Instructions
Monitor your dog's water consumption. Increased water intake and increased urination is a common symptom of Cushing's disease.
Watch your dog's eating pattern. Dogs with Cushing's disease have an increased appetite. Dogs might begin to beg for food or get into the garbage.
Examine your dog's shape, looking closely at the stomach area. Dog's with Cushing's disease will have the appearance of a bloated or "pot-bellied" midsection.
Examine your dog's skin and hair. Hair loss and a thinning appearance of the skin are common signs of Cushing's disease.
Write down any symptoms that your dog may have. Make an appointment to have your dog examined if they are experiencing any symptoms. Don't forget to take your list with you to your dog's appointment.
How to Detect Cushing's in a Dog
Cushing's disease occurs when the body produces too much glucocorticoid. It occurs most often in middle-aged dogs. Dogs can develop only one symptom or many symptoms of the disease. The symptoms of Cushing's disease can be similar to conditions dogs can develop as they grow older. The first symptom of Cushing's disease can develop several years before the diagnosis of the disease is made. If left untreated, Cushing's disease can lead to infections as well as the development of other conditions including diabetes and congestive heart failure. Knowing the symptoms of Cushing's can help to detect the disease and enable you to get your dog treatment early.