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Question

My puppy or young dog has diabetes. Is that different?

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

Yes, a young dog needs a plan made for his age and growth. Diabetes is more common in adult dogs, so your vet will look at his growth, appetite and why it started young. Don't copy an adult dog's routine or assume he'll grow out of it. If he's weak, vomiting or refusing food, call your vet the same day.

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What to know at home

A growing dog needs different care from a small adult dog. Tell the vet what food he's on and whether his growth or weight has changed. Diabetes at a young age is a reason for the vet to dig a bit deeper. Try not to diagnose something else from what you read online.

What to write down

  • Age and growth history
  • Appetite, thirst and weight changes
  • Copies of the tests used for diagnosis

What to ask next

Ask whether seeing a specialist would help, and how his food and checks will change as he grows. If a puppy is weak, vomiting or refusing food, call the vet the same day.

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Sources

Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.

Related

Q&A

Can a diabetic dog go into remission or come off insulin?

Most diabetic dogs need insulin for life, and remission is rare in dogs.

Guide

Starting out with a diabetic dog

From the diagnosis to a settled routine: what the tests mean, what to ask before you go home, how insulin and supplies work, and what the first weeks really look like.

Q&A

Does this mean my dog has diabetes?

Drinking more, peeing more and losing weight mean it's time to see a vet. Only the vet can tell you if it's diabetes.

Urgent help

Emergency or low blood sugar

Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.