Dehydration in Dogs

Whether they're racing around the park or simply pottering around the house, dogs lose water throughout the day. Most of the time they'll replace it naturally by eating and drinking, but sometimes they can lose more fluid than they're taking in, leading to dehydration.

Water does far more than quench your dog's thirst. It helps regulate body temperature, supports healthy digestion, cushions joints, keeps organs functioning as they should and helps the body absorb and transport nutrients.

Fortunately, dehydration is often preventable. Knowing what can cause it, the signs to look out for and when to contact your vet can help you keep your dog happy, healthy and hydrated.

Causes of dehydration in dogs

Not drinking enough water is one of the most common causes of dehydration. This might happen if your dog doesn't have access to fresh drinking water, or if they're feeling unwell and don't feel like drinking as much as they usually would.

Whether you're heading out for the day or enjoying time at home, it's important to make sure your dog always has plenty of fresh water available. They'll also need to drink more after exercise, on warm days and whenever they're panting more than usual.

Sometimes it's increased fluid loss that's the cause. Long walks, energetic play and lots of panting can all increase the amount of water your dog loses. Vomiting and diarrhoea can also lead to dehydration surprisingly quickly.

If you think your dog isn't drinking enough, or they're losing more fluid than usual, contact your vet. Dehydration can become serious if left untreated and may sometimes be linked to an underlying health concern.

What are the signs of dehydration in dogs?

Our dogs can't tell us when they're thirsty, so knowing what to look out for can make all the difference.

Some signs may only become noticeable once dehydration has progressed, so don't wait if you're concerned. Contact your vet as soon as possible if you think your dog may be dehydrated.

Common signs include:

• Dry or sticky gums
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Reduced skin elasticity
• Lower energy levels than usual
• Excessive panting
• Sunken eyes
• Thick or sticky saliva
• Vomiting
• Increased heart rate

These signs can have other causes too, so if you're worried about your dog, it's always best to speak to your vet.

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What to do if your dog is dehydrated

If you think your dog may be dehydrated, it's important to act quickly and seek veterinary advice. While you're waiting to speak to your vet or following their guidance, you can:

• Encourage your dog to drink small amounts of fresh water little and often
• Offer a dog-safe electrolyte solution if your vet recommends one
• Feed wet food or other moisture-rich foods if your dog is willing to eat
• Avoid letting them drink large amounts of water all at once, as this can sometimes lead to vomiting
• Move them somewhere cool and comfortable if they're too warm, as overheating can make dehydration worse

Helping to prevent dehydration

A few simple habits can go a long way towards helping your dog stay hydrated. Make sure fresh water is always available, take extra care during hot weather and avoid exercising your dog during the warmest part of the day. If you're heading out on a longer walk or day trip, remember to pack water for both of you.

Keeping an eye on how much your dog is drinking, especially during warmer months or if they're under the weather, can help you spot changes early. If something doesn't seem quite right, it's always best to speak to your vet.