Rottweiler Insulinoma

Insulinoma is a pancreatic tumor that causes low blood sugar in dogs, according to Foothills Animal Hospital. Although insulinoma is rare, rottweilers are genetically predisposed to this life-threatening disease. It typically afflicts dogs late in life, between 8 and 12 years of age. Fortunately, with early detection and vigilant medical care, insulinoma is treatable and dogs can live a full life even after diagnosis.

  1. Symptoms

    • Because early detection of insulinoma is key to a dog's survival, it's important to know the symptoms. Fainting, weakness, muscle twitches and poor coordination in the hind legs are classic symptoms. Among the most noticeable symptoms in rottweilers is lethargy. This breed is typically high-energy, so any change in your dog's activity level is noteworthy. As the disease progresses, it frequently causes seizures and increased appetite. Insulinoma also alters brain functioning, so if you notice any sudden change in your rottweiler's behavior, contact your veterinarian. Sudden aggression or fearfulness are especially troubling since rottweilers normally have very stable dispositions.

    Detection

    • If your veterinarian suspects insulinoma, she will perform blood tests to determine the glucose levels in your dog's blood. Because insulinoma is relatively rare, some veterinarians may not immediately test for it. If you are concerned that your vet may be missing the symptoms, request an insulinoma test or visit a veterinary specialist. Pointing out that rottweilers are prone to insulinoma can be especially helpful. If any of your dog's siblings, parents or ancestors had insulinoma, be sure to let your vet know this.

    Treatment

    • The most effective way to treat insulinoma is to remove the tumor. If your dog is very old or suffers from other medical conditions, however, the risks of surgery may be too great. Your veterinarian may recommend dietary changes and prescribe medications to alter your dog's blood glucose levels. Because of rottweiler's large size and their susceptibility to muscle, bone and joint problems, it's important to keep your dog's activity level low while it's undergoing treatment. The muscle weakness that frequently results from insulinoma can cause secondary injuries if your dog falls while playing.

    Prevention

    • There is no proven way to prevent insulinoma. Most veterinarians believe that the condition is entirely genetic, and some breeders avoid breeding rottweilers with a family history of insulinoma. However, the effects of genetic conditions can be mitigated with lifestyle choices. Feed your rottweiler a high-protein diet, which will help to keep its pancreas functioning optimally. Ensure that your rottweiler does not become obese and that it gets plenty of exercise. Stress can also weaken your dog's body and make it more susceptible to the effects of insulinoma and more likely to develop the illness early in life. Rottweilers are particularly stressed by long separations from their owners and lack of exercise.