Dog Dehydration Symptoms: What to Look Out For

When a dog is severely dehydrated, it will eagerly seek water, showing a clear sign of thirst.

Understanding the Symptoms of Dehydration in Dogs

Dehydration: When a dog becomes dehydrated, it may exhibit signs such as loose skin, a dry nose, sunken or swollen eyes, decreased appetite, weakness in the limbs, hair loss, and a general lack of energy.

Urological Disorders: Chronic dehydration can lead to bladder and urethral stones in dogs. The risk of developing urethral stones is significantly higher in dehydrated dogs. If left untreated, the consequences can be severe.

Treatment for Severe Dehydration in Dogs

Dehydration in dogs often results from a lack of water intake, leading to a gradual depletion of body fluids. As dehydration worsens over time, it becomes crucial to rehydrate the dog. Treatment may include oral rehydration solutions, but the quickest method is often intravenous fluid administration.

Dehydration symptoms, caused by a lack of water, can be influenced by the dog's appetite and the cleanliness of the water source. For instance, if the water is dirty or has an unpleasant odor, it may deter the dog from drinking. While changing the water source can resolve this, a lack of appetite requires a different approach. Improving appetite involves addressing the gastrointestinal system. Pet owners can use probiotics to restore gut health and stimulate appetite. These supplements can be particularly helpful when a dog is not eating well.

Treatment for Urinary Tract Stones Caused by Dehydration

Dogs with urethral stones typically display symptoms such as frequent urination, decreased urine output, hematuria (blood in the urine), difficulty urinating, excessive licking of the genital area, and lowpitched whining during urination. If these symptoms are observed, it's advisable to take the dog to a veterinarian for treatment. Bladder stones often require surgical removal, while urethral stones can sometimes be treated with retrograde flushing.

Important Tips

For pet owners who are often away from home, using a dogspecific water bowl can be helpful. Fill it with fresh water before leaving and replace it after each feeding. Establishing a routine like this can prevent your dog from becoming dehydrated due to hot weather or prolonged thirst.