Canine Diabetes and Their Special Needs
Diabetes in dogs can be a challenging feat for many dog owners as they require many special needs. Of course, we want to treat our diabetic dogs but there are only certain diabetic dog treats you should give.
As a licensed veterinary technician I discuss diabetes on the regular to tons of clients. Treats are one of their major concerns. After carefully going over our list we chose Diabetic TINY Dog Treats All Natural 2 Calorie as our top pick.
In this article, we will discuss diabetes in general but mainly what treats are safe to give to your diabetic dog. Have a dog with diabetes and want to treat them? Read on to find out the rest of our picks!
Diabetic Dog Food List
When your dog is diagnosed with diabetes there are a few food key choices your veterinarian will suggest to you. Below is a list of some diabetic-friendly diets.
- Hills Prescription Diet W/D
- Royal Canin Glycobalance
- Merck Grain Free Dry Dog Food
- Ketona Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Diabetes is a disease when your dog does not produce enough insulin or the insulin they do produce isn’t doing what it’s supposed to. When your dog is diabetic there are a number of clinical signs that they will show. They are the following:
- Polyuria (excessive urination)
- Polydipsia (excessive drinking)
- Polyphagia (excessive eating/high appetite)
- Weight loss
- Cataracts
- Skin disease
- Unable to fight infection
Causes of Canine Diabetes
Diabetes is an endocrine disorder where your dog’s body does not produce enough insulin or the insulin it produces does not work properly. When your dog eats it digests and releases sugar. In order for the sugars to go into the cells where they are properly utilized insulin must be involved.
Insulin carries the sugar into the cells so it can do its job. However, in dogs with diabetes, they either do not make enough leading to their sugar to increase and be high in the bloodstream or they have insulin but it is not working properly.
There’s a lot of factors that can lead and contribute to the development of diabetes.
- Poor diet
- Genetics
- Other endocrine disorders
- Chronic inflammation of the pancreas
- Overweight dogs
- Chronic steroid use
FAQs on Diabetic Dog Treats
How do non-diabetic dog treats different from regular dog treats?
Diabetic dog treats differ from regular dog teats by their composition. Diabetic dog treats will have less sugar and carbohydrates so that your dog’s body will be able to break them down easier. Having less sugar will require less insulin and therefore are more diabetic friendly.
They also are usually higher in fiber and protein so that it’s a slow digestion and able to fill your dog up more.
Can my non-diabetic dog eat diabetic dog treats?
Of course, any dog can eat diabetic dog treats, not just dogs with diabetes. They’re even healthier than a lot of regular dog treats which is always a plus!
When should I give my diabetic dog a treat?
When to give your dog a treat is always a personal preference however, in diabetic dogs it’s important that they don’t snack to increase their blood glucose (sugar). The best time and safest is usually right after your dog gets their insulin shot. Not only is it safer it’s also like a little reward.
Which products should I avoid feeding to my diabetic dog?
Products to avoid when feeding your diabetic dog would include anything high in sugar and carbohydrates.
Considerations to Take Before Buying Diabetic Dog Snacks
Before picking out a dog treat for your diabetic dog there are a few things to consider. Below is a list of different types of percentages and ingredients you should look out for. Do this before making your final choice
Protein
Protein can be a huge asset when feeding a dog with diabetes. High protein is a way to get good quality calories into your dog without packing on all the bad stuff. Protein can be converted into energy and it also allows for a healthy weight gain with lean mass muscle.
No Added Sugars
Of course with diabetic dogs you want to avoid products with high sugar. No added sugar on the label will indicate that it was no processes with any sugar or sugar containing ingredients. However, it’s important to note that some products may contain sugar naturally.
Low or no carb and starch ingredients
Carbohydrates, or as we like to refer to them “carbs” are a hidden word for sugar/starch. So when you see a product that has high carbohydrates you want to steer clear from it with diabetic animals. Low or no carbohydrates are ideal for diabetics.
