Luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates the ovaries and testes.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the ovaries and testes.

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) stimulates the thyroid gland.

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal glands.

Prolactin stimulates milk production after giving birth.

Growth hormone stimulates growth of multiple cells and tissue types.

Examples of these stimulating hormones are as follows: The functions of the adenohypophysis are to make hormones that turn on other endocrine organs. The close structural positioning of the glandular and nervous segments of this gland is symbolic of its function in interrelating the nervous and endocrine systems. They are then circulated in the blood to a variety of the body’s tissues. Each lobe of the pituitary gland produces certain hormones in response to the body’s needs. What Are the Functions of the Pituitary Gland?Īlthough very small, this organ plays a major regulatory role in the entire endocrine system.

The posterior (rear) lobe is called the neurohypophysis and is controlled by nerve fibers from the hypothalamus.

It is controlled by substances called releasing hormones that are transported from the hypothalamus through tiny blood vessels.

The anterior (front) lobe is called the adenohypophysis, which is subdivided into three regions that produce a variety of hormones.

Physiologically, the pituitary gland is divided into two distinct lobes that arise from different embryological sources. The pituitary gland is no larger than the size of a pea, though its size varies among different dog breeds and individuals.

What Is the General Structure of the Canine Pituitary Gland? It uses much of this information to regulate the secretion of the hormones produced by the pituitary. The hypothalamus acts as the collecting center for information concerning the internal well being of the body. The pituitary is attached to the hypothalamus (an important part of the underside of the brain) via a stalk-like structure.

The pituitary gland is located on the underside of the brain within the skull. Where Is the Pituitary Gland Located in Dogs? It is an important link between the nervous system and endocrine system and releases many hormones that affect multiple body functions. The pituitary gland, also referred to as the hypophysis, is a small, oval gland that is attached to the underside or base of the dog’s brain. We will tell you about the general structure of the pituitary gland, how the pituitary gland works in dogs, common diseases that affect the pituitary gland and common diagnostic tests performed in dogs to evaluate the gland. Below is information about the structure and function of the canine pituitary gland.

Where's adrenal gland