Diet and Exercise for Your Dog's Diabetes

Diabetes and Your Dog

While research about diabetes in animals continues, there are several factors that affect the regulation and control of your dog's diabetes. The amount of insulin required changes based on the types and amount of food eaten, as well as level of physical activity.

Diabetes and the Importance of a Nutritional Diet

While there is no ideal diet available for dogs in general and an ideal composition of exact diet has yet to be determined for dogs, veterinarians have several recommendations. It is typically recommended that your dog food contain a lot of protein and fiber, and less carbohydrates than what some cheaper dog foods will contain. Carbohydrates contain sugar, which directly affects blood sugar levels. It is also recommended that you feed your dog several small portions per day rather than one big meal. This aids in the regulating sugar levels and keeping them stable while also preventing them from overeating.

Diabetes, Dieting, and Treats

Just because your dog has diabetes does not mean that treats are no longer an option. Many pets are psychologically accustomed to snacks as special treatment. Elimination of all treats from the diet will only serve to make your dog feel punished. Healthy treats are available that contain low amounts of carbohydrates and sugars. This can be tricky as sugar is located in molasses, cane molasses, fructose, maltose, cane sugar, dextrose, and both malt and corn syrup. These ingredients should be avoided whenever possible. Treats can also be served in the form of people food. Low sugar vegetables are a great option including cauliflower, broccoli, green beans, carrots, turnips, and green peppers. Tofu can also make a great treat for your dog. Treats should only be given in moderation and be sure to break large pieces into smaller ones. Over time, a small treat in addition to a lot of attention and love will satisfy your pet.

Diabetes, Obesity, and Diet

If your pet is obese, the process of gradual weight loss through dieting and lifestyle changes is essential. Obesity only adds to the sign and symptom severity of diabetes. There is also a strong correlation with weight loss in obese animals and a decreased amount of insulin required for the maintenance of an appropriate blood sugar.

Diabetes and Exercise

Exercise is an essential part of your dog's life. It is associated with an overall decrease in blood glucose (sugar) levels, as the body requires energy derived from sugar molecules for exercising. Exercise is also great for your dog's cardiovascular system, strengthening the heart and lungs. Even moderate amounts of exercise can make a difference. Even small changes in activity made gradually over time can serve to make vast changes in your pet's health. Every step in the right direction counts. Typically, diabetes is not a life threatening condition for a pet, as it can be controlled and regulated through a balanced diet, physical activity, and insulin if your pet is insulin dependent.

Sources:

http://www.petdiabetes.org/diet.htm

http://www.petdiabetes.org/exercise.htm

Photo Credit: Gatis Gribusts

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