Recognizing and Treating Cushing's Disease in Dogs

Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is a canine disorder that affects older dogs. This common condition results from improper function of the pituitary gland, a part of the brain that regulates hormone production. Affected animals tend to gain weight, urinate indoors and shed excessively. These outward signs of the condition often resemble the normal aging process, so dog owners are frequently unaware that their pet has a treatable condition.

Causes

The pituitary gland (a small node at the base of the brain) releases a hormone known as ACTH (adrenocorticotrophic hormone) into the bloodstream. This hormone signals the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a hormone which regulates many functions of the body, including blood sugar levels.

Cushing's syndrome occurs when an adrenal or pituitary tumor disrupts the feedback cycle that signals the pituitary gland to produce more or less ACTH. This results in a chronic excess of cortisol in the blood, leading to continuously high blood sugar. The effect is a secondary form of canine diabetes, which can seriously compromise a dog's long-term health.

The condition may also be caused by medical interference. Prolonged use of cortisol to treat dog allergies may cause iatrogenic Cushing's disease.

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Symptoms

The signs of Cushing's disease in dogs can be ambiguous and are easily attributed to normal aging. Older canines suffering from hyperadrenocorticism often display several of the following symptoms:

  • Widespread hair loss
  • Darkening and wrinkling of the skin
  • Increased hunger and thirst
  • Increased urination, indoor accidents
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Excessive panting
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Sagging of the belly
  • Hard lumps under the skin (actually calcium deposits)

Because symptoms are not always overt, diagnosis can be difficult and may require numerous tests.

Breeds at Risk

Certain dog breeds are at a greater risk for Cushing's syndrome, among them terriers, poodles and dachshunds.

Complications

Canine Cushing's disease presents an overall detriment to senior dog health. In effect, the entire system is poisoned, leading to high blood pressure, impaired cardiovascular function, muscle weakness and a compromised immune system.

Treatment

Most dogs respond well to treatment of Cushing's disease. Medications may be given to alleviate the symptoms, although dogs in a more advanced stage may require chemotherapy or surgery. In the case of iatrogenic Cushing's, simply withdrawing the cortisol treatments may reverse the condition. Some pet owners have also found natural or homeopathic treatments effective.