What are the signs of diabetes in dogs?

Drinking and urinating more; Increased hunger; Weight loss; Sudden cloudy eyes (cataracts); Lethargy.

When should I contact a veterinarian?

Weakness, wobbliness or seizures in a dog on insulin may mean low blood sugar — an emergency. Contact a vet immediately.

Hormonal disease · Updated 2026-09-29

Lack of insulin leads to high blood sugar, with increased thirst, weight loss and a risk of cataracts.

Prompt veterinary attentionDogs

In dogs, usually immune destruction of insulin-producing cells; pancreatitis, Cushing's disease and some breeds increase risk.

Persistently high blood and urine glucose, with further tests to check for complications.

Twice-daily insulin injections, consistent meals and regular monitoring. Most dogs need insulin for life.

Not reliably preventable; keeping dogs lean and spaying (which removes progesterone-related risk) help.

Well-managed diabetic dogs often live good lives for years. Cataracts are common but can be treated surgically.

What are the signs of diabetes in dogs?: Drinking and urinating more; Increased hunger; Weight loss; Sudden cloudy eyes (cataracts); Lethargy.
What causes diabetes in dogs?: In dogs, usually immune destruction of insulin-producing cells; pancreatitis, Cushing's disease and some breeds increase risk.
How is diabetes in dogs diagnosed?: Persistently high blood and urine glucose, with further tests to check for complications.
How is diabetes in dogs treated?: Twice-daily insulin injections, consistent meals and regular monitoring. Most dogs need insulin for life.
Can diabetes in dogs be prevented?: Not reliably preventable; keeping dogs lean and spaying (which removes progesterone-related risk) help.
When should I contact a veterinarian?: Weakness, wobbliness or seizures in a dog on insulin may mean low blood sugar — an emergency. Contact a vet immediately.