Compared to other dog breeds, Bichons are less likely to develop health problems over their life span. However, Bichon Frise owners and breeders are gradually becoming more concerned about this breed's susceptibility to diabetes. Generally, the most common health issue for Bichons is allergies.
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Causes
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Diabetes occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin for the body to properly process glucose. Diabetes develops in middle-aged and older Bichons due to a number of causes, including heredity, weight gain, medications like steroids, viral diseases, or an inflammation in the pancreas.
Diagnosis
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A diagnosis of diabetes is done through a blood test. The signs of diabetes in a canine are similar to those in humans: fatigue, excess water consumption and frequent urination.
Treatment
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Treating a Bichon with diabetes will more than likely include continued exercise, a moderated diet and insulin shots, if necessary. Insulin shots may need to be administered to the animal if the pancreas is not providing enough insulin daily.
Likelihood of contracting the disease
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Bichons are not genetically predisposed to diabetes, unless breeders are careless. However, medical reports show an increase in diabetes in this breed due to unknown factors. The only way to know if your Bichon is diabetic is through a blood test, or urine test, showing an average of blood sugar numbers to indicate whether or not the pancreas is functioning normally.
Breeding Concerns
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Breeders should be concerned about mating Bichons with diabetes due to an increased chance of problems during pregnancy and continuing the predisposition for this disease in younger generations. Buyers should check the line's history of diabetes to find out if their pet will have any predisposition, although the cause is never certain.
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