Skip to content
Dogs
Chronic
Usually insured

Cushing's Disease in Dogs
Treatment Costs UK 2026

Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) occurs when a dog's body produces too much cortisol. It most commonly affects middle-aged to older dogs and is caused by a pituitary or adrenal gland tumour. Treatment is lifelong and requires careful monitoring to balance hormone levels.

Diagnosis £250–£800
Monthly £80–£300
Annual Cost £1,200–£4,400
Lifetime Cost £3,500–£14,000
Cost breakdown

What You'll Pay

Estimated costs for diagnosing, treating, and managing Cushing's Disease in Dogs in the UK. Prices vary by vet practice, location, and severity.

Diagnosis

Initial tests and consultation

Low £250
Average £500
High £800

Initial Treatment

First-line treatment or surgery

Low £200
Average £400
High £800

Monthly Ongoing

Medication, monitoring, management

Low £80
Average £150
High £300

Annual Cost

Total estimated cost per year

Low £1,200
Average £2,300
High £4,400

Lifetime Cost

Total estimated cost over pet's life

Low £3,500
Average £7,000
High £14,000

Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region, practice, and individual case. Updated March 2026.

Warning signs

Symptoms to Watch For

If your pet shows any of these symptoms, consult your vet promptly. Early diagnosis can reduce treatment costs and improve outcomes.

Excessive thirst and urination

Pot-bellied appearance

Hair loss (symmetrical)

Thin or fragile skin

Increased appetite

Panting and lethargy

Treatment plan

What Treatment Includes

A typical treatment plan for Cushing's Disease in Dogs includes these components. Your vet will tailor the approach to your pet's specific needs.

1

ACTH stimulation test

2

Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test

3

Trilostane medication (Vetoryl)

4

Regular cortisol monitoring blood tests

5

Abdominal ultrasound scans

6

Liver function monitoring

Breeds at risk

Commonly Affected Breeds

These breeds are more predisposed to Cushing's Disease in Dogs. If you own one of these breeds, consider discussing screening with your vet.

Miniature Poodle
Dachshund
Yorkshire Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier

Pet Insurance Can Help

Cushing's Disease in Dogs is typically covered by comprehensive pet insurance policies, provided it isn't a pre-existing condition. With lifetime treatment costs of £3,500–£14,000, insurance can save you thousands. Lifetime policies are recommended for chronic conditions like this.

Compare pet insurance

Compare Vets Near You

Treatment costs vary significantly between vet practices. Enter your postcode to compare local vets and find the best value for your pet's care.