- Avoid sugars and carbohydrates. This includes sweets, bread, pasta, rice, starchy vegetables. These spike blood sugar levels.
- Lean proteins are best - Chicken, fish, turkey, lean cuts of meat. Protein helps slow digestion and manages blood sugar rises.
- Fats should be limited. While healthy fats are fine in moderation, excess fat calories are unnecessary.
- Non-starchy vegetables are generally okay - Broccoli, spinach, green beans, carrots. These have fiber and nutrients without carbs.
- Small portions of fruits - Berries generally have lower sugar than other fruits. Dilute fruit with veggies or protein.
- Don't feed human food as a replacement for prescribed meals. Discuss any diet changes with your vet to balance insulin needs.
- Go for consistent small meals rather than one large meal to control blood sugar swings.
- Monitor blood sugar levels after meals. Call your vet if BG levels are consistently elevated after certain foods.
Maintaining a consistent feeding schedule and avoiding major dietary changes are best for diabetic dogs. Don't feed table scraps or let them graze - stick to prescribed meals, and consult with a veterinarian if necessary to develop a specific dietary plan for your diabetic dog.