Dog Food To Treat Hypothyroidism (5 Top Choices)
Hypothyroidism is a common health condition among pets but most especially dogs.
The condition is brought about by hormonal imbalance as a result of the ineffective functioning of the thyroid gland.
Some of the common symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, change in appetite and weight, excessive shedding and dull coat, etc.
The diagnosis of hypothyroidism should be done by a veterinarian in order to determine the main cause, and recommend proper treatment. Fortunately, it is not a life-threatening disease but rather a manageable condition.
In this article, we take you through the hypothyroidism condition, its signs and symptoms, food ingredients that your dog should avoid, and how to choose the best dog food for hypothyroidism.
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Hypothyroidism In Dogs
Just like human beings, dogs too contain thyroid glands found at the neck.
The thyroid gland plays essential functions in your pooch’s body by releasing thyroid hormone that regulates the digestive process, heart rate, and metabolism.
In the event that the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormone, it significantly affects their body functioning leading to serious health problems: that is hypothyroidism.
Signs And Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is quite common in dogs as opposed to other household animals.
This condition exhibit certain signs and symptoms that include scaly skin, excessive shedding, thinning fur, weight gain, changes in appetite, hair loss, reduced activity, etc.
How Do You Manage Hypothyroidism In Dogs?
As we mentioned earlier, hypothyroidism in dogs is not life-threatening, and can be managed.
- Pooches suffering from this medical condition take daily medications of synthetic hormones such as levothyroxine.
- In addition, such a canine may also be required to take glandular extract supplements to manage this condition.
Aside from medications, you should check your dog’s diet ensuring that they eat high-quality food comprising of wholesome, all-natural ingredients devoid of artificial additives and fillers.
Like humans, dogs can also benefit from natural additives in their diet.
Some natural herbs and fungi such as turmeric, schisandra berry, kelp, and mushrooms can help support healthy thyroid function.
Nutritional Requirements Of Dog Food For Hypothyroidism
Although offering your furry friend a high-quality diet won’t cure their hypothyroidism condition, it will enhance their overall health.
With a healthy body, they will be in a better position to effectively fight this health condition.
You need to offer your pooch a complete well-balanced diet. Dog food should comprise of high-quality protein to support lean muscle mass.
Remember, dogs are carnivorous animals hence their digestive system is best adapted to digest animal proteins.
A dog with hypothyroidism needs fat content in their diet to help enhance their dull coat and skin. Salmon oil and chicken fat are some great sources of healthy animal-based fats.
Although dogs do not have nutritional needs for carbohydrates, dogs with hypothyroidism require dietary fiber to support their digestive system, provide energy, and other nutrients.
Look out for easily digestible carbs such as vegetables, whole grains, beans, and legumes.
Dogs with hypothyroidism need vitamins and minerals in their body to help fight their condition.
- Such vitamins and minerals are better obtained from fresh fruits and vegetables as well as synthetic supplements such as glandular extract.
To enhance the functioning of their thyroid gland, you can source for specific nutrients such as iodine (vital in the production of thyroid hormones) and also liver (a great source of iron, vitamin A, B, and folic acid.
Dog Food Ingredients To Look For
Premium Ingredients
Dogs with hypothyroidism need to take high-quality ingredients to help maintain optimal health.
A recipe that comprises of wholesome, all-natural ingredients would be ideal for them, look out for fresh fruits as well as vegetables.
Rich In Animal Proteins
Dogs require high-quality proteins to support the development of lean muscle mass.
Since hypothyroidism is often associated with excess weight gain, look out for premium animal proteins to help your pooch maintain healthy body weight.
Some of the great sources of animal proteins include fish, chicken, and turkey.
Grain-Free
Most veterinarians do not recommend offering dogs with hypothyroidism diets containing grains, since commercial dog food contains GMO grains that interfere with their hormonal balance.
If you have to offer a grain diet be sure it is non-GMO grain and is easily digestible.
Free From Artificial Additives
Artificial additives and fillers affect the normal functioning of your dog’s thyroid gland.
To be on the safe side, ensure that the food you are providing your dog is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Note that most dog food prepared with premium natural ingredients do not contain these artificial fillers and additives.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Hypothyroidism affects your dogs skin and coat.
To help improve, nourish and maintain the healthy condition of their skin and coat, look out for dog food that contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
In addition, these fatty acids provide energy as well as fat-soluble vitamins for your pooch.
Thyroid Supporting Nutrients
Thyroid supporting nutrients enhance the functioning of the thyroid gland.
Look out for the presence of essential nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Iron, Iodine, and Folic Acid.
Easily Digestible
Some dog food feature probiotics and prebiotics that helps improve the digestion system by keeping the beneficial bacteria healthy.
Good digestion equals to better absorption of food.
Best Dog Food for Hypothyroidism – Reviews
1. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Dog Food
Topping our list of the best dog food for hypothyroidism is Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream.
This premium dog food offers your dog with complete, balanced nutrition to enhance your dog’s health.
