Does salmon oil help with hypothyroidism in dogs

Does salmon oil help with hypothyroidism in dogs? Hypothyroidism relatively a common condition in dogs that can cause weight gain, skin and coat problems, lethargy, and more. While prescription medications are the costly treatment, you may wonder if natural supplements may provide additional support. One such supplement that is salmon oil.

Salmon oil contains high level of omega 3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA. Salmon skin benefits for thyroid and immune system function in dogs. The thyroid gland relies on adequate omega-3s to produce its hormones efficiently. Studies also link omega-3s to reduced inflammation, which some hypothyroidism symptoms may be caused or exacerbated by.

While salmon, sardines and other fatty fish contain the fatty acids, dietary intake can vary. A supplement ensures consistent absorption. When given to dogs with hypothyroidism, salmon oil was shown to help regulate thyroid markers and support normal thyroid hormone levels even when medication doses were adjusted lower.

Main Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

• Weight gain . dogs feel lethargic and may easily put on weight.
• Cold intolerance .dogs become very sensitive to cold weather without enough thyroid hormone.
• Skin and coat issues. dry, dull coat and skin problems like dandruff and infection.
• Slow growth .young puppies may grow more slowly if thyroid isn’t working normally.
• Reproductive issues . dogs can have abnormal heat cycles or infertility.
• Mental dullness .lethargy, sluggish behavior and impaired memory in severe cases.
• Muscle/joint pain .stiffness and aches as low thyroid impacts muscles.
• Low heart rate . below normal pulse due to slower metabolism.
• Chronic infections .recurrent skin/ear infections due to impaired immunity.
• Dull, puffy appearance .less vibrant, more droopy facial features.

Early signs can be vague like sluggishness or weight gain. Left untreated, hypothyroidism worsens over time. Response to treatment varies. Have thyroid levels tested if multiple symptoms present. Managing this condition requires lifelong medication.

Does salmon oil help with hypothyroidism in dogs

Salmon oil contains omega-3 fatty acids. The omega-3s  support thyroid and immune system function. This is helpful for dogs dealing with an underactive thyroid.

They promote skin and coat health. Hypothyroidism commonly causes oil gland and skin issues that omega-3s can help remedy.

Research links omega-3s to mood regulation. Untreated hypothyroidism sometimes causes depression in dogs, and salmon oil may relieve this.

The fatty acids support bone mineralization through proper calcium balance. Hypothyroidism affects calcium levels.

However, salmon oil alone does not treat the condition. The best approach is medication from a vet along with a balanced diet. With vet supervision and monitoring, salmon oil nutrition can aid dogs managing hypothyroidism symptoms. 

But medication is still the primary treatment approach. Careful use of supplements works best as an adjunct to vet-directed hypothyroidism management.

Best dog food for dogs with hypothyroidism

• Low in calories and fat to promote weight loss/maintenance.
• Rich in protein to aid thyroid hormones without overburdening the dog’s system.
• Iodine-regulated to support thyroid function without excess.
• That avoids foods like legumes and cruciferous veggies linked to thyroid issues.
• Enriched with vitamins/minerals often deficient in hypothyroid dogs, like B, D, E, copper, selenium.

High-quality kibble tailored to the dog’s activity level and metabolism from brands like Hill’s, Royal Canin or Purina with protein sources like salmon recommended. Consult your vet on the best individualized diet plan. Proper nutrition aids medication and symptom

Old dog thyroid symptoms

• Weight gain .Metabolism slows, leading to obesity.
• Cold intolerance .Hypothyroidism impairs body’s ability to regulate temperature.
• Skin/coat issues . Skin may become dry and flaky. Coat dull and shed excessively.
• Joint stiffness . Decreased thyroid impacts mobility and can cause arthritis pain.
• Mental dullness .Thinking may slow as metabolism and oxygen needs drop.
• Bradycardia .Low thyroid levels cause heart rate to drop below normal.
• Depression . Hormone imbalance impacts mood in some dogs.
• Constipation .Thyroid helps digest food and regulate bowel movements.
• Increase in urinating .Kidneys forced to overwork filtering blood.
• Bad breath .Systemic effects impact oral/dental health.
• Infertility . In females, menstrual cycles cease or are abnormal.

Blood tests at first signs help vet confirm hypothyroidism diagnosis in an aging dog. Treatment with levothyroxine stops symptoms for improved quality of life.

What not to feed a dog when it hypothyroidism?

• Soy – Contains goitrogens that affect dog thyroid .
• Cruciferous veggies have contain goitrogens.
• Dairy products.
• Processed foods – Tend to be empty calories that can cause weight gain.
• Table scraps – Not formulated for dogs and upsets stomachs.
• Grapes/raisins – Can damage kidneys already under strain from thyroid issues.

The goal is a balanced, hypoallergenic diet designed with a vet to:

• Support thyroid meds without interfering ingredients.
• Meet nutritional needs at a weight-managing calorie level.
• Ease symptoms while avoiding triggers that could worsen the condition.

Consult your vet on the best commercial or homecooked options suited for the individual dog’s thyroid disease management. Consistency with a carefully formulated plan aids treatment.

How to treat hypothyroidism in dogs

Medication

Lifelong thyroid hormone supplementation is essential. Levothyroxine is most common, replacing missing T4 hormones. Dosage is titrated under vet supervision.

Diet

A hypoallergenic diet tailored to the dog’s needs provides balanced nutrition to support treatment. It avoids inhibitory foods and maintains a healthy weight.

Monitoring

Regular bloodwork checks thyroid hormone and clinical signs. Levels must remain optimal to prevent symptoms. Dosage is adjusted as needed.

Weight control

Obesity strains the thyroid. Gentle exercise plus a calorie-appropriate diet keeps weight in a healthy range.

Supplements

Some vets recommend thyroid support supplements like omega-3s or selenium to further aid the gland’s function.

Symptom relief 

Additional care addresses skin/coat issues, nausea, etc. Medications or oils may relieve secondary problems.

Lifelong care

Hypothyroidism requires lifelong hormone replacement and monitoring by a vet. Treatment stops symptoms but doesn’t cure the underlying condition.

Consistent medication adherence, a specialized diet, routine checks, and dealing promptly with any problems that arise comprise lifelong hypothyroidism management. It keeps dogs feeling their best.

Which diet is best for dogs with hypothyroidism?

• High-quality commercial food formulated for thyroid issues. Look for brands like Hill’s, Royal Canin or Purina.
• Protein-rich with regulated iodine to support thyroid function without excess.
• Limited calories and fat to prevent weight gain which strains the gland.
• Avoids problematic foods like cruciferous veggies, soy, legumes, dairy.
• Fortified with nutrients often deficient in hypothyroidism – B vitamins, D, E, copper, selenium.
• Grain-free may suit dogs with grain intolerance compounding symptoms.
• Home-cooked can work too if tailored with a vet’s guidance on balanced nutritional needs.

The key is finding an allergen-free formula or meal plan tailored to the individual dog’s activity level, metabolism and medication. This complements treatment while sparing the thyroid potentially inhibiting foods or nutrients. Consistency aids management of the condition long-term.