Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, diabetes mellitus is the most common type of diabetes found in dogs. They estimate that every one in four dogs will develop diabetes mellitus. Generally, this condition is due to lack of exercise and overeating in canines. Diabetes is caused when the body cannot produce the hormone insulin, and it affects the dog's ability to store and use glucose. If left untreated, it's deadly. But there are treatment options available, and if treated early, dogs can live several years after diagnosis.

  1. Excessive Thirst

    • The Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook states that the first symptom of canine diabetes mellitus is excessive thirst. You may notice that your dog is drinking an unusual amount of water and begs nonstop for more. Your dog may start to wake you in the middle of night for more water or start drinking from other water sources such as toilet bowels. The reason for this severe increase in thirst is that toxins build up in the liver. The only way the body can flush them out of the body is through urine production. Normal amounts of water are not enough to move the toxins through the body, causing the excessive thirst in your dog.

    Change in Eating Behaviors

    • Any changes in your dog's eating behaviors may be a significant symptom of diabetes mellitus. You may start to notice that your dog either eats less food or craves to eat more food than normal. Some dogs with symptoms of diabetes mellitus eat inedible things such as rocks and feces. Also, your dog may start to demonstrate aggressive behavior toward food and other pets in the home.

    Lack of Energy

    • Lethargy is one symptom of diabetes mellitus that often goes overlooked. Dogs with this condition will have a lack of energy and enthusiasm, appearing to be tired and not interested in walks or other favorite activities.

    Weight Loss

    • If your dog has suffered unexplained weight loss, this is a sign that there is a serious health condition. Your dog should be taken to your veterinarian right away. In a diabetic dog, there is no insulin in the body to produce glucose for energy. If untreated, the body will use its own lean muscle and fat tissues as fuel, causing significant weight loss.

    Change in Urinary Routine

    • A symptom of diabetes mellitus in dogs is excessive urination or changes in their usual urination routine. This is linked to the symptom of excessive thirst where toxins build up in the liver. Dogs that drink excessive amounts of water will need to urinate more frequently and often uncontrollably. Dogs may start to have accidents in the home or start begging to go outdoors more often, usually in the middle of the night.