Before we look at our findings, let’s talk about the disease. How do you know if your pooch has it, how do you treat it, and what role do diet and supplements play in managing the condition? Let’s get started.
What Type of Food Does Your Dog Eat?
Our Winners!
- Best Commercial Dog Food For Cushing’s Disease : Nutro
- Our Runner-Up Pick : SPORTMiX Wholesome
Commercial Dog Foods For Cushing’s Disease
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
This adult dog food from Nutro has high-quality, digestible protein as the top ingredient. It includes prebiotic fiber and antioxidants to support Fido’s digestion and overall health. There are no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or GMO ingredients in the formula. It is low in fat and moderate fiber.
What We Like About It
- It’s low in fat
- It’s a high-quality product with whole protein as the first ingredient
- The low caloric content helps obese pups lose weight
- Owners report that dogs love the food
What We Don't Like
- Some pups get hard, dry stools on this food
DIAMOND NATURALS Pet Food
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
This adult dog food from Nutro has high-quality, digestible protein as the top ingredient. It includes prebiotic fiber and antioxidants to support Fido’s digestion and overall health. There are no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or GMO ingredients in the formula. It is low in fat and moderate fiber.
What We Like About It
- It has highly-digestible protein
- Owners report dogs to have healthy coats and weight on this food
- It’s good for dogs with grain allergies
- It doesn’t make your dog’s breath stink
- Dogs like the taste
What We Don't Like
- Some dogs get diarrhea from the food
- Some bags of food have been moldy
SPORTMiX Wholesome Fish Meal and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
SportMiX Fish Meal and Rice food uses a menhaden fish meal as its single protein source. There’s no corn, wheat, or soy in the product, and it’s naturally preserved. The formula includes prebiotic fiber and a balanced blend of vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. You can purchase this in a 40-pound bag.
What We Like About It
- It has a digestible protein source and prebiotic fiber
- The ingredients are easy on sensitive stomachs
- It has quality ingredients and is grain-free
- Feeding this food keeps the coat shiny
What We Don't Like
- It gives some dogs bad gas
- The fat content is a little high for Cushing’s dogs
The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Grain Free Whole Food Clusters Dry Dog Food - Chicken
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
With human-grade ingredients and minimal processing, this dry food offers balanced nutrition. The formula includes dehydrated free-range chicken as the first ingredient along with other whole foods, prebiotic fiber, and probiotics. There are no additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. It has a moderate fat and low fiber content.
What We Like About It
- It had lignan-rich whole foods
- It has a digestible protein source and Dogs love to eat this food
- It’s easy to digest
- Owners report healthy skin and coat
- Dogs love to eat this food
- It smells like real food
What We Don't Like
- The kibble can be a little big and hard to chew for small breeds
- Some owners report more poops and gas with this food
The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Grain Free Whole Food Clusters Dry Dog Food - Beef
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Made from dehydrated whole foods, this dry dog food from The Honest Kitchen is a grain-free product. It has ranch-raised beef for a digestible protein source. The company makes this product in small batches by cold-pressing the ingredients into kibble and dry roasting it. There are live probiotics in the formula. This food is low in fiber and has a moderate fat content.
What We Like About It
- It starts with digestible protein and is rich in antioxidants
- Dogs eat it like it’s a treat
- It smells great
- You can see the quality of the ingredients in the clusters
- It’s human-grade and has no by-products
What We Don't Like
- The bites are hard for small dogs to crunch
- Some owners report diarrhea
Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Small Breed
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
As a small breed kibble, this product is grain-free and protein-rich. It has a moderate fat and low fiber content. The ingredients include antioxidants, omega fatty acids, glucosamine, prebiotic fiber, and probiotics to support total health. Deboned turkey is the top ingredient on the list.
What We Like About It
- It has digestible protien
- Even picky eaters like this food
- Owners report healthy, shiny coats and “no dog smell”
- It helps clear up skin and eye allergies
- The kibble size is perfect for small dogs
What We Don't Like
- The company discontinued the zip-lock freshness closure
- There are reports of some bad batches that cause vomiting and diarrhea
Diamond Naturals Light Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Diamond Naturals Light dog food is made with lamb and rice for easy digestion. It has a low fat and moderate fiber content that can support dogs with Cushing’s disease. The formula includes antioxidant-rich superfoods, omega fatty acids, proprietary probiotics, and a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals. There are no artificial ingredients in this product.
