How to tell if a dog is dehydrated?

During the days we spend with our dogs, their health always weighs on our minds. Dehydration, a seemingly trivial condition that can lead to serious consequences, is quietly posing a threat to the life and health of our canine companions. As the most trusted masters of our dogs, learning how to determine whether a dog is dehydrated is an essential lesson in safeguarding their well-being.

A dog's body is like a sophisticated instrument, and water plays a vital and indispensable role within it. Water is involved in every important physiological activity of a dog's body. From transporting nutrients, regulating body temperature to excreting waste, all these processes rely on the support of water. When the water in a dog's body gradually depletes and isn't replenished in a timely manner, dehydration will stealthily set in. Under normal circumstances, the water content in a dog's body accounts for approximately 60% - 70% of its body weight. Once this proportion drops, various functions of the body will be affected.

To determine if a dog is dehydrated, we can observe it from several aspects. Firstly, check the skin elasticity. Gently pinch the skin on the dog's back near the neck and then release it. The skin of a healthy dog will quickly return to its original state. Just like elastic rubber, it bounces back the moment you let go. However, for a dehydrated dog, the skin will take significantly longer to return to its original position. It may even form a small wrinkle that remains for a long time. This is because dehydration causes the tissues beneath the dog's skin to lose the support of water, reducing its elasticity. It's similar to parched land that, without the nourishment of water, becomes cracked and rigid.

Observing the dog's gums is also a crucial method. The gums of a healthy dog should be moist, pink in color, and feel soft and elastic when touched. When we gently press the dog's gums with our fingers and then release, the gums will quickly regain their original color. This process is known as the capillary refill time, which should typically be completed within 1 - 2 seconds under normal conditions. Nevertheless, the gums of a dehydrated dog often become dry, and their color may turn pale or dark red. After pressing the gums, the time it takes for the color to return will be noticeably prolonged, indicating that there are issues with the blood circulation and water supply in the dog's body. Just like a flower losing water, the once delicate petals will become dry and lose their luster.

The dog's eyes can also reveal signs of dehydration. The eyes of a healthy dog are bright and full of vitality, with plump eye sockets and a moist surface of the eyeballs. For a dehydrated dog, the eyes may appear sunken, the eye sockets will no longer be full, and the surface of the eyeballs will become dry and lack luster. The originally lively and big eyes lose their former radiance due to dehydration, just like stars that have lost their light, which really tugs at our heartstrings.

In addition to these changes in appearance, the behavior and state of a dog can also reflect whether it is dehydrated. A dehydrated dog usually appears listless and has a poor appetite. A dog that used to be lively and enjoyed chasing and playing may now lose interest in toys and games, always lying lazily on the ground and being reluctant to move. Even if the owner teases it with its favorite snacks, it can't stir up its enthusiasm. Moreover, dehydration will cause the dog to urinate less, and the urine will turn dark yellow and have a strong odor. This is because the body reduces urine production to conserve water and simultaneously concentrates the waste in the urine.

If we detect signs of dehydration in a dog, we'll be filled with worry and anxiety. But at this moment, it's crucial to stay calm. First and foremost, make sure the dog has access to clean and fresh water at all times. Place the water bowl in a location where the dog can easily see and reach it, and encourage it to drink more water. If the dog is unwilling to drink water on its own initiative, you can try feeding it water in small amounts multiple times with a spoon or a syringe. However, be cautious not to let the dog drink too much water at once to avoid causing vomiting. At the same time, closely monitor the dog's condition. If the dehydration situation doesn't improve, or other serious symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing occur, take the dog to see a veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian will accurately assess the degree of the dog's dehydration through professional examinations such as blood tests and urine analysis, and provide corresponding treatments. These may include intravenous infusion to replenish water and electrolytes and maintain the normal functions of the body.

Preventing dehydration in dogs is far more important than treating it. In daily life, we should ensure that dogs always have an adequate supply of drinking water. Whether at home, going for a walk outdoors, or on a long trip, prepare clean drinking water for the dog. In the hot summer or after the dog has engaged in a lot of exercise, increase the water supply even more, as the dog's body loses water more rapidly during these times. In addition, a reasonable diet also helps maintain the dog's water balance. You can appropriately feed the dog some foods with high water content, such as fresh vegetables and fruits, but pay attention to the right amount to avoid causing gastrointestinal discomfort.

Dogs are our companions in life and an indispensable part of the family. They accompany us with unconditional love and loyalty, and we bear the responsibility of taking care of their health. Learning to determine whether a dog is dehydrated is a manifestation of our love for them. When we can keenly detect the subtle changes in a dog's body and provide timely help and care, we are safeguarding their lives and continuing the deep emotional bond between us.