Question
How should walks work for a diabetic dog?
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 diabetic dogs enjoy their walks again once they start feeling better. The same walk at about the same time each day suits most of them, because exercise can lower blood sugar. Ask your vet before a much longer or rougher day out. If he seems weak, wobbly or trembling, stop the walk and call your vet or an emergency clinic right away.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What you might notice at home
The old route comes back, and so does his energy. Owners talk about that with real relief. They also talk about testing around walks, and cutting a walk short when it seemed to push the glucose down.
Excitement counts too. Playing with another dog in the park is much harder work than a quiet walk on the lead, even over the same distance.
What to write down for the vet
- His usual walk, in minutes or roughly where you go.
- What time you walk, and how that fits with his meals.
- Any day that was much longer or rougher.
- Weakness, trembling, or a need to stop.
What to take with you
A week of walks next to a week of readings, if you have them. Ask your vet what you should do differently on a bigger day, if anything.
Sources
- We're planning a long hike or a busy day out. What should I think about?Planning a long hike or busy day
- My diabetic dog seems weak or wobbly after a walkIf he seems weak after a walk
- What should I keep ready in case my dog goes low?What to carry in case of a low
- How do I care for a diabetic dog in hot weather?Walking in hot weather
- Emergency or low blood sugar: call your vet nowWhat to do if he goes low
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My diabetic dog seems weak or wobbly after a walk
Stop. Call your vet or an emergency clinic now. If your vet gave you a written plan for a low, follow it.
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 often should I test my diabetic dog?
There's no fixed number of tests. Ask your vet how often they want readings.
Q&A
When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?
If he's weak, trembling, collapsing, vomiting or won't eat, call your vet now. Read the rest later.