Canine Behaviors Associated With Hypothyroidism

In 2003, it was recognized that canine hypothyroidism could be associated with a range of behavioral issues beyond lethargy, including aggression, which was identified as a unique type of aggression linked to the condition. The study highlighted that hypothyroidism could manifest through various clinical signs affecting multiple body systems, with behavioral symptoms like aggression and lethargy being significant. A case study of a 5.5-year-old Russian wolfhound demonstrated that hypothyroid-related aggression could be effectively managed with thyroid replacement therapy, as evidenced by the cessation of aggressive behaviors following treatment. The document also noted that hypothyroidism was more common in neutered dogs and purebreds, with primary hypothyroidism being the most prevalent form. Diagnostic accuracy was improved by using free thyroxine (fT4) and endogenous canine TSH tests, as these were less affected by external factors compared to total thyroxine (TT4) levels.