CBD Oil for Dogs with Cushing’s Disease: A Comprehensive Guide

When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing’s disease, it feels like there’s a lot to manage. Especially common in middle-aged and older dogs (Peterson, M., 2001), Cushing’s Disease occurs when a dog’s body produces too much cortisol—a hormone responsible for things like stress response, weight management, and infection control. It is also known as Canine hyperadrenocorticism. Traditional treatments like surgery or hormone-regulating meds exist, but they come with a hefty price tag, side effects, and ongoing vet visits. So, it’s no wonder more pet parents are exploring natural options like CBD oil to support their dog’s health journey.

This article breaks down how CBD, particularly full-spectrum and hemp-based options, is a game-changer for dogs with Cushing’s disease.

Understanding Cushing’s Disease in Dogs

Cushing’s disease is typically caused by a tumor in either the pituitary gland (pituitary-dependent Cushing’s) or the adrenal glands (adrenal-dependent Cushing’s). In most cases, the tumors are benign and located in the pituitary gland. However, tumors in the adrenal glands are sometimes cancerous. Prolonged use of steroids also leads to iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome (Ridgway, H., & Moriello, K., 1993).

Cushing’s disease is a challenging condition for pet owners to manage, particularly because of its chronic nature and the impact it has on a dog’s overall well-being. Understanding the cause of Cushing’s disease is essential for effective treatment. A study in the Veterinary Journal concluded that “Cushing’s syndrome in dogs can be caused by a pituitary adenoma (80-85% of cases) or an adrenocortical tumor (20%), and treatment options include surgical removal of the causal tumor and pharmacotherapy,” (Sanders, K., Kooistra, H., & Galac, S., 2018).  Whereas, an imaging study showed that “Concurrent pituitary and adrenal lesions are present in 5% of all dogs with spontaneous hypercortisolism, and in 10% of dexamethasone-resistant dogs,” (Bokhorst, K., et al., 2018). In iatrogenic Cushing’s, the condition is induced by prolonged steroid use, often prescribed for other health issues such as allergies or inflammation. Recognizing the underlying cause helps determine the best course of treatment for each dog.

Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to developing Cushing’s disease (Schofield, I., et al., 2021). 

• Boston Terriers
• Yorkshire Terriers
• Labrador Retrievers
• Australian Shepherds
• Beagles
• Boxers
• Dachshunds
• German Shepherds
• Golden Retrievers
• Poodles
• Scottish Terriers
• Terriers in general

While these breeds are more predisposed, any dog develops Cushing’s disease, especially as they age. Pet owners need to be vigilant for any signs or symptoms that indicate the onset of the condition.

Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease

The symptoms of Cushing’s disease in dogs vary and often mimic signs of aging, which makes diagnosis challenging. A study of 117 cases in dogs showed that “Polydipsia, polyuria, progressive bilaterally symmetric alopecia, abdominal distention, lymphopenia, eosinopenia, and abnormal laboratory values are common symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome in dogs,” (Ling, G., et al., 1979). Below is a brief discussion of the common symptoms.

Increased Thirst and Urination: Also known as polyuria and polydipsia, dogs with Cushing’s often drink and urinate excessively. This is one of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms and is caused by cortisol’s effect on the kidneys, leading to increased urine output and thirst.

Increased Appetite: A noticeable increase in appetite and hunger is another common symptom. Elevated cortisol levels stimulate appetite, and affected dogs become more insistent about food.

Pot-Bellied Appearance: Excess cortisol leads to fat redistribution, resulting in a distinctive pot-bellied appearance. This occurs because of weakened abdominal muscles and the accumulation of fat in the abdomen. 

Hair Loss and Thinning Skin: Endocrine alopecia reflecting as hair loss, slow hair regrowth, and thinning skin are frequently observed in dogs with Cushing’s. The skin also becomes more fragile and prone to bruising due to changes in collagen production.

Lethargy and Weakness: Increased cortisol levels cause lethargy, weakness, and reduced activity levels. Muscle wasting and general fatigue are common, making it difficult for dogs to maintain their usual level of physical activity.

Panting: Excessive panting, even at rest, is another symptom that occurs. Panting is due to muscle weakness, changes in lung function, or the dog’s general discomfort.

