Diabetes in Dogs - Symptoms & Treatment

Diabetes in dogs can catch any dog owner by surprise with its sudden onset, turning a once energetic pet into one that may appear lethargic, excessively thirsty, or constantly hungry. It’s a challenging diagnosis to navigate, as it brings with it significant changes to your dog’s lifestyle and daily routine.

Learning to manage diabetes in dogs can feel daunting at first, but with proper treatment, dogs can still lead happy, healthy lives. In fact, approximately one in every 500 dogs is diagnosed with diabetes, and while this condition is serious, it is also very manageable with commitment and consistency.

Left untreated, however, diabetes can be life-threatening, underscoring the importance of recognizing symptoms early and seeking prompt veterinary care.

Diabetes in dogs generally occurs when a dog is 7 to 10 years old but can afflict younger dogs. Female dogs are 70 % more likely to develop diabetes than males. 

Some of The Breeds That Are At A Higher Risk for Diabetes

• Poodles

• Schnauzers

• Dachshunds

• Australian Terriers

• Springer Spaniels

• Samoyeds

• Golden Retrievers

Risk Factors Beyond Breed

In addition to certain breeds, other factors may increase the risk of diabetes in dogs, including obesity, poor diet, and certain medications, such as steroids. Overweight dogs are more likely to develop diabetes due to insulin resistance. Spayed females are at a higher risk compared to unspayed females.

What Is Diabetes in Dogs?

Diabetes mellitus (diabetes), similar to human diabetes, is caused by a lack of the pancreatic hormone, insulin, which affects the dog’s ability to digest or utilize the energy that is gained from sugars and starch. A normal dog’s bodily functioning is able to break down glucose which than fuels the dog’s body, and the insulin is required to do so.

When glucose is unable to be converted to insulin, it can build up and cause kidney damage, damage to the eyes, heart and even nervous system. When diabetes is not treated, it can cause a stroke, blindness and even nerve damage.

Diabetes is not curable but can be maintained with medication, exercise and a healthy diet.

Diabetes is broken down into two types:

Type 1 – The more severe and dangerous diabetes is when the dog cannot produce insulin. Approximately 99% of all dogs have Type 1 diabetes and the usual treatment is insulin.

Type 2 - The dog’s body can produce insulin, but the cells are not able to process it correctly. Type 2 can usually be treated with oral medications.

Below are Just Some of the Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs

• Excessive thirst

• Excessive urination

• Weight loss

• Hungry all the time

• Anorexia or complete loss of appetite

• Lethargy and depression

• Vomiting

Treatment of Diabetes

When your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, your veterinarian will give you instructions on how to treat your dog at home.

The home routine usually means that you will have to administer daily doses of insulin, time your dogs’ feedings as well as monitoring your dog’s blood glucose. In most cases, a specific diet is also recommended.

Insulin:

Insulin is the most common form of treatment for Type 1 Diabetes. Oral medication is not prescribed.

Insulin is injected under the dog’s skin with a syringe or an insulin pen (which is a pre-filled syringe). Your veterinarian will give you a recommendation of the best type of insulin and syringe to purchase for your dog. And, of course, directions on how to administer the shots.

The injections of insulin are given to your dog with a very small needle. You will usually give your dog an injection 1 to 2 times daily – at the same time every day.

Your vet can prescribe insulin and there are many on-line prescribed pharmacies that have lower prices than your vet. Bu, because insulin needs to be kept refrigerated, it needs to be guaranteed overnight shipping and that can also increase the cost.

Syringes:

Insulin needs to be injected with a sterile syringe which can only be used once. 

Glucose Monitoring

When you start your dog on insulin, your vet will want to observe your dog’s glucose levels to make sure the dosage is right. 

A very low dosage is generally given at the start and through testing, your vet will be able to determine if the prescribed amount is right or needs adjusting. Of course, you want the right amount of insulin to keep the glucose level down, but not so much that your dog can’t handle that either.

Dog food for diabetes

Dogs that have diabetes will be on a prescribed food that is specifically for a diabetic dog. Your vet will recommend the best food for your dog and his condition. For instance, brands like Hills Diet have specific food – both dry and wet – for diabetic dogs.

Diabetic dogs need to eat right before their insulin injection and at the same time each day.

How Often Do You Have to See Your Vet?

When you have a diabetic dog, you will be going to the veterinarian’s office at least once every four months. Vets can only prescribe insulin for a 3 to 4 month window, and you will want to monitor your dog’s health often. 

Exercise for Diabetic Dogs

Daily exercise is even more important for diabetic dogs. Consistent, moderate activity helps regulate glucose levels and keeps your dog at a healthy weight. Sudden changes in exercise routines can disrupt blood sugar stability, so always monitor how your dog responds to exercise.

Long-Term Costs of Diabetes Care

The cost of caring for a diabetic dog can vary significantly. Monthly expenses for insulin, syringes, and glucose testing supplies can add up, and prescription food can be another ongoing expense. Many pet insurance policies cover diabetes, so it's worth checking to see if this could help with ongoing costs.

Preventive Measures for Non-Diabetic Dogs

For non-diabetic dogs, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight are key preventive measures to help reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Routine veterinary checkups can also help catch early signs of the disease, especially in breeds prone to diabetes.

Diabetes in dogs is manageable. It’s important to keep up with your dog’s daily walks, watch your dog’s weight and look for any changes in your dog’s health or demeanor. 

Make sure to keep up with the vet visits and if properly monitored, your dog can still live a long, happy life.