Diagnosis and Detection

Will diabetes affect my dog’s life expectancy?

Today, with effective treatment and monitoring, a dog with diabetes should have the same life expectancy as a pet without diabetes of the same age. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment helps pets with diabetes maintain a good quality of life.

Is my dog at risk for diabetes?

While diabetes has been diagnosed in dogs and cats of all ages, genders, and breeds, certain pets are at greater risk for the disease. Take the quiz for a risk assessment.

Risk factors in dogs

• Age (middle-aged to older dogs are more affected)
• Unspayed females
• Genetics
• Obesity
• Breed – these breeds have a higher risk for developing diabetes:
  • Cocker Spaniels
  • Dachshunds
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • German Shepherds
  • Golden Retrievers
  • Labrador Retrievers
  • Pomeranians
  • Terriers
  • Toy Poodles
  • Miniature Schnauzers

Are there warning signs I should be aware of?

Some common signs of diabetes in dogs includes:

• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination – your pet produces more urine per day or has “accidents” in the house
• Excessive hunger while losing weight
• Lethargy (less active/sleeps more)
• Cloudy eyes
• Thinning, dry, and dull fur