Cushing's syndrome in dogs

Cushing's syndrome in dogs

By
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Overview

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Advice

Prevention

When to worry

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Cushing's syndrome in dogs

Cushing's syndrome in dogs

By
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Cushing’s syndrome is a disease caused by high levels of the hormone cortisol. It’s the most common hormonal disease in dogs. It affects many organs and body functions. In older dogs, Cushing’s disease may be due to cancer.

Cushing’s syndrome, or hyperadrenocorticism, is caused by excessive levels of cortisol in the blood, disrupting normal metabolism. This causes many problems, such as increased risk of some infections and diabetes. Treatment is effective at improving quality of life and reducing complications, but is lifelong and requires frequent monitoring.

A similar disease can happen in dogs that have been on treatment with very high doses of steroids for a long time, but this can be solved by slowly reducing the treatment dose. This must always be done under close monitoring by a vet.

What is Cushing’s Syndrome in Dogs?

Symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome

Dogs at higher risk of developing Cushing's disease

How is Cushing’s syndrome diagnosed?

What is the treatment for Cushing’s syndrome?

Living with a dog with Cushing’s syndrome

Can I prevent Cushing’s syndrome in my dog?

When should you be worried about Cushing’s syndrome complications

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