What We Like About It
- It’s low in fat and moderate in fiber
- It helps dogs lose weight
- Some dogs love the flavor
- Dogs don’t have gas issues
- It’s easy on the stomach
What We Don't Like
- The fiber content causes lots of poop
- It can break down and become crumbly in the bag
IAMS Proactive Health Senior Dry Dog Food, All Breed Sizes
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
IAMS Proactive Health dog food for seniors has real chicken and whole grains in its formula. It includes prebiotic fiber, probiotics, and antioxidant-rich ingredients. There are no artificial flavors or preservatives in this product. The formulation also has DHA, glucosamine, and chondroitin to support your pooch as he ages. This food is low in fiber and moderate in fat content.
What We Like About It
- It has digestible proteins and probiotics to aid digestion
- Owners report healthy skin and coat
- Some dogs that eat this have less gas and firmer stools
- Dogs love the flavor
- It’s a good value for the ingredient quality
What We Don't Like
- It makes some dogs poop a lot more
- The protein content can be too high for older dogs
Nutro Ultra Weight Management Adult Dry Dog Food
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Nutro Ultra food for small breed senior dogs uses three digestible proteins and superfoods to provide your pooch with balanced nutrition. The product has whole grains, seeds, fruits, and vegetables as part of the formula. It has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives and is GMO-free. It’s a low-fiber, low-fat food.
What We Like About It
- It contains three digestible proteins and lignan-rich superfoods
- It helps ease digestive distress
- The food smells good and doesn’t leave an after-odor
- The kibble is sized to fit your pooch
- Dogs seem to like the flavor
What We Don't Like
- Some dogs have allergic reactions to the food
- Some bad batches have caused vomiting and diarrhea
Prescription Diets
Hill'S Prescription Diet Metabolic Canine Dry Dog Food
Best Prescription Diet for Canine Cushing’s Disease
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$$
This prescription diet by Hill’s is made for weight management. With a low fat (10% by dry matter) and moderate fiber content, the food is nutritionally balanced for a dog with Cushing’s disease. The formula includes the antioxidants beta carotene, lipoic acid, and vitamins D and E. It comes in a 27.5-pound bag. You will need a veterinary prescription to purchase this food.
What We Like About It
- It has low fat and moderate fiber that’s ideal for Cushing’s
- The high protein helps maintain muscle condition
- It works well for weight maintenance
- Some owners report dogs aren’t as hungry
What We Don't Like
- The cost
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Royal Canin gastrointestinal diet is a low-fat (maximum 9.4% of dry matter) dog food with over 22% protein by dry matter. This product includes digestible proteins and prebiotic fiber to assist digestion. It comes in a 1.5-pound container. Before purchasing this product, get a prescription from your veterinarian.
What We Like About It
- It’s low in fat and has digestible protein sources
- It helps calm distressed digestive systems
- Owners report that their dogs like to eat this food
- Dogs seem to stay full longer when they eat this food
What We Don't Like
- The ingredients contain lots of fillers
Canned Food
Weruva Grain-Free Natural Canned Wet Dog
Best Commercial Canned Dog Food for Cushing’s
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
The Weruva Paw Lickin’ Chicken canned dog food is grain and gluten-free. It is low fat and fiber and contains shredded chicken meat as the prime ingredient. The formula also includes a blend of vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition. The product is made in human food facilities. There are 12 14-ounce cans in a pack.
What We Like About It
- This contains shredded chicken, and easily-digestible protein
- It has simple ingredients that are easy to eat
- Dogs love to eat it
- It smells good
What We Don't Like
- ‘The quality can be inconsistent
- Some batches are watery/soupy
Purina Pro Plan SAVOR Senior 7+
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Pro Plan SAVOR canned food for seniors from Purina comes in a 12-pack of 13-ounce cans. It contains beef and poultry ingredients for digestible protein. The formula has omega-6 fatty acids and a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals. It is a moderate fiber and fat product. This product is made in the USA.
What We Like About It
- Dogs that eat this food are healthy and energetic
- It contains digestible proteins
- It slides out of the can easily
- Dogs like to eat the food
- It’s affordable
What We Don't Like
- It gives some dogs really bad breath
- It’s too watery
Nulo Adult & Puppy Grain-Free
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
This canned food is grain-free and protein-rich. The ingredients include chicken and vegetables and has no artificial ingredients. It has a high-fat and low-fiber content by dry matter. There are omega 3 and 6 fatty acids in the formula. It comes in a 12-pack of 13-ounce cans.
