{"id":3203,"date":"2026-09-28T07:42:31","date_gmt":"2026-09-28T14:42:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/?p=3203"},"modified":"2026-09-14T07:44:02","modified_gmt":"2026-09-14T14:44:02","slug":"understanding-cushings-disease-in-dogs-early-signs-pet-owners-miss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/understanding-cushings-disease-in-dogs-early-signs-pet-owners-miss\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Cushing\u2019s Disease in Dogs: Early Signs Pet Owners Miss"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Is your dog asking to go outside more often, emptying the water bowl faster than usual, or acting a little less energetic than before? While many pet owners might chalk these changes up to the aging process, they can sometimes point to an underlying condition known as Cushing\u2019s disease in dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With early diagnosis and proper management, many dogs with Cushing\u2019s disease continue to live happy, comfortable lives. Recognizing the signs early can help your veterinarian develop a treatment plan that keeps your furry friend feeling their best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is Cushing\u2019s Disease?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cushing\u2019s disease is a common dog hormone disease caused by excessive production of cortisol, often called the body\u2019s \u201cstress hormone.\u201d Cortisol plays an important role in many normal bodily functions, but too much cortisol can have a negative effect on nearly every organ system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cushing\u2019s disease most often occurs in middle-aged and senior dogs<\/a> and typically develops gradually, making the symptoms easy to overlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subtle Signs Owners Often Miss<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of Cushing\u2019s disease can develop slowly, making them easy to overlook until they become severe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Watch for these signs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n