Diabetes in Dogs

Diabetes in dogs is not uncommon. They can get diabetes, just like humans can.

Your dog may be especially susceptible if:

• They are obese
• Age 7 to 9
• Bigger dogs are more likely to get dog diabetes than smaller breeds
• Female dogs are twice as likely than male dogs

Dogs can get diabetes even if they don't have any of the symptoms listed above. Sometimes it may be genetic.

Following is a list of some of the signs of diabetes in dogs:

• Excessive drinking
• Weight loss
• Excessive urination
• Sudden blindness
• Lethargy
• Increased appetite

If you notice one or more of the above symptoms, you should take your dog to your vet as soon as possible. Dog diabetes is a life-threatening disease, and should be taken very seriously.

There are two types of dog diabetes - Diabetes Insipidus and Diabetes Mellitus. Diabetes is caused by the malfunction of the endocrine glands. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by the lack of vasopressin, an anti-diuretic hormone that controls the kidney’s absorption of water.

Diabetes mellitus is an insulin deficiency where the dog’s body can’t metabolize sugar well. This is the more common, and more dangerous, type of diabetes. A deficiency of the hormone insulin impairs the body's ability to metabolize sugar. It is one of the most common hormonal diseases of dogs.

There are two types of diabetes mellitus in dogs. Type I and Type II diabetes in dogs are very similar to the types that affect humans. Dogs usually have the type I variety.

Type I occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin. This can be the result of destruction of the cells in the pancreas that normally produce insulin. This form does not produce enough insulin and requires insulin injections to control the disease. Type I diabetes occurs when the dog is young, and is also known as juvenile dog diabetes. It usually occurs in dogs less than 1 year of age. Any breed can be affected.

Type II occurs when enough insulin is produced, but cannot be utilized properly by the body. Type II diabetes normally affects older dogs.

Proper diet is important in the management of dog diabetes - just like in people. A high fiber diet and exercise should help control you dog's diabetes.

If your dog is a female, spaying her will help reduce the effects of estrogen on her diabetes.

You will also need to learn to monitor your dog's blood sugar at home. Purchasing one of the newer blood glucose meters that require very small blood samples is best because it can be difficult to get blood from your dog.

Some medications may be necessary for dogs suffering from dog diabetes. Unlike cats, treatment of diabetes in dogs often requires insulin injections. They can extend the life of your pet and allow him or her to live normally.