Canine Addison's disease requires lifelong hormone replacement therapy but, when well-managed, allows dogs to enjoy an excellent quality of life with careful veterinary oversight.
The welfare journey with a dog with Addison's disease typically begins with a period of diagnostic uncertainty during which the dog experiences recurrent illness, weakness, and discomfort. Addisonian crises are acute welfare emergencies — dogs can deteriorate rapidly and die if untreated. However, once diagnosed and stabilised on appropriate hormone replacement therapy, most Addisonian dogs have excellent welfare outcomes. The treatment itself carries welfare considerations: monthly veterinary visits for injections, daily pilling, and the need to increase steroid doses during illness or stress ("stress dosing"). Owners who understand the disease and respond promptly to early signs of decompensation are crucial to maintaining their dog's welfare.