Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism) in dogs requires lifelong hormone replacement therapy, with welfare implications around treatment compliance, stress response, and crisis management.
Dogs with Addison's disease can live normal lifespans with proper management, but welfare depends heavily on owner compliance and education. Addisonian crises involve collapse, vomiting, and severe electrolyte imbalances requiring emergency hospitalisation. Stress of any kind — travel, illness, kennelling — can precipitate crises without dose adjustment. Poorly managed dogs experience episodic suffering from electrolyte disturbances, while well-managed dogs typically have excellent quality of life.