While hypothyroidism is not considered life threatening, the quality of life for a dog suffering from hypothyroidism is substandard.  The work hypothyroidism combines hypo, which mean lower than normal; thyroid, the endocrine glad that produces various hormones; and ism, which means behaviour.  Thus, hypothyroidism involves an under active thyroid gland.

Thyroid panel must include the following tests:  TGAA (Thyroglobulin auto antibodies, Total T4AA, Free T4AA (by equilibrium dialysis), cTSH.  Optional tests include T3 and Free T3.