Once diagnosed with Cushing’s your dog will need to be monitored closely to watch for signs of any other health issues that may develop.ĭogs with Cushing’s heal slower than a healthy dog would.

Luckily, most dogs with Cushing’s can be treated with very few side effects and remain pain-free. Dogs that have developed the condition due to a tumor on the adrenal gland may require the tumor to be surgically removed as these tumors are aggressive. Most dogs with Cushing’s are not in any pain and their symptoms can be easily managed through medication. Although muscle loss and hind leg weakness are common in dogs with CD, you will need to speak with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. In some cases, a dog with Cushing’s can experience paw knuckling, especially in their back legs, and may also walk with stiff legs.Ĭhanges in a dog’s mobility and leg strength can occur with any number of canine mobility conditions, including getting older. In Cushing’s excessive cortisol causes muscles to weaken which can make it difficult for a dog with Cushing’s to stand up unassisted or climb the stairs. Hind leg weakness in dogs with Cushing’s Disease is common. View Product Does Cushing’s Disease cause hind leg weakness in dogs? Pet parents should be aware that dogs with Cushing’s are also at risk for developing diabetes, kidney problems, pancreatitis, blood clots, and high blood pressure. Diagnosing the condition early is important but can be a lengthy process as many symptoms develop over a year. Drinking more water than usual or drinking more oftenĪnimals with CD can experience a thinning of the skin as well.Both symptoms can be indicators of many different canine health problems, which can make diagnosing hyperadrenocorticism more difficult. One of the most common symptoms of Cushing’s is excessive thirst and more frequent urination. While Cushing’s can affect any dog, there are specific breeds prone to developing Cushing’s Disease, including: Cushing’s can impact cats as well, but it’s less common in cats.Ĭushing’s is more common in females than males. Most dogs with Cushing’s Disease are over the age of 6 when they are diagnosed, although the condition can impact younger dogs as well. It also causes muscular weakness, weight gain, and increased drinking and urination and can leave dogs at a greater risk for other health conditions as well. Too much cortisol lowers a dog’s immune system, predisposing them to infectious diseases. This is caused by either a tumor in the pituitary gland or the adrenal gland. Cushing’s Disease, also known as Cushing’s Syndrome and hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition that causes a dog’s adrenal glands to overproduce cortisol.

Dog adrenal gland disease