Canine Diabetes

Canine Diabetes - It’s a Real Thing!

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month — Understanding Diabetes in Dogs

Diabetes isn’t just a human condition — our dogs can develop it too. In fact, canine diabetes is one of the most common hormonal disorders seen in veterinary medicine, and awareness can make all the difference in early detection and quality of life.¹

What Is Diabetes in Dogs

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose). Glucose provides energy to cells, but it depends on insulin — a hormone produced by the pancreas — to move from the bloodstream into the cells.

In diabetic dogs, this process breaks down in one of two ways:

• Type I (Insulin-Dependent) Diabetes – The most common form in dogs. The pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, often due to immune system destruction of insulin-producing cells.²

• Type II (Insulin-Resistant) Diabetes – Less common in dogs (more typical in cats). The pancreas makes insulin, but the body doesn’t respond properly.³

Regardless of type, the result is the same: glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy.

How Do Dogs Develop Diabetes

While genetics play a role, several factors can increase a dog’s risk:

• Breed Predisposition: Schnauzers, Dachshunds, Poodles, Beagles, and Labrador Retrievers are among the most commonly affected.¹

• Age and Sex: Middle-aged to senior dogs are most at risk, and females tend to be diagnosed twice as often as males.⁴

• Obesity: Excess body fat contributes to insulin resistance, setting the stage for diabetes.⁵

• Pancreatitis: Chronic inflammation of the pancreas can damage insulin-producing cells.²

• Hormonal Disorders: Conditions such as Cushing’s disease or long-term steroid use can interfere with insulin action.³

Common Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs

Early detection is crucial. Watch for these hallmark signs:

• Increased thirst and urination (polydipsia and polyuria)

• Increased appetite combined with weight loss

• Cloudy eyes or cataracts

• Lethargy or decreased activity

• Sweet-smelling breath (a sign of high ketone levels)

If left untreated, dogs can develop diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) — a life-threatening emergency that causes vomiting, dehydration, and collapse.⁶

Diagnosing Diabetes

Your veterinarian will confirm the diagnosis through:

• Blood tests: Elevated blood glucose and fructosamine levels

• Urinalysis: Presence of glucose and possibly ketones in urine

• Physical exam: Assessment of weight, body condition, and cataracts

Diagnosis is usually straightforward with these combined findings.⁴

Treatment and Management

While there’s no cure for diabetes, it is manageable with consistent care and routine monitoring.⁷

1. Insulin Therapy:
   Most diabetic dogs require daily insulin injections. Modern veterinary syringes make this relatively simple, and dogs adapt quickly when owners are calm and consistent.²

2. Diet and Weight Management:
   A consistent, balanced diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates helps stabilize glucose levels. Maintaining a healthy weight is vital.⁵

3. Exercise:
   Regular, moderate exercise improves insulin efficiency and helps prevent dangerous fluctuations in blood sugar.¹

4. Routine Monitoring:
   Owners should watch for changes in thirst, urination, appetite, or behavior and schedule regular blood glucose checks with their vet.⁶

Prognosis — Can Diabetic Dogs Live a Normal Life?

Yes — with proper treatment, many diabetic dogs live full, active lives. The key lies in routine: regular feeding times, consistent insulin doses, and steady activity levels. Most dogs stabilize within weeks of diagnosis, and their overall well-being improves noticeably once blood sugar levels are under control.⁷

However, untreated diabetes can lead to complications like blindness, urinary tract infections, or life-threatening DKA. Early intervention makes all the difference.

How Training Supports a Diabetic Dog’s Health

At PJH Dog Training, we know that structure and predictability don’t just make for better behavior — they’re essential for dogs managing chronic health conditions like diabetes.

• Consistency in feeding and walking times helps regulate blood sugar and supports medication schedules.

• Calm, positive handling techniques minimize stress, which can otherwise affect glucose levels.

• Controlled exercise routines ensure your dog stays active without overexertion.

• Customized training plans help owners establish daily structure, leash manners, and low-arousal enrichment activities that make care easier and safer.

If your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, consider speaking with your veterinarian and trainer together to create a routine that supports both medical and behavioral health. Balanced care and compassionate training go hand in hand — and your dog deserves nothing less.

Ready to Support Your Dog’s Health?

Learn how structure, enrichment, and calm handling can help your dog live a healthier, more balanced life.
Explore our programs at PJH Dog Training or book a personalized session today.
You can also reach us directly at pepe.pjhdogtraining@gmail.com.

References

1. American Kennel Club (AKC)

2. Merck Veterinary Manual

3. VCA Animal Hospitals

4. University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine

5. American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)

6. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

7. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

November is National Diabetes Month, and on our One Health forum we're shining a light on how diabetes affects both people and our animal companions. Because health in humans, pets, and ecosystems is interconnected, it's important to consider all sides of this significant condition.