Diabetes Symptoms in Dogs

Diabetes in dogs is a very common dog illness, that needs early treatment, so that, the dog can lead a healthy life. Diabetes is a result of insulin deficiency and it can turn fatal if it is not diagnosed early. It is observed that female dogs are at higher risk of having diabetes, as compared to male dogs. Almost all dog breeds can get diabetes, but there are certain breeds that have increased susceptibility towards developing diabetes. These dog breeds include, Poodle, Doberman, Dachshund, Keeshond, etc. Before knowing the diabetes symptoms in dogs, let us take a look at some brief information on diabetes in dogs.

Diabetes in Dogs

As mentioned earlier, diabetes is a consequence of insulin deficiency in the body. There are basically two types of diabetes in dogs, they are, diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus. Type 1 and type 2 are two types of diabetes mellitus. Type 1 diabetes is also referred as juvenile diabetes since it is observed in younger dogs. Diabetes mellitus is more commonly observed as compared to diabetes insipidus. In type 1 diabetes, the dog's pancreas is unable to produce enough amount of insulin, while in type 2 diabetes the produced insulin is not utilized by the body properly. In canine diabetes insipidus, the dog suffers from deficiency of anti-diuretics which further causes insulin deficiency. The list of causes of diabetes in dogs includes, obesity, hereditary factors, hormonal changes, other dog health problem like canine Cushing's disease, side effects of certain medications, etc. Let us take a look at some of the commonly observed symptoms of diabetes in dogs.

Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs

If the early symptoms of diabetes in dogs are missed out, then it becomes difficult to treat the diabetic dog. Extreme cases of canine diabetes can lead to blindness and eventually into death. Thus, it is necessary for every pet owner to have the exact knowledge about canine diabetes, its causes and symptoms. The diabetes symptoms in dogs are usually observed in a gradual manner. Also, make a note that the symptoms of diabetes may differ for every dog. Given below is the list of some of the commonly observed signs and symptoms of diabetes in dogs.

Excessive drinking of water and frequent urination: Both these symptoms are actually interdependent. The excess urination is due to inability of the body to hold the excess unprocessed glucose in the body. The frequent urination (polyuria) further causes increase in thirst and hence, the increased water intake (polydipsia). There are chances that the symptom, excessive water drinking may go unnoticed. But even if excessive drinking may go unnoticed, frequent urination can be noticed easily. These are some of the early symptoms of diabetes in dogs and hence, it is necessary that you consult a veterinarian at the earliest when you observe these abnormalities in your dog.

Lethargic behavior: Lethargy is one more prominent symptom of diabetes in dogs. Your dog which used to be active all the time, may be seen spending most of the time either sleeping or just lying around due to diabetes. Physical activities may make the dog tired very soon. Sometimes, shaking and shivering of the body are also observed in diabetic dogs.

Other symptoms of diabetes in dogs: It is observed, that diabetic dogs lose weight suddenly even when they eat their food properly. This is basically because of the burning of the fat cells for the production of energy. Sometimes, sudden weight gain may also be observed. Sweet breath is an indication of increased sugar level in the body. The dog may also develop cataract and it may be at high risk of developing infections. These infections include, gum infections, urinary infections and fungal infections. Depression, weakness, vomiting, rapid breathing, etc are some more commonly observed symptoms of diabetes in dogs.

If diabetes is diagnosed in its last stage, then it becomes difficult to treat the dog. Thus, if you observe any of the diabetes symptoms in dogs, then make sure you make an immediate appointment with a veterinarian. Due to diagnosis of diabetes in your dog you may require to make some important changes in your dog's lifestyle. These lifestyle changes will help the dog to recover from the ailment and the dog can live a good life.