Signs & Symptoms of Cushing's Disease in Dogs

Cushing's disease is a condition that affects both dogs and humans. The disease is caused by overproduction of glucocorticoid from the adrenal gland. The adrenal gland is controlled by the pituitary gland. If tumors or genetic disorders affect either organ, large amounts of steroids are released into the body, which causes several symptoms and signs.

  1. Age

    • Cushing's disease is generally a condition that arises in older dogs, although younger pets can acquire the disease as well. Tumors on the adrenal gland are more common in older dogs. Cushing's has been reported in dogs as young as 2 years old and as old as 16 years. Cushing's is also a problem with female and male dogs equally.

    Water Consumption

    • The most common symptom of Cushing's disease is the increased frequency of water consumption. The dog drinks several times more frequently during the day. Some owners may notice a change in dogs who are normally housebroken. Because of the continued consumption of water, even housebroken dogs have accidents in the house from full bladders.

    Appetite

    • Dogs with Cushing's disease have an increased appetite. For owners who leave food down during the day, the dog may gorge and overeat. The dog may beg at the table or steal food from other pets. Because of the increase in eating, the dog may gain a lot of weight or become obese. The abdomen also becomes distended from fat deposits.

    Hair Loss

    • Hair loss is common in dogs with Cushing's disease. The skin becomes thin, and jointed areas, like elbows and feet, lose hair the quickest, but it spreads to other parts of the dog's body. Damage to the skin from even mild bumps or bruises cause bleeding, and the area may heal slower than normal. This symptom is one of the common reasons pet owners take notice and bring the dog to the veterinarian's office.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for Cushing's disease is dependent on the location of the problem. If it is caused by a tumor on the adrenal gland, the dog undergoes surgery to have it removed. Pituitary problems are treated through medication. The most common drug used for Cushing's disease in dogs is Lysodren.