Dog Cushing's Disease Management and Welfare

Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) causes significant chronic suffering in dogs. Effective diagnosis and treatment dramatically improves quality of life.

Key Facts

Cushing's disease affects approximately 1 in 1000 dogs, predominantly middle-aged to older animals
Pituitary-dependent Cushing's accounts for roughly 80-85% of cases; adrenal tumors cause the remainder
Classic signs include increased thirst, urination, appetite, pot-bellied appearance, and hair loss
Trilostane is the primary medical treatment, reducing cortisol production by the adrenal glands
Dogs with untreated Cushing's have significantly shortened lifespans due to complications including diabetes and hypertension
Regular monitoring of cortisol levels is essential during treatment to avoid both under and over-suppression

Welfare Considerations

Cushing's disease welfare is complex because the condition is chronic, progressive, and associated with a cluster of symptoms each of which affects quality of life. The pot-bellied appearance, excessive drinking and urination, skin fragility, and muscle weakness combine to significantly impair normal function. Owners sometimes delay diagnosis because the gradual onset makes changes hard to notice. Treatment with trilostane requires careful titration — over-suppression causes an Addisonian crisis, itself a life-threatening emergency. The welfare case for regular monitoring throughout treatment is therefore both clinical and ethical.

What You Can Do

Have any middle-aged or older dog showing increased thirst, urination, or pot-belly evaluated promptly
Request cortisol testing — LDDST and ACTH stimulation tests are the primary diagnostic tools
Begin medication monitoring schedule as prescribed — do not skip ACTH stimulation rechecks
Know signs of over-suppression including lethargy, weakness, and vomiting that require emergency care
Manage secondary complications including blood pressure monitoring and urinary tract infection screening
Adjust exercise and diet to manage weight and muscle condition throughout treatment