
How to Prevent Hypothyroidism
How Itch Can Help
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Labradors At 5 Years Old - Understanding Hypothyroidism
- By Emma
-
- March 12, 2024
- 2 MIN READ
As our beloved labs hit the milestone of 5 years old, it's essential to stay vigilant about their health. Here we'll talk you through Hypothyroidism - a condition which often affects Labs, and many common medium-large dog breeds. It can have significant impacts on your pup's well-being, so let's explore what it's all about and how to navigate it together.
Hypothyroidism - Signs and Symptoms
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, which regulates metabolism and energy levels in the body. Here are some signs and symptoms to watch out for in your 5-year-old Lab:
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Weight Gain - Is your Labrador putting on weight despite no changes in diet or exercise? Unexplained weight gain can be a sign of hypothyroidism.
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Lethargy - If your usually energetic pup seems unusually tired or lethargic, it could be due to low thyroid hormone levels.
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Dull Coat - A healthy Labrador's coat should be shiny and lustrous. If your dog's fur appears dry, brittle, or thinning, it could be a sign of hypothyroidism.
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Skin Issues - It can also cause skin problems such as dryness, flakiness, and recurring infections.
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Cold Intolerance - Labradors with hypothyroidism may feel the cold more acutely than usual, seeking out warm spots or shivering in cooler temperatures.
Other Problems Hypothyroidism Can Cause
Hypothyroidism can have far-reaching effects beyond the symptoms mentioned above. Here are some other problems it can cause:
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Heart Issues
Low thyroid hormone levels can lead to heart problems, including bradycardia (slow heart rate) and arrhythmias.
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Muscle Weakness
Dogs with hypothyroidism may experience muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass, leading to reduced mobility and exercise intolerance.
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Reproductive Issues
Hypothyroidism can affect reproductive function in breeding dogs, leading to fertility problems and complications during pregnancy - this is more rare, but can still happen!
How to Prevent Hypothyroidism
While hypothyroidism in Labradors can be caused by genetic factors, there are steps you can take to support your dog's thyroid health and decrease the chances of any issues occurring:
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Balanced Diet - Feed your Labrador a high-quality, balanced diet that provides essential nutrients and supports overall health. Look for dog food formulated for their age, size, and activity level.
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Supplements - Regularly giving your lab a supplement like Itch Multivitamin Supplement which is a 10-in-1 powder supplement (no hard to swallow pills or gloopy oils!) which you can sprinkle on top of your lab’s din dins!
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Regular Exercise - Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and supporting metabolic function. Make sure your Labrador gets plenty of opportunities for walks, playtime, and activity.
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Routine Vet Check Ups - Schedule regular checkups with your vet, who can monitor your Labrador's health and catch any potential issues early on.
How Itch Can Help
Keeping your lab healthy and happy is our top priority! Our Multivitamin Supplement is a 10-in-1 supplement which supports:
1. Brain Development
2. Heart Health
3. Joints
4. Skin & Coat
5. Gut Health
6. Immune System
7. Eye Health
8. Stress & Anxiety
9. Oral Health
10. General Wellness
Hypothyroidism is a condition that can affect Labradors as they reach 5 years old and beyond. By staying vigilant about your dog's health, recognising the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism, you can help ensure your furry friend leads a happy and healthy life. Remember, early detection and treatment are key to managing hypothyroidism effectively. Here's to many more years of tail-wagging adventures with our beloved Labradors!
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