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Young small breed puppies can get a condition called hypoglycemia.
As your puppy gets older he is less likely to be at risk but he can still get this up to 6 months of age, older dogs can have this but is is more unlikely.

Dogs most at risk for hypogylcemia are tiny puppies.
It is important to read this page because "prevention" is always better then "cure".

Hypoglycemia can be prevented and also treated, however left untreated can become fatal to a young puppy.

Hypoglycemia can be caused in young puppies from stress, such as:
Change of ownership,
Not letting the puppy get adequate rest or sleep, over tired, too much play or holding.
(Young puppies are safer at home to rest, then out and about going shopping.)
Getting a chill or sleeping in a draft or low temperature area.
Not having regular meals. Puppies need to eat frequently, especially smaller puppies.
Vaccinations done too closely.

**First signs of Hyopglycemia, is shaking, staggering, difficulty in walking, keeping balance,
loss of apetite and fatique.

The signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia are similar regardless of the cause. 
These include shaking, lethargy, weakness, incoordination, seizures, nervousness, tremors and hunger,
eyes not focused. 
In severe cases the dog may become unconscious.

IMMEDIATELY Rub honey on your puppy's gums if you notice your puppy's appetite failing.
If your puppy does not get up to greet you, something is very wrong, he is too weak!

Hypoglycemia is defined as abnormally low blood glucose (sugar) levels. 
The brain requires sugar for normal function, and unlike many other organs, the brain has a very limited ability to store glucose. 
The brain is the organ that is predominantly affected when blood glucose gets too low.
As a primary source of energy for the body, blood glucose levels are regulated by a complex interaction of hormones and bodily processes. 
Hypoglycemia can be caused by abnormal function of the hormones that regulate blood sugar or by the inability of the body to store adequate amounts of glucose.  
Some of the specific causes of hypoglycemia include: Reduced glucose intake - Puppies, especially toy breed puppies, are predisposed to developing hypoglycemia because they have less ability to store and mobilize glucose, compared to older animals. 
Puppies need frequent meals to prevent a hypoglycemic crisis.


A diagnosis of hypoglycemia as a cause of neurological problems is based on the presentation of clinical signs of hypoglycemia, blood glucose concentration test shows levels below normal, and the fact that clinical signs go away when glucose is administered to the patient.
Emergency treatment of hypoglycemia involves administration of glucose usually by intravenous injection.  Giving a quickly absorbed source of sugar (syrup, honey, or jam) by mouth may also be effective.  

Treatment for hypoglycemia: If you notice your puppy is acting wobbly or weak try giving some treats or canned food, anything you know your pet will eat. If your pet won't eat, try giving it some sugar, Karo syrup works very well. Rub the syrup on the gums and under the tongue if your pet is unconscious.
Honey is excellent because you can rub it right into the puppy's gums and the puppy will absorb it.
**Honey is a favorite because it is a natural sugar, food and full of nutrition, not just sugar.

If your pet is not unconscious and can swallow you can give the sugar with a needle less syringe. If your pets blood sugar drops it may also begin to suffer with hypothermia, so you'll need to help keep your cat or dog warm with a heat lamp, hot water bottle and blankets.  This treatment can also work with puppies and kittens who are failing to thrive. After giving initial first aid get your pet to your veterinarian immediately.

Please note, the information on this page is only a guide, seek veternarian aid for complete treatment for hypoglyceamia as your puppy may be dehydrated and need to be on an IV for a day or 2 until hydrated again.