Companion Animals

Dog Diabetes Mellitus Management Welfare

Diabetes mellitus in dogs requires twice-daily insulin injections and dietary management, with good control enabling diabetic dogs to live comfortable, good quality lives.

Key Facts

Canine diabetes predominantly occurs in middle-aged to older dogs, particularly females
Twice-daily insulin injection after meals is the standard management approach
Dietary consistency is essential for stable blood glucose regulation
Diabetic cataracts develop in the majority of untreated or poorly controlled diabetic dogs
Hypoglycaemia from excessive insulin is a medical emergency requiring immediate response

Welfare Considerations

Uncontrolled diabetes causes progressive suffering including cataracts, weakness, and metabolic crisis. With commitment to daily management, diabetic dogs can thrive for years.

What You Can Do

Learn to administer insulin injections confidently with veterinary training
Provide consistent meals at consistent times to support stable glucose regulation
Monitor for hypoglycaemia signs and have glucose source available
Attend regular monitoring appointments to adjust insulin dose as needed