Question
Could my dog go low at night while we're asleep?
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
Many owners lie awake worrying about this. A low can happen at any hour, so it helps to know the signs and have a plan. Ask your vet when his insulin works hardest and whether any night checks make sense. If you find him weak, wobbly, confused, unusually hard to wake or having a seizure, call your vet or emergency clinic now.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What to know at home
Daytime readings can miss what happens overnight, which is one reason vets sometimes suggest a sensor or a longer curve. Restlessness, trembling or odd behaviour in the night can have other causes, but it's always worth a call. Sleeping near him for a while can ease your mind.
What to write down
- Anything unusual you saw at night, and the time
- Evening meal, insulin time and the evening walk
- Any readings your vet asked for
What to ask next
Ask whether a sensor or overnight curve would help, and what to do if he hasn't finished his evening meal. Don't give extra food or insulin at night on a guess. Follow your vet's low-sugar plan and call them.
Sources
- Emergency or low blood sugar: call your vet nowWhat to do if his sugar drops too low
- There's no emergency vet nearby at night. What can I do?When no emergency vet is near
- What should I keep ready in case my dog goes low?What to keep ready for a low
- Is a skin sensor worth it for my diabetic dog?How a skin sensor records glucose
- What is a glucose curve, and can I do it at home?Why a daytime curve can miss night lows
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My diabetic dog is panting or restless at night.
Call your vet if your diabetic dog starts panting or can't settle at night, especially if he seems weak or unwell.
Q&A
Is a skin sensor worth it for my diabetic dog?
A sensor can mean far fewer pricks for your dog. If it ever shows a low, check with a blood test.
Q&A
What should I keep ready in case my dog goes low?
It's much easier to stay calm in a low if you've planned it on a good day.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.