Meat Products
Meat products are decent when it comes to diabetic dogs because the higher the meat the higher the protein. Protein is better than sugar or carbohydrates because they will fill and bulk your pet without any extra dangerous sugar.
High Fiber Content
Fiber is another one of those ingredients that will help fill your pet up without causing any extra damage. Fiber has a lot of added health benefits. Fiber encourages healthy gut bacteria, it normalizes bowel movements, it can help contain sugar levels, and possibly lower cholesterol.
Low Fat Content
It’s no secret that an excessive amount of fat in your pet’s diet is not healthy. Add on a diabetic patient and you have a higher chance of issues. Obesity can lead to a number of health issues not to mention severely complicate diabetes.
Diabetes can be escalated with high fats and also it can make regulating your pets sugar a lot harder. That being said, of course you want to find a treat that has a low-fat content. Treats are supposed to be just that, a treat.
Treats should be given seldom but it still should consist of a low-fat index.
The Best Diabetic Dog Treats This Year
- Diabetic TINY Dog Treats All Natural 2 Calorie Best Overall
- Ella’s Diabetic Dog Treats – Pumpkin Flavor Best Unique Flavor
- PureBites RAW Freeze Chicken Breast Dog Treats Best Natural Treat
- Rachael Ray Nutrish Soup Bones Longer Lasting Dog Treat Chews Best Chew Treat
- A BETTER TREAT – Freeze Dried Salmon Dog Treats Best Novel Treat
- Nutralin – Exclusively for Supplemental Feeding of Diabetic Dogs’ Best Supplement
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats Grain Free Biscuits Crunchy Dog Treats Best Grain Free
Diabetic Dog Treat Reviews
Diabetic TINY Dog Treats All Natural 2 Calorie
Best Overall
Amazon’s Choice in Dog Treat Cookies, Biscuits, and Snacks
★★★★★ 5 Stars
Coming in at our number one choice is Diabetic Tiny Dog Treats by Old Dog Cookie Company. These treats are only two calories each and are made with certified organic and all natural ingredients.
They are also small which is ideal for smaller mouths to be able to chew but also doesn’t discriminate against other size dogs. The treats are made by a small company that wanted better nutrition for their dog when he was diagnosed with diabetes.
Veterinary Prescription– You do not need a veterinary prescription for these treats
Dog Breed- Any dog breed but it’s ideal for smaller breeds.
Life stage– Any life stage can enjoy these treats.
List of key ingredients– Wheat flour, rolled oats, apples, squash, alfalfa, kelp. Brewers yeast, dandelion, water, vinegar.
Available package weights– 8 ounce (227 gram) bag
Where is the product made– This product is made in Wells, Maine.
Pros– Low calories, small bite sizes, quality limited ingredients.
Cons– Users complained that the treats were bland and hard.
Aliments that the treats target– Immune system health, and diabetes
Number of calories per treat– Two calories per treat.
Nutritional content chart– Protein 10%, Fat 1%, Fiber 7%, Moisture 20%, Salt 0.5%
Is the product suitable for a multi pet household– This product is recommended for dogs only.
Baked, cooked or raw– These treats are baked.
Ella’s Diabetic Dog Treats
Best Unique Flavor
★★★★ 4 Stars
Veterinary Prescription– You do not need a veterinary prescription for these treats
Dog Breed– Any dog breed can enjoy these treats.
Life stage– Any life stage can enjoy these treats.
List of key ingredients– Organic pumpkin puree, organic rolled oats, organic chia seeds.
Available flavor– The flavor listed is pumpkin.
Available package weights– 8 ounce bag (227 gram).
Where is the product made– This product is made in Centennial, Colorado.
Pros– Additive and preservative free, all natural ingredients, helps with weight control.
Cons– Users have complained that the treats are too hard especially for smaller dogs.
Aliments that the treats target– Diabetes
Number of calories per treat– Calories per treat is not listed however, the serving size is two to three treats daily.
