by Carol Wohlfeil

Created on: August 25, 2008   Last Updated: September 18, 2008

Symptoms of Cushing's Disease in Dogs

As our pets become older we often mistake the subtle changes in their appearance and behavior as simple signs of aging. Consequently, more serious conditions such as Cushing's Disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, often go undiagnosed and untreated until the disease has advanced to stages where more severe symptoms begin to appear, prompting a visit to the veterinarian. Simple blood tests can determine if Cushing's disease is present, as well as which form of the disease your dog is suffering from.

Although Cushing's disease can affect both dogs and cats, it is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to older dogs, with most cases appearing in dogs six to seven years old. There are two distinctive forms of Cushing's disease. Pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH), which is responsible for about 80-85% of all Cushing's cases, involves the increased production of the hormone ACTH usually caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland of the brain. Adrenal-based hyperadrenocorticism results in the over-production of the hormone cortisol due to a tumor in the adrenal glands above the kidneys.

Cushing's disease appears to affect both male and female dogs equally. However, certain breeds, such as Boston terriers, poodles, dachshunds, boxers, beagles, Scotties, and German shepherds, appear to be more susceptible. The symptoms of Cushing's disease can vary and appear gradually, with some dogs developing only one symptom while others develop many. Because of the slow progression of the disease, early signs are often over-looked.

Listed below are the most common symptoms of Cushing's disease. If your dog is six years of age or older and is demonstrating any of the following, contact your veterinarian immediately.

1. Increased Water Consumption and Urination This is the most common symptom of Cushing's disease. Dogs will consume up to ten times their normal amount of water and, consequently, increase urination. Some dogs will begin to have accidents in the house.

2. Increased Appetite - Dogs may begin rummaging through garbage, begging, or guarding their food.

3. Enlarged Abdominal Area The muscles in the abdominal area begin to weaken as fat shifts causing a bloated or pot-bellied appearance.

4. Hair Loss and Thin Skin Hair loss will often begin in the elbow area and continue up the legs and across the stomach. Skin may become thin, causing the dog to injure more easily and have greater difficulty healing.

5. Increased Panting Dogs will appear over-heated and continually seek cool, shaded surfaces.

6. Difficulty with Exercise As muscles become increasingly weaker, especially in the hind quarters, dogs will become lethargic and appear lazy, unable to jump on furniture and refusing lengthy walks.

7. Infertility In some cases, dogs suffering from advanced Cushing's disease may lose the ability to reproduce.

Annual visits to the veterinarian help to monitor the overall health of your dog at any age. During these visits, be sure to advise your vet of any changes in the behavior or appearance of your pet. Early detection and treatment of Cushing's disease can allow your pet to continue a full and active lifestyle

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http://www.canismajor.com/dog/cushings.htm l
http://www.petshealth.com/dr_library/cushing.html
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