How to Tell If a Chow-Mix Has Diabetes
Canine diabetes (diabetes mellitus) causes a dog to have sensitivity to or deficiency of the insulin hormone. Chow dogs are particularly susceptible to diabetes, and mix-breed Chow dogs also are susceptible. Fortunately, canine diabetes can be managed with the proper diagnosis and care. By observing changes in weight, diet and behavior, you can help your veterinarian determine whether your dog has diabetes. If the diagnosis is made, you can start your dog on the proper treatment course.
Instructions
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Weigh your dog once a week. Because one symptom of canine diabetes is weight loss, it is important to weigh your Chow-mix frequently to determine whether his weight is simply fluctuating or he is consistently losing weight. If you do not have a scale suitable for a dog, simply weigh yourself and then weigh yourself holding your dog. The difference of the two measurements is his weight.
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Observe how frequently your dog drinks water. A significant increase in thirst is a symptom of canine diabetes, so if your dog drinks his water more quickly than before, or if he seems to consume more water than before, that might be a sign of diabetes. Obviously, water consumption will vary. But if there is a significant change (for example, his bowl is always empty or you have to refill his water much more often than normal), it could be a sign of diabetes. It might be helpful to write down how many bowls of water your dog drinks per day. This will help you notice whether there is a significant increase in consumption.
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Note any significant increase in urination. When a dog has diabetes, his body will eliminate the excess sugar through urination. Therefore if he is urinating more often during walks or if he has accidents in the house (is unable to hold his urine), it could be a sign of diabetes. It is important to note that it could also be a sign of another illness, so if your dog consistently has trouble holding his urine, it is best to seek immediate veterinary care for your dog.
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Tips & Warnings
Although these are all symptoms of canine diabetes, they also can be symptoms of other things. If your dog exhibits one or more of these symptoms, consult your vet.
