--- title: "Cushing’s disease in dogs: signs, causes, and treatment explained" id: "6615" type: "post" slug: "cushings-disease-in-dogs" published_at: "2026-08-27T06:54:26+00:00" modified_at: "2026-08-27T06:54:27+00:00" url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/cushings-disease-in-dogs/" markdown_url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/cushings-disease-in-dogs.md" excerpt: "Signs of Cushing’s disease in dogs can be tricky to spot. Many of the early signs (drinking more, slowing down, or changes to their coat) can easily be mistaken for a normal part of getting older. But Cushing’s disease (also..." taxonomy_category: - "Health & wellness" --- [Pet Talk](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/) [Health & wellness](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/category/health-and-wellness/) Cushing’s disease in dogs: signs, causes, and treatment explained Health & wellness # Cushing’s disease in dogs: signs, causes, and treatment explained Written by our RSPCA Pet Insurance Team 27 Aug, 2026 - 7 min read Signs of [Cushing’s disease](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/cushings-syndrome) in dogs can be tricky to spot. Many of the early signs (drinking more, slowing down, or changes to their coat) can easily be mistaken for a normal part of getting older. But Cushing’s disease (also known as Cushing’s syndrome or *hyperadrenocorticism*) is more than an age-related change. It happens when a dog’s body produces too much cortisol, a natural steroid hormone that plays an important role in managing stress, metabolism, and immune function. While a Cushing’s diagnosis can sound worrying, the condition can often be managed with the right vet care. Here, we’ll walk through what causes Cushing’s disease, the signs worth keeping an eye on, how vets may diagnose and treat it, and how pet insurance may be able to help cover some of the costs involved. **Table of contents** - [What is Cushing’s disease in dogs?](#what-is-cushings-disease-in-dogs) - [What causes Cushing’s disease in dogs?](#what-causes-cushings-disease-in-dogs) - [Are some dogs more likely to develop Cushing’s disease than others?](#are-some-dogs-more-likely-to-develop-cushings-disease-than-others) - [Signs of Cushing’s disease in dogs](#signs-of-cushings-disease-in-dogs) - [How is Cushing’s disease diagnosed?](#how-is-cushings-disease-diagnosed) - [Treatment options for dogs with Cushing’s disease](#treatment-options-for-dogs-with-cushings-disease) - [The role pet insurance can play in your dog’s care](#the-role-pet-insurance-can-play-in-your-dogs-care) ## What is Cushing’s disease in dogs? Cushing’s disease (also known as Cushing’s syndrome or *hyperadrenocorticism*) occurs when a dog’s body produces too much cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone your dog’s body naturally needs. Among other things, it helps them respond to stress and supports their metabolism and immune system. The problem comes when there’s too much of it for too long. Over time, high cortisol levels can affect many different parts of your dog’s body. Cushing’s disease is one of the more common hormone-related conditions diagnosed in middle-aged and older dogs. ## What causes Cushing’s disease in dogs? There are three recognised forms of Cushing’s disease in dogs: - Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s - Adrenal-dependent Cushing’s - Iatrogenic Cushing’s Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s is by far the most common, accounting for around [80 – 85% of cases](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/cushings-syndrome) . It usually starts with a small, typically benign tumour on the pituitary gland (a tiny gland at the base of the brain). This causes the adrenal glands to receive too many signals telling them to produce cortisol. Around [15 – 20%](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/cushings-syndrome) of cases are adrenal-dependent. Here, the problem begins with a tumour on one of the adrenal glands itself, causing it to produce too much cortisol. On average, around half of these tumours are benign and half are malignant. Less commonly, Cushing’s can also develop as a side effect of the long-term use of steroid medication for another health condition. This is called iatrogenic Cushing’s. If your dog is receiving steroid medication, never reduce or stop it without first speaking with your vet. Your vet can advise on the most appropriate way to manage your dog’s medication and overall treatment plan. ## Are some dogs more likely to develop Cushing’s disease than others? Cushing’s disease is most commonly seen in [middle-aged and older dogs](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/cushings-syndrome) , although it can affect dogs of different breeds and sizes. Some breeds appear to be more predisposed to certain forms of the condition. Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease, which is the most common form, is more commonly seen in smaller breeds, including Bichon Frises, Border Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Poodles, and Dachshunds. Adrenal-dependent Cushing’s disease is more commonly diagnosed in some larger breeds, including Staffordshire Terriers and German Shepherds. However, Cushing’s disease can affect any dog. If you’re concerned about your dog’s health or you’ve noticed changes in their behaviour or habits, contact your vet for advice. ## Signs of Cushing’s disease in dogs Cushing’s disease often develops gradually, which can make the early signs easy to mistake for normal age-related changes. You might notice that your dog: - Is drinking more water than usual - Needs to urinate more often - Suddenly seems much hungrier - Has a rounder tummy - Is panting more than usual - Is losing hair, particularly along the body or tail - Has thinner or more fragile skin - Is less active or seems to have lost some muscle strength Some dogs may also experience recurring skin or urinary tract infections associated with the condition. One change on its own doesn’t necessarily mean your dog has Cushing’s disease. But if you’ve noticed several of these signs together, or your dog just doesn’t seem quite like themselves, it’s worth [booking a vet visit](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/how-often-does-my-dog-need-to-visit-the-vet/) rather than waiting for things to improve on their own. ## How is Cushing’s disease diagnosed? Diagnosing Cushing’s isn’t always as simple as doing one test and getting an answer. Your vet will usually start by looking at the bigger picture: any signs you’ve noticed, your dog’s medical history, a physical examination, and blood and urine tests. These can also help rule out other health conditions. If Cushing’s is still suspected, your vet may recommend additional