Dog Cushing Disease: Welfare Through Diagnosis to Management

Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing disease) causes progressive hormonal changes in dogs that affect quality of life significantly, with accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment substantially improving welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

Cushing disease is caused by excess cortisol production, most commonly from a pituitary adenoma
Clinical signs include increased thirst and urination, pot-belly appearance, hair loss, skin thinning, and muscle weakness
The disease disproportionately affects middle-aged to older dogs of certain breeds including Poodles and Dachshunds
Diagnosis requires dynamic cortisol testing including LDDS or HDDS tests and abdominal imaging
Medical treatment with trilostane or mitotane controls cortisol excess in most dogs
Untreated Cushing disease leads to progressive weakness, recurrent infections, and clotting disorders

Welfare Considerations

Untreated Cushing disease causes substantial welfare compromise through chronic hormonal disruption affecting metabolism, immunity, and tissue integrity. Affected dogs experience skin fragility, muscle wasting, and susceptibility to infections. The pot-bellied appearance reflects muscle weakness and fat redistribution that limit mobility. Successfully treated dogs show significant quality-of-life improvement including increased energy, restored muscle tone, and resolution of skin changes. Regular monitoring after treatment is essential to avoid the welfare risk of over-suppression.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary assessment if your older dog shows increased drinking, urination, or the characteristic pot-belly appearance
Request appropriate diagnostic testing rather than relying on clinical signs alone for diagnosis
Monitor treated dogs regularly as treatment can over-suppress adrenal function causing an Addisonian crisis
Maintain regular 3-6 monthly cortisol monitoring once on stable treatment
Provide appropriate exercise within your dog's capacity to maintain muscle condition during management