Hypoglycemia In Dogs

Hypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar (or glucose) drops to lower than normal and stable levels. Glucose is your body’s primary energy source and provides energy for physical and mental activity.

Initial symptoms of this condition in dogs include disorientation and tremors. If left untreated, this condition could lead to seizures, coma, or even death. The feeling of hypoglycemia is not just an empty, growling stomach feeling that wants to be fed. It is an overall low energy feeling throughout the body including in your mind.

What To Look For In Your Pup
Common signs of hypoglycemia are loss of appetite, lack of balance and coordination, extreme lethargy, muscle twitching, and overall weakness. At times a pup will have a discolora­tion of skin and gums. Despite the pup needing energy when their sugar levels are low, many will not eat or drink.

Why Does This Happen?
Basic hypoglycemia cases tend to occur when a dog is overly active and rapidly burns off energy too quickly in between meals. This also true when the pup had a meal that did not provide substantial nutrients. Hypogly­cemia also may occur secondary to another con­dition. Other less common causes include Addison’s disease, insulin-producing tumors of the pancreas, severe liver disease, and glycogen storage diseases. Veterinarians generally treat the underlying condition before treating hypoglycemia.

What To Do If Your Dog Shows Signs Of This Condition
Your veterinarian should be made aware of your observations. The mere fact that your pup exhibits some of the basic signs does not mean he is suffering from hypoglycemia. Many very minor conditions cause the same initial symptoms in dogs. Should your pup show advanced signs, such as seizing or not being able to stand up, emergency veterinarian assistance is required.

Poodles, to Pugs, to German Shepherds – Any Breed Can Be Affected
Just like a person, any dog can be affected by hypoglycemia. Smaller Toy Breed dogs are particularly vulnerable because their brain mass to body weight ratio is not as proportioned as a larger pup is. The larger the brain (in general or size to body ratio), means more glucose is needed to fuel the brain.

If you have questions about this condition, speak to your veterinarian. A puppy care specialist from a reputable puppy adoption store can also help answer questions you have. We all love our adorable puppies and want the best for them. Always be sure to take the time for things when it comes to their health and wellbeing.