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Question

My diabetic dog is losing weight

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

It's upsetting to watch your dog get thinner. Weight loss is often one of the first signs of diabetes, and many dogs put some back on once treatment settles. If he keeps losing, see your vet. Write down his latest weight, the date, his food and whether he's eating it. Don't just feed him more. Any change to his amount should come from your vet.

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I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.

What you might notice at home

The collar is looser. The ribs are easier to feel. He eats well and still gets thinner, or he picks at his food and drops weight even faster. Both happen.

If he's still losing weight even though he's eating well, something isn't right, and your vet needs to know.

What to write down for the vet

  • Any weights you know, with dates. Even one is useful. If it's a guess, say so.
  • What he eats, including anything you now add to get him eating.
  • Thirst, peeing, stool, and energy.
  • Any new food in the last month.

What to take with you

Your home scale reading, if you trust your scale. Weights taken at the clinic are more reliable. Tell your vet if you've already been giving him extra.

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Sources

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

Related

Q&A

My diabetic dog needs to lose weight

Let your vet set the target. Keep his walks normal in the meantime.

Q&A

My diabetic dog is always hungry

A dog who is always begging is hard to live with. Tell your vet before you add more food.

Q&A

How do I measure my diabetic dog's meals?

Use the same scale or the same cup every time, and stick to the amount your vet gave you.

Printable

Weight tracker

Your dog's weight each week, so the vet can see the trend.