Cushing’s Disease in Dogs, Part 3: Treatment and Long-Term Management
Veterinarian Fargo ND | Vet Clinic Fargo ND | Dog Hormone Imbalance Fargo ND
Once a dog is diagnosed with Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism), pet owners often ask: What happens next? While Cushing’s is a lifelong condition, with careful management and veterinary support, most dogs can enjoy a good quality of life for years.
The Primary Treatment: Medication
Most dogs with Cushing’s are treated with a daily oral medication that suppresses the overproduction of cortisol. The most commonly prescribed medication is Trilostane (brand name: Vetoryl®). It works by inhibiting the enzymes that produce cortisol in the adrenal glands.
Your dog will need regular bloodwork to monitor how their body is responding to the medication. This usually involves:
ACTH stimulation tests about 10–14 days after starting treatment
Follow-up tests at 30 days
Rechecks every 3–6 months long-term
This monitoring is essential. Over-suppressing cortisol can lead to a condition called hypoadrenocorticism, or Addison’s disease, which has its own risks (watch for an upcoming blog series on this condition in the future!).
Supportive Care and Monitoring at Home
Managing Cushing’s isn’t just about pills. At home, you’ll want to monitor for signs that your dog is improving—or not. Positive changes usually include:
Reduced thirst and urination
Decreased panting
Improved energy and coat quality
Less bloating or muscle wasting
You’ll also want to watch for signs of under-treatment or over-treatment, like vomiting, lethargy, or renewed symptoms.
When Surgery Is an Option
If Cushing’s is caused by a tumor on one of the adrenal glands—and if the tumor is operable—we may recommend surgery. This is rare and typically done at a specialty hospital, but it may offer a cure in select cases.
A Team Approach
At Two Rivers Veterinary Hospital, we work closely with pet owners to create customized care plans for dogs with Cushing’s. We provide thorough diagnostics, help you interpret test results, and guide long-term medication management.
It’s also important to treat the whole dog, not just the disease. Many dogs with Cushing’s are older and may benefit from a senior wellness plan that includes joint care, dental health, weight management, and appropriate activity.
