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Thyroid issues in dogs — such as hypothyroidism — are common. Here’s why the right balance of iodine in your dog’s diet can help prevent thyroid problems in your pup.
What is Iodine?
Iodine is a trace mineral that is required in very small amounts for your dog. It can be found naturally in some foods, including fish, seaweed, eggs and dairy products. Table salt in North America is usually iodized to ensure adequate intakes, as this region tends to have low to no iodine present in the soil.
For dogs, iodine is important for thyroid health and function. The thyroid gland, located in the neck region, produces hormones (i.e. T3 and T4) that are involved in many metabolic pathways, including for enzymes, protein synthesis, growth, and neurological function. Iodine is a critical component of these hormones.
The thyroid knows when to produce thyroid hormones due to the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). This is the hormone that tells the thyroid when thyroid hormone levels are low, promoting the production and secretion of more T3 and T4. This an important process that protects your pup by ensuring adequate thyroid hormone levels. Because iodine is required in order for the thyroid to produce thyroid hormones, ensuring adequate iodine in the diet is crucial for thyroid health!
Photo by Anna Dudkova
Iodine Deficiency
Iodine deficiencies are often rare for dogs that consume complete and balanced pet foods (such as Tom&Sawyer’s yummy Italian Beef Pasta), however, there are certain cases where iodine deficiencies can occur.
An iodine deficiency can be detrimental to your pup’s health and should not be taken lightly. If there is insufficient iodine, the thyroid cannot produce thyroid hormones. This causes an elevation in TSH levels because thyroid hormone levels remain low. Overall, this results in what we call a goiter, which is a term used to describe an enlarged thyroid.
Chronic iodine deficiency can also result in hypothyroidism. Clinical signs and symptoms for hypothyroidism in dogs can include:
– Lethargy
– Weight gain (without appetite increase) and obesity
– Behavioural changes and cognitive issues
– Exercise intolerance
– Hair loss, shedding, and reduce coat quality
Hypothyroidism requires veterinary care and appropriate treatment. It is noteworthy to add that there are many causes for hypothyroidism, such as autoimmune disorders, and congenital or genetic issues, and these will all require medical attention.
Photo by Peter Schulz
Iodine Toxicity
An iodine toxicity results when your dog consumes high levels of iodine. There are safe upper limits recommended by both the National Research Council and AAFCO. Iodine toxicities are less common than deficiencies in dogs, though signs of a toxicity can include:
– Anorexia
– Vomiting
– Diarrhea
– Gastrointestinal tract upset
High levels of iodine have also been associated with both hypo- and hyperthyroidism and may be implicated with thyroid cancer risks.
Risk Factors for Improper Iodine Status
Although it can be rare for pups to exhibit an iodine deficiency or a toxicity, there are instances where the risk for both iodine deficiencies and toxicities can arise:
1) Feeding Primarily Homemade Diets
The risk for an iodine deficiency can be greater with homemade foods, specifically when they are made with non-iodized salts, or insufficient iodine-rich ingredients. Other issues are that some ingredients will vary in iodine concentrations, and without regular testing, it can be impossible to know the true content of iodine, and other nutrients, in the diet. This could result in under- or over- supplementing iodine in the diet.
Photo by Louis Hansel
2) Medium to Large Breed Pups
Iodine deficiencies are more commonly seen in medium to large sized breeds, and this is likely due to a greater need for thyroid hormones, especially during growth as large breed puppies have a lot more growing to do than their small breed counterparts. Unfortunately, though, there is a lack of research in this area.
3) During Growth and Reproduction and Lactation
Growing puppies, as well pregnant or lactating pups, may require greater levels of iodine in the diet. This is due to a greater demand for thyroid hormones. However, more research is required to understand their unique nutritional needs.
Overall, iodine is important for your pup’s health by maintaining a healthy and function thyroid. Ensuring adequate iodine is essential for your pup’s overall health.
If you believe your pup to have a thyroid disease or issue, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Written by: Hannah Godfrey
Animal Nutritionist
BSc.H. | MSc. Animal Nutrition
www.tomandsawyer.com
References:
Case L.P. et al. Canine and Feline Nutrition: A resource for companion animal professionals 3rd ed. May 19, 2010
Kritchevsky JE. Goiter in animals (non-neoplastic enlargement of the thyroid gland). Merck Manual Veterinary Manual. 2019.
National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. Washington, DC. The National Academies Press.
Enjoy pasta night with your pup by serving our hearty, healthy Italian Beef Pasta.
Highlights:
Proteins: Beef Good For: Healthy puppies (with the puppy booster), adult dogs, healthy or under weight seniors, picky eaters. |
Our Italian Beef Pasta recipe is a classic filled with so many pasta-bilities! A favourite among even the pickiest of pups, this dish serves up more than just a yummy meal – it’s packed full of ingredients that provide an array of nutrients for your pup. We can understand why pups are tortellini in love with this one!
Tomatoes: A traditional pasta dish wouldn’t be complete without the nutritious tomato. Tomatoes contain a high level of lycopene, a nutrient that is beneficial for antioxidant effects, anti-inflammation, healthy weight loss, and is even known to have anti-cancer and heart health properties.
Semolina Pasta: This whole-wheat, high-fibre pasta noodle makes for a healthy carbohydrate source for your pup. Semolina pasta is a nutrient-rich noodle, providing a high level of protein, fibre, B-vitamins, and magnesium. Due to its high concentration of nutrients, semolina pasta may be beneficial in maintaining a healthy weight, heart health, and digestive health.
Lean Ground Beef: Part of what makes this meal so palatable is the high-quality beef we use! A good protein source provides your dog with amino acids, which play a vital role in metabolism and body functions. Amino acids are used to build and maintain muscles, provide a foundation for your pup’s fur, and are crucial for enzymes for all body processes.
Eggs: Another protein source in this recipe are eggs. Eggs contain an excellent range of amino acids for your pup. BUT eggs are also a great source of essential fatty acids that can promote anti-inflammation and heart health. The high levels of the nutrient, choline, found in eggs can also be beneficial for healthy fat metabolism.
Hemp Seed Oil: This oil is an excellent source of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and in a perfect ratio to support anti-inflammatory effects, promote healthy digestion, and exert benefits on skin and coat, heart health, and cognitive function.
Stock your freezer with this meal for the perfect pasta night!
See our full menu lineup here.
Written by: Hannah Godfrey
Animal Nutritionist
BSc.H. | MSc. Animal Nutrition
www.tomandsawyer.com
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