What Is Cushing's Disease in Bichon Frise Dogs?

Cushing's disease is more accurately described as a syndrome, because the condition is actually the result of a physiological malfunction. All dogs have adrenal glands in their stomach that regulate the production of the hormone cortisol. When the glands over-produce, it causes a condition called hyperadrenocorticism, which is the technical medical term for Cushing's disease. All kinds of dogs, as well as cats, can suffer from this disease, although some breeds, like the bichon, are notably more likely to develop it.

There are several factors that can increase your bichon's risk of developing this disease. Long-term exposure to some types of medication, including steroids used to treat allergy symptoms, is linked to the development of problems in the cortisol-regulating glands. In addition to this, the breed is also known to have genetic traits that make them more likely to develop Cushing's, making it one of the breed's primary endocrine disorders, according to the Bichon Frise Club of America.

If your bichon has Cushing's, his body is overflowing with the cortisol hormone, which has a severe negative impact on his overall health. It suppresses his immune system, making him more likely to contract diseases from pathogens. It also causes weight distribution problems, like disproportionate fat cells around the stomach, and can significantly increase thirst and appetite. Lethargy, stiffness and digestive disorders are also common symptoms. The symptoms are remarkably similar to those of aging, although they can be more severe. This leads some bichon owners to believe that their pet's health is simply declining due to old age.

Your veterinarian will prescribe treatment depending on the type of Cushing's your pup actually has. Medical professionals have broken down the disease into two categories, pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent. If your dog is suffering from pituitary-dependent Cushing's, then he will have to take oral medicine every day for the rest of his life, according to Washington State University. Dogs with the adrenal-dependent variation, which means there is actually a tumor inside the glands, need surgery to remove the potentially cancerous tissue. Make sure to ask your veterinarian for tips about how to keep your dog healthy and happy, even if he's suffering from a chronic disease like Cushing's.