What We Like About It
- It has digestible proteins
- The pate form means no gravy smear on the whiskers
- Dogs like to eat the food
- It helps clear up skin allergies
- It’s easy for dogs to digest, and there’s less poop
What We Don't Like
- The cans are hard to open
- Some dogs get diarrhea with this food
Treats
Hill's Prescription Diet Metabolic Canine Dog Treats
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Hills Metabolic Canine Treats are designed to support healthy weight management. The ingredients include digestible protein and prebiotic fiber. It’s high in protein and low in fat and fiber. Ther mineral content is low to help prevent bladder stones. It comes in a 12-ounce bag.
What We Like About It
- It’s low in calcium and other minerals
- Dogs like the flavor
- They’re smaller in size and easy to chew
- They work well for dogs on a low-calorie diet
What We Don't Like
- The cost
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Canine Dog Treats
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
These treats from Royal Canin are made for dogs with food sensitivities. It uses hydrolyzed soy protein and prebiotic fiber for easy digestion. The tidbits have moderate fat and low fiber content. The formula also promotes an environment in the urinary tract that discourages the formation of crystals. This product is available in two 17.6-ounce bags.
What We Like About It
- It’s low in purines
- Dogs like the flavor
- They’re safe to give to dogs with food allergies
- They make good training treats
What We Don't Like
- It can cause smelly gas
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Canine Treats
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Supplement your pal’s food with this low fat, low fiber dog treat from Royal Canin. With prebiotic fiber and digestible protein, these low-calorie tidbits have a balanced blend of nutrients to support digestive health. They come in a 17.6-ounce bag.
What We Like About It
- They’re easy on the digestive system
- They’re low in purines
- Dogs like the flavor
- You can use these for dogs on a low-fat diet
What We Don't Like
- The cost
- They’re too small for larger dogs - one isn’t enough
Supplements
Grizzly All-Natural Wild Caught Alaskan Salmon Oil Dog Food Supplement
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Grizzly Salmon Oil supplement for dogs provides your pooch with a blend of Omega 3 fatty acids, EPH, DHA, vitamins, and antioxidants from wild-caught Alaskan Salmon. It comes in a 16-ounce pump bottle for easy dosing. The supplement is approved by the National Animal Supplement Council.
What We Like About It
- It’s rich in omega fatty acids and natural antioxidants
- Dogs that get this supplement have healthy, shiny coats
- Dogs gobble their food when this is added to it
- It’s easy to dose with the pump
- Skin seems less itchy and irritated when using this supplement
What We Don't Like
- Some dogs get fish-breath
Zesty Paws Cranberry for Dogs
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
These dog chews from Zesty Paws contain a pure cranberry concentrate, astragalus, licorice root, and nettle seed to support the kidneys and urinary tract. The ingredients also work together to aid digestion and immunity. There are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in the product. One container has 90 chews.
What We Like About It
- It contains a blend of herbs and natural ingredients that may ease symptoms of Cushing’s
- Dogs like the flavor
- They’re easy to split into smaller tidbits for small breed dogs
- It helps reduce urinary accidents
- Owners report giving this supplement clears up recurring UTIs
What We Don't Like
- Some dogs got sick when they ate the chews
Vita Pet Life Milk Thistle for Dogs - Liver and Kidney Support
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
This Milk Thistle supplement from Vita Pet Life is formulated to support kidney and liver function in dogs. It includes antioxidants as well as DHA and EPA from fish oil. The product is made in the USA and is GMO-free. There are 120 bacon and liver flavored tablets in a bottle.
What We Like About It
- It has omega fatty acids and antioxidants from the fish oil
- It helps to control symptoms of Cushing’s
- Dogs have renewed energy when they take this supplement
- Owners report giving this helped to lower liver enzyme levels that were high
- Dogs like the flavor
What We Don't Like
- The tablets tend to crumble into a powder making it harder to dose
- It has a pungent odor
Pet Wellbeing - Adrenal Harmony - Natural Support for Adrenal Dysfunction and Cushing's in Dogs
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Adrenal Harmony Gold by Pet Wellbeing is a holistic blend of wild-harvested herbs. The ingredients are formulated to support the adrenal gland. It comes in a 4-ounce bottle with an eyedropper. There are no secret components or harmful ingredients in this product.
