Cushing's Disease in Dogs

Category
Hormonal
Breeds documented
5
Published sources
6

Overview

Too much cortisol, a hormone involved in stress responses and immune function, causes the signs of Cushing's disease. A tumor, or abnormal growth, in an adrenal gland near the kidneys can produce excess cortisol. A pituitary tumor in the brain can instead signal the adrenal glands to release too much. Long-term use of certain steroid medicines can also cause the syndrome. Signs can include extra thirst, hunger, panting and changes to the skin and coat.

Signs to watch for

  • Drinking more than usual
  • Urinating more often
  • A bigger appetite
  • More panting
  • Lower energy
  • Thinning hair or hair loss
  • A rounded, pot-bellied appearance

Signs most often appear in middle-aged or older dogs.

When to get help Book a vet visit for increased thirst, more frequent urination, panting or thinning hair.

Diagnosis and tests

Vets assess the pattern of signs alongside blood and urine results. Further blood tests check how the body controls cortisol, and more than one may be needed. A scan of the belly can assess the adrenal glands' size and shape and look for other tumors.

Breeds with documented risk

5 breeds

By breed size
  • 1 Toy
  • 3 Small
  • 1 Medium

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. Cornell Riney Canine Health Center: Cushing's syndrome: vet.cornell.edu
  2. merckvetmanual.com
  3. vetmed.illinois.edu
  4. vetmed.tamu.edu
  5. Lapponian Herder: kennelliitto.fi
  6. Yorkiepoo: petmd.com