Cushing’s disease in dogs can be a challenging condition to manage, but the right diet can make a significant difference in improving your dog’s quality of life. Many commercial dog foods contain preservatives, high-fat ingredients, and fillers that may not be ideal for dogs with Cushing’s. Preparing homemade dog food for Cushing’s allows you to control ingredients, ensuring your pup gets a nutrient-dense, balanced diet tailored to their needs.
This guide covers everything you need to know about homemade diets for dogs with Cushing’s, including the best ingredients, recipes, feeding guidelines, and supplements to support your pet’s health.
What is Cushing’s Disease in Dogs?
Cushing’s disease (Hyperadrenocorticism) is a hormonal disorder that results from prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. It is common in older dogs and is caused by either a pituitary tumor (pituitary-dependent Cushing’s, PDH) or an adrenal tumor (adrenal-dependent Cushing’s, ADH).
Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease
Dogs with Cushing’s disease exhibit various symptoms, including:
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Increased appetite and weight gain
- Lethargy and muscle weakness
- Thinning skin and hair loss
- Potbelly appearance
- Frequent infections (skin, urinary tract)
- Panting and heat intolerance
How Diet Affects Cushing’s Disease
The right nutrition can help manage symptoms, support organ health, and reduce inflammation. A well-balanced homemade diet avoids artificial additives, reduces high-fat content, and provides essential vitamins and minerals that promote overall well-being.
Best Diet for Dogs with Cushing’s Disease
Essential Nutrients for Dogs with Cushing’s
A carefully planned homemade diet for Cushing’s disease should focus on the following nutrients:
| Nutrient | Benefits for Cushing’s Disease | Best Sources |
|---|---|---|
| High-Quality Protein | Maintains muscle mass and supports liver function | Lean chicken, turkey, fish, eggs |
| Low-Fat Content | Reduces stress on the adrenal glands | Lean meats, low-fat dairy |
| Complex Carbohydrates | Helps regulate blood sugar and provides energy | Brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes |
| Fiber | Aids digestion and prevents bloating | Carrots, pumpkin, spinach |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Reduces inflammation and supports skin & coat health | Salmon, flaxseed, fish oil |
| Antioxidants | Supports immune function and reduces oxidative stress | Blueberries, turmeric, broccoli |
Ingredients to Include
✅ Best Ingredients for Homemade Dog Food:
- Lean meats: Chicken, turkey, fish, lean beef
- Low-glycemic vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, carrots, green beans
- Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats
- Healthy fats: Flaxseed oil, fish oil, coconut oil
- Fruits in moderation: Blueberries, apples (without seeds)
- Calcium sources: Eggshell powder, cottage cheese, plain yogurt
Ingredients to Avoid
❌ Foods to Avoid:
- Fatty meats (pork, lamb, processed meats)
- Sugary foods (corn syrup, sweetened yogurt, high-carb fillers)
- Artificial additives & preservatives
- Excess sodium & processed grains
- Onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate (toxic to dogs)
Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Cushing’s Disease
1. Simple Balanced Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked lean ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup steamed spinach
- 1/2 cup steamed carrots
- 1 tbsp flaxseed oil
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
Instructions:
- Cook the turkey until fully cooked, drain excess fat.
- Boil quinoa according to package instructions.
- Steam spinach and carrots until soft.
- Mix all ingredients together, adding flaxseed oil and turmeric last.
- Let cool before serving.
2. Low-Fat Chicken & Veggie Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup brown rice
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions:
- Boil chicken breast and shred it into small pieces.
- Cook brown rice separately.
- Steam carrots and green beans.
- Combine all ingredients and mix well.
- Serve once cooled.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Salmon & Sweet Potato Bowl
Ingredients:
- 2 cups baked salmon (skinless)
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup steamed broccoli
- 1 tbsp fish oil
Instructions:
- Bake salmon until fully cooked.
- Boil sweet potatoes and mash them.
- Steam broccoli.
- Combine everything and mix with fish oil.
- Let cool before serving.
Feeding Guidelines & Meal Planning
How Much to Feed a Dog with Cushing’s?
The amount depends on your dog’s size and activity level. Here’s a general guideline:
| Dog’s Weight | Daily Portion (Divided into 2 Meals) |
| Under 10 lbs | 1/2 – 3/4 cup |
| 10 – 30 lbs | 3/4 – 1.5 cups |
| 30 – 50 lbs | 1.5 – 2.5 cups |
| 50+ lbs | 2.5 – 4 cups |
How Often to Feed?
- Small dogs: 3-4 small meals per day
- Medium/Large dogs: 2-3 meals per day
- Avoid free feeding to control portion sizes
Supplements for Dogs with Cushing’s Disease
Adding supplements can help improve your dog’s health:
✔️ Beneficial Supplements:
- Omega-3 fatty acids – Reduces inflammation
- Probiotics – Supports gut health
- Milk thistle – Supports liver detoxification
- Turmeric – Natural anti-inflammatory
Final Thoughts on Homemade Dog Food for Cushing’s Disease
A homemade diet for dogs with Cushing’s disease can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and support overall health. By using high-quality ingredients, avoiding harmful foods, and supplementing properly, you can provide the best nutrition tailored to your dog’s needs.
Always consult your veterinarian before making major dietary changes to ensure the diet is well-balanced for your dog’s specific condition. With the right approach, homemade meals can be a safe, nutritious, and beneficial option for dogs battling Cushing’s disease.