Nutritional content chart– Crude Protein 13%, Crude Fat 5%, Crude Fiber 2%, Moisture 2%.
Is the product suitable for a multi pet household– This product is recommended for dogs only.
Baked, cooked or raw– These treats are cooked.
PureBites RAW Freeze Chicken Breast Dog Treats
Best Natural Treat
★★★★4 Stars
Veterinary Prescription– You do not need a veterinary prescription for these treats
Dog Breed– Any dog breed can enjoy these treats.
Life stage– Any life stage can enjoy these treats.
List of key ingredients– Chicken breast
Available flavor– The flavor listed is chicken.
Available package weights– 1.4 ounce (39 gram) pack of 1 , 3 ounce (85 gram) pack of 1, 6.2 ounce (175 gram) pack of 1, 8.6 ounce (243 gram) pack of 1, 11.64 (328 gram) ounce pack of 1, 18.5 (524 gram) ounce.
Where is the product made– This product is made in the USA.
Pros– Only has one ingredient listed, freeze-dried to lock in nutrition and aroma, rich with nutrients, low-calorie treat.
Cons– Users have complained that the recipe isn’t consistent and some batches have been greasy or fatty.
Aliments that the treats target– Obesity, diabetes, pets with allergies, Gastrointestinal Disorders, or pets on a restricted diet.
Number of calories per treat– 3709 kcal/kg- On Average 3 calories per treat.
Nutritional content chart– Crude Protein 74%, Crude Fat 3%, Crude Fiber 1%, Moisture 5%
Is the product suitable for a multi pet household– This product is recommended for dogs only.
Baked, cooked or raw- These treats are freeze dried raw.
Rachael Ray Nutrish Soup Bones Longer Lasting Dog Treat Chews
Best Chew Treat
Amazon Choice in Dog Bones
★★★★4 Stars
Veterinary Prescription– You do not need a veterinary prescription for these treats
Dog Breed– Any dog breed can enjoy these treats however, it is not recommended for toy breeds.
Life stage– Any life stage above one year can enjoy these treats.
List of key ingredients– Wheat flour, glycerin, rice syrup, potato starch, water, wheat gluten, rice flour, chicken meal, chicken, dried plain beet pulp, poultry fat, gelatin, natural flavor, calcium carbonate, phosphoric acid, monosodium phosphate, dried peas, potassium sorbate, tapioca, titanium dioxide, dried carrots, iron oxide, citric acid rosemary extract.
Available flavor– We are focusing on Chicken and veggies but these treats also come in Beef and Barley, Turkey and rice.
Available package weights– 3 count (pack of 8), 6 count (pack of 1), 6 count (pack of 8), 11 count (pack of 1). Also comes in mini size.
Where is the product made– This product is made in the USA by Ainsworth Pet Nutrition LLC located in Meadville, Pennsylvania.
Pros– Savory chews, no meat by products, perfect for all size dogs,
Cons– Users have complained that their dogs ate them too fast and it did not occupy their time.
Aliments that the treats target– This treat does not list a specific ailment that it targets.
Number of calories per treat– 191 k/cal per bone.
Nutritional content chart– Crude Protein 13%, Crude fat 4.0%, Crude Fiber 3%, Moisture 22%
Is the product suitable for a multi pet household– This product is recommended for dogs only.
Baked, cooked or raw– These treats are cooked.
A BETTER TREAT – Freeze Dried Salmon Dog Treats, Wild Caught
Best Novel Treat
★★★3 Stars
Veterinary Prescription– You do not need a veterinary prescription for these treats
Dog Breed– Any dog breed can enjoy these treats.
Life stage– Any life stage can enjoy these treats.
List of key ingredients– Wild Caught Salmon.
Available flavor– The flavor listed is wild caught salmon.
Available package weights– 3 ounce (85 gram) bag
Where is the product made– this product is made in El Monte, California.
