Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) in dogs causes adrenal insufficiency that is well-managed with medication but can produce Addisonian crises that are welfare emergencies without rapid veterinary intervention.
Addison's disease welfare centers on two phases: the chronic welfare impairment of unrecognized disease and the acute welfare crisis of Addisonian collapse. The chronic phase involves vague but real welfare impairment - dogs with subtle adrenal insufficiency have reduced energy, gastrointestinal distress, and poor stress tolerance that affects daily quality of life. The crisis phase causes acute, severe suffering from cardiovascular collapse and electrolyte disturbance - dogs in Addisonian crisis require emergency treatment to survive. With diagnosis and appropriate management, Addisonian dogs typically have excellent welfare and normal lifespans. Owner education about stress-dosing and emergency protocols is essential for welfare-optimal long-term management.