What We Like About It
- Some owners report that the supplement clears up Cushing’s symptoms
- Owners report dogs to drink and pee less on this supplement
- It helps pups sleep better at night
- Dogs have more energy when given the supplement
What We Don't Like
- It can cause constipation
Prana Pets Adrenal Support - Herbal Formula Support for Common Symptoms of Cushing's Disease
Our Rating:
Price Range: $$
Prana Pets Adrenal Support is a blend of herbal supplements to help support dogs with Cushing’s. It comes in a 2-ounce bottle with an eyedropper. Add to your pup’s water 2-3 times a day as a holistic remedy. Follow the dosing instructions on the package.
What We Like About It
- Owners report it helps clear up hair loss
- Dogs have more energy when they get this supplement
- It helps reduce/stop accidents in the house
- Dogs stop drinking excessively when taking this
What We Don't Like
- It has inconsistent effects for some dogs
Understanding Cushing’s Disease in Dogs (Canine Hyperadrenocorticism)
The information we provide in this review is meant to support your veterinarian’s recommendations. If you suspect your furbaby has Cushing’s Disease, consult with his vet. Fido’s doctor knows him best and will be able to guide you through the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Is There a Difference Between Cushing’s Disease and Cushing’s Syndrome?
With this condition, the adrenal gland produces excess cortisol, usually due to a tumor either in the adrenal or pituitary gland. This hormone is involved in regulating stress, weight, and blood sugar, and it helps the body to prevent infections.
Signs of Cushing’s Disease
- Polydipsia - your pooch will be thirsty and drink more than usual
- Polyuria - as a result of the increased water intake, your pal will need to pee more frequently and may have more accidents
- Polyphagia - increased appetite
- Pot-belly
- Panting
- hair loss or thinning
- Skin conditions including rashes, thinning, infections, white patches
- Muscle weakness
- Sluggishness
- Bruising
- Enlarged liver/liver disease
- Weight loss
- Sweating and heat intolerance
Diagnosis of Cushing’s Disease
- ACTH stimulation - Your veterinarian can measure levels of blood cortisol before and after an injection of a synthetic version of Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). A significant increase of cortisol in Fido’s blood is a confirmation of Cushing’s Disease.
- Low-Dose Dexamethasone Suppression (LDDS) - Your pal’s doctor can measure blood cortisol levels, administer a low dose of the corticosteroid dexamethasone, then check cortisol levels after 8 hours. In dogs without Cushing’s, the levels usually drop, but false-positive results are possible. This test requires an 8-hour stay at the clinic.
- High-Dose Dexamethasone Suppression - This test is similar to LDDS, except the doctor gives your pup a high dose of the corticosteroid.
- Urine Cortisol- Creatinine - This test is a way to rule out Cushing’s, but it will not provide a definitive diagnosis. A high level of cortisol in the urine is one symptom of the disease, but there could be other reasons for the elevation.
- X-ray/Ultrasound - X-rays or ultrasound may demonstrate an enlarged liver or adrenal glands, and it may show calcium deposits in the skin. These are signs that support but do not necessarily confirm a diagnosis of Cushing’s.
Diagnosis of Cushing’s Disease
Conventional Treatments
- If a cancerous adrenal tumor is a cause, it can be removed surgically
- In the case of a pituitary tumor treatment involves radiation therapy because
- Oral medications that work to decrease the amount of cortisol the adrenal gland secretes.
Holistic/Natural Treatments
a holistic approach involving dietary management, supplements, and herbal remedies like Ginko and Si Miao San may help to manage and reduce the symptoms of Cushing’s Disease. You can also use some holistic measures in combination with traditional approaches to support your pal’s overall health.
Vet-Recommended Diet for Canine Cushing’s Disease
- Low in Fat - cortisol leads to higher levels of triglycerides and cholesterol. Look for foods with less than 12% fat on a dry matter basis. To calculate the percent based on dry matter, subtract the moisture content from 100 (for the total dry matter), then divide the percentage of the nutrient by the dry matter.
- Moderate Fiber - Your pooch will need moderate levels of fiber (8-17% on a dry matter basis).
