Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Diabetes in Dogs: A growing concern, as cases have tripled in three decades, but proper management can improve lifespan.
- Types of Diabetes: Insulin deficiency (needs insulin shots) & insulin resistance (common in older, obese dogs).
- Risk factors: age, obesity, pancreatitis, steroid use, Cushing’s disease, and genetics.
- High-Risk Breeds: Samoyeds, Labradors, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Beagles, Poodles, and Cairn Terriers.
- Symptoms: excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight changes, and increased appetite.
- Treatment measures: balanced diet, exercise, weight control, and insulin when needed.
- Prevention: regular vet check-ups, proper nutrition, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Is your dog exhibiting symptoms such as excessive water consumption, frequent urination, or weight loss? These could be signs of diabetes mellitus, a disease that is becoming commonly reported worldwide.
Research shows that the number of dogs with diabetes has increased threefold in the last three decades. Previously, 50 % of diabetic dogs survived only two months post-diagnosis due to limited treatment options. Today, with the advancement of veterinary medicine, the affected pups do not have to die early, as was the case in the past. If the patient’s blood sugar levels are managed well, these patients have a life expectancy similar to that of dogs without diabetes.
In this blog, we will explore the dog breeds most at risk for diabetes. Keep reading to learn how to live a healthy life with your pet!
Diabetes in Dogs: The Risk Factors and Symptoms of the Disease
Diabetes mellitus is a condition in which the endocrine pancreas does not secrete insulin or does so in negligible quantities. This disorder can develop in humans and animals, including dogs.
However, this abnormality may lead to essential consequences such as cataracts, nerve damage, nutritional deficiencies, diabetic ketoacidosis, and death. Diabetes is mainly diagnosed in older and middle-aged dogs, but younger dogs are also affected.
The condition is often identified in middle-aged female dogs. Common symptoms include:
- Water intake
- Constant Urination
- Extreme throat dryness
- Change in appetite
- Weight loss or Weight gain
- Lethargy
The latter two may occur when the body falls short of insulin due to poor glycemic regulation.
There are two main types of diabetes in dogs:
Types of Diabetes in Dogs:
| Insulin-deficiency diabetes (IDD) | The pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. Requires daily insulin shots. |
| Insulin-resistance diabetes (IRD) | The body makes insulin but can’t use it properly. Common in older and overweight dogs. |
Risk Factors for Diabetes in Dogs:
| Risk Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Age & Sex | Middle-aged and older dogs, especially females, are more prone. |
| Obesity | Excess weight makes it harder for the body to use insulin. |
| Chronic Pancreatitis | Inflammation of the pancreas can damage insulin-producing cells. |
| Long-Term Steroid Use | Some medications can cause insulin resistance. |
| Cushing’s Disease & Other Illnesses | Hormonal imbalances increase the risk. |
| Genetics | Breeds like miniature poodles, bichon frises, Dachshunds, etc., are at a higher risk. |
High-Risk Dog Breeds for Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in dogs, affecting approximately 0.34% of the canine population. It is more common in some breeds like Miniature Poodles, Bichons Frises, and Dachshunds, and hence regular checkups are advised. Here are the details you need to know:
1. Samoyeds
They are medium-sized dogs with thick white coats. They have a higher incidence of diabetes than other breeds.
Risk Factors:
- Prone to hyperadrenocorticism and pancreatitis.
- Genetic factors are directly linked to diabetes.
- Symptoms include excessive drinking, frequent urination, and changes in eating habits.
2. Labrador Retrievers
They are active, medium-to-large-sized dogs but have a risk of diabetes
Risk factors:
- Prone to obesity, which increases diabetes risk
- Higher chances of developing pancreatitis and insulin resistance
- Allergies may trigger diabetes in some cases
- Genetic predisposition to insulin resistance
3. Dachshunds
They are small dogs with elongated bodies like poodles and are prone to diabetes.
