Dog Adrenal Insufficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

When a dog’s adrenal glands stop producing enough dog adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient cortisol and aldosterone, often called Addison's disease in veterinary medicine. Also known as Addison's disease in dogs, it’s not rare—it’s just often missed because the symptoms creep in slowly and look like other problems. Think of the adrenal glands as the body’s stress response team. When they’re not working right, your dog can’t handle even small stressors like a vet visit, a change in weather, or a new food. Without enough cortisol, their body starts shutting down quietly—loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness, and sudden collapse are common red flags.

This isn’t just about tiredness. electrolyte imbalance in dogs, a dangerous shift in sodium and potassium levels caused by low aldosterone, which regulates salt and fluid balance is the hidden killer here. Dogs with this condition often have high potassium and low sodium, which can mess with their heart rhythm. That’s why a simple blood test showing these numbers is often the first clue. It’s not a guess—it’s a measurable problem. And corticosteroids for dogs, hormone replacements like prednisone or fludrocortisone that replace what the adrenal glands can’t make aren’t optional. They’re life-saving. Dogs don’t get better on their own. Without treatment, an Addisonian crisis can be fatal within hours.

You’ll find posts here that break down how vets confirm this diagnosis, what bloodwork to look for, and how dosing changes over time. Some dogs need daily pills. Others need monthly injections. You’ll also see real stories from owners who caught it early—and those who didn’t. There’s no magic cure, but with the right meds and routine monitoring, most dogs live normal, happy lives. This isn’t about fancy treatments. It’s about recognizing the quiet signs before it’s too late.