Dehydration Warning Signs in Dogs
Dehydration is when the body is losing more fluid than it is taking in. When we think of nutrition, we generally think of food; but water is critical for all mammals to keep their bodies functioning properly. Just like us, it is normal for dogs to gain and lose water throughout the day.
When normal fluid intake does not account for water loss, blood flow is reduced which reduces the delivery of oxygen to organs and tissue. Dogs also experience a loss of electrolytes, including sodium, chloride, and potassium. These minerals balance the body’s pH, move nutrients into cells, facilitate muscle function, and regulate nerve function. In severe cases, dehydration can lead to kidney or other organ failure, including death.
Lack of water intake is the easiest cause of dehydration. Whether you are gone for part of the day or out in the heat, be sure to allow your dog proper access to water.
Vomiting and diarrhea, heat stroke, illness or fever can cause easily cause dehydration if not monitored. Puppies, senior dogs, nursing mothers, and toy dog breeds may have an increased risk of dehydration. Dehydration can be a symptom of an underlying issue, including kidney disease, diabetes, or some cancers.
Some dogs just may not drink a lot of water, and should be encouraged to do so.
Symptoms
As much as we wish our dogs could tell us what they want, they have to communicate in other ways. Some may lay by their empty water bowl, but others may lay down and continue to dehydrate. For the latter, we must look for symptoms of dehydration, such as the following:
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Panting
- Sunken, dry eyes
- Dry nose
- Dry, sticky gums
- Thicker saliva
Testing skin elasticity is the easiest test for dehydration. Gently hold some of the dog’s skin near the shoulder blades. Raise it up let it go. In well-hydrated dogs, the skin will spring back to its original position quickly. A dehydrated dog’s skin will take a bit longer to fall back into place. A good tip is to test your dog’s skin when you know they are hydrated, so you have a reference point if you have a hydration concern. This is especially important for wrinkly dog breeds, such as Bulldogs or Neapolitan Mastiffs, since their skin is generally less elastic to begin with.
Testing gums is also fairly simple. Press your finger gently against your dog’s gums and then remove your finger. Well-hydrated dog gums will appear white for a second and then return to its normal color. Dehydrated dog gums take longer to return to normal color.
Contact your veterinarian if you feel concerned about your dog’s hydration, for they can administer subcutaneous or intravenous fluids so they can more quickly recover. Even if it does not appear to be serious dehydration, your vet may want to test for an underlying condition including blood work or x-rays.
Treatment
If you feel your dog may be dehydrated, start by encouraging him to drink plenty of fresh cool water. If dehydrated, some dogs may lose their appetite, meaning they won’t get the water that they would normally get with their food. His electrolytes may need to be replenished, since dehydration draws them out causing an imbalance affecting organs. If not vomiting, you can try giving him Pedialyte, checking with a veterinarian for dose recommendations.
Prevention
Provide a constant supply of clean, clear, fresh water, both inside and outside. For particularly picky drinkers, some owners try flavoring with bone broth or giving ice cubes to chew on. Consider the temperature and activity level of your pet on the day for determining their water level.
As a general rule, dogs require at least one ounce of water per day for each pound of body weight. Your veterinarian can offer advice about how best to ensure your dog consumes enough fluids, based on his age, weight, and condition.
We can’t protect our animals from everything they encounter, but we can take precautions to help them out where we can. Keep them up to date on vaccines. Exercise both their body and their mind. Regularly schedule veterinary care. Keep items you don’t want your dog to eat higher than their nose. And of course, provide plenty of water.