Addison’s Disease in Dogs: How We Test For and Treat It

Helping your pup live a healthy life with the right tools

In our last post, we explored the basics of Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) in dogs—a condition in which the adrenal glands don’t produce enough essential hormones. Once your veterinarian suspects Addison’s disease, there’s a specific path we follow to confirm the diagnosis and begin treatment that can support your dog’s health for years to come.

Step 1: Initial Lab Work

When a dog comes in with symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or increased urination, your veterinarian will start with a complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panel, and electrolyte test. Addison’s disease often causes:

• Low sodium and high potassium levels

• Elevated BUN and creatinine (kidney values)

• Low blood sugar

• Low red and/or white blood cells

These abnormalities raise suspicion, but they’re not conclusive. That’s where more advanced testing comes in.

Step 2: ACTH Stimulation Test

This is the gold standard for diagnosing Addison’s disease. It evaluates how the adrenal glands respond to stimulation.

• A blood sample is drawn before anything is given.

• Then, a synthetic form of ACTH (a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands) is injected.

• A second blood sample is taken 1 hour later.

In a healthy dog, cortisol levels rise after stimulation. In a dog with Addison’s, there’s little or no increase in cortisol levels.

This test is safe, reliable, and typically performed in-clinic over just a couple of hours.

Treating Addison’s Disease

Once diagnosed, treatment focuses on replacing the missing hormones and supporting the body during times of stress.

1. Mineralocorticoid Replacement

These hormones control electrolyte balance (sodium and potassium). Two common options:

• DOCP injections (Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate)
  Given every 3–4 weeks as a long-acting injection. This is often the easiest and most consistent option.

• Fludrocortisone (oral medication)
  Taken daily, though it may be less effective in some dogs and can require frequent dose adjustments.

2. Glucocorticoid Replacement

These hormones (like cortisol) help manage stress, immune response, and metabolism.

• Prednisone is commonly used at a low daily dose.
  The dose may be increased temporarily during stressful events (travel, illness, vet visits, surgery).

Ongoing Monitoring

Managing Addison’s is a long-term commitment, but it’s very doable with a good plan. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor electrolytes and adjust medications as needed.

• Every 3–4 weeks at first, to establish the correct DOCP dose

• Every 3–6 months long-term, depending on how stable your dog is

Some dogs may need dose adjustments over time—especially as seasons change or stress levels shift.

What to Expect

Dogs with Addison’s disease can live normal, happy lives with the right care. You may find your pup is more energetic, playful, and engaged once treatment begins! Early diagnosis and consistent follow-up care are the keys to keeping things on track.

If your dog has been diagnosed—or if you're seeing signs like weakness, vomiting, or changes in urination—don’t hesitate to reach out. At Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way.