8 Things to Know About Iodine Deficiency in Dogs
Overview article by natural health guru: Dr Edward Group Global Healing Center 2015 , .
When it comes to our pets’ health, it doesn’t always register that they too can suffer from nutritional deficiencies. We take such good care of their safety that we may overlook the spectrum of nutrients their bodies require. As a result, many dogs don’t receive enough necessary nutrients (some of which are also lacking in the average human’s diet). Iodine, for example, is essential for thyroid health — in humans and animals — yet most of us don’t get enough and neither do our dogs.
Iodine supports your dog’s metabolism and helps them produce thyroid hormones. When iodine levels are too low, also known as hypothyroidism, weight, energy, and mood imbalances are common. Although most commercial dog food does contain iodine as potassium iodide, potassium iodate, sodium iodide, or calcium iodide, it’s important to make sure your dog is getting enough. A rough estimate is at least 0.7 milligrams of iodide per pound of dry food every day; however, this varies based on your dog’s size and age. Without enough iodine, an iodine deficiency can result.
Here are 8 things you need to know regarding the role iodine plays with your dog’s health.
1. Not Enough Can Lead to Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a common hormonal disorder in dogs. [1] It can stunt growth, cause thirst, hair loss, lethargy, and weight gain. Some people even report that their pets experience a change in behavior — usually depression or aggression. The disorder develops when there is a deficiency of the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) — often caused by insufficient dietary iodine. [2]
2. Different Dogs are Affected Differently
Iodine deficiency is most common in medium- to large-sized dogs between 4 and 10 years old. [3] Some breeds, including Doberman Pinschers, Irish Setters, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Old English Sheepdogs, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Boxers, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels are more predisposed to hypothyroidism than others. [4] Iodine deficiency is also more common in dogs that have been either spayed or neutered.
3. Commercial Dog Food May Not Be Reliable
A 2011 study discovered some commercial dog foods have an imbalance of the minerals and vitamins necessary for keeping your dog healthy — iodine included. [5] You need to check your dog food label just as you check the label on your food. Careful review of the ingredients is the best way to assure your dog is getting the iodine they need. If there are shortages in, it may be necessary to find another brand, make your own, or supplement your pet’s nutritional needs.
4. Fish Can Be a Fix
Other than choosing a dog food that includes “fish” as a first-listed ingredient, incorporating an iodine rich food like fish into your pet’s diet can provide supplemental iodine. Fish is a great source of iodine and offers calcium and protein, too. Choose only wild-caught, low-mercury fish like sardines, flounder, and fresh salmon.
5. Sea Vegetables Are Better
If you prefer vegan options in your house, then seaweed may be a better choice. Seaweed has an abundance of naturally occurring iodine and is a great way to supplement your dog’s nutritional needs. [6]Brown and red seaweeds, such as kombu, contain the most iodine. One caveat… given the ongoing status of Fukushima, it’s a good idea to be mindful of the source and purity if any sea vegetables your pet (or you) consumes.
6. Iodine Deficiency Poses a Cancer Risk?
Maybe, maybe not. But, one thing we are sure of is that thyroid cancer and other tumorous diseases in dogs decreased from 48% in 1982 to 3.2% in 2002 just by the introduction of iodine in commercial dog foods. Even if the ratios are off, iodine is a crucial component in your pet’s diet. [7]
7. Testing Can Determine Your Dog’s Iodine Status
Not sure if your pet’s iodine needs are being pet? Your vet can help. Proper diagnosis includes a thorough medical history, documentation of clinical signs, a thorough physical examination, and diagnostic tests to assess various organ functions, including (but not limited to):
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Biochemical profile
- Urinalysis
- Thyroxine (T4) level
- Free-T4 level
- Canine TSH test
8. Synthetic Hormones Are an Option
Maybe not the best option but sometimes hypothyroidism is addressed with synthetic hormones in effort to repair the thyroid. A veterinarian will regularly monitor your dog’s iodine levels to determine whether or not hormone therapy will be a life-long or short-term requirement. This decision depends on the level of iodine deficiency and the extent of damage to the thyroid. Most hormone treatment is temporary and given only until iodine levels (and other health markers) come into balance.
One Final Thought
Prevention is the first step against iodine deficiency in dogs. Make sure you’re giving your pet a quality pet food (making your own is an option) with all necessary nutrients, especially iodine. Supplementing your dog’s diet with iodine-rich foods, like fish and sea vegetables, may be especially helpful for supporting your dog’s health. If you suspect your dog has an iodine deficiency, a visit to the vet may provide you the information necessary to avoid permanent damage to the thyroid.
ILaD Ed Note: Regardless of what commercial dry dog foods say on the packet, we encourage the philosophy that ‘fresh is best’… real food for real dogs. If you do give your dog dry food, please consider adding sardines a few times a week, preferably with a small kelp boost. They’ll love you for it. Please get in touch if you have questions.
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