Dehydration in dogs may be more common than we think during the extremely hot months. Just like people, dogs’ body weight is made up of approximately 60% to 70% water. This means that keeping your dog well hydrated is not only an important part of their daily care, but an absolute necessity for their overall health.
Below, we’ll tell you what the signs of dehydration are in dogs, what to do if you suspect your dog is dehydrated, and how to make sure your dog is getting the right amount of water each day. Read on!
Causes of dehydration in dogs
The causes of dehydration in dogs are very varied, but one of the most common is when the dog begins to lose fluids through vomiting and diarrhea. On the other hand, kidney disease can cause dehydration, as can heat stroke. When your dog suffers from other illnesses such as fever, it also causes the animal to reduce fluid intake and, therefore, runs the risk of dehydration.
To better understand how heat stroke can affect your dog and how you can prevent it, we invite you to read our post: “ Heat stroke in dogs: what it is, how to act and prevention .”
How do I know if my dog is dehydrated?
Dehydrated dogs may show several signs, such as:
- Thick, sticky saliva.
- Dark urine.
- Dry gums.
- Additionally, a dehydrated dog may show signs of lethargy or inactivity – if he is normally playful and appears listless, this could be a sign.
- Anorexia, or lack of interest in eating, can also accompany dehydration.
What to do if my dog is dehydrated?
If you notice signs of dehydration in your dog, it is very important to take appropriate action. Although providing water is the first step, this is not always enough, especially if the dehydration is more than severe.
It’s important not to try to handle the situation at home alone; instead, take your dog to the vet as soon as possible . A professional can properly assess the degree of dehydration and administer specific treatments that may include fluid and electrolyte replacement through intravenous methods. This will help restore balance to your dog’s body quickly and safely.
How to properly hydrate a dog
Keeping your dog well hydrated is essential for their health and well-being, especially on hot days or after periods of intense activity. Here are some tips and recommendations to ensure your dog receives adequate hydration:
- Constant access to fresh, clean water. Your dog must always have access to clean, fresh water, especially on summer days. To do this, it is also essential that you place different dog water bowls in different places so that your dog always has water and finds it easier to hydrate.
Also, remember to change the water in your bowl daily and wash the container regularly to prevent the formation of bacteria.
- Include wet, water-rich foods in your dog’s diet . Consider incorporating wet food into your dog’s diet, as it contains more water and can significantly help with hydration. You can also add a little water to his dry food to make it more palatable and to increase his fluid intake.
Offering fresh foods like watermelon (seedless) can also be a great way to provide additional hydration, as long as they are given in adequate amounts. Check out the list of fruits that dogs can eat here .
- Use automatic water bowls or dog fountains. These devices keep the water moving and oxygenated, which can encourage some dogs to drink more regularly.
- Carry water on walks: Always carry a water bottle or portable water bowl with you when you go for a walk or exercise with your dog. This is especially important on hot days.
- Avoid the hottest hours of the day. Try not to take your dog out during the hottest hours of the day. Choose early morning or late afternoon for walks and exercise.
- Always seek shade. When you are outdoors with your dog, try to keep him in shaded areas as much as possible to avoid overexposure to the sun.
- Never leave your dog in the car on hot days. Temperatures inside a vehicle can quickly rise, putting your furry friend’s life at risk due to heat stroke and suffocation.
These tips will help you keep your dog properly hydrated and prevent health problems related to
dehydration and heat. If you have any concerns about your dog’s hydration or notice any signs of dehydration, don’t hesitate to
contact your veterinarian for professional advice.
