8 Warning Signs of Dehydration in Dogs · Kinship

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8 Warning Signs of Dehydration in Dogs

It can range from fixable to super-serious. Heres what you need to know.

Cute corgi dog panting outside in the sun.
Irina Polonina / Stocksy

We often say we’re dehydrated, especially on a hot day or after too much exercise. Fortunately, we drink water, and then we’re fine. Dogs can also get slightly dehydrated. If there’s a bowl of water, they will drink what they need to, and all is well. 

However, dehydration can become a serious condition if, for some reason, we or our dogs don’t drink enough. Dehydration can range from mild to severe, and if left untreated, can even become life-threatening. Understanding this and identifying the symptoms is essential for a pet parent.

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Main takeaways

  • Dehydration can make a dog very ill. 

  • There are eight common warning signs of dehydration in dogs.

  • Dehydration can be mild, moderate, or severe in dogs. 

  • Causes of dehydration include heat, panting, illness, vomiting, and diarrhea.

  • You can treat your dog’s dehydration at home, but it may require a veterinarian. 

Mild vs. moderate vs. severe dehydration in dogs

What causes dehydration? It occurs when your dog’s body loses more fluid than it takes in. Dehydration can be mild, moderate, or severe. The chart below shows the symptoms and treatment for each of those levels of dehydration for your pup.

Dr. Shelby Neely holds a dog

Dr. Shelby Neely, DVM

Dr. Shelby Neely is a freelance writer and veterinarian who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and has practiced veterinary medicine for thirty years, specializing in small animals. Her work has appeared in Allivet, AsktheCatDoctor, WhiskerDocs, Ask the Cat Doctor Radio, Ask the Cat Doctor TV, and numerous other websites, brochures, newsletters, newspapers, and ebooks. In her spare time, Dr. Neely likes to spend time with her three children, two grandchildren, three cats, two grand-cats, and five grand-dogs.