Understanding Diabetes in Dogs: Causes, Care & What You Can Do

Just like humans, dogs can develop diabetes. A chronic condition that affects how their body processes sugar (glucose). While it can seem overwhelming at first, with the right knowledge and support, diabetes can be managed, and diabetic dogs can go on to live full, happy lives.

In this post, we’ll cover what diabetes in dogs really means, what causes it, how it compares to diabetes in humans, and the basic management strategies that help keep your dog healthy.

What Is Canine Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus in dogs occurs when the body is no longer able to regulate blood sugar properly. This happens because the pancreas either:

• Doesn’t produce enough insulin (the hormone that allows sugar to enter cells), or

• The body’s cells stop responding to insulin properly.

In dogs, the most common form is similar to Type 1 diabetes in humans where the body does not produce enough insulin.

This means dogs with diabetes usually require insulin therapy for life.

What Causes Diabetes in Dogs?

There isn’t one single cause of diabetes. Instead, it's often the result of several contributing factors, including:

• Genetics and breed predisposition (e.g. Poodles, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, and Beagles are more prone)

• Chronic inflammation or autoimmune conditions affecting the pancreas

• Obesity, which increases insulin resistance

• Hormonal imbalances, such as Cushing’s disease or progesterone excess in unspayed females

• Medications, such as long-term corticosteroid use

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which can damage insulin-producing cells

Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs

Diabetes can develop gradually, so it's important to watch for signs such as:

• Increased thirst and urination (polydipsia/polyuria)

• Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite

• Lethargy or reduced energy

• Cloudy eyes (a sign of diabetic cataracts)

• Accidents in the house

• Weakness in the hind legs

If you notice any of these signs, consult your veterinarian promptly for testing.

How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?

Diabetes is diagnosed with a combination of:

• Blood glucose tests (fasting hyperglycemia)

• Urinalysis (presence of glucose in the urine)

• Clinical signs and history

Your vet may also recommend additional tests to rule out underlying conditions that could be affecting blood sugar regulation.

Managing Diabetes: The Essentials

Managing diabetes in dogs focuses on balancing blood sugar levels and minimising spikes or crashes.

Management is achieved with a combination of:

Insulin Therapy

Most diabetic dogs will require twice-daily insulin injections, given after meals. These injections replace the insulin the dog’s body no longer produces. The type, dose, and schedule of insulin must be tailored by your vet and adjusted over time based on glucose monitoring.

Diet

A stable, consistent diet is crucial. Key goals of a diabetic-friendly diet are to:

• Avoid sharp blood sugar spikes (especially after meals)

• Provide balanced nutrition with controlled fat and carbohydrate levels

• Support lean body condition and healthy metabolism

Many dogs do well on low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets. This can be achieved with a home prepared diet. It is best the diet remains consistent to help with glucose regulation with appropriate insulin dosing.

Glucose Monitoring

Regular monitoring is essential. This can be done with:

• Home glucometers

• Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) 

• Veterinary glucose curves

Monitoring helps fine-tune insulin doses and track how well the current diet and treatment plan are working. This can also help to improve regulation of the diet.

Stress Reduction and Routine

Stress and irregular schedules can disrupt blood sugar. Keeping a consistent routine for meals, walks, and insulin can make a big difference. Minimising psychological stress, especially during times like travel or family changes, also supports better glycaemic control.

Is There a Natural or Holistic Approach?

Natural support for diabetic dogs focuses on stabilising metabolism, supporting insulin sensitivity, and nourishing the whole body. This might include:

• Soluble fibre (like psyllium husk or chia seeds) to slow digestion and improve post-meal glucose control

• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) from fish oil to reduce inflammation and improve insulin response. I like the Hemp Nectar, with a combination of Hempseed oil, Fish oil and MCT oil

• Herbal support (e.g. Gymnema sylvestre, fenugreek), However these should only be used under guidance of both your Animal Naturopath and Veterinarian

However, it’s important to emphasise: these approaches do not replace insulin. They are designed to work alongside medical treatment, not instead of it.

They may help to reduce the required dosage to maintain good blood sugar control, which can be adjusted under your vets guidance. When the cells which produce insulin are destroyed, and there is scaring, this pancreas function is unlikely to return.

Diabetes in dogs can feel daunting, but it’s manageable with the right tools, knowledge, and support. With consistent care, regular monitoring, and close communication with your vet, your dog can live a vibrant, active life.

If your dog has been recently diagnosed, or you're exploring supportive care options, reach out for a personalised nutrition and management plan. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Give your dog a pat from me

Kerrie x