Introduction: Hypothyroidism is a disorder that is generally seen in animals and human beings. It is caused because of the improper functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine gland in the body. It is situated in the region of the neck. The thyroid gland is involved in the production of thyroid hormone.

The metabolic activities of the body are controlled by the thyroid gland. Metabolism takes place in almost every cell of the body. Thus the change in the level of thyroid hormone can affect almost every cell of the body. Thus the symptoms are to recognized immediately and treated.

The breeds that are affected by Hypothyroidism are the golden retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Shetland Sheepdogs, Dobermans, Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Akitas, Chows, Chows, clumbers, Irish setters. As in case of Human beings, Hypothyroidism can be treated in dogs as well. In the case of dogs also there are tests that can detect hypothyroidism in dogs.

Hypothyroidism affects almost every part of the body. Thus they show their improper functioning in the form of symptoms. The general symptoms include the obesity, lethargy, heat seeking, reproductive difficulty and skin and coat problems. There are some minor symptoms that are also introduced. They include the neuro muscular changes, cardiac problems and some changes in the behavior.

There are changes in the skin and the coat. Hypothyroidism also leads to hair loss. It also shows abnormal shedding on the body skin. The hair loss is prominent in the tail region of the body. Sometimes wooly coat is also observed. The skin of the body also shows dark appearance and apart from the appearance it becomes thick.

The skin of these hypothyroid dogs becomes scaly. One thing is that the skin never becomes itchy. Hypothyroidism has a prominent effect on the reproductive process of the dogs. There are bitches who fail in the process of reproduction. In that case they should be treated properly so that they overcome this problem. Hypothyroidism is also considered as a heritable disorder. Thus one should take into consideration this fact before the breeding process in the dogs.

The diagnosis process is not that difficult. So the moment the diagnosis is done a proper treatment must be given. This can help the dogs to come out of the disorder.