Pituitary vs. adrenal Cushing's in dogs is a distinction most owners are never asked to think about - and it...
Hyperadrenocorticism In Canines
Cushing's Syndrome and Cushing's Disease in Dogs
Cushingsindogs.com strives to increase awareness of Cushing's syndrome and disease in dogs and provide relevant information regarding symptoms and various treatment options.
RESOURCES
Understanding Cushing’s Syndrome (including Cushing's Disease) In Dogs
Signs & Symptoms
Common signs of Cushing's disease include excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite, panting, hair loss, low energy, and a bloated belly.
Natural Treatments
Natural support may include healthy diets, supplements, stress reduction, and herbal care with vet guidance.
Medical Treatment
Vets may prescribe medications like Vetoryl or Trilostane to control cortisol levels. Regular checkups are important.
Vet Directory
Consult a licensed veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Specialized vet directories can help find experienced professionals.
ABOUT
What Is Cushing’s In Dogs?
In its most basic form, Cushing's syndrome is a hormone problem that results from the overproduction of cortisol and/or other adrenal hormones. This may be the result of a tumor in, on, or pressing against the pituitary or one of the adrenal glands. This causes atypical growth in certain parts of the dog's body, while also causing several uncomfortable problems for your dog (see signs and symptoms above).
While Cushing's is not strictly curable, it can be treated. Hormone levels can be returned to normal with medication or natural, holistic supplements.
causes
Different Types of Cushing’s Syndrome
Pituitary Dependent Cushing’s Disease
Pituitary-dependent Cushing's is the most common form of Cushing's in dogs. It affects around 80–85% of cases. This is caused by a tumor or abnormal growth in (or in some cases on or adjacent to) the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain. This type of Cushing's syndrome can be referred to as Cushing's "disease". The pituitary gland normally signals the adrenal glands to produce cortisol (a stress hormone) only in times of stress or when levels drop below normal. When a tumor affects it, it sends too many of these signals, causing cortisol levels to rise and to stay elevated chronically even in the absence of stress.
Adrenal Dependent Cushing’s Syndrome
The other, less common type of Cushing's is caused by a tumor forming in, on, or adjacent to one or both of the adrenal glands, which sit just above the kidneys. Unlike pituitary-dependent Cushing's, the adrenal gland itself produces excess cortisol directly, without signals from the pituitary gland.
Pituitary tumors are more common in small breeds, while adrenal tumors are more common in larger dogs. Both share similar symptoms and are treated similarly; However, treatments may vary slightly depending on type and severity.
STUDIES
Atypical Cushing’s Syndrome in Dogs
Atypical Cushing's syndrome is caused by an adrenal gland tumor (as with regular adrenal-dependent Cushing's).
Canines with atypical Cushing's still show similar signs and symptoms, but they are caused by different hormones. These hormones typically include sex hormones (such as estradiol, progesterone, and androgens) and aldosterone. Aromatase enzyme inhibitors (such as melatonin and some chemotherapy drugs) can decrease estradiol, the sex steroid responsible for many of the symptoms of Cushing's disease.
Studies have shown that treatment with lignans and melatonin can be very effective for both atypical and typical Cushing's disease. The University of Tennessee Department of Veterinary Endocrinology (an authority on adrenal disorders and a leader in breakthroughs in Cushing's treatments) conducted a study led by Dr. Kelly Fecteau to test the effectiveness of lignans and melatonin on Cushing's in dogs, and found that the combination of lignans and melatonin not only reduces cortisol but a broad range of hormones that cause Cushing's.
What types of dogs are most susceptible to Cushing’s Disease?
Cushing's in dogs usually affects older dogs, with most diagnoses made around 10–11 years of age (though some dogs are diagnosed as young as 5). Females are slightly more susceptible than males.
All breeds can develop the condition, but breeds at higher risk include:
- Boston Terriers
- Yorkshire Terriers
- Bull Terriers
- Silky Terriers
- Scottish Terriers
- German Shepherds
- Poodles
- Dachshunds
- Jack Russell Terriers
- Staffordshire Bull Terriers
- Beagles
What Can You Do?
Find out as much information as possible and consult your veterinarian. Cushing's Syndrome (including Cushing's disease) can be treated, but if the right steps are not taken, the dog will suffer.
Our goal with this website is to increase awareness of Cushing's syndrome (including Cushing's disease), including treatment options, historical information, signs and symptoms, and studies related to the condition. We hope to give you the information you need to put you on the right path towards dealing with Cushing's disease in dogs.
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Looking for Natural Support for your Dog's Cushing's?
Many owners use lignans (from Flaxseed and Norwegian Spruce Trees known as HMR) alongside their vet’s care. Learn more about the options formulated specifically for dogs.
Canine Hyperadrenocorticism – Cushing's Disease in Dogs
DISCLAIMER: This website is sponsored, licensed, and supported by Lignans for Life. Content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
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