Question
How long do diabetic dogs live? What is the outlook?
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
Diabetes on its own doesn't tell you how long your dog will live. Many diabetic dogs do well with daily care. A lot depends on his general health, any other illness and how he responds to treatment. Ask your vet how comfortable he's likely to be and what goals are realistic. Another dog's story won't predict how yours will do.
What to know at home
It's natural to want a number. A more useful start is to ask what can get better now, what needs watching and what would change things.
What to write down
- Appetite, weight, sleep and interest in normal life
- Other diagnoses and treatment burdens
- Your main hopes and worries
What to ask next
Ask what a better day would look like for him and when you should both take stock again. A dog can have a good life with injections and checks, but that never means ignoring pain or distress.
Sources
- Can a diabetic dog still have a good quality of life?Keeping a good quality of life
- Is it worth treating diabetes, especially in an older dog?Weighing treatment and daily care
- How long does it take to get a dog regulated?How long it takes to settle on treatment
- Can a diabetic dog go into remission or come off insulin?Whether he may come off insulin
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My puppy or young dog has diabetes. Is that different?
Yes, a young dog needs a plan made for his age and growth.
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.