Diabetes is a word that can make any pet owner nervous. It’s a lifelong condition that requires commitment—but with the right care, many diabetic pets live happy, full lives. As a veterinarian, I’ve worked with countless families navigating this diagnosis. The good news? You’re not alone, and diabetes is manageable.
What Is Diabetes?
In simple terms, diabetes occurs when the body can’t regulate sugar (glucose) levels properly. Glucose is the main source of energy for the body’s cells, and insulin is the hormone that helps move glucose from the bloodstream into those cells. In diabetic pets, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or the body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin (Type 2 diabetes).
Dogs typically develop Type 1 diabetes, meaning they need lifelong insulin injections.
Which Dog Breeds are at Risk for Diabetes?
While diabetes can occur in any pet, some breeds are more predisposed than others. In dogs, breeds at higher risk include:
- Miniature Schnauzers
- Dachshunds
- Poodles
- Beagles
- Samoyeds
- Australian Terriers
- Keeshonds
Signs of Diabetes in Dogs to Watch For
The signs of diabetes can be subtle at first. Many pet owners notice:
- Increased thirst
- More frequent urination
- Weight loss despite a good appetite
- Lethargy or weakness
- Cloudy eyes (especially in dogs)
- Vomiting (in advanced cases)
If you notice any of these changes in your pet, it’s time for a vet visit.
How Is Diabetes in Dogs Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is fairly straightforward. Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and recommend blood work and a urinalysis. A consistently high blood glucose level, along with glucose in the urine, is a strong indicator of diabetes. Other tests may be needed to rule out conditions that can mimic or complicate diabetes.
Treatment: It’s a Team Effort
Treating diabetes requires daily commitment. For most dogs and many cats, this includes:
- Insulin Injections: Most diabetic pets need insulin once or twice a day. Your vet will teach you how to give injections at home—most owners are surprised at how easy this becomes with practice.
- Diet: A consistent, portion-controlled diet is essential. High-fiber, low-fat diets are often recommended for dogs. Diabetic cats often do best on low-carbohydrate, high-protein foods—sometimes prescription diets are used. Feeding meals at the same time each day, in relation to insulin injections, helps regulate blood sugar.
- Monitoring: Regular glucose curves are essential for adjusting insulin and tracking control. In our practice, we often use the FreeStyle Libre system to monitor blood glucose trends more comfortably and accurately over time.
- Weight Management: Overweight pets have a harder time with blood sugar control. A healthy weight can make a huge difference, especially for diabetic cats—some even go into remission with diet and weight loss alone.
Life Expectancy and Quality of Life
A diabetes diagnosis isn’t a death sentence. With proper care, diabetic pets can live for many years after diagnosis. In fact, many owners tell me their pet’s quality of life actually improved once treatment started—they’re more energetic, happier, and more comfortable.
That said, diabetes is a condition that requires daily attention. Missed insulin doses, inconsistent feeding schedules, or undiagnosed infections can throw blood sugar out of balance. Complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can be lifethreatening if not treated quickly.
Managing diabetes in pets can feel overwhelming at first. But with the help of your veterinary team, a structured routine, and a little patience, it becomes second nature. Many pet owners find that the bond with their diabetic dog or cat actually deepens through this shared journey.
If your pet has been diagnosed with diabetes—or if you’re worried they may be showing signs— don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to long-term success. Your pet depends on you, and with the right care, you’ve got this.
Barks & Recreation is proud to feature Dr. Eileen Savier CVA, CVCH as our Veterinary Blogger in our “From the Vet” Series — offering information related to the health and welfare of your furry family members! Currently part of the team of doctors at Keystone Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Savier is a 2012 Graduate of the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, She completed her clinical experience at The Ohio State University and after veterinary school she pursued further education and certification in Veterinary Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Fear Free veterinary visits. Dr. Savier has a special interest in integrative medicine, animal behavior, and internal medicine and is committed to improving animal health care by integrating Eastern and Western philosophies. She enjoys working with fearful & aggressive dogs and cats and she has had additional training in low stress handling techniques and encourages positive reinforcement during exams and procedures. Her clinical interests include pain management, animal behavior, geriatric patient care, and internal medicine.
Dr. Savier shares her home with two (soon to be three) dogs, two cats, and a toddler. She lovingly refers to her two dogs as Coconut Retrievers as they were rescue dogs she brought home from the island of St. Kitts. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and planning her next Disney vacation.
