By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is a deficiency of adrenal hormones that help regulate electrolytes, blood pressure, and stress responses. This page is the primary canine overview. Related companion: Addison’s symptoms, causes, and treatment themes. Feline notes: Addison’s disease in cats.
We do not provide medication doses. Hormone replacement is prescribed and adjusted only by a veterinarian.
Key takeaways
- Signs can wax and wane: lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, weight loss, and shaking.
- An Addisonian crisis can look like sudden collapse, severe dehydration, or shock and is an emergency.
- Bloodwork often shows electrolyte patterns that raise suspicion; an ACTH stimulation test is a common confirmatory tool.
- With appropriate replacement therapy and monitoring, many dogs do well long term.
- Never start or stop steroid or mineralocorticoid therapy from internet instructions.
What the adrenals do (plain language)
The adrenal glands produce cortisol and aldosterone. When both are lacking (typical primary Addison’s), dogs struggle with stress, sodium/potassium balance, and circulating volume.
Dogs that raise clinical suspicion
- Young to middle-aged dogs with recurrent “gastroenteritis”
- Breeds with known predisposition (your veterinarian can discuss breed trends)
- Patients that worsen after stress or after certain medications are stopped
Diagnosis and care themes
- History, exam, electrolytes, and kidney values
- Confirmatory endocrine testing as directed
- Crisis care: IV fluids and hospital support
- Long-term hormone replacement and scheduled rechecks
Emergency signs
- Collapse, weak pulse concerns, severe vomiting
- Profound lethargy or inability to stand
- Known Addison’s dog that missed medication and looks unwell
Talk with a vet
Suspected crisis: emergency hospital. Stable education: dialavet.com.
References
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Hypoadrenocorticism.
- ACVIM endocrine consensus and textbook chapters on canine Addison’s disease.
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Addison’s Disease in Dogs.
Disclaimer: Educational only. No medication doses are provided. Follow your veterinarian for testing and therapy.
