Holistic Treatment for Cushing’s in Dogs
For families who want kinder care.
NATURAL TREATMENT
Gentler Ways to Manage Cushing’s in Dogs
Worried about putting your senior dog on strong prescription drugs? You're not alone.
Many owners look for a gentler way to manage Cushing's, and natural care gives them one. Backed by research, these remedies ease your dog's symptoms without the harsh side effects or the heavy price tag.
Lignans
Lignans come from flax hulls (SDG) or the Norwegian spruce tree (HMR). They help lower the enzymes that drive cortisol production.
Melatonin
Melatonin works alongside lignans to calm those same cortisol-producing enzymes. Just use the right kind: standard melatonin, not rapid- or timed-release, given at a steady dose.
Disclaimer: Cushing's is treatable but not curable. These natural remedies help manage your dog's symptoms and keep them comfortable, but they can't remove the tumor behind the disease.
Lignans for Dogs
One of the most trusted natural ways to manage Cushing’s. They come from two sources: the hulls of flaxseed (called SDG) or the Norwegian spruce tree (called HMR).
Both work equally well. The big difference is fiber. Flaxseed lignans have it; HMR lignans don’t.
They work by calming two enzymes your dog’s body uses to make cortisol, which helps bring those high levels back down. They also gently balance estradiol, a hormone that’s often out of whack with Cushing’s.
VET’S NOTE: NEVER use whole flaxseed or flaxseed oil. There’s too little lignan in them to help, and the oil can raise triglycerides.
In our two-year owner surveys, about 85% of dogs showed at least one symptom improving, usually within two months. Some owners saw changes in as little as two weeks, others closer to four months.
Benefits include:
- Appetite and weight back to normal
- Energy returning
- Lower cortisol and estradiol levels
- Hair growing back
Another study testing the effectiveness of lignans and melatonin in dogs with Cushing’s found that the combination not only reduces cortisol but also acts directly on adrenal tumor cells. Thus, effectively treating both typical and atypical Cushing’s disease. Read the university study here.
Recommended dose:
1-2 mg per pound of the dog’s weight, once a day
Melatonin for Dogs
You probably know melatonin as a sleep aid, but that’s not why it helps with Cushing’s. Like lignans, it calms two of the enzymes your dog’s body uses to make cortisol. Lower those enzymes, and you lower the cortisol that’s driving your dog’s symptoms.
The type matters a lot. Use standard melatonin, not the rapid-release or timed-release kind, since the goal is to keep a steady level in your dog’s body.
A common worry is that melatonin might leave your dog sleepy. In our surveys, most owners said their dogs were actually less lethargic once cortisol came down. A few dogs were a little drowsy at first, but most settled in within a couple of weeks and got back to their normal selves.
If yours doesn’t, check with your vet.
Recommended dose:
- Dogs under 30 lbs: 3 mg every 12 hours
- Dogs over 30 lbs: 6 mg every 12 hours
- Very small dogs (under 10 lbs): some vets suggest 1 mg every 12 hours
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS
Extra Support for Your Dog
Cushing’s is hard on your dog’s body, especially the liver. These supplements give them a little extra help.
Liver Support
Since the liver takes the biggest hit with Cushing's, supplements that protect it can make a real difference.
- SAMe (S-Adenosyl L-Methionine) - Adding a SAMe supplement helps refill the tank while the liver deals with all that extra cortisol.
- Milk Thistle - People have used milk thistle to support the liver for centuries. Vets often prescribe Denamarin, which combines milk thistle and SAMe in one pill. 1–2 mg of milk thistle per pound of body weight works for most dogs. Always check the right amount with your vet.
Joint Support
Cushing’s can weaken your dog’s back legs over time, sometimes causing muscle loss that makes it harder for them to get around. If you notice your dog struggling, a joint supplement can help.
Vets often suggest glucosamine, or an alternative like eggshell membrane joint support, which has special ingredients that help keep joints healthy and stable.
Diet Change
What’s in the bowl matters too. Lots of owners tell us their dogs do better on a raw, natural diet. It’s worth looking into to see if it’s a fit for your pup.
As always, talk to your vet before changing your dog’s food.
OPTIONS FOR MILD SYMPTOMS
Keep Your Dog’s Symptoms Under Control
If your dog only has minor symptoms, some members of our community have shared extra remedies that helped them. These aren’t scientifically proven, so think of them as tips from fellow dog owners rather than treatments we’re recommending. Always check with your vet before trying any of them.
Dandelion
Dandelion teas and tonics have been used for centuries, and some owners believe they help bring adrenal function back into balance and ease a few symptoms. It can also support dogs with liver and kidney issues.
Arsenicum
Often used to help with excessive thirst, a common Cushing's symptom (and a side effect of some Cushing's medications). It usually pairs fine with the other remedies on this list.
Hepar Sulph & Sulphur
Cushing's can leave the skin dry and irritated, not just patchy. These mild compounds are said to calm irritation, improve skin quality, and help your dog look and feel more comfortable.
Burdock
Not a Cushing's treatment on its own, but it's known for helping cleanse and detoxify the body. Combined with the other supplements here, it may support your dog's overall health.
WHY CHOOSE HOLISTIC TREATMENT
Benefits of Lignans and Melatonin for Treatment of Cushing’s in Dogs
- They are gentler on aging dogs
- There are no side effects
- They are more affordable than conventional treatments
- No ongoing testing required
- Can be safely followed even without a confirmed diagnosis
Want to See How It All Fits Together?
Many vets recommend pairing natural remedies like lignans and melatonin with the rest of your dog’s medical treatment plan for the best results.
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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