2 min read • By Wyatt West, Staff Writer and Outdoor Fiend, Timberdog
Dogs are experts at hiding discomfort, but dehydration is one thing you don’t want to overlook. It can sneak up fast, especially in hot weather, after an intense play session, or because of vomiting (or can even accompany unproductive vomiting). Luckily, spotting the signs and acting quickly can make all the difference in keeping your pup safe and healthy. Let’s break it down.
THE LOWDOWN ON DEHYDRATION
Dehydration happens when your dog loses more fluids than they take in. Water is essential for just about everything—circulating blood, regulating temperature, and keeping their organs humming along. Without enough of it, things can go south quickly. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with certain health conditions are especially at risk, but any dog can become dehydrated.
SIGNS YOUR DOG MIGHT BE DEHYDRATED
1. Dry Nose and Gums
A healthy dog’s nose should be moist, and their gums should feel slick. If your dog’s nose is dry and their gums are sticky or tacky to the touch, they’re likely low on fluids.
2. Lethargy
Dehydration can sap your dog’s energy, leaving them unusually tired or uninterested in their favorite activities. If your usually bouncy pup is suddenly sluggish, it’s worth checking for other signs.
3. Sunken Eyes
Dogs’ eyes can appear sunken or dull when they’re dehydrated. This is a more advanced sign, so if you notice this, it’s time to act fast.
4. Loss of Skin Elasticity
Here’s a quick test: gently pinch the skin between your dog’s shoulder blades and let it go. If the skin snaps back into place immediately, they’re likely hydrated. If it takes a second or two to settle, they may be dehydrated.
5. Panting and Dry Mouth
While panting is normal after exercise or in warm weather, excessive panting paired with a dry mouth can be a sign your dog is struggling to cool down and needs water ASAP.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG IS DEHYDRATED
1. Offer Fresh Water
Start with the basics: make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water. Encourage them to drink but don’t force it—gulping too much water at once can upset their stomach.
2. Use a Rehydration Solution
If your dog’s showing mild signs of dehydration, adding an electrolyte solution designed for pets to their water can help replace lost fluids and minerals. Avoid human sports drinks—they’re not made for dogs.
3. Cool Them Down
If dehydration is due to overheating, help your dog cool off. Move them to a shady or air-conditioned spot and use cool (not icy) water to dampen their paws, belly, and neck. Here's what to do if you suspect your dog is suffering from a heat stroke.
4. Call the Vet
For severe dehydration—think sunken eyes, extreme lethargy, or refusal to drink—don’t wait. Contact your vet immediately. Severe dehydration may require IV fluids to get your dog back on track.
HOW TO PREVENT DEHYDRATION
Keep Water Accessible
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating: make sure your dog always has access to water, especially during warm weather or after exercise. For hikes or outings, bring a portable water bottle or collapsible bowl.
Encourage Hydration
If your dog isn’t a big drinker, make water more appealing by adding a splash of low-sodium chicken broth or offering ice cubes as a treat.
Know Their Limits
On hot days, keep exercise sessions short and schedule walks during the cooler parts of the day. Always provide a shaded area for your pup to rest.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Your dog depends on you to keep them hydrated and healthy. By knowing the signs of dehydration and taking action quickly, you can prevent a small problem from turning into a big one.
One of the features of our travel-and-go dog bed, RuffRest, is that it has a hydration feature. On the side of the bed is a hidden hydration pouch that can fit up to a 40 ounce water bottle - enough to keep both you and your pup hydrated. Never again forget your dog's hydration needs with this handy, life-saving feature.
So, stay alert, keep the water flowing, and your pup will stay happy, healthy, and ready for their next adventure.
Photo credit: Anna Tarazevich