HYPOTHYROIDISM

The thyroid gland regulates the rate of metabolism. 


If it is hyperfunctional, metabolism speeds up. 


If it is less functional than normal, metabolism slows down.  The latter is for the clinical signs of hypothyroidism .


Symptom: Dry hair, excessive shedding , weight gain , gets cold easily , increased pigmentation in the skin, skin - ear infections, failure to regrow hair after clipping or shaving , etc..



Treatment: Your vet will take the most common test - T4 level.
Hypothyroidism is treatable but not curable.
It is treated with oral administration of a thyroid replacement hormone. 
This drug must be given for the rest of the dog's life.