Skin Infections: Dogs with Cushing’s are more prone to skin infections due to weakened immune systems. Chronic infections and delayed healing are often seen in affected dogs.

Other Symptoms: Other possible signs include bruising, muscle wasting, and behavioral changes like anxiety and irritability. Some dogs also develop calcinosis cutis, a condition where calcium deposits form in the skin, causing firm, raised lesions.

If any of these symptoms are noticed, consult the dog’s veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention helps improve the dog’s quality of life and slow the progression of the disease.

Diagnosing Cushing’s Disease

Diagnosing Cushing’s disease is complex and often involves a combination of tests. The dog’s veterinarian likely performs a physical examination, reviews the dog’s medical history, and conducts several laboratory tests.

Blood Tests: A complete blood count (CBC) and a blood chemistry panel help identify abnormalities associated with Cushing’s, such as elevated liver enzymes. Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels are also present in some cases.

Urine Tests: A urinalysis detects signs of Cushing’s, such as dilute urine and protein in the urine. A urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratio test is also used as a screening tool.

ACTH Stimulation Test: This test measures cortisol levels before and after an injection of ACTH, a hormone that stimulates cortisol production. Elevated cortisol levels after the injection are indicative of Cushing’s.

Low-Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test: This test evaluates how the adrenal glands respond to dexamethasone, a synthetic corticosteroid. Dogs with Cushing’s typically have an abnormal response to dexamethasone, resulting in persistently high cortisol levels.

Abdominal Ultrasound: An ultrasound helps visualize the adrenal glands and identify the presence of tumors. It is also useful in assessing the size of the liver, which is enlarged in dogs with Cushing’s disease.

A combination of these tests is often necessary to accurately diagnose Cushing’s disease and differentiate between pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent forms. The diagnostic process takes time, but accurate identification is crucial for effective treatment.

Conventional Treatment Options for Cushing’s Disease in Dogs

Conventional treatment for Cushing’s disease aims to reduce the production of cortisol. Common treatment options are listed below.

Medications

Trilostane (Vetoryl) inhibits an enzyme involved in cortisol production, reducing cortisol levels. It is commonly used and generally well-tolerated but requires regular monitoring to adjust dosage and avoid complications (Ramsey, I., 2010).

Mitotane (Lysodren) destroys cortisol-producing cells in the adrenal glands. “Mitotane drastically reduces cortisol secretions by 70% and induces a mitochondrial respiratory chain defect in human adrenocortical cells,” (Hescot, S., et al., 2013). It is important to note that mitotane has serious side effects and requires careful monitoring by a veterinarian. The medication is typically given in two phases: an induction phase to reduce cortisol levels and a maintenance phase to keep them stable.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery is an option to remove the tumor causing Cushing’s. This is more feasible for adrenal-dependent Cushing’s, where the tumor is located in the adrenal gland. However, surgery is not always feasible, especially for older dogs or those with tumors in difficult-to-access locations.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is used to shrink tumors in the pituitary gland. This approach is usually reserved for cases where the tumor is causing neurological symptoms or when other treatments are not effective.

These conventional treatments are effective in managing Cushing’s disease; however, they are costly and have potential side effects. Regular follow-up visits and blood tests are necessary to monitor the dog’s response to treatment and make adjustments as needed.

CBD Oil for Dogs with Cushing’s Disease: A Natural Alternative?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants that has gained increasing attention for its potential therapeutic benefits for both humans and animals. While research on the use of CBD for Cushing’s disease in dogs is still in its early stages, anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies suggest that it offers several potential benefits.

Support for Pain and Inflammation

Dogs with Cushing’s disease experience joint pain, inflammation, and general discomfort. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation, potentially alleviating pain and increasing mobility, which improves a dog’s overall quality of life.

Managing Anxiety and Restlessness

 Cushing’s disease causes dogs to experience anxiety, excessive panting, and restlessness. CBD is widely known for its calming effects, which help dogs feel more relaxed and less anxious. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD helps regulate stress responses, leading to calmer behavior.

Appetite Stimulation

A common symptom of Cushing’s disease is an increased appetite, but some dogs lose interest in food or become finicky eaters. CBD oil helps support appetite regulation, helping dogs maintain healthy eating habits and a stable weight.