The protein-rich formula features highly digestible protein whose primary ingredient is real salmon.
Salmon serves as a healthy source of omega fatty acids that improve and maintain the skin health of your dog.
It also features an optimal amino acid profile necessary for healthy development, supporting the development of lean and strong muscles, and also serves as a good source of energy.
Aside from proteins, the formula features other premium ingredients such as fiber-rich carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, fresh vegetables, and fruits.
It also comprises of added vitamins and minerals such as chelated minerals, proprietary probiotics for healthy digestion and immune system, and antioxidants that enhance your dog’s overall health.
The Pacific Stream formula is grain-free, won’t cause any issues with your pooch’s skin and coat.
Your pet’s skin and coat’s health is further enhanced by a perfect balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Dogs suffering from hypothyroidism often struggle with weight issues. However, with this formula weight issues are well taken care of with the absence of grains and also a perfect balance of proteins.
What I love most about this formula is that it does not contain any artificial fillers and additives as well as egg and egg products (suitable for dogs sensitive to eggs).
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream is proudly made in the USA using fresh, premium ingredients.
Top Ingredients:
- Salmon
- Ocean Fish Meal.
- Sweet potatoes.
- Potatoes.
- Peas.
Guaranteed Analysis
- Crude Protein: 25% (minimum).
- Crude Fat: 15% (minimum).
- Crude Fiber: 3% (maximum).
- Moisture: 10% (maximum).
- Vitamin E: 150 IU/kg (minimum).
- Zinc: 150 mg/kg (minimum).
2. Canidae All Life Stages Multi-protein Formula Dog Food
Whether you are looking for the best food for your puppy, adult or senior dog – Canidae All Life Stages Multi Protein Formula is a suitable option.
Canidae is a vet formulated recipe crafted to suit dogs across all breeds, dog sizes, and ages.
Canidae Multi-protein formula is formulated using premium ingredients that include proteins, carbs, vitamins and minerals for a savory and nutritious meal that even the pickiest dog eater won’t resist.
It contains optimum proteins that consist of three animal-based proteins, namely chicken, turkey, and lamb meals – to support the development of lean muscle mass.
It’s also packed with fresh and wholesome ingredients including cranberries, peas, rice, and papaya, etc.
Other essential ingredients include live probiotics to support your dog’s digestive system, and antioxidants that boost your dog’s immune system.
- This helps reduce the risk of contracting common illnesses such as respiratory diseases.
- What’s more, antioxidants brings healing to skin conditions brought by diseases such as hypothyroidism.
In addition, this premium dry dog food comprises omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that help to nourish, and add a shine to your dog’s skin and coat.
Canidae all life stages dog food does not have common food allergens such as corn, soy, and wheat.
Top Ingredients:
- Chicken Meal.
- Brown Rice.
- White Rice.
- Rice Bran.
- Cracked Pearled Barley.
Guaranteed Analysis
- Crude Protein: 26% (minimum).
- Crude Fat: 15.50% (minimum).
- Crude Fiber: 4% (maximum).
- Moisture: 10% (maximum).
- Omega-6 Fatty Acid: 3.70% (minimum).
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid: 0.50% (minimum).
3. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach and Skin
Hill’s Science Diet is a top veterinarian-recommended dog food.
It is another great formula for dogs suffering from hypothyroidism as it is formulated to deal with digestive and skin issues; common symptoms for dogs with this health condition.
This dog food variety is prepared using high-quality ingredients with chicken as the main protein.
Science Diet is crafted to be highly digestible, therefore, enhancing the optimal absorption of nutrients and also supports the formation of easy stool.
The formula features prebiotic fiber that enhances a balanced gut microbiome for supporting digestive health.
This diet features vital components; vitamin E and Omega-6 Fatty Acids that nourish your dog’s skin for healthy skin and lustrous coat.
Hill’s science diet is a perfect food for dogs who are on thyroid medication, as it inhibits the occurrence of unwanted side effects such as stomachaches and skin allergies that may cause shedding and poor stools.
This dog food also contains vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and antioxidants to support your pooch’s overall health.
Hill’s Science Diet does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or chicken by-product meal.
Top Ingredients:
- Chicken.
- Brewers Rice.
- Chicken Meal.
- Yellow Peas.
- Cracked Pearled Barley.
Guaranteed Analysis
- Crude Protein: 21% (minimum).
- Crude Fat: 12% (minimum).
- Crude Fiber: 4% (maximum).
- Moisture: 10% (maximum).
- Vitamin E: 400 IU/kg (minimum).
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids: 3% (minimum).
4. Wellness Core Natural Dog Food (Grain-Free)
Wellness Core Natural grain-free dog food is a highly nutritious formula prepared with premium ingredients that are highly digestible.
Wellness dog food formula is prepared using all-natural ingredients, and contains zero grains which is important when feeding dogs with hypothyroidism.
Core Natural does not contain artificial additives, preservatives, wheat, corn, meat by-products, or soy.
