What is Cushing's disease in dogs and why does it matter?
Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) in dogs is a hormonal disorder in which the adrenal glands produce excess cortisol over a prolonged period. It develops gradually, is most common in middle-aged to older dogs, and requires veterinary diagnosis and ongoing management to protect your dog's quality of life. MaxPetz in Delhi offers specialist veterinary consultations for dogs showing signs of this condition.
Cortisol is essential for regulating metabolism, immune response, and stress reactions. When cortisol levels remain chronically elevated — a state called hyperadrenocorticism — it affects nearly every organ system in the body.
Tip: Cushing's disease is one of the more common endocrine disorders in dogs, particularly in breeds such as Poodles, Dachshunds, Boxers, and Beagles. Early recognition leads to better long-term outcomes.
What causes Cushing's disease in dogs?
The underlying cause determines the type of Cushing's disease and guides treatment decisions. There are three recognised forms:
| Type | Cause | Proportion of Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Pituitary-dependent | A benign tumour on the pituitary gland causes excess ACTH, which over-stimulates the adrenal glands | Most common form |
| Adrenal-dependent | A tumour on one adrenal gland directly secretes excess cortisol | Less common |
| Iatrogenic | Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications (e.g. prednisolone) suppresses the adrenal glands | Reversible with dose tapering |
Identifying the type is essential because pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent Cushing's are managed differently, and iatrogenic Cushing's resolves when the steroid is carefully withdrawn under veterinary supervision.
What are the first signs of Cushing's disease in dogs?
Symptoms develop slowly over months, which is why owners often attribute early changes to normal ageing. Recognising the pattern early allows for timely diagnosis.
Early and common signs include:
- Increased thirst and urination (polydipsia and polyuria)
- Increased appetite, sometimes dramatically so
- Pot-bellied appearance due to muscle wasting and fat redistribution
- Symmetrical hair loss (alopecia) on the trunk, sparing the head and limbs
- Thinning, fragile skin that bruises easily
- Lethargy and reduced exercise tolerance
- Panting, even at rest or in cool environments
Signs of advanced Cushing's disease in dogs may include:
- Weakness or muscle wasting in the back legs
- Recurrent skin or urinary tract infections
- Calcinosis cutis (calcium deposits under the skin)
- Neurological signs if a pituitary tumour enlarges significantly
- Difficulty rising or climbing stairs
Warning: Sudden collapse, severe weakness, or seizures in a dog with known or suspected Cushing's disease require immediate veterinary attention. Do not wait for a scheduled appointment.
How is Cushing's disease diagnosed in dogs?
No single test confirms Cushing's disease. A veterinarian at MaxPetz in Delhi will combine clinical findings with a sequence of laboratory and imaging investigations.
Diagnostic pathway:
- Clinical history and physical examination — assessment of the classic signs, breed, age, and any steroid medication history.
- Routine blood panel and urinalysis — elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP), dilute urine, and elevated cholesterol are common but non-specific findings.
- Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST) — the preferred screening test; measures whether cortisol is appropriately suppressed after a small dexamethasone dose.
- ACTH stimulation test — measures cortisol before and after synthetic ACTH injection; also used to monitor treatment response.
- High-dose dexamethasone suppression test or endogenous ACTH assay — used to differentiate pituitary-dependent from adrenal-dependent disease.
- Abdominal ultrasound — evaluates adrenal gland size and symmetry; can identify adrenal tumours.
Results are interpreted together. A dog with classic clinical signs and consistent test results can be diagnosed with confidence and a treatment plan initiated promptly.
What is the best treatment for Cushing's disease in dogs?
Treatment depends on the type of Cushing's disease, the dog's overall health, and owner circumstances. The goal is to reduce cortisol to a safe range — not to eliminate it entirely, as cortisol is necessary for life.
Medical management (most common approach):
- Trilostane — inhibits cortisol synthesis in the adrenal glands; currently the most widely used veterinary medication for both pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent Cushing's. Requires regular ACTH stimulation test monitoring.
- Mitotane (o,p'-DDD) — selectively destroys cortisol-producing adrenal tissue; an alternative where trilostane is unavailable or unsuitable.
Surgical options:
- Adrenalectomy — surgical removal of an adrenal tumour; considered for adrenal-dependent Cushing's in otherwise healthy dogs.
- Hypophysectomy — surgical removal of the pituitary tumour; performed at specialist referral centres.
Iatrogenic Cushing's:
- Gradual tapering of the causative corticosteroid under veterinary supervision — never stop steroids abruptly.
Regarding natural treatments: there is currently no peer-reviewed evidence that dietary supplements or herbal remedies adequately control cortisol in dogs with confirmed Cushing's disease. Discuss any complementary approaches with your veterinarian before use.
How is Cushing's disease managed long-term in dogs?
Cushing's disease in dogs is a lifelong condition. Once a dog is stabilised on medication, consistent monitoring is essential to keep cortisol within the therapeutic range and to detect complications early.
Ongoing management checklist:
- ACTH stimulation tests at regular intervals after starting or adjusting medication (typically at 10–14 days, 30 days, then every 3–6 months once stable)
- Routine blood and urine checks to monitor organ function
- Monitoring body weight, coat regrowth, water intake, and appetite at home
- Prompt reporting of lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, or collapse — these may indicate hypoadrenocorticism (over-suppression of cortisol), a medical emergency
- Annual or biannual abdominal ultrasound for dogs with adrenal tumours
- Diet: no specific diet reverses Cushing's disease, but a balanced, low-fat diet supports weight management and reduces the risk of pancreatitis. Avoid high-sodium foods, which can worsen fluid retention.
Life expectancy: Dogs with well-managed Cushing's disease can live comfortably for several years after diagnosis. Prognosis depends on the underlying cause, the presence of concurrent conditions, and how consistently treatment is monitored. Dogs with large pituitary tumours causing neurological signs have a more guarded prognosis.
Tip: Keep a home diary of your dog's daily water intake and urination frequency. This simple record helps your veterinarian assess treatment response between clinic visits.
When should you consult a vet about Cushing's disease in dogs?
Consult a veterinarian promptly if your dog shows any of the following for more than two to four weeks without an obvious cause:
- Drinking and urinating noticeably more than usual
- A visibly enlarged or pendulous abdomen without weight gain
- Symmetrical hair loss on the body (not caused by scratching or skin infection)
- Persistent panting at rest or in cool conditions
- Unexplained lethargy or reduced willingness to exercise
- Recurrent skin infections or slow wound healing
Seek same-day veterinary attention if your dog is already on Cushing's medication and develops:
- Sudden loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours
- Vomiting or diarrhoea alongside lethargy
- Weakness, trembling, or collapse
These signs may indicate adrenal insufficiency (a side effect of over-treatment) and require urgent assessment.
How does MaxPetz in Delhi support dogs with Cushing's disease?
MaxPetz in Delhi provides veterinary consultations for dogs with suspected or confirmed hyperadrenocorticism, combining clinical examination with appropriate diagnostic testing and structured follow-up. The clinic's approach integrates cutting-edge veterinary technology with compassionate care, ensuring each dog's treatment plan is tailored to its individual needs and the owner's capacity for home monitoring.
Owners can access specialist veterinary consultations for endocrine conditions, as well as diagnostic services including blood panels and abdominal imaging. For questions about your dog's specific situation, use the booking form on this page to arrange a consultation.
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