Diabetes can affect humans as well as many different species including canines. There are two types of diabetes that affect canines, Insulin-Deficiency diabetes and Insulin Resistance diabetes. It’s important to note that unlike humans, dogs can only get type one diabetes, not type two.
Insulin-Deficiency is the most common type of diabetes in canines and happens when the body does not produce enough insulin. This type of diabetes is linked to pancreas damage or improper function.
Insulin-Resistance happens when the pancreas produces some insulin but the body is not utilizing it properly leading to excess glucose in the blood and cells. This type of diabetes is more common in older, obese dogs, but can also be seen in female dogs when in heat or pregnant.
There are early signs we as dog owners can catch such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss and increased appetite. As the illness progresses untreated it can begin to make your dog sluggish, depressed and nauseous. Variables for diabetes in canines are crucial to mention, including:
- Age: Typically more common in middle age-senior dogs.
- Gender: Unspayed females are TWICE as likely as male dogs to have diabetes.
- Chronic Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can eventually lead to effects on its ability to function properly.
- Obesity: Contributes to insulin resistance and increases risk of pancreatitis.
- Genetics: Some breeds have a higher risk of developing diabetes including: miniature Poodles, Bichons Frises, Pugs, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Puli, Samoyeds, Keeshonds, Australian Terriers, Fox Terriers, Cairn Terriers and Beagles.
- Autoimmune/Viral Diseases: Changes the overall function of the digestive tract which can lead to diabetes.
Health Effects and Management
If diabetes in canines is not diagnosed and kept under control it can lead to a series of other health conditions such as cataracts, enlarged liver, UTI’s, seizure, kidney failure and ketoacidosis. Cells do not gain the proper fuel from glucose, leading the body to start breaking down its own fats and proteins to use for energy. If a dog is lacking the insulin to convert glucose to energy, it can lead to abnormal levels in the blood, becoming toxic. This can cause multi-organ damage.
Once your dog has been properly diagnosed by a Veterinarian there are a few ways we can manage it. Injections of insulin on a daily basis helps the body continue to perform functions normally. Another way we can help manage diabetes in canines is to create a moderate exercise routine and stick to it. It’s vital to avoid sudden spikes or drops in glucose levels making it important for them to exercise – within moderation of course. Lastly, we can preside over their treat intake and overall diet.
Diabetic Diet
In order to keep glucose levels under control, there are several factors and nutrients we should consider. Feeding a few small meals a day, rather than two large meals can help keep the dog’s nutrients balanced and control excess nutrients in the body. Dogs with diabetes typically have increased thirst and urination, leading them to need fresh water at all times. We should avoid food that has high sugar (sugar, corn syrups, honey) or simple carbohydrates (white rice, fruit and dairy products) since they have the most effect on blood-glucose levels.
To learn more about simple vs complex carbs and sugar check out our articles focusing on the contents in our dog food here.
There are prescription diets that can be prescribed by your Veterinarian in order to manage diabetes in canines. However, they’re not always ideal for every dog – as we have mentioned many times before every dog is unique and a “one size fits all” is not our stance here at Wise Woofs.
The upside to Veterinarian diets is the consistency of the nutrient within the product. While it may seem healthier to begin cooking diabetic dogs whole food meals, it is not always a plus due to the infrequent values of nutrients per serving. By this we mean a meal cooked one day, may not supply the same amount of nutrients when cooked again the next day. For a dog with diabetes this can lead to too much fluctuation in the blood glucose levels.
As we know with raw and whole foods, there are some issues with these diets compared to commercial dog food. It can be challenging to accurately measure and provide the right balance of nutrients. Often there are multivitamins/supplements that can resolve these imbalances, but diabetic dogs are sensitive to blood-glucose inconsistencies which can lead to further damage of the pancreas.
Many dog parents will opt for the prescription diet to avoid the stress. Through research it has been found that increasing dietary fiber can benefit a dog’s diabetes by slowing down the absorption of glucose. Foods like canned pumpkin are an excellent source of fiber, but have a high calorie count, so supply in moderation.
Recap
- Dogs with diabetes need to have consistent nutrients and exercise day to day.
- Stay away from simple sugars and carbohydrates due to their rapid effect on blood-glucose levels. To learn more about blood glucose levels check out our article here .
- Always ensure clean and fresh water, while allowing more bathroom breaks than we would for typical dogs.
- Increase fiber intake.
- Always consult a veterinarian.
