Diabetes in dogs is basically a metabolic disorder in which the carbohydrate and fat metabolism are disturbed. It is said that 80 to 90 percent of dogs suffering from diabetes are females. There are many triggers for this disease. A congenital defect of the Langerhans islets (the insulin produced in the pancreas) is a major cause, but stressful situations or pregnancy can also trigger diabetes.
Diabetes in dogs restricts lowering of blood sugar level. There is a constant rise in these levels, the blood gets thicker and flow of blood slows down. These conditions are followed by symptoms such as eczema, itching, increased thirst, increase in urine output and dogs demanding more walk sessions. In the advanced stages, the animals get flabby and tired. It vomits and suffers from respiratory problems. The animals can go blind as a result of diabetes. Their liver and kidney may also get damaged due to diabetes. An immediate blood test must be carried out at the first glimpse of symptoms of this disease.
Types of Diabetes in Dogs
There are basically two common types of diabetes in dogs.
 • Type 1 Diabetes: Animals suffering from this type of diabetes have an inadequate production of insulin, which is what causes the disease. Young as well as genetically predisposed and/or obese animals are commonly affected. Juvenile diabetes usually occurs in young dogs and is easily triggered by a viral illness. The pancreas becomes inflamed due to this viral disease. The islet cells in the pancreas are destroyed. Treatment for this type of diabetes consists of a regular dose of insulin. Insulin injections are regularly used on animal after it is diagnosed with diabetes.
• Type 2 Diabetes: This type of diabetes shows lack of insulin action even when the pancreas produces enough of it. In this case the exchange between the insulin and its receptors on the cell surface is not carried out in a proper manner. This results in the failure of glucose utilization of the cells.
Risk Factors
The major risk factor for insulin resistance is obesity (20% or more are overweight). Diabetes is particularly common in overweight dogs, as well as animals with a metabolic disorder, physical inactivity and with insulin-acting hormones. When a dog has to live with cortisone for long, it develops jatrogene diabetes. The most common cause of type 2 diabetes is overweight caused as a result of malnutrition. The frequency of the disease increases with the age of the animal. The majority of affected dogs are more than 9 years old.
Treatment Options
The most common treatment for Type 2 diabetes is a consistent diet with high fiber contents, lots of exercise, less tasty treats between meals and sodium sulphate and magnesium phosphate, which helps to reduce weight.
Balanced diet is very important for the analysis of diabetes in dogs. The food composition must be the same always. Blood glucose monitoring and continuous adjustment in the amount of insulin is not a pleasant experience for the animals. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian before modifying your pet’s diet.
 Check out our site for more information on diabetes in dogs at www.dogdiabeteshelp.com
About the Author:
Steve Manik is one of the team members of www.doghelpnetwork.com.The Dog Help Network is a resource for dog owners looking for accurate information on a variety of dog health issues, specific diseases and conditions a dog may contract in their lifetime, as well as behavioral and training information. The Dog Help Network was put together and is managed by a dedicated team of dog lovers who share an interest in dog health.
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