Dogs diagnosed with canine diabetes mellitus must begin medical treatment to manage the diabetes. Diabetes management includes lifestyle changes which require regular routines.

Dogs that are middle age or older are at the highest risk for the diabetes mellitus. Obesity increases the risk. Younger dogs may also be affected by diabetes mellitus in which cases it is typically hereditary.

The body uses insulin produced by the pancreas to metabolize glucose. Without enough insulin, of glucose in the blood cannot be used for energy and blood glucose levels can rise to unsafe amounts.

Insulin injections, controlled diet, and regular exercise are used to manage diabetes in dogs. Dogs may require one or two daily insulin injections.

The veterinarian will instruct the dog owner about the proper storage and administration of the insulin. The dosage of insulin varies between dogs. The injections are given below the skin along the dog’s back. The veterinarian may change the dosage until the ideal dosage is found.

The dog’s urine may need to be tested with strips that indicate the level of glucose in the urine. The dog owner may be required to keep a log of the urine testing results, any changes in behavior, and the amount of insulin given.

Managing diabetes includes a consistent routine of eating and exercise. Often, the dog with diabetes mellitus is given part of its daily food early in the day with the rest given up to ten hours later.

Extra food and snacks given to the dog can jeopardize the dog’s health. A strict feeding routine is necessary for the proper management of the diabetes. A consistent level of exercise daily can make canine diabetes mellitus easier to manage.

A dog with canine diabetes mellitus may be put on a special diet. The dog food for dogs with diabetes is typically high in fiber and protein. Diabetes management for canine diabetes mellitus may seem overwhelming at first, but once a routine has been established it may seem less stressful.

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