tests to assess hormone levels and adrenal gland function. Once the condition has been diagnosed, further tests such as an ultrasound or other imaging may be used to help gather more information about your dog’s condition, including whether it’s pituitary-dependent or adrenal-dependent. Understanding the underlying cause and any associated health concerns will help your vet develop the most appropriate treatment plan. ## Treatment options for dogs with Cushing’s disease Treatment will depend on the type of Cushing’s disease your dog has, along with their overall health and individual circumstances. For most dogs with pituitary-dependent Cushing’s, treatment may involve oral medication to help control cortisol production. Regular check-ups and blood tests are also an important part of treatment, as they allow your vet to see how your dog is responding to treatment and whether their medication may need to be adjusted. For adrenal-dependent Cushing’s, surgery to remove the affected adrenal gland may sometimes be recommended if the tumour can be removed safely. This is a more complex procedure and may not be suitable for every dog. Your vet will be able to discuss the potential benefits and risks and recommend the most appropriate treatment options based on your dog’s individual circumstances. Medication may be recommended if surgery isn’t appropriate. While there isn’t a cure for most cases of Cushing’s disease, many dogs can continue to enjoy a good quality of life with appropriate treatment and ongoing vet care. Your vet can help you understand the treatment options available and develop a management plan tailored to your dog’s individual needs. ## The role pet insurance can play in your dog’s care Managing Cushing’s disease can require ongoing vet care, including medication, check-ups, and tests to monitor how your dog is responding to treatment. And when care continues over months or years, the costs can add up. That’s where [pet insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/what-is-pet-insurance/) may be able to help by covering a portion of the vet costs. With [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , your pet’s covered for eligible illness and accidents, up to your annual cover limit and based on the terms and conditions of your policy. You can also customise your cover to suit your pet and budget by choosing the annual cover limit, benefit percentage, excess, and optional extras that work for you. Every policy also contributes to vital [RSPCA animal welfare initiatives](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) . So, while you’re helping to protect your own pet, you’re also supporting animals in need across Australia. To learn more about how RSPCA Pet Insurance could support you and your pet, [click here](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, you can fetch a commitment-free pet insurance quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . ### **Disclaimer** As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure the cover is right for you. **References** Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. *Cushing’s syndrome.* Riney Canine Health Center. Available from: [https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/cushings-syndrome](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/cushings-syndrome) ## FAQs ### What is the life expectancy of a dog with Cushing’s disease? It varies from dog to dog and depends on the type of Cushing’s disease and how well a dog responds to treatment. Your vet can give you a more personalised outlook based on your dog’s individual circumstances. ### How can Cushing’s disease affect my dog’s health and wellbeing? Many dogs with Cushing’s disease can continue to enjoy a good quality of life with appropriate treatment and ongoing vet care. However, if left untreated, the condition can affect your dog’s health and may be associated with other medical problems, including urinary tract infections, skin infections, blood clots, and diabetes. If you’re concerned about your dog’s health or wellbeing, speak with your vet about the most appropriate management options for their individual circumstances. ### Can Cushing’s disease in dogs be cured? In most cases, Cushing’s disease is managed rather than cured, usually with medication and ongoing monitoring. In some dogs, surgery may be an option, particularly if the condition is caused by a tumour affecting one of the adrenal glands. Your vet can advise on which type of Cushing’s disease your dog has and the treatment that may be most appropriate for their individual circumstances. ### Are some breeds of dogs more likely to develop Cushing’s disease than others? Cushing’s disease can affect any dog, but it’s most often diagnosed in middle-aged to older dogs. Some breeds, including Miniature Schnauzers, Miniature Poodles, Dachshunds, and German Shepherds, may be more commonly affected. If you’re concerned about your dog’s risk of developing Cushing’s disease or have noticed any unusual changes in their health or behaviour, speak to your vet for personal advice. ### Will pet insurance cover the cost of treating Cushing’s disease? Because Cushing’s disease often requires ongoing monitoring and medication, the associated vet costs can add up over time. [Pet insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/what-is-pet-insurance/) may be able to help cover some of these costs, provided the condition isn’t pre-existing and meets the insurer’s policy terms and conditions. With [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , you can also customise your pet’s cover to suit their needs and your budget by choosing your annual cover limit, benefit percentage, excess, and any optional extra cover your pet may need. And with every policy supporting vital [RSPCA animal welfare initiatives](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , it’s protection with purpose. For your own pup and thousands of others across Australia. To learn more, visit the RSPCA Pet Insurance [website](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) or get a commitment-free quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) today. As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure this cover suits your needs. [See more](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/faqs/) ## Related blogs [Can dogs eat Vegemite? Understanding the risks involved Aug 2026 - 7 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/can-dogs-eat-vegemite/) [Flea and tick treatment for dogs: an Australian pet owner’s guide Aug 2026 - 11 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/flea-and-tick-treatment-for-dogs/) [Pancreatitis in dogs: what you need to know as a pet parent Aug 2026 - 7 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/pancreatitis-in-dogs/)