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What is Cushing's Disease in Dogs

Cushing's Disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a hormonal disorder in dogs caused by excessive production of the hormone cortisol produced by the adreno-glands located near the kidneys, which leads to insulin resistance and increased blood glucose (sugar), which can lead to Diabetes.  

There are three types of Cushing's Disease in dogs, and each with different cause:  

- Pituitary gland tumour located at the base of the brain, either benign (harmless) or malignant (cancerous), the tumour causes the pituitary gland to overproduce a hormone (ACTH) that stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.  

- Adrenal gland tumour of the adreno-glands, again benign or malignant  

- Iatrogenic Cushing's due to excessive cortisol from prolonged use of steroid medication 

Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published October 2025 | Review date October 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet

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Symptoms of Cushing's Disease in dogs

  • Increase thirst  

  • Increased passing urine  

  • Excessive hunger  

  • Potty belly appearance  

  • Hair loss (especially on side of body)  

  • Thin skin  

  • Lethargy  

  • Panting  

  • Chronic skin issue or dark coloured skin  

When to contact your vet  

If you notice any of the symptoms above, make an appointment to see your vet

Diagnosis of Cushing's Disease in Dogs

  • History and physical exam by your vet  

  • ACTH test assesses the adrenal gland's response to the hormone ACTH. Blood samples are taken before and after ACTH injection. In Cushing's, cortisol levels will be abnormally high in both sample. 

  • Low-dose Dexamethasone Suppression test (LDDST) measures cortisol levels before and after administering a small dose of dexamethasone, a synthetic corticosteroid. In healthy dogs, cortisol production is suppressed, while in Cushing's, it often remains elevated.  

  • Possible other specific tests to help to rule out other conditions and pinpoint the cause of excessive cortisol production which is typical sign for Cushing disease and the best treatment and outlook for your pet. 

Treatment for Cushing’s Disease in Dogs

Cushing's Disease is typically treated with medication to manage cortisol levels or, in some cases, with surgery:  

  • Medications such as Trilostane (Vetoryl) are the most common treatment and work by inhibiting the production of cortisol in the adrenal glands  

  • If Cushing's is caused by steroid use, gradual discontinuation of the steroid may be possible under vet supervision 

  • Surgery of the adrenal tumours is often considered, especially if the tumour is localised and not malignant; for pituitary tumours is more complex and riskier due to the location of the pituitary gland  

Prevention of Cushing's Disease

It is unfortunately not preventable as it is primarily caused by tumors, however it might help  

  • Regular vet check especially for older dogs    

  • Regular management with medications  

  • Monitoring   

  • Healthy life-style adjustment  

  • Use caution with steroids medications by ensuring your dog i always at its lower dose if this medication is strictly necessary, to avoid iatrogenic Cushing 

Outlook

The outlook for dogs with Cushing's disease is generally good with proper management, but treatment is often lifelong and requires regular monitoring.