Diabetes in dogs is a condition that happens when their blood sugar levels get extremely high. This is when the body cannot regulate its own blood sugar, either through insufficient insulin production or an acquired resistance to it. 

Insulin is responsible for moving glucose to the cells that use it. In a healthy dog, insulin effectively metabolizes sugar into usable energy. It’s produced by the pancreas and is an important hormone for bodily functions. 

Diabetic dogs will have an excess of glucose in the bloodstream, leading to several health problems like hyperglycemia. Plus, diabetes can affect dogs of any age, breed, or size. However, there are certain factors that can increase the risk.  

With that, we'll talk about everything you need to know about canine diabetes.

What Are the Types of Diabetes in Dogs?

Just like in humans, dogs can experience two types of diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes

This is the most common form of diabetes in dogs. Type 1 diabetes in dogs occurs when the pancreas itself cannot produce enough insulin. This is often due to damage to the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. 

This is considered an autoimmune condition and typically requires lifelong insulin therapy.

Type 2 Diabetes

While rare in dogs, this form occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin, which means it doesn't respond to it. Type 2 diabetes is quite rarer in dogs than in cats, but can occasionally be seen in overweight or older dogs.

What Causes Diabetes in Dogs?

Diabetes in dogs can come as a result of several health conditions. While some are beyond control, others are influenced by lifestyle and care. Here are the common causes of diabetes in dogs:

Genetic Predisposition

Some dog breeds are genetically predisposed to diabetes, meaning they are more likely to develop it, mainly because of their genetics. Breeds commonly at higher risk include:

• Miniature Schnauzers

• Beagles

• Poodles

• Dachshunds

• Pomeranians

• Labrador Retrievers

• Samoyeds

Autoimmune Destruction of Pancreatic Beta Cells

In Type 1 diabetes, the dog’s immune system mistakenly attacks the beta cells in the pancreas. Because of this, the pancreas will be unable to produce enough insulin. This will prevent the use of glucose for energy. The main reason for this autoimmune response is still unknown. 

Chronic Pancreatitis

In pancreatitis, the pancreatic cells, including the insulin-producing beta cells, are destroyed. When this happens, the destroyed cells are replaced with fibrous connective tissue. As a result, the pancreas gradually loses the ability to produce insulin.

Dogs with a history of pancreatitis are at greater risk of developing diabetes. It can also happen due to high-fat foods, certain medications, trauma, and genetics. 

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can get in the way of a dog's insulin function. One example is Cushing’s disease. Here, the body produces too much cortisol. As a result, the overproduction of cortisol can lead to insulin resistance. 

Hormonal shifts during a female dog’s heat cycle or pregnancy can also be a possible cause.

Health Factors

Excessive weight gain is another factor that can contribute to diabetes in dogs. If dogs gain too much weight, the body can potentially develop insulin resistance or strain the pancreas. This often happens when owners consistently give uncontrolled portions, fatty foods, and table scraps. 

The dog's age can also play a role. Older dogs are considerably more prone to diabetes, mainly because their bodies slowly lose their ability to regulate glucose. 

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs?

The symptoms will start and develop gradually, with subtle changes in your dog's behavior. 

• Increased Thirst and Urination. You may notice your dog drinking more water more frequently, which then leads to increased urination. It’s generally because the elevated blood sugar causes the body to lose water and electrolytes.

• Increased Appetite and Weight Loss. Many diabetic dogs can feel hungrier at times because their cells are starving for energy. However, dogs may still lose weight despite the excessive hunger because their body breaks down fat and muscle for energy. 

• Lethargy and Weakness. As diabetes progresses, your dog may appear unusually tired or weak. They might be less interested in playing and running like they used to. Muscle weakness is also common because of the lack of glucose coming into the muscles.

• Other Health Issues. Diabetes in dogs can also lead to several health problems, including cataracts, urinary tract infections, seizures, and kidney failure.