Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Hypothyroidism in Dogs Can Be Helped with Diet

Q: Is there a relationship between my dog's hypothyroidism and his diet? I have a 7 year old labrador retriever who has just been diagnosed with hypothyroidism. He is about 10 pounds overweight and has been eating a commercial kibble.

A: This is a great question. Yes, there is absolutely a relationship between the quality of a pet's diet and thyroid health. Your labrador retriever's hypothyrodism can definitely be helped using an improved diet, plenty of vegetables and a few supplements.

Dogs with hypothyroidism can benefit from BioThyroBioThyro is a natural glandular product that supports thyroid function.

Imbalances in the thyroid occur differently in dogs and cats. Dogs can have a tendency to become hypothyroid while cats can become hyperthyroid. Some pets may have allergies or food intolerances and when the food is ingested, it can cause inflammation and a heightened immune response. If your dog has skin allergies, ear infections and/or is itchy, the food you are using could be a problem. It is important to give all allergic dogs and cats a grain-free, hypoallergenic diet. In addition, using a purified omega oil such as Amazing Omegas can make a big difference, too.

In addition, giving pets foods that contain chemicals, byproducts and other unhealthy ingredients can cause digestive problems. All of these factors; namely; inflammation, heightened immune response and digestive problems, can affect a pet's thyroid function. If your labrador retriever is hypothyroid, I would recommend using a using a grain-free, low allergen diet (such a Natures Variety Instinct raw rabbit and canned) and consult with your veterinarian about adding a thyroid supplement such as Biothyro.