Puppy Hypoglycemia Symptoms

When a puppy doesn't have enough glucose circulating in its body, hypoglycemia results. While all puppies are at risk for hypoglycemia, canines under three months of age or of a toy or miniature breed are at the highest risk. Other risk factors include a history of diabetes and certain medications. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if you suspect your puppy is suffering from hypoglycemia--the results can be deadly.

  1. Appearance

    • According to "Veterinary Nursing," puppies experiencing a hypoglycemic episode may have dilated pupils. Open your dog's mouth and look at its gums. Healthy dogs have bright pink gums, while puppies suffering from a hypoglycemic episode display pale pink or even whitish gums.

    Mood

    • Your dog's mood is a good indicator of health. Know what is normal for your dog. A dog that is normally happy, curious and engaged and then suddenly appears tired and disinterested is likely ill. Puppies with low blood glucose might appear lethargic and restless, taking little to no interest in their surroundings. Confusion and disorientation are common among puppies experiencing severe hypoglycemia. Still others may react with nervousness and agitation, displaying intermittent aggression. While these symptoms alone aren't enough to diagnose a case of hypoglycemia, they're strong indicators that your puppy is not feeling well and should be monitored closely, according to "The Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians."

    Behavior

    • Take a look at how your puppy behaves. Puppies experiencing hypoglycemia appear weak and may have trouble walking or standing. "Clinical Anatomy and Physiology for Veterinary Technicians" recommends looking for uncoordinated movements--puppies that experience a drop in blood sugar can appear clumsy or drunk. Look for more obvious signs, too. Blood sugar helps regulate the muscles and plays a part in circulation. Puppies with a low of blood sugar count may tremble or twitch. Take note of whether your puppy is eating less than usual. "Nutrition for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses" points out that a lack of appetite isn't just a potential cause of hypoglycemia in puppies, it's also a symptom.

    Nervous System

    • Hypoglycemia in puppies produces severe symptoms in a short amount of time if left untreated, even if the puppy appeared relatively unphased by earlier symptoms, as noted by the "Textbook of Veterinary Medical Nursing." Puppies may faint or fall unconscious as a result of hypoglycemia. Other puppies may experience seizures or enter a coma. These neurological symptoms are a direct result of the fact that the brain is powered mainly by glucose--the substance lacking in the puppy's body during a hypoglycemic episode. If left untreated, hypoglycemia may result in death.