Dehydration in dogs is a common yet often overlooked health concern. A dog’s body naturally loses water during the day just by panting. Much like in people, water has a crucial role to play in dogs’ health and ensures that their bodies are functioning properly. If your furry friend loses more water than their intake, it leads to dehydration.
“An electrolyte imbalance in the body leads to dehydration in dogs. It is important to understand the difference between hyperthermia and dehydration while treating them,” says Dr Anirudh Ajjampur, chief veterinary surgeon, RMV multi-specialty veterinary clinic, Bangalore. Hyperthermia or heat stroke is caused by exposure to high environmental temperatures and the dog’s body temperature goes greater than 103.5 F.
Causes of canine dehydration
Dehydration in dogs can occur due to various reasons. For example, if a dog is tied up outside the house or left on the terrace, it can lead to severe dehydration. Here are some common reasons for dehydration in your canine companion:
- Inadequate water intake: Insufficient access to clean drinking water can lead to dehydration. This may happen if your dog accidentally knocks over its water bowl or if you forget to refill it regularly.
- Illness: Certain illnesses such as gastrointestinal issues, kidney disease, diabetes, and fever can cause dogs to become dehydrated. Vomiting, diarrhea and excessive urination associated with these conditions can result in fluid loss.
- Heatstroke: Dogs can quickly become dehydrated in hot weather, especially if they are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods without access to shade or water. They could have heatstroke, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Excessive exercise: Intense physical activity, particularly in hot or humid weather, can cause dogs to lose significant amounts of water through panting and sweating, leading to dehydration.
- Medication: Some medicines may increase a dog’s risk of dehydration by causing increased urination or altering fluid balance in the body. Always consult your veterinarian about the potential side effects of any medications prescribed to your pet.
Can dehydration and heat strokes in dogs be fatal?
Severe dehydration in dogs could be fatal if left untreated. A dog can suddenly collapse due to low fluids and potassium levels. Dr M Kumar, veterinarian, Pet Connect Speciality Hospital, Bangalore, shares, “An indie named Pepper was brought to the clinic. He was panting excessively and looked very lethargic. When enquired, he was left unattended on the terrace for a very long time during the day. Even though he had access to water, he looked severely dehydrated when he reached the clinic.”
Pepper had severe dehydration, which led to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition. “Heat strokes can happen in less than 15 minutes and the temperature of the dog can rise up to 107 Fahrenheit,” emphasizes Dr Kumar.
What are the symptoms of canine dehydration?
“I first perform the skin turgor test on dogs who may be dehydrated,” says Dr Ajjampur. The skin turgor test involves gently pinching and pulling the dog’s skin before releasing it. If they are well hydrated, the skin will quickly return to normal, while if the dog is dehydrated, it will remain tented.
Recognizing the signs of dehydration is crucial for prompt intervention. They include:
- Dry, tacky saliva
- Dry nose
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Sunken eyes
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive panting
- Decreased skin elasticity
- Dark yellow or amber-colored urine
- Collapse or shock in severe cases
Most dogs with dehydration need medical attention. If the dog is showing any of the above symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Immediate treatment is vital in these cases.
Treatment for dehydration in dogs
If you suspect dehydration in your dog, seek veterinary care promptly.
In case of a heat stroke, begin by cooling your dog — spray some cold water on their body or use a cold towel and wipe them. Keep them in a shaded place with good ventilation before you take them to the vet.
“If your pooch is mildly dehydrated, he can be given a small amount of water every few minutes or pieces of ice to lick. In cases of moderate to severe dehydration, your veterinarian may administer IV fluids as needed to rehydrate your dog,” says Dr Kumar. If dehydration is secondary to an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease or gastrointestinal issues, the primary issue is addressed as part of the treatment plan.
Dogs may require close monitoring and supportive care, including rest, a bland diet and medication to manage symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Preventing dehydration
Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding dehydration in dogs. According to a study published in National Library of Medicine in 2024, increased awareness among pet owners about the importance of hydration and prevention strategies can lower the incidence of canine dehydration. Here are some proactive measures you can take:
- Ensure your dog has access to adequate clean, fresh water at all times, especially during hot weather.
- Add some electrolyte powder to their food to restore body fluids and electrolytes.
- Monitor your dog’s water intake and pay attention to any significant decrease in their water consumption as that could indicate an underlying problem.
- Do not leave them unattended on an open terrace for too long.
- Limit outdoor playtime, particularly in hot or humid weather, and make sure they have plenty of shade.
- Feeding your dog a well-balanced diet that meets its nutritional needs can help support overall health and hydration.
- Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your dog’s health and catch any potential issues early on.
Takeaways
- Dehydration is a serious health concern that can have severe consequences for dogs if left untreated.
- By understanding the causes, recognizing the signs and taking proactive measures to prevent dehydration, you can help ensure the health and well-being of your canine companion.
- Remember to always provide access to clean, fresh water, monitor your dog’s water intake and seek veterinary care promptly if you suspect dehydration.
- Your vigilance and care can make a significant difference to your dog’s overall health and happiness.
