Did you learn about diabetes when you were growing up? Did you learn that humans can develop diabetes? Well, did you know your dog can have diabetes too?

Yeah, me neither.

Up until recently, I had no idea dogs could get diabetes. In my mind, diabetes was something that happened to people, not adorable, clumsy, nose-to-the-ground lovers that bring us silly socks and cuddles.

But your dog really can have diabetes. In fact, diabetes in dogs is more common than you think. If your pup has been drinking more water lately, having more accidents inside, or just seems “off” — please read this article.

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What Is Diabetes in Dogs?

Diabetes in dogs functions in a very similar way to how diabetes functions in humans. It all has to do with insulin.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that facilitates the movement of glucose (aka sugar) from the bloodstream into cells throughout the body to be used as energy.

When diabetes develops, either the pancreas stops producing enough insulin or the body doesn’t respond to insulin like it should.

Without insulin triggering glucose to enter cells, blood sugar will rise and stay high. Cells are essentially starving for energy and send out “help” signals. You will notice these signals in the form of symptoms.

Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs is divided into two types:

Type I Diabetes (aka Insulin Deficiency Diabetes): The pancreas does not produce enough insulin.

Type II Diabetes (aka Insulin Resistance Diabetes): The dog produces insulin, but the body doesn’t respond to it properly.

Insulin deficiency is by far the most common type of diabetes seen in dogs. Insulin resistance is more common in older dogs, obese dogs, and female dogs.

Either way, when your dog has diabetes, their body isn’t regulating blood sugar levels like it should, and it’s up to you to help them.

Who Gets Diabetes in Dogs?

While any dog can develop diabetes at any time, there are certain risk factors that may predispose your pup to the disease. Knowing what they are will allow you to keep a close eye out for warning signs.

Dog Breeds

Certain dog breeds are genetically predisposed to diabetes. Breeds that have a higher than normal incidence of diabetes include:

• Samoyeds
• Australian Terriers
• Miniature Schnauzers
• Bichon Frises
• Pugs
• Toy Poodles
• Keeshonds

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Age

Dogs can develop diabetes at any age, but they are most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 4 and 14 years old. Dogs ages 7–10 years old are the most likely to develop diabetes.

Sex

Female dogs are 2x more likely to develop diabetes than males. Hormones play a large role in this discrepancy. Unspayed females produce the hormone progesterone, which can cause insulin resistance, specifically during one phase of their heat cycle called diestrus.

Additionally, female dogs who become pregnant can develop what is called gestational insulin resistance.

Weight

Overweight dogs are much more likely to become diabetic than dogs that maintain a healthy weight. Obesity puts added strain on the pancreas, and obese dogs are much more likely to develop insulin resistance over time.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas over a long period of time can destroy the cells that produce insulin, eventually leading to diabetes.

Steroid Medications

If your dog is on long-term steroid medication, it can hinder insulin production and sensitivity.

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Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs You Should Never Ignore

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but diabetes doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time for blood sugar levels to become high enough that your pup will begin showing obvious symptoms.

Many times, symptoms are attributed to a dog “getting older” when in reality something serious may be going on.

Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs Include:

1. Increased Thirst aka Polydipsia

If your dog suddenly can’t drink enough water to satisfy their thirst and you find yourself filling the water bowl multiple times a day, there could be something going on.

Especially if you combine this symptom with #2.

Here’s what’s happening — when there is excess glucose in the blood, it spills over into the urine. Glucose pulls water with it (don’t ask me how, I’m not a scientist either), which leads to dehydration and an increased need for water.

2. Increased Urination aka Polyuria

See what I did there?

Because your pup is drinking more than normal, they are going to need to go outside more. They will also have more accidents in the house and may even start leaking urine at night if they didn’t used to previously.

3. Weight Loss Despite Having a Good Appetite

I didn’t believe this one either. How can a dog drink and pee so much that they lose weight? It all has to do with insulin.

Insulin is responsible for allowing glucose to enter cells to be used as energy. Without insulin triggering this release of glucose, the body thinks it’s starving and begins burning fat and muscle for energy.

Yep, even if Fido is eating his normal diet — and sometimes even if he’s eating MORE than his normal diet — he will still lose weight.

4. Increased Hunger aka Polyphagia

Speaking of eating normally…

Because the cells in your dog’s body aren’t receiving the signal that they have been fueled up, the brain thinks the body is starving and sends out hunger signals. Your dog may be eating meals as normal but will be constantly hungry.

5. Cloudy Eyes/Cataracts

Another diabetes symptom that many owners don’t realize is possible. Dogs with diabetes are prone to rapidly developing cataracts.

If you notice your dog’s eyes looking cloudy or they suddenly don’t see as well as they used to, diabetes could be the culprit.

