What is Cushing’s Disease in Dogs?

Cushing’s Disease, also called hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition caused by an overproduction of cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate many important functions in your pet’s body. In this module, we’ll explain the basics of this condition to help you understand what it means for your pet.

Cortisol—often called the “stress hormone”—plays a critical role in helping your pet’s body respond to stress, regulate metabolism, and maintain a healthy immune system. However, when cortisol levels become too high, it can lead to significant health problems.

Cushing’s Disease typically arises from one of two main causes. The most common form is pituitary-dependent Cushing’s Disease, which occurs due to a benign tumor in the pituitary gland. The second form, adrenal-dependent Cushing’s Disease, is caused by a tumor on one of the adrenal glands.

In rare cases, prolonged use of steroid medications can also cause Cushing’s Disease. This is known as iatrogenic Cushing’s. Understanding these different types and their underlying causes helps determine the best treatment plan for your pet.