Canine diabetes mellitus requires daily insulin injections and regular monitoring to maintain quality of life, with well-managed diabetic dogs able to live comfortably for years.
Uncontrolled diabetes causes significant suffering through osmotic effects of hyperglycemia - extreme thirst, frequent urination, and despite eating well, progressive muscle wasting and weakness. Diabetic cataracts develop rapidly and cause blindness that reduces independence and quality of life. Diabetic ketoacidosis causes acute metabolic crisis with vomiting, weakness, and organ failure. Well-controlled diabetes allows dogs to lead comfortable, active lives with minimal welfare compromise from the disease itself. The primary welfare costs are the daily injection procedure and regular veterinary monitoring, which most dogs tolerate well. Good owner education and commitment to consistent management produces the best welfare outcomes.