Bernese Mountain Dogs are lovable, gentle giants that make great family pets. However, like any breed, they are not immune to health issues. One of the most common health problems that affect Bernese Mountain Dogs is diabetes. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body is unable to produce or use insulin properly. It can lead to a range of serious health complications if left untreated. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to be aware of the signs of diabetes in Bernese Mountain Dogs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the 10 warning signs that your Bernese Mountain Dog may have diabetes, so you can take action and get your furry friend the treatment they need to live a healthy, happy life.

As a Bernese Mountain Dog owner, you want to ensure your furry friend remains healthy and happy for years to come. One health issue that you should be aware of is diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body cannot produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. Without insulin, blood sugar levels can become dangerously high, leading to serious health complications. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs of diabetes in Bernese Mountain Dogs, so you can detect and treat this condition early.

1. Excessive Thirst
One of the most common signs of diabetes in Bernese Mountain Dogs is excessive thirst. Your dog may drink more water than usual and may even wake up in the middle of the night to drink. This is because high blood sugar levels can cause dehydration, leading to increased thirst.

2. Frequent Urination
In addition to excessive thirst, your Bernese Mountain Dog may also urinate more frequently than usual. This is because the body is trying to get rid of the excess sugar in the bloodstream. If you notice that your dog is having accidents in the house or needs to go out more often than usual, it may be a sign of diabetes.

3. Weight Loss
Another sign of diabetes in Bernese Mountain Dogs is weight loss. Despite eating regularly, your dog may start to lose weight. This is because the body is not able to use the glucose in the bloodstream for energy, so it starts to break down fat and muscle instead.

4. Increased Appetite
While weight loss is a common sign of diabetes, some Bernese Mountain Dogs may also have an increased appetite. This is because the body is not able to use the glucose in the bloodstream for energy, so it sends signals to the brain that it needs more food.

5. Lethargy
If your Bernese Mountain Dog seems less active or lethargic than usual, it may be a sign of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can cause weakness and fatigue, making it difficult for your dog to maintain its usual level of activity.

Is Your Bernese Mountain Dog at Risk of Diabetes? 10 Signs to Watch Out For

6. Cloudy Eyes
Diabetes can also cause changes in the eyes. If your Bernese Mountain Dog’s eyes appear cloudy or hazy, it could be a sign of cataracts, which is a common complication of diabetes. If left untreated, cataracts can lead to blindness.

7. Dry Skin and Coat
High blood sugar levels can also cause dry skin and a dull coat in Bernese Mountain Dogs. This is because the excess sugar in the bloodstream can damage the blood vessels that supply the skin and hair follicles with nutrients.

8. Vomiting and Diarrhea
In some cases, diabetes can cause digestive issues in Bernese Mountain Dogs. If your dog is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, it could be a sign of diabetes. This is because high blood sugar levels can cause inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to these symptoms.

9. Slow Healing
Diabetes can also slow down the healing process in Bernese Mountain Dogs. This is because high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels that supply the tissues with oxygen and nutrients. As a result, wounds and infections may take longer to heal.

10. Bad Breath
Lastly, diabetes can cause bad breath in Bernese Mountain Dogs. This is because high blood sugar levels can create a favorable environment for bacteria to grow in the mouth, leading to an unpleasant odor.

Conclusion
As a Bernese Mountain Dog owner, it’s important to be aware of the signs of diabetes so you can detect and treat this condition early. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to take your dog to the vet for a check-up. With proper treatment and management, your dog can live a happy and healthy life with diabetes.

In conclusion, as Bernese Mountain Dog owners, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes. Early detection and proper treatment can make a huge difference in your dog’s quality of life. If you suspect your Berner is at risk, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian. By keeping a close eye on your dog’s health and addressing any concerns promptly, you can help ensure that your beloved pet stays happy and healthy for years to come.