How to Treat Diabetes in Dogs

Dogs most at risk of developing diabetes are dogs that are older (middle aged), overweight dogs and female dogs. Some risk factors are a genetic predisposition, obesity and pregnancy. The most common symptoms include a sudden weight loss, increased thirst and lethargy. If you suspect your dog may have diabetes it is best to start treatment as soon as possible.

Diabetes can be just as dangerous for dogs as it is for humans and they share many of the same causes. Unfortunately, man’s best friend can’t make the decisions necessary keep itself healthy.  That is why as owners we must be alert to changes in our dog’s health and behavior. If your dog shows symptoms of diabetes:

• Get a professional diagnosis from your veterinarian.  A veterinarian can determine the severity of the dog’s condition and if any damage has been done to the dog’s system.


• Accept the fact that your dog’s life style and diet will have to change in order to deal with the disease and to protect your dog’s health.


• Changing your dog’s diet to a low sugar and low fat regime will be required especially if your pooch is overweight.


• Controlling the diabetes may be as simple as a diet change and some prescription drugs if the condition is mild.


• Treating a dog with a severe case of diabetes is much more complicated because it requires insulin injections.


• Determining the level, type and frequency of the insulin injections depends on the size of the dog and the severity of the disease.


• Testing your dog’s blood sugar and monitoring of the disease will require more trips to the vet to keep your dog healthy and insure a good quality of life.