Question
What treats can my diabetic dog have?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
Most families want to keep giving their dog treats, and you usually can. Most vets say pick one or two small treats and give them at the same time each day, or keep back a little of his measured meal. Lots of starchy treats can throw his day off. Tell your vet what you already give him before you add anything new.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What you might notice at home
Everyone at home still wants to give him something. Owners talk about a few small treats, home-made meat chews and single-ingredient dried meat. Some bake liver treats. Anything new you make is still a change to his food.
Some vets would rather you used play and a fuss instead of food. That doesn't always work, especially if you need a reward to get through injections. Tell your vet if that's the case.
What to write down for the vet
- The treat, roughly how big, and what time he gets it.
- Who else feeds him: children, guests, the other dog's bowl.
- Why he gets them: training, injection time, or just because.
- Any chew that's bigger or richer than it looks.
What to take with you
Take the packet, if there is one, and write every treat on the food checklist before you see your vet.
How do I make homemade treats for a diabetic dog?
No homemade treat is guaranteed to leave sugar levels alone. Ask your vet whether any treat fits your dog's diet and other health issues. Keeping back a little of the normal food to use as treats is worth asking about.
Once you've agreed a treat, stick to it and make sure everyone in the house knows what it is. A cuddle or a game works as a reward too. Avoid anything with xylitol, and don't take a 'diabetes-friendly' label as proof something is safe.
Sources
- Are green beans and plain vegetables all right as treats?Plain vegetable treats
- Can I give a snack between the two meals?Snacks between the two meals
- Family and guests keep giving him sweets and snacks. What can I do?When family keep handing out snacks
- Which foods should a diabetic dog avoid?Foods to keep away from him
- Food checklistA form to list every treat
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
Are green beans and plain vegetables all right as treats?
They're still food. Ask your vet first, then keep it the same every day.
Q&A
Can I give a snack between the two meals?
Some owners give a small snack between meals. Many vets prefer just two meals, so ask yours first.
Q&A
How do I make insulin time easier for my dog?
Do it at mealtime, stay calm and praise him. If you're struggling, ask your vet to watch you do it once.
Printable
Food checklist
Write down what actually goes in the bowl, treats included.