Feeding Frequency
Puppies who have hypoglycemia should be fed several small meals in the day. This is to ensure insulin absorption in your puppy, which will regulate his blood sugar throughout the day. It is recommended that you feed your hypoglycemic puppy four to six times a day, in small quantities.
Proteins, Fats and Carbohydrates
Puppies who are hypoglycemic should always eat a balanced meal that is high in protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. The protein in the food will provide your puppy with the energy he needs to be healthy, without putting strain on the pancreas. Healthy fats like Omega-3 are also very important for your hypoglycemic puppy, and should always be included in his diet. Complex carbohydrates, or starches, are needed as well. Simple carbohydrates, or sugars, should be avoided. When feeding your hypoglycemic pet, the food you choose should be high quality and nutritious. Make sure you always check the ingredients of your puppy's food to ensure he is getting the proper nutrients and fats he needs, especially if he is hypoglycemic.
Variety and Diet
It is important to feed your hypoglycemic puppy a combination of canned and dry foods during the day at meals. This is to ensure he is receiving the most complete and balanced nutrition available. Variety is important when feeding a hypoglycemic pet.
Dextrose for Hypoglycemic Puppies
To provide your puppy with supplemental dextrose, it is recommended that you gently rub his gums with corn syrup everyday. Honey can also be used, if preferred. If your puppy is resistant to the application to his gums, you can mix the corn syrup or honey into his food during meal time. Corn syrup, honey or cola can also be used in the case of an emergency if your puppy's blood sugar drops to an unsafe level.
Managing Hypoglycemia in Puppies
Hypoglycemia can be very dangerous if left untreated, especially in young puppies. That is why a proper diet full of nutrients, healthy fats and carbohydrates is important for your hypoglycemic puppy. If blood sugar levels drop too low, your puppy can quickly become disoriented and ill. If severe enough, hypoglycemia can lead to death.
If you notice any symptoms of hypoglycemia in your puppy, it is recommended that you take him into a veterinarian's office as soon as possible. Sometimes medication will be needed in addition to dietary recommendations. It is also important to treat the underlying cause of hypoglycemia, which makes it even more necessary to see a veterinarian. Pet owners should carefully follow all of their vet's instructions to ensure their puppy gets well as soon as possible and is provided what he needs to be healthy.