Help! My Dog Has Cushing’s Disease! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hi Dr. Paola,
My 11-year-old female Dachshund Jasmine was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease in May. I’m currently waiting for her Trilostane prescription to come in. Would putting her on a fresh food diet help with her weight gain and pot belly? “ – Melissa
Quick Info about Jasmine
Hi Melissa,
It’s wonderful that you’re looking into ways to support Jasmine as she starts treatment for Cushing’s disease. This condition occurs when a dog’s body produces too much cortisol over time, most often due to a benign tumor in the pituitary gland overstimulating the adrenal glands. Cortisol is essential for many normal functions, but chronic overproduction leads to signs like muscle loss, abdominal distension, increased appetite, and a thinning coat. The pot-bellied appearance, in particular, is the result of weakened abdominal muscles and a redistribution of fat, rather than just weight gain.
Treatment with Trilostane helps by selectively blocking an enzyme produced in the adrenal glands that is involved in cortisol production. By limiting how much cortisol is made, Trilostane brings hormone levels closer to normal, allowing the body to start healing from the strain of chronic overexposure. The medication doesn’t cure the condition but manages it, and careful monitoring through ACTH stimulation tests is required to ensure the dose is effective without over-suppressing cortisol, which is still needed for basic functions. Over time, as the medication takes effect and cortisol levels stabilize, dogs often regain muscle tone, lose some of the excess abdominal fat, and show improved energy and coat quality.
In the meantime, transitioning Jasmine to a properly balanced fresh food diet may help support her muscle mass and metabolic health. A diet that is rich in high-quality, lean animal protein and low in processed carbohydrates can be particularly beneficial in dogs with Cushing’s, as it helps to avoid further fat accumulation while supporting lean tissue. While diet alone won’t reverse her signs, it can work alongside Trilostane to improve her overall condition and vitality. Just be sure that any new diet is formulated under the guidance of your dog’s veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it meets all her nutrient requirements during this critical time.
I hope this helps!
– Dr. Paola