Dog Addison's Disease: Welfare Through Hormone Replacement

Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is a potentially life-threatening hormonal deficiency in dogs. With treatment, affected dogs live full, healthy lives.

Key Facts

Addison's disease results from destruction of the adrenal cortex, causing cortisol and aldosterone deficiency
It is sometimes called the "great pretender" due to its vague, variable signs including weakness, vomiting, and lethargy
Acute Addisonian crisis (sudden adrenal failure) is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate IV therapy
Standard Schnauzers, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Bearded Collies have elevated breed predisposition
Treatment requires monthly DOCP (Percorten) injections plus oral prednisolone, or daily Florinef tablets
With treatment, life expectancy and quality of life are normal — dogs do not outgrow the disease but manage it well

Welfare Considerations

Undiagnosed Addison's disease causes progressive welfare harm — weakness, nausea, weight loss, and in crisis, cardiovascular collapse. The diagnostic challenge is that signs wax and wane, leading to prolonged periods of sub-optimal welfare before diagnosis. Once diagnosed and stabilized, treated dogs have excellent quality of life. Monthly DOCP injections are typically well-tolerated. Owners must be aware of the need for stress-dose corticosteroids (increased prednisolone) during illness or stressful events to prevent Addisonian crisis.

What You Can Do

Consider Addison's disease in any dog with intermittent weakness, vomiting, and lethargy — request an ACTH stimulation test
Carry an emergency prednisolone prescription for your Addisonian dog for use during illness or travel
Inform all vets treating your dog (including emergency vets) of the Addison's diagnosis before any procedure
Join owner support communities for Addison's disease dogs to share management experience