Hypothyroidism in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & Cost

By the Pawlee Team

Diagnosis cost

£150–£300

Treatment cost

£200–£500

Ongoing cost

£20–£40 per month

Severity

Moderate

Treatable

Manageable

Species

Dogs

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, slowing down the body’s metabolism. It is one of the most common hormonal disorders in dogs, typically affecting middle-aged and older animals. The most frequent cause is immune-mediated destruction of the thyroid gland. Once diagnosed, hypothyroidism is straightforward to treat with daily thyroid hormone replacement tablets, and most dogs return to their normal selves within weeks.

Symptoms to watch for

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Unexplained weight gain despite normal or reduced appetite
Lethargy, low energy, and sleeping more than usual
Thinning coat, hair loss, or a dull, dry coat
Skin thickening and darkening, particularly on the belly
Seeking warmth and feeling cold to the touch
Recurring skin or ear infections
Slow heart rate

How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?

Test	Typical cost
Thyroid function blood test (total T4 and free T4)	£80–£150
Full blood panel and cholesterol check	£100–£200

Treatment options and costs

Levothyroxine (thyroid hormone replacement)

£20–£40 per month ongoing

Daily oral levothyroxine tablets replace the missing thyroid hormone. Most dogs are given the medication once or twice daily with food. Improvement in energy levels and behaviour is often seen within 1–2 weeks, with coat and skin improvements taking 4–8 weeks. The dose may need adjusting based on blood test results.

Initial diagnosis and dose stabilisation

£200–£500

Initial blood tests to confirm the diagnosis, followed by dose adjustments over the first 4–8 weeks with repeat blood tests. Once the correct dose is established, monitoring blood tests are typically needed every 6–12 months.

Ongoing costs

Estimated ongoing management cost

£20–£40 per month

monthly

Breeds most at risk

Breed	Risk level
German Shepherd	High
Golden Retriever	High
Dachshund	High
Labrador Retriever	Moderate
Cocker Spaniel	Moderate
Rottweiler	Moderate

Does pet insurance cover hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is well covered by lifetime pet insurance policies as long as it is not a pre-existing condition. The ongoing cost of medication is relatively low compared to many chronic conditions, but the lifelong nature of treatment means a lifetime policy is still the best option. Blood monitoring costs are also typically covered. Time-limited or annual policies will stop covering the condition after 12 months, leaving you to pay for medication indefinitely.

Related conditions

Skin Allergies Dogs Ear Infections Dogs

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to treat hypothyroidism in dogs?

Hypothyroidism is one of the more affordable chronic conditions to manage. Levothyroxine tablets cost £20–£40 per month, and monitoring blood tests every 6–12 months cost £80–£150 each. Annual treatment costs are typically £400–£700. Initial diagnosis and stabilisation costs £200–£500.

Can hypothyroidism in dogs be cured?

No, hypothyroidism is a lifelong condition that requires daily medication. However, it is very well controlled with levothyroxine tablets. Most dogs return to their normal energy levels, weight, and coat quality once treatment is established. The medication is inexpensive and side effects are rare when dosed correctly.

How is hypothyroidism diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosis is based on blood tests measuring thyroid hormone levels (total T4 and free T4). Low thyroid levels combined with consistent clinical signs confirm the diagnosis. Your vet may also check cholesterol and red blood cell counts, as these are often abnormal in hypothyroid dogs. A full blood panel costs £100–£200.