- Highly digestible protein source - Pooches with Cushing’s disease fare better with digestible proteins. They need the amino acid building blocks to help prevent muscle wasting, which is common in dogs with Cushing’s. Good sources of digestible proteins include eggs and muscle meats like beef, chicken, and lamb.
- Low purine levels - Organs like the liver are high in purine, so it’s best to avoid products with organ meats.
- Low Sodium and Chloride - This is particularly important if your furbaby suffers from high blood pressure.
- Low calcium - Low calcium food can help to minimize mineral deposits in the skin.
- Rich in lignans like seeds, whole grains, nuts, fruits, and vegetables.
Can Dietary and Nutritional Therapy Cure Cushing’s?
Dietary and Nutritional Therapy will not cure Cushing’s Disease, but it can go a long way in helping to control the condition. Providing the proper balance of fat, fiber, and digestible proteins help to keep high cortisol levels in check and to support your pal’s immune system. A diet formulated with Cushing’s in mind may improve your pup’s quality and length of life.
Commercial Diets for Dogs With Cushing’s
While many people believe a raw diet can help dogs with Cushing’s Disease, there are quality commercial diets available. When choosing a manufactured product, read the label and compare it to the dietary features we discussed above. Remember to talk to your veterinarian about nutritional recommendations before making any decisions. He knows your pal’s unique dietary needs and can provide meaningful guidance.
The Pros and Cons of a Raw Diet for Dog’s With Cushing’s
- Greater energy levels
- Healthier coat and skin
- Increased muscle strength and reduction of wasting
- Improved digestion
- Stronger bones and teeth
However, there are potential concerns or issues involved with feeding a raw diet. First, the ingredients may not meet all of your pup’s nutritional needs, so that you would need to add supplements to achieve a properly balanced diet. Raw meats also carry the risk of bacteria that can make your pooch sick if his immune response fails to protect him. Finally, you’ll need to follow careful cleaning procedures after each meal to prevent contamination from the raw products.
Supplements for Cushing’s Disease Diets
- Fish oil - fish oil can help with lowering triglyceride and fat levels.
- Digestive enzymes/probiotics to aid healthy digestion and boost immunity.
- If you’re feeding a raw diet, you may need to supplement with calcium and phosphorus for bone health.
- Antioxidants including beta carotene, tocopherols, methionine, vitamin C, and selenium can help regulate fats in the blood.
- There are a variety of herbal and natural supplements that may be helpful. Examples include milk thistle, burdock, Si Miao San, nettle, rosehips, and apple cider vinegar. Consult with your veterinarian or a holistic nutritionist before making any changes to Fido’s diet.
4 Health Care Tips for Dogs With Cushing’s Disease
- Don’t Limit Fido’s Water - Dogs with Cushing’s Disease usually have increased thirst. It’s important to let your pooch drink as much as he wants. You can make his life easier by placing water bowls in the rooms where Fido spends most of his time.
- Give Extra Potty Breaks - Your pal is drinking more, so he’ll need to pee more. Plan on extra potty breaks, and watch your pooch for signs like pacing that indicate he needs to go outside.
- Try More Frequent Feedings - Cushing’ dogs tend to be ravenous all day long. By feeding your furbaby every couple of hours, you can help stabilize blood sugar and provide a more consistent sense of fullness. This can also help prevent your pal from eating anything he can find.
- Exercise Your Pal - As long as your pup is up to it, provide time for exercise. Activity and fresh air can help regulate energy levels, mood, and sleep.
Recommended Reading for More Cushing’s Information
The Final Analysis - Our Top Pick
All these qualities make Nutro Wholesome Essentials our pick for Best Commercial Dog Food for Cushing’s Disease.
tessie was diagnosed with Cushings 1 yr ago, she is on generic Vetoryl 20 mg twice a day. Recently she started shivering all the time. I put sweaters on her which helps. She doesnt pant any more but has a pot belly. Drinks a lot of water but can hold her urine for 10 hours or more. Recently shes gotten really picky with food. Eats the same amount a cup and a half but does it at night, Has had a lot of cysts recently that require removal .. Vet said that is common for her breed- irish terrier She is 11. Have appointment this Thursday to see whats cooking. Bach legs quiver but she still goes for walk twice daily. Shes eating First Mate ocean fish kibble 29% protein
Hi Lorraine,
Thanks for sharing your story with us. Let us know if she’s getting better.