Risk Factors:
- Obesity is a common issue
- Poor diet, lack of exercise, and aging increase the risk.
What to do?
Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
4. Miniature Schnauzers
They are small, high-energy dogs but have a higher risk of diabetes.
Risk Factors:
- Prone to obesity, pancreatitis, and hyperlipidemia
- Diabetes risk increases with age.
What to do?
Provide a balanced diet, encourage regular exercise, and schedule routine vet checkups to manage their health.
5. Beagles
They are friendly, intelligent, and have a higher risk of diabetes
Risk Factors:
- Genetic factors to diabetes
- Prone to obesity, leading to insulin resistance
- Lab beagles may tend to face higher risk due to poor diet and low physical activity.
What to do?
Monitor their diet, ensure daily exercise, and follow a structured feeding plan to maintain a healthy weight.
6. Poodles
Poodles, including Standard, Miniature, and Toy, have a higher genetic risk of diabetes.
Risk Factors:
- Genetic factors lead to insulin resistance.
- Prone to obesity due to high-fat diets & lack of exercise.
- Sedentary lifestyles increase the risk of diabetes.
What to do?
Maintain a low-fat diet, schedule regular vet checkups, and ensure daily exercise to reduce risks.
7. Cairn Terriers
They are small but genetically prone to diabetes.
Risk Factors:
- Higher risk due to heredity
- Easily become, especially with overeating and lack of exercise.
- Prone to pancreatitis, which increases the risk of being diabetic.
What to do?
Feed them a low-fat diet, control portion sizes, ensure daily exercise, and monitor their weight.
Treatment of Diabetes in Dogs
Diabetes mellitus in dog breeds is a complicated disease that needs to be approached in a systematic way to improve the well-being of the dogs.
How to treat diabetes in dogs:
1. Diet Management:
- A high-protein, fiber-rich diet helps to regulate blood sugar.
- Avoid processed carbs and high-fat foods.
2. Regular Exercise:
- Moderate, consistent activity helps maintain stable glucose levels.
- Avoid intense workouts that may cause sudden blood sugar drops.
3. Insulin Therapy:
- Most diabetic dogs require daily insulin injections at least once a day (under the skin).
- Consult a vet to determine the correct dosage and administration technique.
Conclusion
Therefore, every pet owner needs to familiarize themselves with the signs and risks of diabetes in dogs. As cases of this disease are more frequently diagnosed, especially in predisposed breeds such as Miniature Poodles, Samoyeds, and Labrador Retrievers, prevention and timely treatment are crucial.
Dieting, exercise, and insulin usage are valuable for improving a dog’s quality of life and increasing its lifespan. Be alert and informed, and consult your vet for personalized guidance!
References
- Erin Cain (Sep 11, 2022) Ten Dog Breeds Most Prone to Diabetes, Pet Insurance Review
- AKC Staff (Apr 11, 2022) Diabetes in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment, American Kennel Club
- Veronica Higgs, DVM (Mar 10, 2024) Diabetes in Dogs, PetMD
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the symptoms of diabetes in dogs in its initial stages?
Some of the signs include a high level of intake of water, frequent passage of water, loss of weight in a short period while on a normal diet, and increased desire for food.
2. Is there a way to prevent diabetes in dogs?
Although it may be partly hereditary, prevention includes eating a proper diet, exercising frequently, and keeping off excess weight.
3. How is diabetes diagnosed in dogs?
The diagnosis of diabetes mellitus in animals is carried out through blood tests for glucose and, in some cases, urine tests for glucose and ketones.
4. What breeds of dogs are likely to get diabetes?
Poodles, Samoyeds, Dachshunds, Labrador Retrievers, and Miniature Schnauzers are considered to be breeds with a high susceptibility factor.
5. What is the treatment of diabetes in dogs?
The common forms of managing diabetes include administering insulin, following a proper diet, and exercising to ensure proper blood sugar regulation.
