Behavioral Issues with Thyroiditis
By W. Jean Dodds, DVM
Current Behavioral IssuesQuote:
In recent years, clinicians have noted the sudden onset of behavioral changes in dogs around the time of puberty or as young adults. Most of the animals have been purebreds or crossbreeds with an apparent predilection for certain breeds. Neutering these animals usually does not alter the symptoms and the behaviors may even intensify. Many of these dogs belong to certain breeds or dog families susceptible to a variety of immune problems and allergies (e.g. Golden Retriever, Akita, Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, English Springer Spaniel, Shetland Sheepdog, and German Shepherd Dog). The clinical signs in these animals, before they show the sudden onset of behavioral aggression, can include minor problems such as inattentiveness, fearfulness, seasonal allergies, skin and coat disorders (e.g. pyoderma, allergic inhalant or ectoparasite dermatitis, alopecia, and intense itching). These may be early subtle signs of thyroid dysfunction, with no other typical signs of thyroid disease being manifested.
...also...
Includes Case Studies
Quote:
Chip W. - Parsons Jack Russell terrier, 7 year-old neutered male. Mood swings, aggression towards the owners, dry flaky, greasy skin and itching. Seven days after the diagnosis of hypothyroidism the dog's behavior totally changed; he no longer attacks household members and the scratching has significantly diminished.
and
Sherman C. - Cocker spaniel, 6 year-old intact male. This dog becomes easily excited and agitated during thunderstorms and other periods of noise, such as fire crackers. During these episodes he vocalizes, paces constantly, and cannot be touched. Diagnosed with autoimmune thyroiditis, he is now on twice daily thyroxine and once daily melatonin. His temperament is normal and his noise phobia appears to be under control.
To read the whole article
http://www.malamutehealth.org/hypothyroid/thyroid_behavior_3.htm
