Diabetes in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Welcome to Waggy's blog! This time, we'll be tackling a crucial topic for the health of our beloved canine companions: diabetes in dogs. Diabetes is a disease that can seriously affect the quality of life of our furry friends, but with proper management, it's possible to keep them happy and healthy. We'll explain what diabetes is in dogs, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. We'll also discuss how proper nutrition and following certain preventative tips can help reduce the risk of this disease. Join us as we delve into these topics so you can offer the best care to your pet. Let's get started!

What is diabetes in dogs?

Diabetes mellitus in dogs is a chronic disease that occurs when a dog's body either cannot produce enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or cannot use it properly (type 2 diabetes). Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose (sugar) in the blood to enter the body's cells to be used for energy. Without adequate insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, which can lead to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).

Causes of diabetes in dogs

Diabetes in dogs can be caused by several factors, which often combine to trigger the disease:

Genetics: Some dog breeds have a genetic predisposition to developing diabetes, the breeds may be the following;

• Poodle
• Schnauzer
• Beagle
• Samoyed
• Dachshund

Obesity: Obesity is a significant risk factor for the development of diabetes in dogs. Excess body fat can interfere with insulin action and contribute to insulin resistance.

Pancreatitis: Chronic inflammation of the pancreas can damage the cells that produce insulin, leading to insufficient production of this hormone.

Hormonal Disorders: Some hormonal disorders, such as Cushing's syndrome (hyperadrenocorticism) and hypothyroidism, can increase the risk of diabetes in dogs.

Infections and Diseases: Chronic infections and other diseases can affect pancreatic function and insulin production.

Medications: Certain medications, such as glucocorticoids and progestins, can induce diabetes in dogs by interfering with the action of insulin.

Age and Gender: Diabetes in dogs is more common in older dogs and females. Unspayed female dogs are at higher risk due to hormonal fluctuations associated with the estrous cycle.

Diet: A bland dog diet high in carbohydrates coupled with low physical activity can contribute to the development of diabetes by affecting blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity.

If you are looking for a delicious and healthy way to reward your dog, we recommend the relaxing treats for dogs Waggy's Bites with 100% natural proteins in Salmon or Tuna flavors. These treats are NOT food, but an ideal complement to positively reinforce your pet's training or simply to strengthen the emotional bond between the two of you. Waggy's Bites are made with the highest quality ingredients and CBD for dogs , ensuring that each bite is delicious and natural. Your dog will love its flavor, and you can rest easy knowing that you are giving him the best.

Types of diabetes in dogs

There are mainly two types of diabetes in mini toy dogs , similar to those that occur in humans:

• Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (Insulin Dependent): This is the most common type of diabetes in dogs. It occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. Insulin is an essential hormone that allows blood glucose to enter the body's cells to be used for energy. Without adequate insulin, blood glucose levels become dangerously high.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (Non-Insulin Dependent): This type of diabetes is less common in dogs. In this case, the body produces insulin but the cells do not respond properly to it, which is known as insulin resistance.

Symptoms of diabetes in dogs

Symptoms of diabetes in dogs can vary, but there are several common signs that may indicate the presence of this disease:

• Diabetic dogs often drink more water than normal due to hyperglycemia.
• Frequent urination is another common symptom as the kidneys attempt to remove excess glucose from the blood through urine.
• Despite having a good appetite, dogs with diabetes may lose weight because their body cannot properly use glucose as an energy source.
• Diabetic dogs may show an increased appetite because their cells are not receiving enough glucose, despite high blood levels.
• Lack of energy due to the inability of cells to obtain glucose can cause lethargy and weakness.
• Diabetes can cause rapid development of cataracts, which can result in blurred vision or blindness.
• Diabetic dogs may be more prone to infections, especially urinary and skin infections, due to high blood glucose levels.
• In severe cases, a diabetic dog's breath may have a sweet or fruity odor due to diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of uncontrolled diabetes.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is crucial to take him to the vet for proper examination and testing. Early diagnosis and proper management can help your dog lead a happy and healthy life despite diabetes.

