Diabetes is a common disease in breeds like beagles. It is important that every dog owner to know the facts about this disease.

– Diabetes endocrine disease. There are two types of diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus. This disease occurs when the body produces enough insulin, a hormone essential species in sugar metabolism.

– Diabetes mellitus is the most common of the two types. Also called "sugar diabetes", this disease occurs when the body produces less insulin. Diabetes mellitus is divided into two groups: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when there is insufficient production of insulin in the pancreas. The change type 2 diabetes occurs when there is inadequate response by dogs to insulin.

– Diabetes insipidus is a condition where the excretion of dilute urine is in large quantity and can not be reduced, even if reduced fluid intake. This happens due to the inability of the kidney to concentrate urine. This type of diabetes is caused by a deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), known as vaporessin.

– Common symptoms of diabetes are excessive alcohol consumption and urination. The dog may also suffer weight loss though there is an increased appetite. Moreover, poor skin and hair coat, liver disease, vomiting, weakness in hind legs, secondary bacterial infections, dehydration and rapid breathing may also be present in dogs with diabetes.

– Drinking Common symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination. The dog may also suffer weight loss though there an increase in appetite. Moreover, poor skin and coat, liver disease, vomiting, weakness in hind legs, secondary bacterial infections, dehydration and rapid breathing may also be present in dogs with diabetes.

– Dogs between seven and nine years of age are often the victims of this disease. Sterilized dogs and breeds like Dachshunds and Beagles are at greater risk of developing this disease.

– Insulin, given by injection, is the main drug in this disease. Insulin types vary according to their effects on the victim and how to answer it. Short-acting insulins are effective for four hours, the medium range of insulins are effective for four to 24 hours and long-range versions of insulin increased from eight to 28 hours. Too low doses non-insulin diabetes and too high doses can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If possible, medication should be given at the same time every day.

– There are also other measures to keep diabetes under control. The dog's weight and food intake must be well managed, because blood sugar is difficult to control in overweight dogs. Instead of giving a full meal a day, experts suggest to feed several smaller (at least twice a day). Another way to control obesity is through regular exercise.

Richard Cussons trains different breeds of dogs. Learn more about Beagle training and other information pertaining to Beagles here.

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