How to Prevent Hypoglycemia in Dogs

Dogs and puppies, particularly toy breeds are prone to problems with low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. This medical issue is fairly easy to prevent--the hard part is telling the difference between a hypoglycemic puppy and a plain old tired dog that has already spent hours on the go. Hypoglycemia can be caused by stress, missing a meal or being on the go too long without a rest. Symptoms tend to take the form of mild depression at first, but if left untreated can evolve into a coma or worse. Fortunately, hypoglycemia is easy to prevent and you will not hurt your puppy if you err on the side of caution.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Karo syrup
• Eye dropper

1. Make sure your puppy eats three meals a day. While most adult dogs only eat twice a day, a puppy--particularly a toy dog--needs more refueling than that. Puppies should eat three small meals a day. If your puppy does not want to eat her kibble then consider mixing her dry food with wet food or heating her food slightly before serving it. You might also look into switching diets to either a home-cooked diet or a raw diet.

2. 
    
   Puppies easily wear themselves out playing with a new family.

   Give your puppy a break from playing even if he does not want one. Puppies will play until they drop--literally. Even if your puppy is still trying to entice you to throw a ball just one more time, make sure that he takes a break from playing. This will require you to stop playing with him and may actually necessitate a nap in his crate if he continues to be active by himself.

3. Carry karo syrup and an eye dropper with you when you are with your puppy. If your puppy begins to act strangely, she may have become hypoglycemic. Symptoms include glassy eyes, stumbling and slow response time or refusal to get up at all. Use the eye dropper to squeeze some karo syrup into your pet's mouth. A small dog will only need a few drops, while a larger animal will need a little more. Ask your vet about the right amount for your dog.

4. 
    
   Not just a fashion statement for small, shivery dogs...

   Keep your puppy warm. Toy breeds are easily chilled, especially after baths or while playing outside in cold months. Get your toy dog a coat or sweater to keep him warm when he plays outside and wrap him up well when he exits the bath.

5. Ask a vet to recommend a good food for your puppy. Malnutrition can cause your puppy to have low blood sugar. Make sure your puppy is eating the right food. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.

Tips & Warnings

• If your dog does not respond and appears glassy-eyed or even comatose, take him to the vet immediately. Puppies and toy dogs are delicate animals and can get sick and die in a matter of hours.

Who Can Help Sponsored