Diabetes mellitus in dogs

Canine Diabetes Mellitus

Incidence of diabetes mellitus in dogs



Estimates of the incidence of diabetes mellitus in dogs range from 1:100 to 1:500 (Panciera et al. 1990).

All dogs are susceptible to diabetes but it is usually seen in middle aged to older dogs. A higher incidence is seen in entire bitches.

Breeds that appear to be at increased risk of developing diabetes mellitus include:

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  • Keeshond
  • Poodles
  • Samoyed
  • Daschund
  • Alaskan Malamute
  • Miniature Cchnauzer
  • Chow Chow
  • Beagle
  • Doberman Pinscher
  • Labrador Retriever
  • Puli
  • Golden Retriever
  • Miniature Pinscher
  • Old English Sheepdog
  • English Springer Spaniel
  • Schipperke
  • Finnish Spitz
  • West Highland White Terrier
  • Cairn Terrier

However, reports may be biased due to confounding factors such as breed popularity.

For many breeds and many disorders, the studies to determine the mode of inheritance or the frequency in the breed have not been carried out, or are inconclusive. We have listed breeds for which there is a general consensus among those investigating in this field and among veterinary practitioners, that the condition is significant. Pedigree analysis has, however, apparently identified a genetic predisposition in keeshonds and samoyeds.