Cushing’s Syndrome Awareness
Noticing changes in your dog?
Is your dog drinking more, moving less, losing fur or panting constantly? It may not be old age — these could be clinical signs of Cushing’s syndrome (Cushing’s) in dogs.1
WHAT IS Cushing’s syndrome?
A hormonal condition that’s hiding in plain sight.
Cushing’s, also known as Hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) in dogs, is an endocrine disorder that targets middle-aged and older dogs. It’s the result of the body producing too much cortisol over time, which then affects your dog’s health, vitality and appearance.
It develops slowly. The signs creep in one at a time. And because each one is similar to what dogs experience when aging, it’s often missed or mischaracterized for months or even years.1
The good news is that, with proper veterinary care and ongoing monitoring, many dogs can continue to live happy, comfortable lives.2
Is Your Dog Showing Signs of Cushing’s?
Increased thirst
Drinking a lot more water
More urination
Urinating more than usual
Increased appetite
Always hungry
Low energy
Aways tired
Pot belly
Added weight in the abdomen
Coat & skin changes
Losing hair symmetrically1
These changes are easy to miss
Sometimes dogs show signs that something may not be quite right before a diagnosis is ever made. Here are some common signs of Cushing’s syndrome and what to share with your veterinarian.
“He wants to go outside … again”
Larry has always stuck to his routine. Lately, though, he’s been drinking more water and needing to go out more often — and sometimes has accidents in the house.
At first, it’s easy to brush off. Maybe it’s the weather. But when it keeps happening, you start to wonder.
Have you noticed your dog drinking more or needing to go out more often?
“She just doesn’t seem like herself anymore.”
Lynn used to greet you at the door, ready for a walk or playtime. Now she seems slower. More tired. Less interested in the things she used to love.
Some days she just wants to rest. You tell yourself she’s just getting older — but sometimes it feels different.
Has your dog been more tired or less interested in activity lately?
“He’s always hungry … no matter how much he eats.”
Gus has always loved food — but lately, it’s different. He finishes meals faster, looks for more and never quite seems satisfied.
You might even notice weight changes, especially around the belly. It’s subtle at first. Then it becomes hard to ignore.
Has your dog’s appetite changed or increased?
“His coat isn’t what it used to be.”
Patch’s fur used to be thick and healthy. Now, you’re noticing thinning areas — maybe spots where the fur isn’t growing back the way it used to.
His skin seems more delicate, too. It’s gradual — but noticeable.
Have you seen changes in your dog’s coat or skin?
“He’s panting — even when he’s resting.”
Hudson hasn’t been running or playing — but he’s still panting. More than usual. Sometimes even when he’s just lying down.
You pause and watch him, wondering if this is normal. It might be nothing. But it might be something worth asking about.
Has your dog been panting more than usual, even at rest?
WHAT TO DO NEXT
If something feels off, trust your gut. Talk with your veterinarian.
You know your dog better than anyone. If you’re noticing changes — even small ones — it’s worth a conversation with your vet.
Check the Signs
Use our Cushing’s Checklist to note what you’ve been seeing. It only takes a few minutes.
Save Your Summary
Download or email a summary of your dog’s signs to share at your next vet visit.
Talk With Your Vet
Your veterinarian can run the right tests to find out if Cushing’s is behind the changes in your dog.