Skin and Coat Health

Dogs with Cushing’s disease often suffer from skin issues and hair loss. CBD oil, when used topically or orally,  supports skin health by reducing inflammation and supporting natural healing processes. Many pet owners report that CBD oil improves coat quality and reduces symptoms of skin irritation.

Immune System Support

Cushing’s disease affects a dog’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. Some studies suggest that CBD has immune-modulating effects, potentially helping to bolster immune function. A strengthened immune system aids in keeping infections at bay, providing added support for dogs with weakened defenses.

Balancing Hormones and Reducing Symptoms

Since Cushing’s disease is caused by excess cortisol production, the body’s stress hormone, managing cortisol levels is essential. Although CBD doesn’t directly lower cortisol, it interacts with receptors involved in stress responses, potentially moderating cortisol’s effects and lessening the severity of symptoms.

Natural Pain Management and Reduced Dependence on Medication

Many conventional treatments for Cushing’s disease involve steroids or hormone therapy, which have side effects over time. CBD oil offers a natural, plant-based alternative or supplement to traditional medications, possibly helping to reduce the dosage of conventional drugs under veterinary guidance, which minimizes the risk of side effects.

Choosing the Right CBD Oil for A Dog

When considering CBD oil for a dog with Cushing’s disease, choose high-quality products from reputable brands. 

Full-Spectrum or Broad-Spectrum: Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all the naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%) taking advantage of the maximum entourage effects. Broad-spectrum CBD oil is similar to full-spectrum but has undergone additional processing to remove THC completely. Both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum oils are thought to provide the entourage effect, where the various compounds work synergistically to enhance the therapeutic benefits.

Third-Party Tested: Choose products that have been tested by an independent laboratory to ensure potency, purity, and safety. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available for each product, verifying the cannabinoid content and absence of contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents.

Organic and Non-GMO: Opt for products made from organically grown hemp that is free from pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Organic products are less likely to contain harmful residues that negatively affect a dog’s health.

Dosing and Administration of CBD Oil for Dogs with Cushing’s Disease

The appropriate dosage of CBD oil for a dog with Cushing’s disease vary depending on factors such as the dog’s weight, severity of symptoms, and individual response to CBD.

Starting Dosage: A general guideline is to start with a low dosage of approximately 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg of CBD per pound of body weight twice daily. Starting with a low dose allows pet parents to gauge how a dog responds without overwhelming their system.

Gradual Increase: Monitor the dog’s response to the initial dosage and gradually increase it in small increments if needed. It takes some time to determine the optimal dose, so patience and careful observation are key.

Observation: Observe the dog for any changes in behavior, symptoms, or side effects. Adjust the dosage accordingly. Signs that the dosage is too high include lethargy, excessive sedation, or gastrointestinal upset. If side effects occur, reduce the dosage and consult the dog’s veterinarian.

Different Ways to Administer CBD Oil to Dogs

Orally: Place the oil directly into the dog’s mouth using a dropper or syringe, aiming for the gums or under the tongue for faster absorption. This method provides the most direct route for the CBD to enter the bloodstream.

Mixed with Food or Treats: Add the CBD oil to the dog’s food or their favorite biscuit treats. This is a convenient way to administer CBD, especially for dogs who are picky or resistant to taking supplements directly.

Topically: Apply a CBD topical salve directly to the skin growths or areas of discomfort. This method is beneficial for managing localized issues like skin irritation or joint pain.

It is crucial to consult the dog’s veterinarian before starting a dog on CBD oil, especially if they are currently on other medications. Veterinarians help determine the right dosage and monitor for potential interactions with other treatments.

Conclusion

Cushing’s disease is a complex condition that significantly impacts a dog’s quality of life. While conventional treatments are effective, natural supplements like CBD oil are gaining popularity as a complementary or alternative option. While CBD oil shows promise as a potential therapeutic option for dogs with Cushing’s disease, it’s important to approach it with informed caution and prioritize the dog’s overall well-being by working closely with a veterinarian. The journey to managing Cushing’s disease is challenging, but with the right combination of treatments, pet parents help dogs live a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

References

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