Addison's Disease Summary
(Hypoadrenocorticism)
Contributed By: Sandra CrawfordDonna Hegstrom
W.H.W.T.C.A. Health Committee

Addison’s disease is caused by a complete loss of function of both adrenal glands. The adrenal glands help maintain the normal levels of sodium, potassium and glucose in the dog’s blood. The cause of Addison’s disease is suspected to be an autoimmune disease.

The dog’s immune system attacks its own adrenal glands. Addison’s disease is most commonly seen in young to middle aged dogs. No particular breed is affected more than another. The typical clinical signs include lethargy, not eating, vomiting and weight loss. Generalized weakness is a common owner complaint. Other symptoms could include a slower than normal heart rate and dehydration. The clinical signs are vague and in no way diagnostic of Addison’s disease.

The diagnosis is usually made through laboratory tests. The diagnosis is made when the blood tests reveal higher than normal blood potassium and lower than normal blood sodium. Addison’s disease is treated with replacement steroid therapy. The prognosis is good and with the appropriate treatment and follow up care the affected dog should live a normal life expectancy.



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Any information contained on this site relating to various medical, health, and fitness conditions of Westies and their treatment is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing a Westie's health - you should always consult your own veterinarian.


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