The Life Span Cycle Of Vet Care For Dogs

Is There a Definitive Diet for Diabetic Dogs?

29 April 2019 by Leonard Wallace

If you know someone with diabetes, you might know what they need to do on a daily basis in order to manage their condition. Those with type 1 diabetes might require insulin injections, along with an appropriate diet and sufficient exercise. Those with type 2 diabetes might be able to manage their condition with diet and exercise alone. The same principle applies when a dog has diabetes, in that the condition needs to be effectively managed, and that the best way to manage it depends on the type and severity of their diabetes. If your vet has informed you that your dog does in fact have diabetes, what dietary changes will be needed?

Type, Amount and Frequency of Food 

The dietary needs of a dog with diabetes are not only confined to the content of the food your dog should be eating, but also the amount, as well as the frequency of meals. In order to best manage your dog's condition, they might get the best results from eating a number of smaller meals throughout the day, in order to keep their blood sugar at a consistent level, avoiding potentially damaging spikes in these levels. But what should they actually be eating?

Specialty Food

It's a matter of personal preference, and you might wish to assemble your dog's meals yourself from raw ingredients or buy a pet food specifically designed for dogs with diabetes. If you go for the latter option, be sure to consult your vet before choosing a brand and variety of food, since you want to choose the food that is most appropriate for your dog's specific diabetes, along with their breed, age and any other medical conditions that need to be accounted for.

DIY Meals

If you wish to assemble your dog's meals yourself, again, your vet can give you some helpful tips. The end result should be a meal that is low in fat and high in fibre, while still supplying your dog with all their nutritional requirements. A vet might even suggest nutritional supplements in some cases. As a general rule of thumb, combine a low-fat protein (Australian dog owners are at an advantage here, as kangaroo meat is ideal) with a source of fibre, either from an approved supplement or from added vegetables. Be sure to avoid any additions with a medium to high glycemic index, such as rice and pasta.

The best diet for managing for dog's diabetes can be a changeable thing, so be sure to regularly consult your vet to determine whether your dog's needs have changed.

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