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Question

How do I make insulin time easier for my 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

Injecting may seem scary at first, but most people get the hang of it quickly. Many find it easier to give insulin at mealtime, with calm praise or a lick of food your vet is happy with. Ask your vet to show you where and how to inject, and to watch you do it once. If he yelps, or a spot looks swollen or sore, call your vet.

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Match the U number on the vial and the syringeIllustration. Top left: a vial labelled U-40, 40 units per ml, next to a red-capped syringe printed U-40, with a green tick: match. Top right: a vial labelled U-100, 100 units per ml, next to an orange-capped syringe printed U-100, with a green tick: match. Bottom: a U-40 vial next to an orange-capped U-100 syringe, with a red cross: wrong amount, don't inject, call your vet. Cap colours vary by maker, so always read the U number printed on the vial and the syringe.U-4040 unitsper mlRed capU-40MatchU-100100 unitsper mlOrange capU-100MatchNot a matchU-4040 unitsper mlOrange capU-100Wrong amount —don't inject,call your vetCap colours vary by maker.Always read the U number printedon the vial and the syringe.
Before every injection, look at two things: the U number on the vial and the U number on the syringe. Same number, go ahead. Different number, stop and ring your vet. Don't go by the cap colour alone.
Needle gauge: higher number means a thinner needleIllustration of three needles side by side, labelled 29G, 30G and 31G, drawn from thicker to thinner. Higher number means a thinner needle, and thinner needles usually feel more comfortable. Needle length is given in millimetres, for example 8 mm or 12.7 mm. Ask your vet which suits your dog.Length (mm)29G30G31GthickerthinnerHigher number = thinner needle.Thinner needles usually feel more comfortable.Length is in mm, e.g. 8 mm or 12.7 mm —ask your vet which suits your dog.
The G number runs backwards, which catches lots of people out: the bigger the number, the thinner the needle. Length is a separate number in mm, and that's one to settle with your vet.

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

What you might notice at home

He walks off when the fridge opens. He cries. It takes two of you to hold him. Some people use a lick mat at mealtime, or shave a small patch when a thick coat hides the skin. Ask your vet before you shave anything.

Others use treats, a game, or save a bit of the meal for injection time. Some just hold the dog gently. If the pain or fear is getting worse, talk to your vet.

A fresh needle every time helps, because used needles go blunt and hurt more. Thinner, shorter needles usually feel more comfortable, and many dogs barely notice them, so ask your vet which size suits your dog. Our page on choosing syringes and needles explains the G number and length. Check the vial and the syringe show the same U number, every time.

What to write down for the vet

  • What he does when insulin time starts.
  • Whether you're still managing to give it.
  • Any yelp, swelling, or a spot that looks sore.
  • Any treat you use, and whether the vet said it was okay.

What to take with you

Ask in person, and take the syringe or pen you actually use. A short video can help if the clinic wants to see what happens.

How and where do I give the injection?

Injecting may seem scary at first, but most people get the hang of it quickly. Ask the vet team to show you with your own pen or syringe, then watch you do it. Tell them if thick fur, a wriggly dog, a weak grip or nerves make any step unclear. Needle angle, injection spot and how to hold your dog are best learned in person.

Ask what to do if your dog moves or the fur is wet afterwards. If you're not sure the injection went in, don't give another one, and call the vet for advice. Asking for a second lesson is normal, and it usually gets easier within a few weeks.

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Sources

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

Related

Q&A

Do I feed my diabetic dog before the insulin?

Most vets say feed first, then give insulin. Follow the order your own vet wrote down.

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What treats can my diabetic dog have?

One small treat at the same time each day, if your vet's happy with it. Or use a bit of his measured meal.

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My diabetic dog hates glucose tests

Some dogs never settle with pricks. Tell your vet, because there may be a gentler way.

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How should insulin be kept at home?

Follow what it says on the box. Keep it in the fridge, never frozen, and never in a hot car.