Basics

• PetMD defines canine diabetes mellitus as when a dog's body does not produce enough insulin (Type 1) or his cells do not respond correctly to the insulin his body produces (Type 2). Insulin, a hormone, helps the body regulate glucose in the blood cells; when insulin doesn't respond correctly, the dog's muscles and liver cannot convert the glucose to energy.
  
  

Signs

• Dogs with uncontrolled diabetes experience increased urination, hunger, thirst and fatigue. PetMD warns that dogs may lose weight, stop eating completely or vomit.
  
  

Effects

• Without treatment, diabetes leads to ketoacidosis, an enlarged liver, bladder infections, kidney infections and cataracts. Degenerative lesions occur on the pancreas. The Merck Veterinary Manual warns that uncontrolled diabetes decreases a dog's resistance to fungal and bacterial infections.
  
  

Treatment

• Controlling canine diabetes requires weight loss if the dog is overweight, a special diet, daily exercise and the proper insulin dose. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, most dogs will require two doses of insulin a day. In more complicated cases, other medications may also be prescribed, such as oral hypoglycemics. A female dog may need to be spayed.
  
  

Considerations

• Certain dog breeds develop diabetes more frequently than others. PetMD lists pulik, miniature pinschers, keeshonden, Samoyeds, cairn terriers, beagles, miniature schnauzers, dachshunds and poodles as high-risk breeds. Owners of these breeds should watch them carefully and have them checked regularly for signs of diabetes.