The “Great Pretender” of Canine Diseases

Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism) is a serious endocrine disorder where the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient hormones (cortisol and aldosterone). It is notably prevalent in Poodles and, by extension, Labradoodles.

It is often called “The Great Pretender” because its symptoms—lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea—mimic dozens of other common ailments. This frequently leads to misdiagnosis, with fatal consequences during an “Addisonian crisis.”

Why Labradoodles?

The genetic predisposition comes primarily from the Poodle side. Standard Poodles have a high incidence of immune-mediated adrenal destruction. When breeding F1 or F1b Labradoodles, you are introducing this risk factor into the line.

Early Warning Signs

Watch for a “waxing and waning” pattern. Your dog might seem sick one day, recover with fluids, and then crash again weeks later.

1. Unexplained Lethargy: A bouncy doodle suddenly “acting old.”
2. Gastrointestinal Distress: Intermittent vomiting or diarrhea.
3. Shaking/Trembling: Often misread as cold or anxiety.
4. Lack of Appetite: Refusing meals they normally love.

The Addisonian Crisis

This is a medical emergency. If the dog encounters stress (grooming, boarding, surgery) and cannot produce cortisol, they can go into shock. Symptoms: Collapse, weak pulse, pale gums, severe dehydration.

Managing the Condition

The good news? Addison’s is highly treatable. Once diagnosed via an ACTH Stimulation Test, dogs live normal lifespans with medication.

• Monthly Injection: DOCP (Percorten-V or Zycortal) to replace mineralocorticoids.
• Daily Pill: Prednisone to replace glucocorticoids.

Veterinary Note: If your Labradoodle has chronic tummy troubles that basic treatments don’t fix, ask your vet specifically for an electrolyte panel to check sodium/potassium ratios.