What is Canine Cushing’s Disease?

What is Canine Cushing’s Disease?

What many people don’t know is that dogs can get Cushing’s disease too, just like humans. It is a condition that happens when a dog’s body isn’t making the right amounts of certain kinds of hormones.

Cushing’s disease is sometimes called Cushing’s syndrome, or hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) where there is an overproduction or presence of the steroid cortisol in the body. This steroid is a stress hormone that serves several purposes including regulating weight and blood sugar and also fighting infections. In large amounts, it poses several risks.

Causes

Cushing’s disease occurs naturally in dogs. The two major types are pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent. Pituitary dependence is the most common accounting for roughly 80% of all canine cases. It is caused by a tumor on the pituitary brand (located in the brain). Adrenal dependence occurs when there is a tumor on one of the adrenal glands (located in the kidneys). This type is rare and accounts for only 15% of canine cases.

Another type of Cushing’s disease is called iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome. This happens due to an overuse of oral or topical steroids brought on through certain medical treatments.

Cushing’s disease is most commonly seen in middle to older aged dogs, particularly of breeds such as beagles, Boston terriers, dachshunds, German shepherds, and poodles.

Symptoms

The most typical sign of Cushing’s disease is an increase in the amount of water your dog drinks and increased urination. Other telltale signs include:

  • Increased panting
  • Growing belly
  • Hair loss
  • Increased skin pigmentation
  • Thinning of the skin
  • Loss of muscle mass

Note that only a dog can diagnose your dog with Cushing’s disease as these symptoms may be a result of several other conditions. This usually takes place by conducting a routine blood chemistry screen for indication of increased liver enzymes, cholesterol, and blood sugar. An increase in protein in the urine may also indicate Cushing’s disease.

Results that point in the direction of Cushing’s may be followed up with hormone screening tests, radiographs, CTs, ultrasounds, and MRIs.

Treatment

If left untreated, Cushing’s disease can be fatal. As a result, you must work closely with your vet to find a treatment solution. This includes close monitoring of symptoms, regular checkups, perhaps surgery to remove the tumor, or, in the case of iatrogenic Cushing’s, stopping steroids.

There is currently no cure for Cushing’s and lifelong therapy is required for your pet to live a normal life.

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