Can My Diabetic Dog Have Dog Treats?

July 28, 2025

If your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, you’re likely juggling new routines, insulin injections, diet changes, and a long list of questions. One of the most common? “Can my diabetic dog still have treats?”

The short answer is yes, but you’ll need to be selective. The good news is that there are safe, healthy options. And yes, you can still make treat time a joyful part of your dog’s day.

Understanding Diabetes in Dogs

Canine diabetes happens when a dog’s body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t properly use the insulin it does make. That leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which can cause all kinds of complications—from cataracts to kidney trouble—if not properly managed.

As the owner of a diabetic dog who lived until 16, I’ve learned that diet and consistent routines play a huge role in controlling the disease. And while insulin and main meals get most of the attention, treats are part of that picture too.

Ingredients Matter

Yes, your diabetic dog can enjoy treats. But the type, ingredients, and timing matter more than ever.

The right treat can be a moment of comfort or even a positive association, especially if you're pairing it with something like insulin injections. Many diabetic dog owners, including us, use a small treat to reward their pup right after their shot. It makes a tough moment a little easier for both of you.

What to Look for in Diabetic-Friendly Treats

Not all treats are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

High in fiber: Fiber helps slow the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream.
Complex carbs: Look for treats that include complex carbs vs processed ingredients. Complex carbs such as whole wheat or some vegetables, digest more slowly, promoting stable blood glucose levels.
Whole, natural ingredients: You should be able to read and recognize every ingredient on the label.
Low glycemic index: Ingredients like oats and barley are better choices and are low-glycemic.

What to Avoid

Some ingredients are especially risky for diabetic dogs. Avoid any treats that contain:

Avoid Sugars or Syrups: Many dog treats contain molasses, which is a form of added sugar. These ingredients can cause sudden blood sugar spikes. Also, avoid any treats with artificial sweeteners.
Avoid Refined Starches: White rice, white flour, and similar fillers are highly processed and can interfere with blood sugar stability.
Avoid High-Fat Content: Too much fat can increase the risk of pancreatitis, which is especially dangerous for diabetic dogs.
Avoid Added Flavoring: Many treats use added flavoring, which can contain chemicals that are hard to tolerate for diabetic dogs. For example, some beef flavorings don’t contain any beef products. Worse, many labels use vague terms like “natural flavors.” We recommend avoiding these. The core ingredients of the treat should provide the base flavor.

A Treat You Can Trust

We understand this challenge personally. Our diabetic dog Jetty inspired the creation of Old Dog Cookie Company over 30 years ago. After she developed diabetes from Lyme disease, we wanted something safe and natural.

We selected every ingredient and herb for its ability to help regulate blood sugar, support insulin use, and promote overall wellness. These treats became part of Jetty’s daily insulin routine. One small, crunchy reward after each shot. It was our way of saying, “You’re doing great.”

Tips for feeding your Diabetic Dog

Whether you use Old Dog Cookie Diabetic Treats, homemade treats, or healthy alternatives like green beans, keep these tips in mind:

Talk to your vet – every dog is different, so confirm what’s right for yours.
Keep portions small – treats should be no more than 10% of daily calories.
Stick to a routine – consistency helps regulate blood sugar.
Watch for changes – if your dog seems unusually tired, thirsty, or hungry, check with your vet.
Check labels carefully – avoid vague ingredients or missing information.

Having a diabetic dog can feel overwhelming at first. But with time, good care, vet support, and the right diet, your dog can thrive.