## 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, weight, energy, and mood imbalances are common. Most commercial dog food does contain iodine as potassium iodide, potassium iodate, sodium iodide, or calcium iodide, but it’s important to make sure your dog is getting enough. A rough estimate is at least 0.7 milligrams of iodine 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, as well as an under-functioning thyroid or hypothyroidism.
Facts About Iodine and Your Dog’s Health
Here are 8 things you need to know regarding the role iodine plays with your dog’s health.
# Not Enough Can Lead to Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a common hormonal disorder in dogs. 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.
# Different Dogs are Affected Differently
Iodine deficiency is most common in medium- to large-sized dogs between 4 and 10 years old. 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. Iodine deficiency is also more common in dogs that have been either spayed or neutered.
# 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. You need to check your dog food label just as you check the label on your food. A 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.
# 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.
# 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. Brown and red seaweeds, such as kombu, contain the most iodine. It’s a good idea to be mindful of the source and purity of any sea vegetables your pet consumes.
# Iodine Deficiency Poses a Canine Cancer Risk?
One thing we are sure of is that thyroid cancer and other tumorous diseases in dogs decreased from 48 percent in 1982 to 3.2 percent in 2002 just by the introduction of iodine in commercial dog foods. This strongly shows that iodine is a crucial component in your pet’s diet.
# Testing Can Determine Your Dog’s Iodine Status
Not sure if your pet’s iodine needs are being met? 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
# Synthetic Hormones Are Sometimes Used
While synthetic hormones are not the best option, sometimes hypothyroidism in dogs is addressed with synthetic hormones in an 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 with the information necessary to avoid permanent damage to the thyroid.
