Canine Hypoglycemia Causes

Canine hypoglycemia is a condition caused by low blood sugar. It is caused by a number of factors and results in symptoms such as disorientation and stupor, weakness, seizures, severe depression and possibly even coma. Canine hypoglycemia is most commonly seen in puppies and small breed dogs, although older or large breed dogs with certain medical conditions can experience the condition as well. Treatment for hypoglycemia involves restoring blood sugar levels.

  1. Improper Diet

    • Missed meals, inadequate food consumption and lack of a nutritionally balanced diet can cause hypoglycemia in all dog breeds, both young and old. Puppies and small breed dogs that do not eat an adequate amount of food or highly active dogs that lack a high-fat, high-protein, high-carbohydrate diet are more susceptible to developing canine hypoglycemia.

    Low Body Temperature

    • Exposure to cold temperatures will result in low body temperature, or hypothermia. According to WebMD for pets, prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause a dog's body to burn stored energy, which can result in low blood sugar glucose levels, or hypoglycemia. Hypothermia can occur in dogs with a body temperature lower than 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Stress

    • Excessive stress can induce hypoglycemia, often without warning. Dogs, especially puppies, can become stressed by a number of factors, including transportation, trauma, change in routine or environment, prolonged confinement and separation anxiety. Signs that your dog may be feeling excessive stress are whining, hiding, drooling, lip licking, repetitive behaviors, aggression or changes in appetite, according to WebMD.

    Insulin Overdose

    • Diabetic dogs that receive insulin injections or medications are susceptible to hypoglycemia if given an overdose of insulin medication. As insulin helps control diabetes by lowering and regulating blood glucose levels, an overdose of insulin can cause blood-glucose levels to drop too low, resulting in hypoglycemia.

    Bacterial Infection

    • Bacterial infections can lead to canine hypoglycemia if left untreated, as the bacteria can consume blood sugar for energy. Dogs that are prone to bouts of hypoglycemia will often be prescribed antibiotics to ward off bacteria, which can further exacerbate the condition.

    Parasites

    • Internal parasites, such as hookworms, tapeworms or other intestinal parasites, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Parasites can damage the intestinal tract, reducing the body's ability to properly absorb nutrients and increasing the risk of diarrhea. These conditions may lead to the body consuming blood glucose for energy and causing hypoglycemia.