Understanding Canine Diabetes Mellitus
Helping you care for your dog with confidence
Diabetes mellitus is a condition we commonly see in older dogs, and though it sounds daunting, it’s a manageable disease when caught early and treated consistently. Unlike in people, where diabetes is often monitored using blood sugar meters and insulin adjustments throughout the day, pet diabetes management focuses on stability and clinical signs—not chasing a perfect number.
What is Diabetes Mellitus?
Diabetes mellitus is a disease in which the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels. In dogs, this typically happens because the pancreas is no longer producing enough insulin, a hormone that allows glucose to enter the body’s cells and be used for energy.
Without insulin, sugar builds up in the bloodstream, while the body’s cells starve—leading to some pretty recognizable symptoms.
What Signs Should I Watch For?
Many dog owners notice something just seems off before receiving a diagnosis. Classic signs of diabetes include:
Increased thirst (polydipsia)
Increased urination (polyuria)
Increased hunger (polyphagia)
Weight loss, despite that increased appetite
Cloudy eyes or sudden blindness, often caused by diabetes-related cataracts
These symptoms tend to develop gradually, so it’s easy to miss the early stages. If you notice a combination of these signs, especially in middle-aged to older dogs, it’s time to chat with your veterinarian.
Diagnosis and Monitoring
Diagnosing diabetes usually involves a simple blood test to check for high blood glucose levels and a urinalysis to detect glucose in the urine (glucosuria). Once diagnosed, treatment typically includes:
Twice-daily insulin injections
A consistent feeding and exercise schedule
Monitoring for clinical signs, like changes in thirst or weight
Regular blood and urine testing performed at your veterinary clinic
At Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we help walk you through this process step-by-step, and we’re always here to adjust your pet’s plan as needed.
What’s Different from Human Diabetes?
One key difference is that we don’t aim for perfect blood glucose numbers in dogs—we aim for stability and symptom control. It’s less about tight control of sugar and more about ensuring your dog is eating well, staying hydrated, and enjoying life without diabetic complications.
Have questions about your dog’s drinking habits, appetite, or sudden weight loss?
We're here to help. Diabetes doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—with the right care team and a plan in place, many diabetic dogs live full, happy lives.
