Insulin Resistance in Dogs: Spot It Early and Act

Hidden insulin resistance can quietly push a dog toward diabetes. You might notice small changes—more thirst, extra bathroom breaks, a slower recovery from infections—but those subtle signs matter. Catching insulin problems early makes treatment simpler and helps your dog feel better faster.

Signs, tests, and why it happens

Common signs are increased thirst and urination, frequent infections (especially skin or urinary), weight changes, and low energy. Some dogs keep eating fine while still losing weight—that’s a red flag for blood sugar trouble. Older, overweight, or inactive dogs are at higher risk. Certain medications (like steroids) and hormonal conditions (Cushing’s disease) can cause insulin resistance, too.

Your vet will check fasting blood glucose and may run a fructosamine test to see average sugar control over weeks. If needed, they do glucose curves or insulin assays. Those tests show whether cells are ignoring insulin or if insulin supply is low. Don’t skip the vet—home guesses about blood sugar can miss the cause and delay care.

Practical steps you can take now

Work with your vet to build a plan. Weight loss is the most powerful change you can make. Even a moderate drop in body fat improves insulin sensitivity. Switch to a vet-recommended diet: many dogs do better on higher-protein, lower-starch meals that keep blood sugar steadier. Avoid feeding lots of biscuits, table scraps, and starchy snacks.

Make exercise regular and simple. Short daily walks, play sessions, or light fetch improve glucose use by muscles. Aim for routine—not marathon sessions. Consistency helps insulin work better.

Watch medicines and other health issues. If your dog is on steroids or has hormonal problems, ask your vet whether those can be adjusted. Treat infections fast—ongoing inflammation makes insulin resistance worse.

Small food and treat swaps help. Replace high-carb treats with plain cooked veggies (green beans, carrots) or vet-approved low-calorie snacks. Use measured meals and set feeding times so blood sugar stays predictable.

Stress matters. Dogs under chronic stress release hormones that raise blood sugar. Calm routines, gentle massage, and attention to comfort can reduce stress hormones. Techniques like massage or quiet play tie into other wellness steps on this site and actually support metabolic health.

If tests show serious problems, medications or insulin therapy may be needed. That’s a vet decision. Follow dosing and monitoring instructions closely and ask about home glucose checks if recommended.

Keep track. Log weight, water intake, appetite, and energy. Share changes with your vet between visits. Small trends are easier to fix than big swings.

Insulin resistance is manageable when you act early. Focus on weight, diet, daily movement, and prompt treatment of other health issues—and work closely with your vet. That team approach gives your dog the best chance at long, healthy days.