Pros– Naturally sourced, excellent for pets with diabetes or allergies, natural source of many vitamins and nutrients, sourced and made in the USA, FDA regulated.
Cons– Many users complained that the treats were not whole pieces but instead crumbles.
Aliments that the treats target– Skin and coat care, heart and joint support.
Number of calories per treat– No calories listed.
Nutritional content chart– Protein 63%, Fat 33%, Fiber 0.4%, Moisture 3.8%
Is the product suitable for a multi pet household– this product is recommended for dogs only.
Baked, cooked or raw– These treats are freeze dried raw.
Nutralin – Exclusively for Supplemental Feeding of Diabetic Dogs’
Best Supplement
★★★ 3 Stars
Veterinary Prescription– You do not need a veterinary prescription for these treats
Dog Breed– Any dog breed can enjoy these treats.
Life stage– Any life stage can enjoy these treats.
List of key ingredients– Dried brewers yeast, glycerin, wheat germ oil, corn starch, polyethylene glycol, oat bran, pork liver powder, cinnamon, wheat bran, menhaden fish oil, vegetable oil, coconut oil, calcium phosphate, gelatin, magnesium stearate, mixed tocopherols.
Available flavor– The flavor listed is pork liver.
Available package weights– 16 ounce (453 gram) container
Where is the product made– This product is made in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Pros– Great treat or reward to give for diabetic pets, exclusively made for diabetic dogs.
Cons– Users complained that their dog did not like the flavor
Aliments that the treats target-Diabetes, eye care, skin and coat care, heart and joint support.
Number of calories per treat– 29.95 kcal/kg
Nutritional content chart– Crude Protein 15%, Crude Fat 20%, Crude Fiber 4%, Moisture 10.5% , Linoleic Acid 5%
Is the product suitable for a multi pet household– This product is recommended for dogs only.
Baked, cooked or raw– These treats are freeze dried raw.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats Grain Free Biscuits Crunchy Dog Treats
Best Grain Free
Amazon Choice for Dog Treats, Cookies Biscuits and Snacks by Blue Buffalo
★★★3 Stars
Veterinary Prescription– You do not need a veterinary prescription for these treats
Dog Breed– Any dog breed can enjoy these treats.
Life stage– Any life stage can enjoy these treats.
List of key ingredients– Turkey, chicken meal, potato, chicken fat, flaxseed, salt, calcium carbonate, preserved with mixed tocopherols, oil of rosemary.
Available flavor– The flavors listed are turkey, salmon, bison red meat, salmon venison and halibut, duck, duck turkey and salmon.
Available package weights– 1.5 pound (680 gram) pack of 1, 10 ounce (283 gram) pack of 1, 2.25 pound (1020 gram) pack of 1, 8 (226 gram) ounce pack of 1, 10 (283 gram) ounce pack of 3, 24 (680 gram) ounce pack of 1, 1.5 pound (680 gram) pack of 3.
Where is the product made– This product is made in the USA.
Pros– Wholesome and natural ingredients, grain free, no artificial flavors, no by products, no corn, no wheat, no soy.
Cons– Users complained that they are sometimes too crunchy or hard for their dogs, they also complained that they can be stale.
Aliments that the treats target– Oral care, allergies.
Number of calories per treat– One biscuit is 41 Kcals
Nutritional content chart– Crude Protein 30%, Crude Fat 15%, Crude Fiber 3.5%, Moisture 11%, Omega 3 Fatty Acids 0.6%, Omega 6 Fatty Acids 0.9%
Is the product suitable for a multi pet household– this product is recommended for dogs only.
Baked, cooked or raw– These treats are baked.
I Love Veterinary’s Final Verdict
After careful review we picked Diabetic TINY Dog Treats All Natural 2 Calorie as our top overall pick. It focuses on all the important aspects of nutrition with diabetic dogs. When it comes to treating your diabetic dog you want to make sure you do it right. These diabetic dog treats are ones you can give and be rest assured that your dog’s condition will remain unaffected.
