If you are a dog owner, you might not have yet realized all of the different illnesses that your dog can suffer from. Diabetes, for example, is a disease that most people associate with humans. But, it can also affect dogs. Get to know some of the signs that your dog may be suffering from diabetes. Then, if you notice any of these symptoms, you can get them to the animal hospital or veterinarian's office right away for diagnosis and treatment. 

Lethargy or Depression

One of the signs that your dog might have diabetes is a change in their general attitude and energy levels. Sudden or increased lethargy can be one sign that your dog has diabetes. If they are usually energetic and then start to refuse to get out of bed or even get up for walks, there could be something seriously amiss. 

Depression in dogs is similar. They often have low energy levels and/or low enthusiasm for activities that they once loved like playing and going for walks. If you notice these signs, get your dog to a veterinarian for diagnosis. 

Polyuria and Polydipsia

Polyuria and polydipsia are both major symptoms of diabetes in dogs. Polydipsia can be described as excessive thirst. If your dog is draining their water bowl rapidly and immediately wanting more water, there is likely an issue going on, especially if they have not had excess exercise or been out in the heat for a long period of time. 

Polyuria is linked to polydipsia and is essentially excessive urination. If your dog's trips outside to do their business are suddenly increased or they start having accidents in the house when they wouldn't normally, your dog may be diabetic. 

Poor Appetite or Increased Appetite

Another sign of diabetes in dogs is a poor appetite. Your dog may start refusing their food or picking at their food when they were once a voracious eater. This can be linked to problems with their blood sugar associated with diabetes. 

Alternatively, an increased appetite could also be a sign of diabetes. If your dog constantly wants to eat and is harassing you for food even when you have recently fed them, this could also be a sign of trouble. Again, blood sugar levels have much to do with this issue as low blood sugar levels can make your dog feel hungry. 

Weight Loss

Sudden weight loss can also be indicative of diabetes in dogs. This can be linked to the poor appetite issue but may also occur even if your dog is eating normally. 

Now that you know some of the signs your dog has diabetes, you can be sure to get them to the animal hospital if you notice any or several of these symptoms in your dog.