Why does a dog develop Cushing's syndrome?

Cushing's syndrome is commonly caused by excess corticosteroids in the body, or abnormalities of the pituitary gland or adrenal glands. Clinical signs typically include increased thirst, frequent urination, and coat changes. If you have concerns, seek further evaluation from a veterinarian.

How is Cushing's syndrome diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosis typically requires endocrine blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or advanced imaging. The vet will evaluate the test results alongside the dog's clinical presentation to reach a diagnosis.

What treatment options are available for Cushing's syndrome?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity, and may include medical management, surgery, or ongoing monitoring. The treatment course and follow-up schedule should be determined by your vet with regular check-ins.

What is the prognosis and quality of life for a dog after treatment?

Most dogs receiving appropriate treatment can see improvement in symptoms, but long-term follow-up and blood monitoring are required. Individual prognosis varies by underlying cause and any complications — regular vet visits as directed are strongly recommended.

How much do the tests and treatment for this condition usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Canine Cushing's Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Guide [2025]

Canine Cushing's syndrome is a condition caused by excess cortisol secretion from the adrenal glands, characterised by increased thirst and urination, abdominal enlargement, and skin changes. Around 80% of cases are pituitary-dependent and are primarily managed with medication.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Immediate veterinary care needed (emergency)

•Prolonged lethargy with no response to external stimuli
•Repeated vomiting with obvious signs of dehydration
•Rapid breathing or sudden collapse with loss of consciousness

Schedule a clinic visit as soon as possible (within 24-72 hours)

•Markedly increased drinking and more frequent urination
•Obvious abdominal enlargement with thin, fragile skin and coat
•Increased appetite or eating frequency but weight loss

01What Symptoms Signal a Problem?

Canine Cushing's syndrome typically presents with chronic metabolic and endocrine changes. Early symptoms may be subtle — watch closely for changes in your dog's daily behaviour and appearance.

Changes in alertness — the dog often appears lethargic or less active than usual
Noticeably increased water intake and more frequent urination
Increased appetite or more frequent eating, with possible changes in body condition
Gradual abdominal enlargement (pot-bellied appearance)
Thinning coat, hair loss, or visibly fragile skin
Schedule an appointment with an internal medicine or endocrinology specialist as early as possible

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Prolonged lethargy with no response to stimulation
⚠️ Repeated vomiting with signs of obvious dehydration
⚠️ Rapid breathing or sudden collapse and loss of consciousness

02How Can You Monitor at Home? Key Observations and When to Seek Emergency Care

Keeping records at home helps your vet assess the progression and prioritise diagnostic steps — document changes regularly and bring them to the appointment.

Record changes in alertness and activity level daily
Note daily food intake, feeding frequency, and any changes in appetite
Track water intake and urination frequency, including overnight episodes
Weigh your dog regularly and record weight changes with dates
Take photos of the abdomen and coat condition over time
Compile these records and bring them to the specialist clinic or examination

03How Will the Vet Diagnose This Condition?

The vet will systematically rule out other conditions and evaluate adrenal or pituitary abnormalities, primarily using blood tests and imaging studies.

Full physical examination

assess body condition, skin, and abdominal changes

Urinalysis

check protein levels, specific gravity, and signs of infection

Endocrine blood tests

hormone screening and related blood panels

Abdominal ultrasound or X-ray

assess adrenal gland and liver changes

Advanced imaging (CT/MRI)

evaluate pituitary or tumour signals

Biopsy or specialist referral for differential diagnosis if needed

Referral to a specialist hospital with CT/MRI capability is recommended for further evaluation

04How Is Cushing's Syndrome Treated and Managed? Medication, Diet, and Home Care

Treatment principles vary by underlying cause and severity; long-term management with regular monitoring is typically required to evaluate efficacy and side effects.

Initial hospitalisation may be needed for supportive care, fluid therapy, or managing complications
If medication is started, regular blood tests and clinical monitoring are required
Manage diet carefully and record weight and appetite changes
Schedule follow-up visits as directed by your vet to monitor clinical signs and lab results
Some cases require long-term outpatient management and specialist follow-up
Keep medication records and examination reports after discharge for ongoing monitoring

05What Should You Prepare Before the Vet Visit? Key Information to Help Your Vet

Prepare a timeline of when symptoms first appeared and how they progressed

Bring a daily log of food intake, water consumption, and urination frequency

Note any changes in urination and bowel habits

List all current medications, supplements, and their dosages

Bring any previous examination reports or imaging if available

If possible, collect a fresh urine sample to bring to the clinic for testing

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.