Dog Cushing's Disease: Diagnosis and Management

Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) causes chronic cortisol excess in dogs, requiring careful diagnosis and lifelong management.

Key Facts

Cushing's disease affects approximately 1-2 per 1,000 dogs with higher rates in older small breeds
85-90% of cases result from pituitary adenoma (PDH); 10-15% from adrenal tumor (AT)
Clinical signs include pot-bellied appearance, increased thirst and urination, hair loss, and skin thinning
Diagnosis requires multiple tests as no single test is perfectly specific or sensitive
Trilostane and mitotane are the primary medications for pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism
Adrenal tumors may be treated surgically with significant benefit when unilateral
Dogs with Cushing's have increased risk of urinary tract infections, diabetes, hypertension, and clotting disorders

Welfare Considerations

Untreated Cushing's disease causes progressive deterioration across multiple body systems. Excess cortisol impairs immunity, causes muscle wasting, and predisposes to serious secondary conditions. Dogs with Cushing's may appear comfortable despite significant internal pathology. Treatment dramatically improves quality of life by reducing cortisol excess, but requires careful monitoring to avoid over-suppression causing an adrenal crisis.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary evaluation if your older dog develops pot-belly, hair loss, and increased thirst and urination
Follow prescribed testing protocols carefully as Cushing's diagnosis requires multiple tests
Monitor treated dogs closely for signs of inadequate or excessive cortisol suppression
Prevent obesity in susceptible breeds to reduce metabolic risk factors
Have urine cultures performed regularly in Cushing's dogs who are prone to silent UTIs
Connect with Cushing's support communities for guidance on monitoring and management