Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is a common endocrine disorder in middle-aged and older dogs. The adrenal glands produce excessive cortisol, causing wide-ranging health effects. Diet supports medical treatment but doesn't replace it.

What Cushing's Does to Dogs

Common symptoms:

  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Increased appetite (often ravenous)
  • Potbelly appearance
  • Hair loss (often symmetrical)
  • Thin skin
  • Panting
  • Recurrent infections
  • Muscle weakness

Diagnosed via bloodwork (ACTH stimulation test, low-dose dexamethasone suppression test). Treated with medications like trilostane (Vetoryl) or mitotane.

How Diet Supports Treatment

Cushing's affects multiple body systems:

  • Liver function (often impaired)
  • Glucose metabolism (concurrent diabetes risk)
  • Muscle wasting
  • Skin and coat issues
  • Risk of pancreatitis

The right diet supports each of these.

What to Look For

Quality protein: Named meat first, 25-30%. Helps preserve muscle mass.

Moderate-low fat: 10-13%. Cushing's increases pancreatitis risk.

Complex carbohydrates: Rice, oats — release glucose slowly, helps with concurrent diabetes risk.

Limited simple sugars: Manage blood glucose.

Liver-supportive features: Adequate antioxidants, milk thistle (often supplemented).

Omega-3 fatty acids: Anti-inflammatory, support skin.

Calorie Management

Cushing's dogs are constantly hungry but should NOT be fed unlimited food. Their bodies don't use calories normally — they store more as fat while losing muscle. Maintain target weight:

  • Use measured portions only
  • Consider higher-fiber food for satiety
  • Multiple smaller meals can help
  • Low-calorie treats (carrots, plain green beans)

Managing Polydipsia

Increased thirst is hallmark of Cushing's. Don't restrict water — this is dangerous. Some dietary considerations:

  • Wet food adds moisture to diet
  • Adequate sodium (not excessive — moderate)
  • Discuss with vet about kidney function monitoring

Concurrent Conditions

Cushing's often coexists with:

  • Diabetes: Need diet supporting both — quality protein, moderate carbs, low-fat
  • Pancreatitis history: Strict low-fat formula
  • Hypothyroidism: Treat both
  • Kidney disease: May need prescription kidney diet

Your vet may recommend a specific prescription diet based on concurrent conditions.

OTC vs Prescription

Most Cushing's dogs do fine on quality OTC food with appropriate macronutrients (moderate protein, low-moderate fat, complex carbs). Prescription diets are typically only needed for concurrent conditions.

What to Avoid

  • High-fat foods (pancreatitis risk)
  • Foods with simple sugars (corn syrup, etc.)
  • Free-feeding (impossible to control weight)
  • Giving in to constant begging
  • Excessive treats

FAQ

Will diet cure Cushing's?

No. Cushing's requires medication (trilostane or mitotane). Diet supports overall health and addresses concurrent issues.

Why is my Cushing's dog still hungry on meds?

Increased appetite can persist for months despite treatment. Strict portion control still matters.

The Bottom Line

Cushing's dogs need quality protein, moderate-low fat diet, with attention to concurrent conditions. Medication is the primary treatment; diet supports it. Browse our rankings.