
Did you know that some medium to large size Irish Setters may be prone to health conditions such as Hypothyroidism or Thyroid Hormone Deficiency? This condition is known to develop when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough T4 or T3 hormones, which are necessary to maintain a normal metabolism. When the hormones aren’t present, the metabolism slows. This condition can produce symptoms such as lethargy, weakness, unexplained weight gain, hair loss, excessive shedding, poor hair growth, mental dullness, skin infections, intolerance to cold, tilting of the head to one side and even seizures or infertility. The disease is believed to affect dogs between the ages of 4 and 10. Neutered males and spayed females are believed to be at a higher risk for the disease. The most commonly affected breeds include the Doberman Pinschers, Irish Setters, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Old English Sheepdogs, Irish Setters, etc. Click here to learn more from your vets San Diego, CA.