What’s more, the natural grain-free dog food is a protein-rich diet prepared using premium animal-based proteins, with it’s primary ingredients being turkey and chicken.
The optimal protein content offers your pooch the much-needed energy for activity, the development of lean, strong muscle mass not to mention its savory taste.
Most importantly the lean protein helps dogs to maintain a healthy weight, which is quite difficult for dogs suffering from hypothyroidism.
Apart from the protein content, this food also offers your furry friend fruits and vegetables to provide antioxidant support, and essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
It also comprises of probiotics that enhance healthy digestion.
Canines with hypothyroidism condition often suffer from skin allergies and other skin conditions, and the omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acid components promote a healthy skin and coat.
The fatty acids are sourced from flaxseed oil and salmon oil.
Top Ingredients:
- Deboned Turkey.
- Turkey Meal.
- Chicken Meal.
- Peas.
- Potatoes.
Guaranteed Analysis
- Crude Protein: 34% (minimum).
- Crude Fat: 16% (minimum).
- Crude Fiber: 4% (maximum).
- Moisture: 10% (maximum).
- Vitamin E: 400 IU/kg (minimum).
- Omega- 6 Fatty Acids: 3.25% (minimum).
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.50% (Minimum).
5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection (Chicken & Brown Rice) Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo is another great dog food for canines suffering from Hypothyroidism.
This is because Blue buffalo is specially formulated to boost the immune system in dogs, enhance healthy skin and maintain a healthy weight.
This dog food formula comprises high-quality protein for the development and maintenance of healthy muscles as well as optimal weight levels.
It contains real meat specifically real lamb as the main ingredient, and you can also choose from two other available protein options – chicken and fish.
Other natural ingredients include fresh fruits, vegetables, and wholesome whole grains.
It is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals to support a healthy immune system and a perfect blend of antioxidants.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection helps prevent skin allergies and skin conditions associated with hypothyroidism thanks to its composition of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty mainly sourced from fish oil.
This dog food formula does not contain artificial flavors or preservatives.
- Also it is free from wheat, soy, corn, chicken by-product meals – therefore, a great food option for dogs suffering from hypothyroidism.
- In addition, it features brown rice and oatmeal, both of which contain supplemental fiber, which helps digestive problems associated with hypothyroidism.
Note that this formula also contains glucosamine that enhances healthy joints especially among senior dogs.
On the downside, this product features whole grains, however the whole grains are of high-quality and in smaller portions, thus less likely to cause any adverse effects on your dog.
Top Ingredients:
- Deboned Lamb.
- Menhaden Fish Meal.
- Brown Rice.
- Oatmeal.
- Barley.
Guaranteed Analysis
- Crude Protein: 22% (minimum.
- Crude Fat: 14% (minimum).
- Crude Fiber: 5% (maximum).
- Moisture: 10% (maximum).
- Calcium: 1% (minimum).
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.75% (minimum).
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids: 2% (minimum).
- Glucosamine: 400mg/kg (minimum).
Frequently Asked Questions
What dog breeds are susceptible to hypothyroidism?
While any dog breed is susceptible to hypothyroidism disease, there are some breeds that are more susceptible than others.
They include Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Irish Setters, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels, etc.
Also, note that factors such as size and age also determine the risk of a dog contracting hypothyroidism.
For instance, medium to large-sized dogs aged between four to 10 years are at a greater risk.
How to diagnose a hypothyroid dog?
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism in most cases exhibit those of other illnesses. Hence, it is quite difficult to diagnose this disease among dogs.
However, veterinarians run a series of blood tests (thyroid tests) to increase the chances of yielding precise results.
What food components should my hypothyroid dog avoid?
Some of the dog food ingredients to avoid if your canine is suffering from hypothyroidism include food by-products such as beef-by-products, corn, wheat gluten, millet, soy, and food dyes.
Also, limit the intake of certain vegetables such as cauliflower, kale, and broccoli.
How do I know if my dog has hypothyroidism?
Some of the common symptoms for dogs with hypothyroidism include change of appetite, weight gain, lethargy, thin hair, excessive shedding, black skin patches, flaky skin, and bald hair coat, etc.
Is egg good for thyroid?
Absolutely. Most especially whole eggs.
This is because its yolk contains the selenium and iodine nutrients while the white part contains high-quality protein, all of which boost the vital functioning of the thyroid gland.
Selenium nutrient helps regulate thyroid hormones.
Conclusion
Hypothyroidism in dogs can be easily managed using the right medication such as synthetic hormones and the best dog food for hypothyroidism.
Food, in particular, plays a critical role in managing this disease.
Feed your hypothyroid dog with premium dog food that contains high-quality ingredients, grain-free, do not contain artificial fillers and additives so as to maintain healthy body functioning.
Remember to monitor what your dog eats to avoid certain food ingredients, for instance, meat-by products, corn, gluten, etc. that may further trigger or worsen the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
