Cushing’s disease is common in middle and old aged dogs. It is an endocrine disease that falls under the category of production disorders. Also known as hyperadrenocorticism, it is a condition of excess cortisol in the blood. Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands during periods of stress. Problems with the adrenal glands or with the controlling gland, the pituitary, can lead to production of cortisol even in the absence of stress.

Canine Cushing’s disease is characterized by symptoms that include excessive drinking, increased urination, distended stomach, thin skin and excessive hair loss. Behavioral symptoms may include reluctance to play and indifference.

Although it is known that adrenal or pituitary tumors cause the adrenal glands to produce more than required cortisol, surgical excision is usually avoided considering the age of the dog and the risks involved. Other factors that restrict dog owners to go for aggressive treatment are the high costs of diagnostic tests and treatment and the side effects of immunosuppressive drugs and drugs that destroy adrenal tissue responsible for production of cortisol.