How Canines Can Assist Our Patients with Diabetes: Diabetes Alert Dogs: What Are Their Capabilities?

Background: The canine olfactory system is used for tasks that greatly aid society, such as detecting explosives, finding lost persons, and detecting many diseases and abnormal blood sugar levels early. However, the reliability of detection of glycemic fluctuations is questionable.

Methods: We reviewed the literature on the capability of canines in detecting significant variations in blood sugar. Traditional studies and anecdotal reports were assessed. Articles and resources that outline the available training and certification process were included.

Results: Publications included studies of canines' ability to detect scents associated with hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia as well as behavioral changes associated with blood sugar abnormalities. Several anecdotal reports denoted excellent canine performance in detection. Perusal of literature and Web-based resources found a range of available training, from formal (with certification) to do-it-yourself home training. Evidence supporting improved mental/physical health in persons using service dogs was robust.

Conclusions: Canines have the capability to detect numerous medical conditions, including dangerous fluctuations in blood sugar in persons with diabetes, especially hypoglycemia. Most studies on the reliability and performance of diabetes alert dogs report potential lifesaving benefits but demonstrate notable variability and inconsistencies, which may be due to lack of required formal training or a certification process. Most owners believe their dogs are highly effective and greatly improve their life and safety. Due to the improving technology seen with continuous glucose monitoring devices, many believe diabetes alert dogs will become obsolete. Aside from an early warning system, diabetes alert dogs can play a significant role in overall quality of life, especially in benefiting physical and mental health.