Puppy Diabetes

Diabetes occurs for two reasons: Either the body is not producing enough insulin, or the body is unable to use the insulin. In either case, the dog's body is unable to metabolize sugar, resulting in illness or death. In dogs, diabetes that occurs before the dog reaches 1 year of age is referred to as juvenile diabetes. However, it may also go by the names puppy diabetes, juvenile onset diabetes or juvenile sugar diabetes.

  1. Causes

    • In a puppy, diabetes usually occurs because the pancreas failed to properly develop. This improper development results in inadequate production of insulin, thus resulting in diabetes. However, the puppy may also develop diabetes because of autoimmune diseases that attack the pancreas, or because the puppy inherited the disease. Certain diseases, such as canine parvovirus, may also contribute to the development of juvenile diabetes.

    Predisposed Breeds

    • Certain breeds are thought to be predisposed to developing diabetes, meaning that the diabetes may be genetic. Dr. Leah Cohn of PetPlace.com notes that certain breeds -- including the Australian terrier, bichon frise, cairn terrier, fox terrier, keeshond, poodle, Samoyed, schnauzer and spitz -- may all be predisposed to developing diabetes, either juvenile or adult. Dr. Race Foster of PetEducation.com adds that golden retrievers are also prone to developing juvenile diabetes.

    Symptoms

    • The signs of juvenile diabetes in a puppy may be difficult for an owner to recognize. The puppy may not grow as quickly as other puppies of the same breed and age. These puppies will also appear to be losing weight. The affected puppy may also drink more water than expected and urinate more. As the body attempts to make up for its shortcomings, there may also be muscle loss, weakness or diabetic cataracts.

    Diagnosis

    • Once juvenile diabetes is suspected, the veterinarian will likely run a few diagnostic tests for verification. The puppy may require blood tests to check for blood glucose concentration and a complete blood count. The veterinarian will also run a urinalysis to check the glucose levels in the urine and to check for a urinary tract infection. Some dogs may need further tests, such as an ultrasound or x-ray, to rule out other potential causes or illnesses, such as pancreatitis.

    Treatment

    • Once the vet verifies juvenile diabetes, the dog can begin receiving treatment. Unlike with diabetes in humans, dogs cannot control their diabetes solely through dietary changes. The puppy will likely require one to two injections of insulin per day. However, in rare cases, oral hypoglycemic medications may be used if the pancreas is functioning properly and producing insulin. The affected puppy will also need a well balanced diet and regular exercise, which can help to control the diabetes. Once diagnosed and properly treated, puppies with diabetes can continue to live a long and healthy life.