Addison’s disease, or hypoadrenocorticism, might not be a term many dog owners are familiar with—but it’s one that can seriously affect your dog’s well-being if left unnoticed. This condition occurs when a dog’s adrenal glands fail to produce enough hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone, which are crucial for managing stress and maintaining the balance of electrolytes and fluids.
Because the symptoms can be vague or mimic other illnesses, Addison’s disease is often called “the great pretender.” But with a little knowledge and close observation, early detection is very possible—and potentially life-saving.
Your Dog Isn’t Just “Off”—Trust Your Gut
Addison’s disease usually creeps in quietly. You might notice your dog acting a bit tired, refusing food occasionally, or vomiting once or twice. It’s easy to brush these off as just a stomach upset or a bad day, but these could be early red flags.
Other common signs include:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Shaking or shivering
- Diarrhea or vomiting (especially if it’s recurring)
- Weight loss
- Increased thirst or urination
- A “crashed” episode (sudden collapse or extreme weakness)
These symptoms can come and go, making them easy to dismiss. But if your dog has recurring bouts of these issues without a clear cause, it’s time to have a serious conversation with your vet.
What’s Actually Going Wrong In The Body?
Dogs with Addison’s disease have adrenal glands that don’t produce enough cortisol and aldosterone. Cortisol helps your dog handle stress, regulate metabolism, and maintain blood pressure. Aldosterone controls the balance of sodium and potassium, which is critical for muscle and heart function.
When these hormones are missing, the internal balance is disrupted. Potassium can build up to dangerous levels, and sodium can plummet, leading to heart problems, dehydration, and shock. Left untreated, Addison’s disease can lead to a life-threatening Addisonian crisis—often triggered by stress or illness.
The Surprising Face Of An Addisonian Crisis
An Addisonian crisis is often the moment when the disease reveals itself—and it can be terrifying. Dogs may collapse, have a slow or irregular heartbeat, severe vomiting or diarrhea, and appear to be in shock. This is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary care.
At Atlas Animal Hospital, our team is equipped to handle these high-stress situations and stabilize your pet. But the goal is always early diagnosis—long before it reaches this critical stage.
How Addison’s Disease Is Diagnosed (And Managed)
If Addison’s is suspected, your vet will likely perform blood work, checking sodium and potassium levels, kidney function, and more. A definitive diagnosis typically involves an ACTH stimulation test, which measures how well the adrenal glands respond to stress.
The good news? Addison’s disease is treatable. Most dogs do well with hormone replacement therapy, which may include daily pills or monthly injections to maintain the right hormone levels. With consistent medication and monitoring, dogs with Addison’s can live full, active lives.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Serious—Check In With Us
If your dog has been “off” lately and the symptoms don’t quite add up, it might be more than a stomach bug or stress. Trust your instincts—no one knows your dog better than you.
At Atlas Animal Hospital, we’re always here to help you get answers. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns, investigate thoroughly, and offer guidance that makes sense for both you and your pet. Early intervention can make all the difference.
Call us today at 604-301-0300 to schedule an exam or ask about diagnostic options for Addison’s disease.
