Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) causes significant physical and behavioral changes in dogs, with welfare impacts from both the disease itself and from treatment side effects.
Cushing's disease profoundly affects dogs' quality of life. The constant thirst and need to urinate creates urgency that owners sometimes punish, not recognizing it as disease. The pot-bellied, hair-loss appearance affects dogs' thermoregulation and comfort. Hypertension from excess cortisol can cause sudden blindness. The chronic nature of the disease means extended periods of physical discomfort. Treatment monitoring requires frequent veterinary visits and blood tests, which can be stressful. However, well-managed Cushing's patients often regain much of their previous quality of life.