Hydration is essential to every aspect of a dog’s health—but during the warmer months, the risk of dehydration in dogs increases significantly. Whether it’s due to heat, overexertion, or simply not drinking enough water, dehydration can quickly become dangerous if not caught early. In this guide, we cover the signs of dehydration in dogs, how to prevent it, and what to do when your dog shows symptoms.
Why Is Hydration So Important for Dogs?
Water plays a vital role in maintaining your dog’s circulation, digestion, temperature regulation, and joint health. Even mild dehydration can affect your dog’s energy levels and lead to complications like heatstroke.
Dogs don’t sweat like humans. Instead, they pant and release small amounts of moisture through their paws, making them less efficient at cooling themselves. In hot weather or during travel, this can lead to rapid water loss—especially if not replenished.
Common Signs of Dehydration in Dogs
If your dog shows any of the following symptoms, they may be dehydrated:
- Dry or sticky gums
- Lethargy or weakness
- Excessive panting
- Sunken eyes
- Dry nose
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Reduced appetite
- Dark yellow urine or less frequent urination
A 2014 study published in Veterinary Medicine and Science confirmed that loss of skin elasticity and dry mucous membranes are two of the most reliable clinical indicators of dehydration in dogs (DiBartola et al., 2014).
When to Worry: Mild vs. Severe Dehydration
Mild dehydration may present as subtle changes in behaviour and appearance, but moderate to severe dehydration can cause collapse, kidney damage, or even death.
Seek immediate veterinary help if your dog:
- Refuses to drink
- Shows signs of collapse or confusion
- Has been vomiting or has diarrhoea for more than 24 hours
- Is panting heavily in a hot environment with dry gums or weakness
How to Keep Your Dog Hydrated in Summer
Here are proactive ways to ensure your dog stays hydrated—especially when temperatures rise:
1. Offer Fresh, Cool Water Constantly
Place bowls in multiple areas—especially outdoors or in warm rooms. Change the water frequently and add ice cubes to keep it cool and enticing.
2. Hydrating Foods Help
Feed high-moisture foods like wet dog food or fresh fruit/vegetables that are safe for dogs.
3. Avoid Overexertion in the Heat
Plan walks and exercise during early morning or evening and take breaks in shady spots.
4. Use Cooling Aids
While not a direct source of hydration, cooling coats support thermoregulation and could help in reducing the amount of fluid your dog expels through panting.
Product Tip: Quick Chill Cooling Coat
The Quick Chill Cooling Coat is a practical way to manage your dog’s body temperature and complement hydration efforts.
- Water-activated and reusable
- Ideal for walks, travel, or relaxing at home
- Does not soak your dog or create mess—just cool, calm relief
Special Considerations: Who’s Most at Risk?
Some dogs are more prone to dehydration, especially in summer:
- Senior dogs
- Puppies
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs
- Dogs with kidney issues or chronic illness
- Highly active or working dogs
- Dogs fed primarily dry kibble without added moisture
Dehydration can creep up fast in the summer—but with vigilance, it’s entirely preventable. Make hydration a habit by providing access to fresh water, avoiding high heat exposure, and using smart tools like the Quick Chill Cooling Coat to support your dog’s ability to stay cool and well-regulated.
References
- DiBartola SP, Bateman SW, et al. “Evaluation of hydration status in dogs: correlation of physical examination and laboratory parameters.” Veterinary Medicine and Science, 2014.
- Zanghi, BM. “The effects of dietary hydration on thermoregulation and activity in dogs.” Journal of Animal Science, 2013.
- RSPCA. “Keeping pets cool in hot weather.” https://www.rspca.org.uk
- ASPCA. “Water Safety Tips for Dogs.” https://www.aspca.org