Dog Dehydration Symptoms

Skin Elasticity

• Determining the elasticity of the skin is the easiest way to tell whether your dog is suffering from dehydration. Grab the dog by the back of the neck between the shoulders and pull upward then release. If the dog is well hydrated, the skin immediately will return to its normal position. In a dehydrated dog, the skin will stay up once you release it. Dehydration of this magnitude may require IV fluids.

Capillary Refill

• You probably don't check your dog capillary refill time on a regular basis, but it can be a good test to see if your dog is dehydrated. Dogs with a quick capillary refill time are not dehydrated, while those whose blood does not refill quickly are dehydrated. To check for this place a finger against the dog's gum and lightly press. The color should go from white to a light pink when the finger is removed.

Sticky Gums/ Dry Nose

• A dog with a wet cold nose is a healthy dog. Dogs with dry noses are lacking in proper hydration and should be given water or IV fluids if recommended by a veterinarian. Sticky gums may also be a sign of dehydration. When checking the capillary refill time also look for overly sticky gums.

Lethargy/Exhaustion

• Dehydration can impact dogs in a different way. One the first signs of dehydration is a noticeable lack of energy or unwillingness to play. Dehydration can be caused by strenuous activity and not enough water. Make sure that your pet has plenty of water at all times and can easily access it.

Treatment

• Treating dehydration can be done at home but not all dogs will respond the same way. Dogs that have been without water for long periods of time may have trouble digesting water at first. It is recommended that dehydrated pets be treated by a professional and not at home. Mildly dehydrated pets can be treated at home with additional water or the addition of an electrolyte-based fluid to their diet.