Dog Cushing's Disease: Welfare Management of Hyperadrenocorticism

Cushing's disease causes chronic welfare compromise in affected dogs, but effective treatment options have transformed outcomes for this common endocrine condition.

Key Facts

Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) affects approximately 1-2 per thousand dogs annually with pituitary-dependent disease most common
Signs include increased drinking and urination, pot-bellied appearance, muscle weakness, thin skin, and hair loss
Poodles, Dachshunds, Boxers, and Boston Terriers show elevated breed prevalence
Trilostane and mitotane are effective treatments that control cortisol overproduction and improve quality of life in most cases
The condition also increases risk of pulmonary thromboembolism, urinary tract infections, and diabetes mellitus as secondary complications

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with Cushing's disease experience significant chronic welfare compromise from excess cortisol effects including muscle weakness, skin fragility, increased infection susceptibility, and the discomfort of constant thirst and urination. The pot-bellied appearance familiar to owners often belies significant muscle loss and abdominal discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment with appropriate monitoring dramatically improves quality of life for affected dogs. The treatment monitoring requirement including ACTH stimulation testing every few months is essential to prevent both under and over treatment.

What You Can Do

Recognize Cushing's signs including excessive drinking, weight gain with muscle loss, and thin easily bruised skin in predisposed breeds
Seek veterinary assessment for dogs showing these signs rather than attributing them to normal aging
Follow treatment monitoring protocols carefully as both under and over treatment cause serious welfare harms
Monitor Cushing's-treated dogs for secondary conditions including urinary infections and blood clot signs