Diabetes mellitus in dogs is a common disease that affects dogs aged between 5 to 7 with females being more susceptible. There are two types of diabetes in dogs – Type I DM wherein the dog’s body does not produce sufficient insulin and Type II DM when insulin is produced, but the body’s ability to utilize it is interfered by another factor. Approximately 99% of dogs with diabetes have the type I form. Common breeds that are more likely to become diabetic include Pugs, toy Poodles, Beagles, Samoyeds, Dachshunds, Cairn, Miniature Pinschers, Australian Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers, Golden Retrievers and Keeshonden.

Diagnosis is made through complete medical history, physical examination, urine test, serum biochemical profile, complete blood count and abdominal ultrasound or x-ray.

There is no single cure for diabetes. However, the progression of the disease can be stopped and reversed by therapies involving insulin injection or oral hypoglycemic agents. Weight management through proper diet and exercise is usually recommended. Female dogs are required to be spayed (through ovariohysterectomy) to reduce the estrogen effects on insulin.

The most common symptoms of diabetes in dogs include weight loss despite of increased appetite, excessive thirst and excessive urination, poor body condition, lethargy and vision problems or sudden blindness due to cataracts.

Just like in humans, diabetes in dogs is caused by insulin deficiency. Since insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating how sugar is absorbed and utilized by cells and tissues, insufficient amounts of insulin affects the endocrine.