Top 10 Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs You Should Know

Diabetes in dogs is a chronic condition requiring vigilant management to ensure your pet leads a healthy, happy life. While it cannot be cured, early recognition and proactive treatment can greatly improve your dog’s well-being.

Properly managed diabetic dogs can enjoy normal activities and quality of life provided their diet, insulin levels, and lifestyle adjustments are carefully monitored by owners in partnership with their vet.

If left untreated, diabetes not only drastically impacts a dog’s health but can lead to life-threatening complications. Recognising the warning signs early is essential.

Understanding Diabetes in Dogs

There are two main types of diabetes in dogs: type 1, where the pancreas produces insufficient insulin, and type 2, more common in older dogs, where insulin use is impaired. Both types typically require lifestyle changes, often combined with insulin injections to help regulate blood glucose.

Top 10 Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs

1. Increased Thirst and Urination

One of the first clues of diabetes is excessive thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria). Dogs drink more water than usual, leading to regular bathroom visits. This happens because high blood sugar causes fluid imbalance.

2. Increased Appetite with Weight Loss

Despite seeming perpetually hungry (polyphagia), diabetic dogs may lose weight due to the body's inability to use glucose for energy properly. Watch for sudden and unexplained weight loss even with increased eating.

3. Loss of Condition and Dull Coat

Diabetes affects the whole body, often causing a dull, dry coat. Dogs might develop patchy fur or dandruff, appearing less well-groomed despite good care.

4. Lethargy and Reduced Interest in Exercise

A diabetic dog may become unusually tired or weak, showing less enthusiasm for walks and playtime, which can reflect low energy availability.

5. Hind Limb Weakness (Diabetic Neuropathy)

Some diabetic dogs develop neuropathy affecting their hind legs, causing weakness or shakiness, making movement difficult.

6. Urinary Issues and Inappropriate Toileting

Frequent urination can lead to accidents inside the home. This may be mistaken for incontinence, though diabetes itself doesn’t cause incontinence.

7. Sweet-Smelling Urine and Breath

When the body lacks usable glucose, it metabolises fat stores, leading to ketosis. This can cause a sweet or fruity smell in urine and breath, sometimes described as fermenting fruit.

8. Recurrent Infections

Dogs with diabetes often suffer from repeated infections, such as urinary tract infections, because high sugar levels can impair immune response.

9. Vision Changes

Cataracts or cloudy eyes can develop in diabetic dogs, potentially leading to partial or full blindness if untreated.

10. Vomiting or Seizures

In advanced cases or complications like diabetic ketoacidosis, dogs may vomit or have seizures. These are urgent veterinary emergencies requiring immediate treatment.

How to Manage Your Dog’s Diabetes Responsibly

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your vet promptly for diagnosis through blood and urine tests. Management often includes insulin therapy, special diets, regular monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments.

Working closely with a reputable vet and following their guidance is vital for your dog’s well-being. Adopting responsible ownership practices ensures your diabetic dog can live a fulfilling life.

Regular check-ups, consistent medication, and attention to your dog’s behaviour and symptoms help prevent serious complications.

Recognising these symptoms can save your dog’s life and improve their quality of life significantly.