Cushing’s Disease in Dogs: Essential Information for Pet Owners

Valley Center Veterinary Clinic frequently encounters families puzzled by their dog’s increased thirst, thinning fur, or restless nights. These subtle signs may indicate Cushing’s disease, a hormonal disorder that requires accurate diagnosis and management. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through testing and treatment options to protect your dog’s long-term health.

Understanding Cushing’s Disease

What is Cushing’s Disease?

Cushing’s disease occurs when a dog’s body produces an excess of cortisol, the “stress hormone.” In normal amounts, cortisol regulates blood sugar, reduces inflammation, and supports healthy stress responses. However, in excessive amounts, it disrupts metabolic processes, weakens the immune system, and can lead to serious complications.

The signs and symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome often develop gradually and may be mistaken for aging. These include increased thirst and urination, heightened appetite with a pot-bellied appearance, excessive panting, hair loss or thinning coat, and skin changes. Without appropriate treatment, dogs with Cushing’s syndrome face higher risks of diabetes, high blood pressure, blood clots, and other complications.

In some cases, Cushing’s can also lead to chronic skin infections or delayed wound healing because excess cortisol suppresses immune function. Recognizing these subtle patterns early helps veterinarians intervene before complications become advanced or irreversible.

Causes of Canine Cushing’s Disease

Pituitary vs. Adrenal Causes

Most cases (about 85–90%) are pituitary-dependent. A small, usually benign pituitary tumor produces excess ACTH, which instructs the adrenal glands to overproduce cortisol.

The remaining 10–15% are adrenal-dependent, caused by tumors on one or both adrenal glands. These may be benign or malignant and produce cortisol independently of pituitary signals. Adrenal tumors often require different treatment strategies and have varied prognoses depending on malignancy.

Certain breeds have a higher risk based on breed associations for Cushing’s syndrome, including Poodles, Dachshunds, Boston Terriers, Boxers, and German Shepherds. Small to medium-sized dogs ages 6–12 are most commonly affected, though any dog can develop the condition.

Cushing’s can occasionally be “iatrogenic,” meaning it results from long-term steroid medication use for allergies or inflammation. In those cases, the disease is reversible if steroid doses are gradually reduced under veterinary supervision.

Diagnosing Cushing’s Disease

Diagnostic Process and Importance of Early Detection

Because many signs overlap with other conditions, diagnosis is methodical. A comprehensive exam looks for pot-bellied appearance, thin skin, hair loss patterns, and muscle weakness. Initial bloodwork and urinalysis may show elevated liver enzymes, increased blood sugar, and diluted urine.

Definitive diagnosis typically uses the ACTH stimulation test and the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test. The ACTH test measures adrenal response to synthetic ACTH, and dogs with Cushing’s often show an exaggerated cortisol rise. The dex suppression test evaluates whether cortisol can be properly suppressed by a synthetic steroid.

Our comprehensive diagnostic services include these tests and advanced imaging when needed to confirm tumor location and guide treatment. Ultrasound or CT scans can identify adrenal masses or help distinguish pituitary-dependent from adrenal-dependent forms.

Early detection improves outcomes and helps prevent complications. Excess cortisol interferes with insulin, increasing the risk of diabetes; raises blood pressure, affecting the heart and kidneys; suppresses immunity, predisposing dogs to urinary and skin infections; and can contribute to blood clots. Regular wellness and preventive care visits help us spot subtle changes that may signal early disease.

Treatment Options for Cushing’s Disease

Medical and Surgical Management

Most dogs respond well to medication. The FDA has approved several treatment options, with trilostane being the most common in the U.S. Trilostane blocks cortisol production at the adrenal level. It doesn’t remove the tumor but controls cortisol for most dogs. Close monitoring is essential, with blood tests frequently at first and then every few months once stable.

Mitotane is another option, used less often due to potential side effects. It destroys portions of adrenal tissue and requires careful dosing and monitoring. Some dogs also benefit from medication to control secondary conditions like high blood pressure or infections caused by cortisol’s immune suppression.

Surgery is primarily considered for adrenal tumors, especially if imaging suggests malignancy. While more complex and higher risk, adrenalectomy can be curative if the tumor is fully removed and has not spread. Pituitary surgery is rarely pursued due to technical challenges and risk; most pituitary-dependent cases respond well to medical therapy.

In advanced or atypical cases, radiation therapy may be used to shrink pituitary tumors that continue to grow despite medication. Regular follow-ups ensure treatment remains balanced and that cortisol levels do not drop too low, which can lead to Addisonian crises.

Living with Cushing’s Disease

Home Management and Veterinary Collaboration

Consistency and monitoring are key. Provide ample fresh water and more frequent potty breaks. Waterproof bedding and indoor potty options can help dogs with mobility limitations or frequent urination.

Track appetite, energy, water intake, urination, skin and coat changes, and any new symptoms. These notes help your veterinary team tailor treatment and catch issues early.

Dogs with Cushing’s benefit from a diet balanced in protein and moderate in fat, with controlled calories to prevent weight gain. Gentle daily exercise helps maintain muscle tone and circulation without overexertion.

Ongoing collaboration drives success. Regular check-ups, blood monitoring, and open communication about response to treatment are essential. Learn more about our senior pet wellness and adult dog wellness packages; they’re a great way to stay on top of your aging pet’s health. Don’t hesitate to request an appointment if you notice new or worsening signs between visits.

FAQs About Canine Cushing’s Disease

Addressing Common Concerns

  • Is Cushing’s disease painful?
    The disease itself isn’t typically painful, though dogs may experience discomfort from skin infections, muscle weakness, or secondary issues. Most feel better once treatment controls cortisol.
  • Can Cushing’s disease be cured?
    It’s rarely curable but highly manageable. Many dogs live happy, comfortable lives with consistent care, medication, and regular monitoring.
  • Can diet or supplements help?
    Nutritional support can complement treatment. Diets rich in lean protein and antioxidants support immune health, and supplements like omega-3s and milk thistle may help protect the liver, which processes excess cortisol. Always check with your veterinarian before adding supplements to your dog’s plan.

Your Next Steps for Optimal Care

Recognizing Cushing’s disease early and seeking appropriate treatment makes all the difference. If your dog shows increased thirst and urination, unexplained weight gain, excessive panting, or hair loss, schedule a veterinary evaluation promptly.

Our diagnostic capabilities and treatment monitoring protocols ensure comprehensive, personalized care throughout your dog’s journey with Cushing’s disease. Whether you need initial testing, ongoing medication management, or have questions about new symptoms, our team is ready to help. Call Valley Center Veterinary Clinic at 442-207-4720 or contact us to schedule an evaluation.