Endocrine diseases in dogs are more common than many pet owners realize. These conditions affect hormone production and regulation in your dog’s body, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms that may seem unrelated at first.
At Town & Country Animal Hospital, we often diagnose and successfully manage endocrine conditions such as hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, Addison’s disease, and diabetes. Here's what every dog owner should know.
What Are Endocrine Diseases?
Endocrine diseases occur when the body produces either too much or too little of certain hormones. These imbalances can disrupt normal bodily functions and cause a variety of symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at the most common endocrine disorders we see in dogs.
Hypothyroidism in Dogs
What it is:
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone.
Common signs include:
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Weight gain without an increase in food intake
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Lethargy or low energy
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Seeking warmth (heat-seeking behavior)
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Hair loss on the trunk, thighs, and tail
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Darkened or thickened skin
Diagnosis & Treatment:
Hypothyroidism is straightforward to diagnose with blood tests. Treatment involves daily oral thyroid hormone supplementation, typically levothyroxine, to restore hormone levels to a healthy range.
Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism)
What it is:
Cushing’s disease results from the overproduction of corticosteroids, often due to a pituitary gland issue or an adrenal tumor.
Symptoms include:
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Increased thirst and urination
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Dramatic increase in appetite
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Pot-bellied appearance due to fat redistribution
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Hair thinning or fur loss
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Muscle weakness
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Frequent infections
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Elevated liver enzymes on bloodwork
Diagnosis & Treatment:
After identifying symptoms and elevated liver values, further blood testing confirms the diagnosis.
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Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s is treated with a medication called Trilostane, given twice daily with regular monitoring.
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Adrenal-dependent Cushing’s often requires surgical removal of the affected adrenal gland.
Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)
What it is:
Addison’s disease is the underproduction of adrenal hormones, such as corticosteroids and mineralocorticoids.
Symptoms can include:
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Intermittent diarrhea or soft stools
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Lethargy, especially during times of stress
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General “off and on” illness
Diagnosis & Treatment:
Though sometimes tricky to diagnose, Addison’s is detectable through blood testing.
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Mild cases are managed with long-term medication.
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More serious cases may require hospitalization during a crisis.
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Ongoing treatment usually involves a small daily steroid dose and monthly injections of a mineralocorticoid.
Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs
What it is:
Canine diabetes is caused by insulin deficiency, preventing the body from processing glucose properly.
Warning signs include:
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Excessive thirst and urination
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Accidents in the house
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Ravenous appetite with unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis & Treatment:
Diagnosis is simple: elevated blood sugar levels and glucose in the urine.
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Treatment includes twice-daily insulin injections and careful dietary management with a prescription high-fiber, low-carbohydrate food.
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Regular glucose monitoring is essential for proper insulin dosing and long-term regulation.
Good News — These Conditions Are Treatable
While an endocrine diagnosis can sound overwhelming, the truth is that these diseases are very manageable with the right care. With proper treatment, dogs with endocrine disorders can live full, happy lives.
If your dog is showing any unusual symptoms, don’t wait. Early detection makes a big difference — and our Wellness Plans include routine lab work that can catch many of these issues early.
Questions? We’re Here to Help.
📍 Visit us at:
Town & Country Animal Hospital
9836 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22030
📞 (703) 273-2110
🌐 www.townandcountryanimalh.com
Explore our Wellness Plans here:
👉 Wellness Plans for Dogs »