Dog Cushing's Disease: Welfare and Management

Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) causes chronic cortisol excess in dogs, producing significant welfare harm. Treatment dramatically improves quality of life.

Key Facts

Cushing's disease affects approximately 1-2 per 1,000 dogs annually
It is caused by a pituitary or adrenal tumor producing excess cortisol
Signs include excessive drinking and urination, pot-bellied appearance, hair loss, and lethargy
Dachshunds, Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, and Boxers are most predisposed
Medical treatment with trilostane or mitotane is effective in most cases
Untreated Cushing's leads to diabetes, hypertension, skin infections, and muscle wasting

Welfare Considerations

Chronic cortisol excess causes significant welfare harm: dogs with Cushing's disease show muscle weakness, exercise intolerance, skin fragility, recurrent infections, and behavioral changes including restlessness and anxiety. The pot-bellied appearance reflects muscle wasting and abdominal fat redistribution — both signs of chronic suffering. Treatment with trilostane (Vetoryl) restores cortisol to normal levels, typically within weeks, producing marked improvements in energy, skin health, and quality of life. Early diagnosis is critical for best outcomes.

What You Can Do

Consult a vet if your dog shows excessive thirst, urination, or a progressively pot-bellied appearance
Request a urine cortisol:creatinine ratio test as a low-stress initial screening tool
Once diagnosed, commit to regular monitoring with low-dose ACTH stimulation tests during treatment
Discuss quality of life explicitly with your veterinarian — treated dogs typically do very well