Dog Dehydration Symptoms & Treatment: Quick Guide

Water loss is a common issue in dogs, often a symptom of various ailments. Dehydration can occur when a dog either does not drink enough water or experiences an abnormal loss of fluids from its body.

When the body lacks sufficient water, fluids are drawn from the cells to compensate, leading to a deficiency of essential hydration. The severity of dehydration is determined by the extent of fluid shift within the body.

Dehydration can result from inadequate intake of food and water, or from excessive fluid loss due to illness or injury.

Signs of Dehydration in Dogs:

Dehydration symptoms may include:

1. Dull, lackluster skin elasticity

2. Lethargy or excessive sleepiness

3. Depression or a lack of interest in usual activities

4. Sunken eyes

5. Dry gums

6. An increased heart rate

7. Prolonged capillary refill time

Diagnosing Dehydration in Dogs:

A physical examination can help determine if a dog is dehydrated. A common, albeit imprecise, method to diagnose dehydration is by assessing skin elasticity. Gently lift the skin on the back; in a healthy dog, the skin should snap back into place quickly. In a dehydrated dog, the skin takes longer to return to its normal position. The speed of skin recovery can indicate the severity of dehydration.

Blood tests, such as a complete blood count and biochemical panel, are important for identifying potential causes of dehydration, though they may not directly reveal the presence of dehydration.

The most critical tests are the cell volume and total blood protein tests. These are conducted on blood samples and can help determine if dehydration is present. Elevated cell volume and total protein levels suggest dehydration.

Checking urine concentration can also help determine if a pet is dehydrated and if the kidneys are affected.

Treatment for Dehydration in Dogs:

One treatment for dehydration is to replenish fluids. Sick dogs often cannot drink enough to correct dehydration, so fluids are typically administered via injections. The most effective method is through intravenous fluid therapy, which usually requires hospitalization.

Fluid replacement is a gradual process that allows the body to compensate and slowly restore tissues that have been lacking in fluids.

Home Care and Prevention:

There is no home care for dehydration in dogs. If you suspect your pet is dehydrated, it's crucial to seek veterinary care promptly.

Some animals may be treated at home using subcutaneous fluid therapy after an initial diagnosis and treatment. Consult with your veterinarian to see if this is an option and ask them to demonstrate how to administer the injections at home.

Ensure your dog maintains a healthy diet and water intake. The best way to prevent dehydration is to address any illness or injury promptly. While it can be challenging to prevent dehydration in sick pets, timely treatment can lead to a quick recovery.