Diagnosing diabetes in dogs

Diagnosing diabetes in dogs is done through a combination of history, physical exam, and laboratory tests. Your veterinarian will begin by assessing your dog's symptoms and behavior, followed by blood and urine tests to measure glucose levels. Persistent hyperglycemia, along with the presence of glucose in the urine (glycosuria), are key indicators of diabetes. In some cases, additional tests, such as measuring fructosamine or glycosylated hemoglobin, may be performed to assess long-term blood glucose control. This data allows your veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis and design an appropriate treatment plan for managing diabetes in your dog.

Treatment of diabetes in dogs

Most diabetic dogs require daily insulin injections to control their blood glucose levels. The dose and type of insulin is adjusted based on the dog's response and determined through regular glucose testing. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is also essential to adjust treatment and prevent complications. This may include home glucose testing or regular visits to the veterinarian for more detailed testing.

Feeding a dog with diabetes

Feeding a diabetic dog is a crucial component in managing the disease. A proper diet can help stabilize blood glucose levels, improve insulin effectiveness, and maintain a healthy weight:

Fiber helps regulate digestion and control blood glucose spikes after meals. It can come from sources such as beet pulp, bran, and vegetables.

• Low-fat diets help prevent obesity, which can complicate diabetes management.
• Opt for complex carbohydrates rather than simple ones, as they are digested and absorbed more slowly, helping to avoid sudden spikes in blood glucose. Examples include brown rice and barley.
• Provide high-quality protein from lean meats, fish and chicken. Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health of your dog.

What happens if diabetes in a dog is not treated?

If diabetes in a dog is left untreated, it can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences. Persistent high blood glucose can cause damage to various organs and systems in the body. Untreated dogs can develop diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous condition that occurs when the body begins to break down fats instead of glucose for energy, producing acids called ketone bodies that in large quantities are neurotoxic. Additionally, untreated diabetes can lead to complications such as cataracts, recurrent infections, and loss of muscle mass, significantly affecting the dog's quality of life. For these reasons, it is crucial to seek veterinary care and follow a proper treatment plan to manage diabetes in dogs.

How long can a dog live with diabetes?

The life expectancy of a diabetic dog can be almost as long as that of a non-diabetic dog, as long as it receives proper treatment and management. With early diagnosis, a well-controlled insulin regimen, proper diet, regular exercise, and frequent veterinary checkups, many diabetic dogs can live full, healthy lives. The key is to keep blood glucose levels stable and avoid secondary complications. However, exact life expectancy can vary based on individual factors such as breed, age at diagnosis, presence of other health conditions, and owner commitment to treatment.

Tips to prevent diabetes in dogs

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a major risk factor for diabetes in dogs. Make sure your dog has a balanced, calorie-controlled diet, and provide regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
• Provide a balanced diet: Provide a dog diet high in protein and fiber , and low in simple carbohydrates and fat. Avoid processed foods and high-sugar treats that can contribute to weight gain and glucose imbalances, such as ice cream for dogs or cakes and pies for dogs.
• Encourage regular exercise: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and improves insulin sensitivity. Establish a routine of dog games and daily walks to keep your dog active.

To keep your pet active and reduce anxiety, we recommend the Waggy's Crazy Ball. This innovative ball has 3 interactive modes that will stimulate your pet both physically and mentally. With its own light and bouncy design, it guarantees hours of fun. In addition, it is rechargeable, easy to clean and is made with materials that are safe for your pet's health. The Waggy's Crazy Ball is an excellent option to provide entertainment and exercise for your pet, keeping it happy and healthy.

• Get regular veterinary checkups: Regular visits to the vet can help detect early signs of diabetes or other health problems. Regular checkups allow you to monitor your dog's overall health and adjust treatment or diet as needed.
• Avoid long-term use of medications that may induce diabetes: If your dog requires medication for other health conditions, make sure your veterinarian is aware of your pet's potential side effects, such as the risk of diabetes, and monitors your dog closely to minimize any adverse effects.

Conclusion

Diabetes in dogs is a serious but manageable disease with proper treatment and a proactive approach to care. Maintaining a healthy weight, offering a balanced diet, and ensuring regular exercise are key to preventing the onset of this disease. Regular veterinary checkups are essential to detect any early signs and adjust treatment as needed. As pet owners, it is our responsibility to provide the best possible care and be attentive to the needs of our canine companions. Acting with prevention and dedication can make all the difference in the health and quality of life of your dog.