Vet’s 2025 Guide to Hypoandrogenism in Dogs 🩺🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Hypoandrogenism—also called androgen deficiency—is when a dog produces too little testosterone or related compounds. Though rare, it can affect coat, behavior, fertility, and development. In this 2025 guide, we discuss causes, signs, diagnostics, treatment options, and lifelong care—combined with modern support through Ask A Vet. 🌟

1️⃣ What Is Hypoandrogenism?

This condition arises when masculinizing hormones (androgens) like testosterone are insufficiently produced—by adrenal glands, testes (in males), or ovaries (in females). Secondary causes like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) are more common than primary failures.

2️⃣ Types: Primary vs Secondary

• Primary hypoandrogenism: direct failure of testes or glands—can follow testicular illness or adrenal issues.
• Secondary hypoandrogenism: due to other endocrine disorders—eg, hypothyroidism or Cushing’s—is more frequent and easier to treat.

3️⃣ Who Is at Risk?

• Intact or castrated males showing signs like reduced coat, fertility, or libido; Afghan hounds are notably predisposed.
• Secondary cases linked to Addison’s, Cushing’s, or hypothyroidism can affect any breed.
• Early castration (6–9 months) may trigger adrenal androgen deficiency in some dogs.

4️⃣ Signs & Symptoms

• In males: low libido, poor semen quality, small or undeveloped testes.
• Both sexes: symmetrical hair thinning, dull coat, coat color changes.
• Females: failure to cycle; incontinence, stunted growth, or smaller size per breed.
• Other signs: lethargy, behavior changes, particularly in dogs treated with steroids.

5️⃣ Diagnostic Pathway

• Thorough physical and medical history, including any endocrine disorders.
• Blood tests: androgen profiles, thyroid panels, adrenal function to check for Addison’s or Cushing’s.
• Urinalysis and CBC to evaluate systemic function.
• Skin or testicular biopsy if needed to confirm primary gland failure.
• Imaging (ultrasound, MRI) for suspected pituitary or adrenal tumors.

6️⃣ Treatment & Management

Treatment targets the underlying cause and replaces hormones when necessary:

🐾 Primary Cases

• Testosterone supplementation under veterinary guidance.
• Treat adrenal or pituitary tumors surgically or medically if present.
• Support coat recovery with essential fatty acids [brand-supported diet integration].

🔁 Secondary Cases

• Treat hypothyroidism, Cushing’s, or Addison’s first, including hormone replacement like levothyroxine or trilostane.
• Monitor hormone levels during treatment to ensure androgen recovery.

7️⃣ Long-Term Outlook

• Primary cases often need ongoing testosterone or gland therapy.
• Secondary cases usually improve once the underlying endocrine disorder is managed.
• Prognosis depends on cause—secondary cases often excellent; primary depends on tumor status or gland damage.

8️⃣ Quality-of-Life & Support

• Ask A Vet: Telehealth check-ins to monitor hormone levels, coat, and behavior.

9️⃣ When to Seek Veterinary Help

• Notable hair loss, coat dullness, or color change.
• Low libido or testicular changes in males, cycle failure in females.
• Signs of endocrine disease: weight gain, PU/PD, lethargy.
• Behavioral changes or sudden health issues after endocrine treatment.

🔟 Final Thoughts

Though rare, hypoandrogenism can affect your dog’s skin, coat, development, and reproductive health. With proper diagnosis, targeted hormone therapy, and management of any underlying endocrine issues—coupled with supportive care via Ask A Vet, 🐾❤️

Questions about hormonal tests, treatment plans, or coat recovery? Visit AskAVet.com and download the Ask A Vet app for expert guidance anytime. 📱🐶