Hypoglycemia is a potentially life-threatening problem that affects Toy Breeds..
Dogs of any age can suffer from hypoglycemia, but the most common form,
transient juvenile hypoglycemia, occurs in puppies younger than 4 months of age.
Puppies typically develop hypoglycemia after exercising vigorously, when they’re
stressed (such as during a trip to the veterinarian), or when they have gone to long
without eating.
Certain anatomic, physiological and behavioral factors play a role in the
development of hypoglycemia in toy breed puppies: small muscle mass and liver
(areas where glucose is stored), proportionately large brain (a major user of
glucose) and high activity level. Immaturity of the body systems that process and
store glucose may also be involved.
Hypoglycemia symptoms occur when the brain is deprived of glucose, its sole
energy supply; if untreated, hypoglycemia can cause seizures, collapse, loss of
consciousness and even death.
Early symptoms include trembling (especially in the facial muscles), lethargy,
listlessness, in coordination, a dazed or confused demeanor, and depression. The
entire sequence is not always seen. The dog may simply appear to be depressed or
he may be weak, wobbly and jerky; or he may be found in a coma.
If your puppy shows signs of hypoglycemia, start treatment immediately. Keep it
warm by wrapping it in a towel or blanket (shivering makes the hypoglycemia worse).
If your puppy is conscious, slowly dribble a little corn syrup or honey into its mouth
or give it a dollop of a high-calorie dietary-supplement paste (Nutri-Cal,or Nutri-
Stat).
Repeat after 10 minutes, if necessary. Feed your puppy as soon as it’s alert enough
immediately take it to the veterinarian for or further care.
If your puppy is susceptible to transient juvenile hypoglycemia, feed it a high
quality, nutritionally balanced food four to five times a day. Healthy high-calorie
snacks may help prevent hypoglycemia between meals. If possible, avoid subjecting
your puppy to circumstances that are likely to elicit hypoglycemia, such as stressful
situations or extended periods of vigorous activity.
Limit your puppy's vigorous play to 30-45 minutes, then MAKE him rest. These tiny
babies use calories at a tremendous rate, so rest and nutrition is imperative.
Most puppies outgrow transient juvenile hypoglycemia by the time they’re 4 months
old. Consult your veterinarian if your puppy continues to have hypoglycemic
episodes after this age.