Diabetic Dog Diets

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that can be potentially fatal if left untreated. Diabetes in dogs causes uncontrolled blood sugar levels. The dog owner can make the necessary changes to keep the dog’s blood sugar levels within a healthy range.

Diet and exercise are essential components of the management of diabetes in dogs. If the diabetes is managed effectively, the dog can continue to live an active lifestyle for a relatively long time.

When a dog first develops diabetes, the dog owner may notice some symptoms. Two common symptoms are increased thirst and drinking and more frequent need for urination.

Diabetes mellitus must be diagnosed by a veterinarian. The veterinarian may want to do blood or urine tests and may require the dog to be fasting at the time of the test.

Routine is a critically important characteristic of diabetic dog diets. The veterinarian may instruct the dog owner to feed the dog and administer insulin injections according to a strict schedule.

Fiber and complex carbohydrates are key ingredients for diabetic dog diets. If the dog should lose weight, the veterinarian may recommend dog food that is low in fat.

Consistency is also considered an important factor for diabetic dog diets. For this reason, it is generally recommended that the dog owner use one type of dog food and not switch dog foods or make their own dog food.

The dog’s weight should be kept relatively consistent. Maintaining an ideal weight can help make the management of diabetes easier. If weight loss is necessary, it should be done gradually over a period of time.

A dog with diabetes should be checked regularly by the veterinarian. If that dog owner has any questions concerning the care of the dog, the dog’s diet, or administering insulin, the dog owner should consult the veterinarian.

In addition to regular veterinarian visits, the dog owner can test the dog’s urine for sugar with testing strips. The veterinarian may instruct the dog owner on testing without urine and making any necessary adjustments in the dog insulin.

Diabetes management for dogs can benefit from regular exercise. Consistent exercise helps keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range. Having a regular daily amount of exercise such as half an hour a day is best.