Canine diabetes

Your dog has diabetes mellitus. You're not alone, an estimated 1 in 500 dogs is diagnosed with canine diabetes.

Normal glucose metabolism

During digestion food is broken down into components that can be used by the body. Carbohydrates (starches) are converted into sugars, including glucose. Glucose absorbed from the intestines into the blood provides the body cells with energy.

Glucose can only enter most cells if the hormone insulin is present. Insulin is produced by specific cells in the pancreas, a special gland situated near the intestines.

What is diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus or “sugar diabetes” is caused by a lack of available insulin. In dogs we refer to canine diabetes.

Canine diabetes is caused by:

• Insufficient insulin production by the pancreas
• Failure of the body cells to respond to insulin

The results are:

• The cells cannot absorb enough glucose
• Blood glucose levels are too high

Are all dogs susceptible to canine diabetes?

Canine diabetes most typically occurs in middle aged to older dogs. Un-spayed bitches are most commonly affected.

The following dog breeds appear to have an increased risk of developing canine diabetes:

These are dog breeds in which veterinary surgeons most commonly diagnose canine diabetes. Reports may be biased due to breed popularity. Pedigree analysis has, however, identified a genetic predisposition in Keeshonds and Samoyeds.