Instructions
Pinch the dog's skin at the scruff or the base of its neck and hold it for a couple of seconds.
Observe how long it takes for the skin to return to normal. If this happens immediately, the dog is sufficiently hydrated. If it takes longer than a few seconds, the dog is dehydrated and its skin has lost elasticity. The longer it takes for the skin to spring back, the more serious the dehydration. Dehydration may be mild, moderate or severe.
Check for dehydration on your dog's gums. Press your index finger on your dog's gums. You will cause a white dot.
Measure the time it takes for the gums to return to the normal pink color. In healthy dogs, it takes up to two seconds. If the dog is dehydrated, the time is longer.
Take your pet to a veterinarian to find the cause of dehydration. The veterinarian can administer IV fluids to manage the dog's condition and will prescribe suitable treatment depending on the dog's condition.
How to Check for Dehydration in a Dog's Skin
Dehydration in canines may be caused by poor nutrition or lack of water in the dog's system, or it may be due to an underlying condition, such as heat stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, hypothyroidism, fever, blood loss, vomiting or chronic diarrhea. A dehydrated dog presents several symptoms including lethargy, dry mouth, sunken eyes, increased frequency of urination, depression and lack of appetite. However, you may also check if your dog has sufficient fluids in its system by pinching its skin.