Cushing’s Disease in Dogs: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

3 min read

As pet parents, we all want our dogs to live long, healthy lives. But sometimes, subtle changes in their behavior or appearance can signal a more serious condition. One such condition is Cushing’s disease—a hormonal disorder that can be tricky to spot in its early stages, yet has a big impact on a dog’s health if left untreated.

In this post, we’ll break down what Cushing’s disease is, common signs to watch for, how it’s diagnosed, and the treatment options that can help your dog live more comfortably.

What Is Cushing’s Disease?

Cushing’s disease, also called hyperadrenocorticism, occurs when your dog’s body produces too much cortisol—a hormone that helps regulate stress, metabolism, and immune function. While some cortisol is necessary for good health, too much can cause serious problems over time.

This excess cortisol usually comes from:

• A tumor on the pituitary gland (most common)

• A tumor on the adrenal gland

• Long-term use of steroid medications (known as iatrogenic Cushing’s)

  
  

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

Cushing’s disease develops slowly, which means symptoms may be mistaken for normal aging. Here are some of the most common red flags:

• Increased thirst and urination

• Increased appetite

• Hair loss or thinning coat

• Pot-bellied appearance

  
  

Slow-healing skin infections or wounds

• Panting more than usual

• Reduced activity or exercise tolerance

💡 Tip: Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions like diabetes or thyroid disease, it’s important to have your vet run the right tests rather than guessing.

How Cushing’s Disease Is Diagnosed

Your veterinarian will likely start with a physical exam and basic lab work (blood and urine tests). If Cushing’s is suspected, they may order:

• ACTH stimulation test – Measures how adrenal glands respond to ACTH, a hormone that triggers cortisol release

• Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDS) – Checks if cortisol levels drop when given synthetic steroids

• Ultrasound – Helps identify adrenal tumors

  
  

These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.

Treatment Options for Cushing’s Disease in Dogs

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

1. Medication – Most commonly, drugs like Trilostane or Mitotane help control cortisol production.

2. Surgery – May be recommended for adrenal tumors if your dog is otherwise healthy.

3. Adjusting Steroid Use – If caused by long-term steroid medication, your vet will work to taper or replace it safely.

📣 Regular monitoring is key—your vet will need to recheck cortisol levels and adjust treatment as needed.

Managing Cushing’s at Home

• Keep a consistent feeding and medication schedule

• Watch for changes in thirst, appetite, or energy

• Schedule regular vet visits for monitoring

• Use a prescription discount card when buying medications to reduce costs—Cushing’s drugs can be expensive over time

  
  

Why Early Detection Matters

💵 Lower Long-Term Costs – Early treatment can prevent expensive complications like diabetes or kidney disease.

🏥 Better Quality of Life – Managing cortisol levels helps your dog feel more energetic and comfortable.

📆 Longer Lifespan – Controlled Cushing’s can add healthy years to your dog’s life.