Dog Diabetes Symptoms

As in humans, incidence of dog diabetes is also on the rise. It has been observed that some dog breeds, like, Cocker Spaniels, Keeshonds, Beagles, Poodles, Schnauzers, Cairn Terriers, Dachshunds, etc., are predisposed to this condition. However, diabetes is not limited to these breeds only. It is also found in members of other breeds as well, especially when it comes to obese dogs. Large dog breeds are more susceptible to diabetes, as compared to their counterparts. There are many symptoms of diabetes in dogs that can result in many complications, if left untreated. Even though, there is no cure for this condition, early detection and treatment of dog diabetes will help the affected dog lead a healthy life. A basic know how of dog diabetes symptoms will help you in detecting this condition in your pet. Scroll down to know more about dog diabetes and signs of diabetes in dogs.

What Causes Dog Diabetes

In case of dogs too, diabetes has two forms. One is diabetes mellitus and the other is diabetes insipidus. The former is the most common type of diabetes in dogs. Type 1 and type 2 are two forms of diabetes mellitus that cause a rise in blood sugar levels. Type 1 is caused by a deficiency of insulin in the body, whereas type 2 is caused by the inability of the body to use insulin. This diabetes shouldn't be confused with canine diabetes insipidus, which is a very rare condition caused by the lack of a hormone called vasopressin. As mentioned above, some breeds are prone to this condition, whereas others inherit it from one or both parents. Other causes of canine diabetes include certain diseases and use of steroids. Let us take a look at the symptoms and treatment for diabetes in dogs.

Symptoms of Dog Diabetes

Most of the dogs with diabetes have some obvious symptoms that can be a clear indication of the disease. If you are aware of such symptoms, you may be able to detect it easily. This helps in early diagnosis and treatment of canine diabetes. Providing dog diabetes treatment in the early stages is found to be far more beneficial than attending to the condition later. The following information is about some of the common symptoms of diabetes in dogs.

• A dog with diabetes will exhibit excessive thirst and will consume lots of water. This is one of the common dog diabetes symptoms.
• As the diabetic dog drinks lots of water, the frequency of urination may also rise proportionately. This will increase the workload of the kidneys, causing damage to these organs with time.
• The high blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs will affect small blood vessels, especially those, which supply blood to the retina in the eyes. This results in vision problems, which may lead to loss of vision.
• Dog diabetes symptoms include sudden weight gain or weight loss. In most cases, diabetic dogs are found to consume excess amounts of food, but lose weight considerably. Some of them may also experience loss of appetite.
• Weakness is one of the signs of dog diabetes. The dog may refrain from activities as it faces very low levels of energy. It is said that canine diabetes symptoms include weakness of the hind legs.
• Other symptoms of dog diabetes includes lack of sleep, depression, vomiting and abdominal pain, etc.

Once you notice such symptoms in your dog, you have to take him/her to a veterinarian and get the condition diagnosed. It has also been noted that some of the diabetic dogs do not show any of the above said symptoms. So, it is always advisable to monitor the blood sugar levels of your dog at regular intervals. If you're wondering about how to treat dog diabetes, then this is one of the common query regarding canine diabetes. In general, insulin injections are used to treat dog diabetes symptoms. In some cases, oral medications are also administered. Along with medication, the diet of the dog must also be regulated. Timely treatment may help a diabetic dog lead a normal and healthy life.