Diabetes in dogs is a condition that occurs when the body either no longer produces sufficient insulin (type I diabetes) or when cells become resistant to insulin’s action (type II diabetes). This prevents glucose (sugar) from being properly used by the body, causing elevated blood sugar levels.

In dogs, type I diabetes is most common, resulting from autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic cells or pancreatitis.

Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs

Typical signs include:

• Increased thirst
• Increased hunger
• Frequent urination
• Weight loss

Other potential symptoms include:

• Infections (skin, urinary)
• Cataracts

When these symptoms appear without general deterioration, it’s called “uncomplicated diabetes.” However, accumulation of metabolic waste such as ketone bodies leads to “complicated diabetes,” causing:

• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Dehydration
• Vomiting
• Coma and, in severe cases, death

Treating Diabetes in Dogs

Treatment depends on the dog’s condition at diagnosis. If the diabetes is complicated (ketoacidotic diabetes), hospitalization is necessary to stabilize the animal before home care can begin.

Treatment Objectives

Unlike human diabetes, strict blood sugar control is not the primary goal for dogs. The main objectives are to improve quality of life for both dog and owner by:

• Reducing symptoms (e.g., excessive urination and nighttime awakenings)
• Minimizing glucose in urine
• Preventing complications (e.g., cataracts, ketoacidosis)

Treatment Methods

Insulin Injections

Diabetic dogs require synthetic insulin injections twice daily for life, administered subcutaneously. Commonly used insulins include:

• Caninsulin® (porcine zinc insulin)
• Levemir® (insulin detemir)

Side Effects of Insulin

The primary risk associated with insulin therapy is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), often due to overdosing or administration errors.

• Weakness, dizziness
• Coordination problems
• Stiffness, seizures
• Coma, potentially death in severe cases

If concerned, immediately contact your veterinarian.

Diabetic Dog Diet

A tailored diet is crucial for stabilizing blood sugar:

• Prefer wet food (lower sugar, higher water content)
• Calculate and adhere to daily food amounts
• Weight-loss diets if overweight
• Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calorie intake

Monitoring and Follow-up

Regular monitoring is vital for adjusting treatment effectively.

Recommended tests include:

• Glucose curve: Multiple daily glucose measurements with a glucometer to adjust insulin dosage
• Urine analysis: Detection of glucose or ketones
• Fructosamine test: Indicates average blood glucose over several weeks
• Biannual blood and urine tests: Monitor complications and related conditions

How to Diagnose Diabetes?

Diagnosis relies on clinical signs and elevated blood and urine glucose levels. Predisposing factors include:

• Obesity
• Underlying diseases (e.g., hyperadrenocorticism, pancreatitis)
• Cortisone medication
• Pregnancy
• Breed predisposition (e.g., Schnauzers)

A complete health assessment is recommended to identify associated issues.

Summary

Diabetes is a common disease in dogs, characterized by increased thirst, hunger, frequent urination, and weight loss. Management includes insulin injections and dietary modifications, with regular monitoring essential to prevent complications.

If you suspect your dog has diabetes, schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians for evaluation.