Diabetes is a common disease in breeds such as beagles. It is important for all dog owners to know the facts about this disease.

– Diabetes is an endocrine disease. It has two types; diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus. This disease occurs when the body produces insufficient insulin, a type of hormone essential in the metabolism of sugar.

Diabetes mellitus is the more common of the two types. Also called “sugar diabetes,” this disease occurs when the body produces less insulin. Diabetes mellitus is subdivided into two; Type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when there is insufficient production of insulin in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, occurs when there is an inadequate response of the dog to insulin.

– Diabetes insipidus is a condition in which the excretion of dilute urine is in large amount and cannot be reduced even if fluid intake is reduced. This happens due to the kidney’s inability to concentrate urine. This type of diabetes is caused by a deficiency of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH) known as vaporesin.

– Common symptoms of diabetes are excessive drinking and urination. The dog may also experience weight loss although there is an increased appetite. Additionally, poor skin and coat, liver disease, vomiting, weakness in the hind legs, secondary bacterial infections, dehydration, and rapid breathing may also be present in dogs with diabetes.

– Common symptoms of diabetes are excessive drinking and urination. The dog may also experience weight loss although there is an increased appetite. Additionally, poor skin and coat, liver disease, vomiting, weakness in the hind legs, secondary bacterial infections, dehydration, and rapid breathing may also be present in dogs with diabetes.

– Dogs between seven and nine years old are usually the victims of this disease. Unspayed female dogs and breeds such as Dachshunds and Beagles are at higher risk of developing this disease.

– Insulin, administered by injection, is the main medication for this disease. The types of insulin vary according to their effect and how the victim responds. Short-acting insulins are effective for one to four hours, mid-range insulins are effective for four to 24 hours, and long-range versions of insulin last eight to 28 hours. Too low a dose of insulin will not control diabetes, and too high a dose can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If possible, the medication should be given at the same time each day.

– There are also other measures to keep diabetes under control. The dog’s weight and food intake should be closely monitored because blood sugar is difficult to control in overweight dogs. Instead of feeding one full meal a day, experts suggest feeding several smaller ones (at least twice a day). Another way to control obesity is through regular exercise.