If your pet suffers from either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, or from some other malfunction of the thyroid gland in general, your vet will likely recommend placing him on a thyroid diet. Thyroid problems are potentially very serious and can lead to a host of side effects and responses, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fluctuations in weight and appetite and much more. Read on for a brief overview of some of the components of a thyroid diet for dogs.
Thyroid Problems and Supplemental Hormones
The thyroid is a gland which is located in your dog's neck. It produces multiple types of hormones that are responsible for a number of different functions in your pet. If these hormone levels are either too high or too low as a result of unusual thyroid functioning, your dog will suffer a number of potential side effects as a consequence. The thyroid is responsible for regulating and influencing a number of major systems in your pet's body, from metabolism and digestion to growth.
In order to treat your pet's thyroid problems, the best way to do so is with supplemental hormones. These can help to even out the hormone levels and make it as if your pet has no thyroid condition at all. However, you can help to mediate some of the symptoms of the condition with food as well.
Components of a Thyroid Diet
A diet that is beneficial for thyroid problems in dogs is one that contains a well balanced mix of nutrients, all of which come from high quality sources. The dog should be given high quality protein and carbohydrate sources in a mixture of food that doesn't contain a great number of chemical preservatives, dyes or flavoring agents. This will help to keep his digestion and his bowels moving regularly, which can be a challenge for pets with thyroid problems.
A number of leading dog food manufacturers produce brands of dog food which contain a mixture of ingredients that are designed for pets with thyroid conditions. Look to the leading natural, organic and other dog food manufacturers for a set of different thyroid diets that you can choose from. Your vet can also help you to determine the right diet for your pet.
Other pet owners opt to better control their pet's diet by making food for him. While this requires more effort and is often a bit more expensive, it can be very helpful in controlling the symptoms of thyroid troubles. You'll have an exact idea of the various nutrients that your pet is getting. If you decide to do this, however, be sure that you're providing your pet with the balanced set of nutrients that he needs in order to function properly and to be healthy.