Information is a powerful tool for prevention. A little bit of research can help you keep your dog healthy and happy throughout their lives.
Several dog breeds are particularly prone to developing diabetes due to genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors, and even physical characteristics. Here’s a breakdown of breeds commonly associated with a higher risk of diabetes, and the reasons why they are on the list.
Schnauzers (Miniature and Standard)
Schnauzers, particularly the miniature variety, have a genetic tendency towards developing insulin resistance. They are prone to obesity, which is a risk factor for diabetes. And, their vulnerability to developing pancreatitis can further increase their risk because damage to the pancreas can impair insulin production.
Poodles (Miniature and Standard):
Poodles are also genetically predisposed to diabetes. Like the Schnauzers, the small size of Miniature Poodles makes them more vulnerable to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to insulin resistance over time. Obesity and pancreatitis are also risk factors for poodles.
I wish we had been more proactive about understanding Brady’s unique needs as a poodle when we first inherited him. I grew up with golden retrievers who spent most of their time in our backyard. Having a small, lap dog was a new experience for me, and one I did not research as I should have.
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
― Maya Angelou
I am doing better, and I hope this website is helping you do better too.
Dachshunds:
Dachshunds tend to be less active and more prone to weight gain. Their body shape (long spine, short legs) often limits physical activity, making them more prone to obesity and, subsequently, diabetes.
Beagles:
Beagles are highly food-driven and often overeat if not carefully managed. Their propensity to gain weight due to overeating, combined with moderate activity levels, makes them susceptible to diabetes. In addition, genetic factors contribute to insulin sensitivity issues in this breed.
Australian Terriers:
This breed is more likely to develop diabetes due to a combination of genetic predispositions and their body size. Smaller breeds tend to be more susceptible to hormonal imbalances, and Australian Terriers often exhibit insulin resistance as they age.
Samoyeds:
Samoyeds have a genetic predisposition to endocrine issues, including diabetes. Additionally, they are at risk for developing hypothyroidism, which can contribute to weight gain and subsequently lead to insulin resistance.
Keeshonds:
Keeshonds are also predisposed to developing diabetes due to genetic factors such as hypothyroidism and obesity, both of which are linked to diabetes risk. Their relatively sedentary nature adds to the likelihood of developing insulin resistance.
Labrador Retrievers:
Labrador Retrievers:
Labradors are prone to obesity because they are often very food-motivated and may not get enough exercise if their weight isn’t carefully managed. The genetic makeup of this breed makes them susceptible to insulin resistance, and obesity dramatically increases their risk of diabetes.
Golden Retrievers:
Similar to Labradors, Golden Retrievers are prone to obesity, which is a major risk factor for diabetes. Additionally, Golden Retrievers may have genetic predispositions to endocrine disorders, which can influence insulin production and glucose regulation.
Pugs:
Pugs are prone to obesity due to their body structure, lower activity levels, and a tendency to overeat. Their weight gain contributes to insulin resistance, which makes them more likely to develop diabetes. Like other small breeds, hormonal imbalances can also play a role.
Key takeaways:
The common factors for diabetes in dogs include:
- obesity,
- genetic predispositions, which are often due to small size,
- hormonal imbalances, and
- sedentary lifestyles.
If your dog is prone to diabetes, the things to watch for are:
- increased thirst
- frequent urination
These two symptoms were our first indication that Brady had developed diabetes.
- weight loss – despite the increased appetite
- low energy
- cloudy eyes – cataracts are common in diabetic dogs
At age 13, Brady is developing cataracts. The surgery is more dangerous than the condition for a dog his age, so we are doing what we can to keep his eyes healthy for as long as possible. We do notice that he doesn’t see well at a distance these days.
- recurring urinary tract or skin infections
Brady just recently had his first urinary tract infection. He had a check-up this past week and is fully recovered, but it is something we know we need to watch for because they are common in diabetic dogs.
Whether you are here because your dog is already diagnosed with diabetes, or you are researching the risks associated with your dog’s breed, the advice is the same. Proper diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care will keep them healthy after a diagnosis or even better, significantly help reduce the risk of your dog ever developing diabetes.
What breed of dog do you have? Please share your experience in the comments below. We can “do better” together. Thanks!
Having a pet with diabetes can be a real challenge to deal with on a daily basis. This is a very interesting list of dogs that are prone to diabetes. Something that I was not aware of, is that some breeds are more likely to develop diabetes, than others.
My sister had a Rhodesian Ridgeback, which at the age of nearly ten years, started having problems with her sight. On investigating her sight problems, they then discovered that she had diabetes, hence her loosing her eyesight.
They managed her diabetes through her diet, often cooking chicken for her. But unfortunately she did end being blind, and eventually lost her battle with diabetes. The more knowledge we have about diabetes in dogs, the better we will be able to manage a diabetic dog.
Thank you for your comment. I’m sorry to hear about your sister’s dog. Even with excellent care, diabetic dogs are vulnerable. But armed with knowledge and understanding, hopefully, we can keep our dogs healthy for as long as possible.