How do I know if my puppy has hypoglycemia? Is your puppy weak, lethargic, or struggling to thrive? These could be signs of hypoglycemia in puppies, a serious drop in blood sugar that requires immediate attention. In this video, Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Marty Greer, will walk you through how to recognize hypoglycemia, check your puppy’s temperature, and provide life-saving care, including warming techniques, glucose supplementation, and proper feeding support. Don’t wait—learn how to support low blood sugar in puppies and ensure your little one gets the care they need to recover and thrive! Watch now to protect your puppy’s health.

How to Identify and Treat Hypoglycemia in Puppies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common issue in puppies, especially those that are small, weak, sick, chilled, or not thriving. Recognizing the signs early and taking prompt action can save your puppy’s life. Here’s how to tell if your puppy is hypoglycemic and what steps you should take:

1. Check Your Puppy’s Temperature

The first sign of hypoglycemia in puppies is often a low body temperature. To accurately assess their condition, take their rectal temperature. A healthy puppy’s temperature should be 96°F (36°C) or higher. If the temperature is lower, the puppy is likely too cold, which can be a sign of hypoglycemia.

2. Warm Your Puppy

If your puppy’s temperature is low, warm them up gradually to help stabilize their condition. Ensure they are kept in a warm and comfortable environment to help regulate their body temperature. The Puppywarmer® Incubator is specially designed for newborn puppies and kittens to keep them warm.

3. Administer Glucose

Once your puppy is warm, provide them with a glucose supplement to raise their blood sugar levels. We recommend using Doc Roy’s FortiCal, a liquid supplement that contains glucose and can help restore your puppy’s blood sugar. This is crucial for stabilizing their energy levels and supporting overall health.

4. Monitor Your Puppy’s Health

After administering glucose, continue supporting your puppy with proper feeding, oxygen, and other necessary care. Ensure they are nursing, thriving, and gaining weight. If the puppy is not nursing properly, further intervention may be necessary.

5. Test Blood Glucose Levels (Optional)

If you have access to a pet blood glucose monitor, you can check their glucose levels by performing a quick footpad stick. This can help you determine if the glucose levels are rising as expected. If you don’t have a monitor, focus on warming the puppy and providing glucose.

Conclusion: How to Treat Hypoglycemia in Puppies

In summary, if your puppy is chilled, weak, or not thriving, the most likely cause is hypoglycemia. Warm them, give them glucose, and ensure they are nursing. Prompt action can help your puppy recover and thrive.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your puppy is getting the care it needs to overcome hypoglycemia and stay healthy. For best results, always consult your veterinarian for advice tailored to your puppy’s specific needs. If you have additional questions, call us at 800.786.4751.