Two distinct conditions cause excessive thirst and urination in dogs. Understanding the difference is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Both forms of diabetes cause significant discomfort through constant thirst and the need to urinate frequently. Dogs with diabetes insipidus may drink and urinate extraordinary volumes - up to 10-20 times normal - causing dehydration distress if water is restricted and house-training problems that create stress between owners and pets. Misdiagnosis leads to inappropriate treatment and continued suffering. The diagnostic workup is more complex than for diabetes mellitus but essential for appropriate management. Untreated central diabetes insipidus causes hypernatremia (high blood sodium) that can cause neurological symptoms and death.