Canine Shock Symptoms

Shock is a term used to describe a lack of blood flow throughout the body. In dogs, any condition that affects the volume of blood in the body―such as blood loss due to an injury―can cause a dog to go into shock. Owners of dogs who go into shock should seek immediate veterinary care.

  1. Behavioral Changes

    • Dogs who are going into shock may display changes in behavior. Often, the physical impact of going into shock can cause the dog to become listless or depressed. Other dogs may suffer from confusion, anxiousness or restlessness.

    Hyperventilation

    • Shock can cause the affected dog to hyperventilate. This is generally classified as breathing patterns of more than 25 breaths per minute.

    Heart Rate

    • Dogs in shock may have an increase in heart rate. This is because the dog's body is trying to make up for the lack of circulation or loss of blood. While the heart rate may have changed, the dog's pulse may be weak or faint.

    Urine

    • Urine output may be decreased during shock. This is the response of the dog's body to attempt to maintain as much fluid in circulation as possible.

    Dehydration

    • Since the body is withholding as much fluid as possible, you may notice that your dog appears dehydrated. This is difficult to differentiate, because even though the body is trying to maintain fluid, the dog may suffer from dry lips or dry gums. On the other hand, certain cases of poison-induced shock may produce excessive drooling.

    Temperature

    • Shock can cause the affected dog to suffer from a drop in body temperature. The temperature drops as the body attempts to compensate for the loss or lack of blood flow. The temperature drop can also cause the dog's feet and legs to become extremely cold.

    Weakness

    • Shock takes quite a toll on the canine body, so many dogs may display signs of weakness during this time.

    Skin

    • Canine shock can cause visible changes in the color of the skin and mucus membranes, such as the gums. Often, these changes include a paleness in color.

    Consciousness

    • Some dogs in shock may lose consciousness.

    Death

    • Unfortunately, without treatment, dogs who are suffering from prolonged shock may die.