Early detection and proper care can help dogs with diabetes live long, healthy, and happy lives. Understanding the signs of diabetes in dogs—such as increased thirst, urination, and weight loss—can help you get your pet the right treatment and nutritional support as soon as possible.
Canine diabetes is one of the most common hormonal disorders in dogs, especially in middle-aged and senior pets. Although it can happen at any age, including puppies. Diabetes occurs when your dog’s pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin—the hormone responsible for moving sugar (glucose) from the blood into cells to be used for energy. Without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream and eventually spills into the urine. This causes increased thirst and urination, which are often the first signs pet owners notice.
With the right veterinary care, diet, and monitoring, diabetic dogs can live long, happy lives. However, because dogs age faster than humans, changes in health can progress quickly. Regular vet visits and early intervention are essential.
If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s important to schedule a veterinary visit. Your vet can confirm whether diabetes is the underlying cause through blood and urine tests.
Once your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, insulin therapy will likely become part of their daily routine. Insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels by moving glucose from the bloodstream into cells where it can be used for energy.
Key facts about insulin for dogs:
Administering insulin may feel intimidating at first, but most pet owners quickly become comfortable with the process. Dogs generally tolerate injections well, especially when given with love and a treat. Learn more about how to safely give your dog insulin.
Nutrition plays a major role in managing canine diabetes. A consistent feeding schedule, portion control, and high-quality ingredients are key to stabilizing blood sugar levels. No amount of medication can make up for poor nutrition.
Tips for managing diabetes through diet:
Our company began with a our own diabetic dog, Jetty, and that experience inspired us to create Diabetic Dog Treats. These all naturally, healthy dog treats are designed specifically for diabetic dogs, blending wholesome ingredients with healing herbs knows to help regulate blood sugar. It’s a healthy and safe way to reward your pet, especially after giving them an insulin shot.
Cataracts are one of the most common complications of diabetes in dogs. When blood sugar levels remain high for extended periods, glucose can accumulate in the lens of the eye, drawing in water and causing it to become cloudy. Over time, this cloudiness can block light and impair vision, sometimes leading to complete blindness if left untreated.
Signs your dog may be developing cataracts:
If you notice these changes, schedule a veterinary eye exam as soon as possible. Some dogs are candidates for cataract surgery, which can restore vision. For others, vision loss can be managed with routine, verbal cues, and a consistent home environment.
Our Old Dog Cookie customer community includes many pet owners whose dogs have lived long, happy lives even after losing vision. Dogs are remarkably adaptable—given time, patience, and love, they adjust beautifully to their new routines.
Learn more about cataracts in diabetic dogs.
Caring for a diabetic dog involves commitment and compassion, but it’s absolutely manageable. With consistent insulin administration, a balanced diet, regular vet visits, and a loving routine, diabetic dogs can thrive for many years. Our diabetic dog lived until 16.
Eye clinics that have recommended our treats and shared care information with diabetic dog owners include:
Disclaimer
Old Dog Cookie Company provides a community for all canine owners but specifically those with diabetic or arthritic dogs. We are not licensed veterinarians. Before making any important decisions for treating your diabetic dog, always consult your veterinarian.
