Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs: What to Watch Out For

Signs of Diabetes in Dogs

Diabetic dogs often exhibit the following symptoms:

1. Increased Thirst and Water Consumption

When a dog has diabetes, its water intake is significantly higher than usual. It may drink frequently and in larger quantities. While it's normal for dogs to drink more water after exercise or on hot days, if you notice a sudden and substantial increase in your dog's water consumption, it's important to take notice. If your pet continues to drink excessively, it's advisable to have it checked by a veterinarian to rule out any health issues.

2. More Frequent and Increased Urination

As a dog's water intake rises, so does its urine output. Not only will your dog urinate more often, but the volume of urine will also increase. This frequent urination is a sign of an abnormality in the body. Pay attention to whether this is a temporary occurrence or a persistent one. If your dog continues to exhibit this behavior, it's crucial to have it examined by a vet.

3. Increased Appetite and Larger Meals

Dogs with diabetes often feel hungry even after eating, leading to polyphagia. It's possible that before you realized your dog had diabetes, you might have thought it was simply greedy. However, if an adult dog is eating more frequently than usual, it's important not to dismiss this as mere gluttony. Additionally, if your dog is eating more but not gaining weight, or even losing weight, this could be a clear sign of diabetes. Be vigilant and observe your pet closely to detect any abnormalities and seek treatment promptly.

4. Weight Loss

Despite eating more, diabetic dogs may experience weight loss due to increased metabolic activity caused by the disease. This can lead to a situation where they eat more but don't gain weight, or even lose weight.

5. Poor Spirits and Weakness

Dogs suffering from diabetes may also experience a decline in their spirits, feeling tired, listless, or even excessively sleepy.

6. Dry, Thin, and Dull Coat

Even if your dog's diet remains the same, you may notice that its coat becomes dry, thin, and dull. A sudden thinning of the coat is not normal and can indicate various health issues, including diabetes. If you observe this symptom in your pet, it's best to take it to a veterinarian for a checkup and early diagnosis, as early treatment can significantly reduce the difficulty of recovery.

These are the six signs of diabetes in dogs summarized by Oxygen Pet Doctor. We hope pet owners can learn some health knowledge about their pets, take good preventive measures, and reduce the occurrence of diseases. Also, be vigilant in detecting any discomfort in your pets and provide timely treatment to be a great pet owner!