Diabetes in dogs is a condition that seems overwhelming, but it’s actually manageable. Known as diabetes mellitus, this disease occurs when a dog’s body cannot effectively regulate blood sugar levels, which leads to an excess of glucose in your dog’s bloodstream.

Diabetes in dogs can affect canines of any age, breed, or gender, but certain factors may increase their risk. Understanding what causes diabetes in dogs is the first step to preventing and managing this serious yet treatable disease. 

What is Diabetes in Dogs?

This condition is a metabolic disorder that happens when your dog’s body can’t use or produce insulin, an important hormone for regulating your dog’s blood sugar levels and helps convert glucose to energy.

Without enough insulin, or when the body can’t use it effectively, the residual glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to hyperglycemia.

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 happens when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, which is usually because of the damage involving insulin-producing beta cells. 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 does not recognize the insulin or the pancreas produces insufficient amounts of insulin. Type 2 diabetes is quite rarer in dogs than in cats but can occasionally be seen in overweight or older dogs.

What Causes of Diabetes in Dogs?

The causes of diabetes in dogs can vary. While some causes 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 diabetes mainly because of their genetics. Breeds commonly at higher risk include:

• Miniature Schnauzers

• Poodles

• Dachshunds

• Labrador Retrievers

• Pomeranians

Autoimmune Destruction of Beta Cells

In Type 1 diabetes, the dog’s immune system itself mistakenly attacks the beta cells in the pancreas. Because of this, the pancreas will be unable to produce enough insulin. While the damage itself is not preventable, it can be managed with the right care.

Health Factors

One significant cause of diabetes in dogs is obesity. Obesity can lead to excess body fat, which can lead to insulin resistance. This means that the body’s cells can’t respond properly to insulin.  Feeding your dog a high-fat or low-quality diet can make it worse and increase the risk of diabetes.

Additionally, age also plays a huge role. Older dogs are more prone to diabetes, as the body’s ability to regulate glucose naturally declines with age. Gender also plays a role, with unspayed female dogs prone to hormonal fluctuations during heat cycles and pregnancy.

Chronic Illnesses

Chronic inflammation of the pancreas, or pancreatitis, can damage the organ over time, impairing its ability to produce insulin. Dogs with a history of pancreatitis are at greater risk of developing diabetes. Pancreatitis itself can occur due to factors like high-fat diets, obesity, or certain medical conditions.

Chronic infections or other illnesses can stress a dog’s body, leading to temporary or chronic insulin resistance. Conditions like urinary tract infections or severe bacterial infections can contribute to diabetes development in vulnerable dogs.

Hormonal Imbalances

Certain hormonal disorders can interfere with insulin production or its effectiveness. One example is Cushing’s Disease. This is a condition where there’s an overproduction of cortisol, a hormone that could antagonize insulin and cause diabetes in dogs.

What are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs?

Because diabetes can develop gradually, subtle changes in your dog’s behavior or physical condition might go unnoticed at first. However, as the condition progresses, certain signs become more apparent. Here are the common signs of diabetes in dogs:

Increased Thirst and Urination

One of the first signs of diabetes in dogs is excessive thirst and urination. You may notice your dog drinking more water more frequently, which then leads to increased urination. 

This typically happens because the high blood sugar levels can make your dog’s body lose more fluids and want more in return.

Increased Appetite and Weight Loss

Many diabetic dogs experience an increase in appetite. Their cells are essentially starving for energy because glucose cannot enter them without insulin. This leaves your dog feeling constantly hungry, even after eating.

Despite having a healthy appetite or even eating more than usual, diabetic dogs often lose weight. This occurs because their bodies cannot properly absorb glucose from food, leading to the breakdown of fat and muscle for energy.

Lethargy and Weakness

As diabetes progresses, your dogs 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.

Health Issues

Diabetes can lead to cataracts, a condition where your dog’s eyes become cloudy. If untreated, cataracts can result in partial or complete blindness. This symptom is particularly common in diabetic dogs and may be one of the first visible signs of the disease.

Dogs with diabetes become more vulnerable to issues such as UTIs and skin infections. This also means that infections can easily come back. In addition, more severe problems such as seizures and kidney failure are also possible symptoms.

How to Diagnose Diabetes in Dogs?

Diagnosing diabetes in dogs uses a mix of examination, lab tests, and evaluating your dog’s medical history.

Vet Exam

The diagnostic process begins with a detailed examination. Before proceeding to the tests, we’ll ask about any symptoms you've noticed, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, or other changes you have noticed.

Blood Glucose Testing

One of the primary tools we use for diagnosing diabetes in dogs is a blood glucose test. The test will inspect a small blood sample to measure the glucose levels in your dog’s bloodstream. High levels of blood sugar will indicate diabetes.

Urinalysis

A urinalysis is another key diagnostic tool. Our vets will test your dog’s urine for the presence of two important glucose and ketones. 

• Glucose: High sugar levels in urine indicate that the kidneys are expelling excess glucose due to elevated blood sugar.

• Ketones: These are byproducts of fat metabolism that appear when the body cannot use glucose for energy. 

Additional Tests

In some cases, we may make use of additional lab tests to evaluate your dog’s overall health and identify any health problems relating to diabetes. These may include:

• Complete Blood Count: This blood test checks for infections and dehydration.

• Biochemistry Panel: A biochemistry panel is used to assess the functions of related organs, which can involve the liver and kidneys.

• Imaging Tests: Ultrasounds or X-rays may be used to check for your dog’s organs as well as conditions like pancreatitis.

How to Treat Diabetes in Dogs?

Managing diabetes in dogs uses a combination of medical treatment, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes. Here are the key components of managing diabetes in dogs:

Insulin Therapy

The cornerstone of treatment for diabetes in dogs is insulin therapy. Since most diabetic dogs have Type 1 diabetes, where the pancreas cannot produce insulin, insulin injections are necessary daily.

Because of the nature of diabetes, insulin therapy is a commitment to your dog’s health. You will have to follow your dog’s insulin injection schedule consistently. Our vets will show you the correct way to provide these shots.

Dietary Management

A proper diet is critical for stabilizing blood sugar levels. We’ll work with you to create a detailed nutritional plan for your dogs, ensuring that your best friend eats high-fiber meals with low fat. In some cases, we will make use of a prescription diet.

We’ll also need you to feed your dog consistently each day, matching the schedule for insulin shots. Make sure to provide adequate amounts only to avoid overfeeding.

Regular Exercise

Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, which is super important for dogs with diabetes. However, consistency is key. Moderate exercise at good periods is a great routine.

Preventive Measures for Diabetes in Dogs

While diabetes in dogs can’t be completely prevented because of the inclusion of some genetic and autoimmune factors, you can reduce the risks. Here are ways you can do it:

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is a huge risk factor for diabetes in dogs. Avoid overfeeding your dog too much. Make sure to provide regular exercise, such as walks and play sessions. Vet visits can help you know if you’re on the right track.

Feed a Balanced Diet

A nutritious, well-balanced diet supports healthy metabolism and helps prevent obesity. High-quality dog food is a good choice, as these specially formulated foods provide your dog’s nutritional needs. If you want natural options, you can ask our vets or refer to our dog food guide.

Spay Female Dogs

Unspayed female dogs experience hormonal fluctuations during heat cycles, which can increase their risk of developing insulin resistance. Spaying your dog not only reduces this risk but also prevents complications related to reproductive health.

Conclusion

If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, treatments like insulin therapy, dietary adjustments, and regular exercise can help stabilize your best friend’s condition. With a proactive approach to prevention and lifelong care, diabetic dogs can live happy, healthy lives.