6. Lethargy/Weakness

Okay, this symptom is more obvious than most, but when your pup has suddenly gone from a crazy-pants Jack Russell Terrier dropping in your lap to sleep at the slightest bump, you know something isn’t right.

Diabetic dogs are tired because their cells are literally starving for energy!

7. Recurrent Infections

Yep, we’ve reached the not-so-fun part of diabetes. Dogs with consistently high blood sugar are more prone to bacterial and yeast infections because sugar feeds those organisms like crazy.

You may notice that your dog keeps getting urinary tract infections, yeast infections on their skin or flank area, or ear infections that won’t go away no matter how many trips to the vet you make.

These are big warning signs of diabetes. If you notice one, take note. If you notice multiple, make an appointment with your vet right away.

Trust me — if your dog has diabetes, you will quickly notice several, if not all, of these symptoms.

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Diagnosing Diabetes in Dogs

Luckily, diagnosing diabetes in dogs is a pretty simple process.

Your vet will likely run two tests: a blood glucose test and a urine glucose test. Elevated glucose will be present in both your dog’s blood and urine.

Ideally, blood sugar should be below 150 mg/dL. Stress can cause your dog’s blood sugar to spike, so your vet will want to make sure those levels are consistently high and not just from one random snapshot.

Fructosamine levels may also be checked to see what your dog’s average blood sugar has been over the past 2–3 weeks. A diagnosis of diabetes mellitus will be made if blood sugar is consistently high.

If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, your vet will work with you to come up with a management plan that’s right for your pup.

Living With Diabetes

I won’t sugarcoat it (pun intended) — diabetes can be scary to think about. But did you know that diabetic dogs whose condition is well managed can live long, happy lives?

It will require some commitment on your part, but yes, it can be done!

Insulin Shots

Yep, your pup is going to need some injections. Insulin cannot currently be given orally to dogs.

Insulin injections are typically given subcutaneously (underneath the skin) once or twice daily. They can be given with a needle and syringe or via insulin injection pens.

Your vet will walk you through the whole process, and don’t worry — insulin injections don’t hurt! Plus, most dogs don’t even mind them when you pair that poke with their favorite treat or lots of praise.

Feeding

This is key when living with a diabetic dog. You need to keep your dog’s diet as consistent as possible.

Feed your dog the same food, in the same amounts, at the same time every single day. Their diet should be high in fiber and complex carbohydrates to help slow the absorption of glucose. Don’t give your dog sugary snacks, and avoid high-fat foods.

Exercise

Exercise is important, but do not change up the type of exercise you give your dog on a daily basis. Erratic bursts of activity can cause dangerous dips in blood sugar levels.

Stick with short daily walks instead of intense play sessions here and there.

Monitoring

Over time, you will be able to monitor your dog for changes in thirst and urination at home. Your vet may even show you how to monitor glucose levels at home using a glucometer designed for dogs.

Regular Vet Visits

You will also need to monitor your dog’s glucose levels with your vet on a regular basis. Too much or too little insulin can cause problems, so your vet will likely want to make sure your dog’s glucose is staying regulated.

What works in month one of treatment may not work six months down the road. Your dog’s insulin needs may increase or decrease over time as things change.

Complications

If left unmanaged, diabetes in dogs can cause serious complications. The most common and life-threatening is a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.

Diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, occurs when insulin levels are too low and fat is broken down at such a rapid rate that ketones accumulate in the bloodstream. Symptoms include vomiting, lack of appetite, extreme lethargy, and a sweet smell on the breath. Get your dog to the vet immediately if you suspect DKA.

Too much insulin can also cause problems such as severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Signs include tremors, weakness, confusion, and seizures. Keep corn syrup or honey on hand at all times if your dog is diabetic, and know the signs of hypoglycemia.

Diabetic dogs are also prone to the rapid development of cataracts.

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Can Dog Diabetes Be Prevented?

No and yes. Certain factors that can predispose your dog to diabetes are out of your control. However, there are things you can do to help decrease your dog’s risk of developing diabetes.

Keep your dog at a healthy weight. Feed a high-quality diet and avoid overfeeding your pup. Have female dogs spayed if they are not being used for breeding. And be sure to stay on top of yearly wellness visits so your vet can detect any changes in your dog’s health.

Conclusion

Diabetes in dogs can be serious if left untreated, but with the right care, it is absolutely manageable. Whether your dog has just been diagnosed or you’re simply trying to stay informed, the most important thing you can do is pay attention. Early detection truly makes all the difference in helping your pup live a long, happy, and comfortable life.

Don’t wait for your dog to show multiple symptoms before getting them checked out. You know your dog better than anyone else. If something feels off — trust your gut, pick up the phone, and call your vet. Your dog is counting on you, and catching something early could change everything.

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