My dog has weight gain, pot belly, panting, and hair loss. Is it Cushing's?

Question

My dog has gained weight. Is hungry all the time. She drinks and sleeps a lot . She doesn't enjoy her walks anymore and it constantly trying to lie down some where cool. She pants a lot and is restless when settling. She is also quite clingy at times where as other times doesn't want to know . Her walking is slightly lop sided and she has a lump on her one side and has a large pot belly. She is also balding the length of her back. Any ideas ? Pet's info: Dog | Bichon Frise | Female | 6 years and 7 months old | 23 lbs

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

Poor Izzy! From your description, I would be very suspicious about something called Cushing's disease. This is a common problem in middle-aged and older dogs, in which the body produces high levels of steroid hormones - symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, weight gain, excessive panting, decreased energy level, and a pot-bellied appearance. Many affected dogs also have thinning hair coats, or areas of hair loss on their bodies. If Izzy does have Cushing's disease, this condition is very treatable with medication. I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam when you are able to. He/she can do some simple blood tests to check her general health, and to check for Cushing's disease specifically. If her Cushing's test is positive, your vet can prescribe medication to treat the problem.

My dog has weight gain, pot belly, panting, and hair loss. Is it Cushing's?

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