Dog symptom

Dehydration in dogs

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Too little body water, usually from not drinking enough or losing fluids through vomiting, diarrhea, or heat. It can worsen quickly — especially in small, young, or sick pets.

Common causes of dehydration in dogs

Vomiting, diarrhea, or fever
Not drinking enough (illness, pain, nausea)
Heat exposure or overexertion
Underlying disease (kidney disease, diabetes)

Who's most at risk

Puppies, kittens, and small or senior pets
Pets with vomiting or diarrhea
Hot weather and active dogs
Pets with kidney disease or diabetes

What you can do at home

Offer fresh water and, if advised, a pet electrolyte solution
Check the gums — sticky or dry gums suggest dehydration
Address the cause (e.g., cool a hot pet) and call your vet

When to see a vet

Sunken eyes, very sticky/dry gums, or skin that stays 'tented' when lifted
Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, or they can't keep water down
Weakness, collapse, or a young, small, or senior pet
Known kidney disease or diabetes

When it's more serious

Severe dehydration is dangerous — they likely need IV fluids now.
Continued fluid loss outpaces home care — see a vet today.
Those signs mean meaningful dehydration — get them checked promptly.

What your vet may do

Assess hydration; check gums, heart rate, and weight
Give fluids under the skin or IV
Bloodwork to find the cause and check the kidneys
Treat the underlying problem

Questions to ask your vet

How dehydrated is my pet?
Do they need IV fluids and hospitalization?
What's causing the fluid loss?
How do I keep them hydrated at home?

Frequently asked questions

What causes dehydration in dogs?

Too little body water, usually from not drinking enough or losing fluids through vomiting, diarrhea, or heat. It can worsen quickly — especially in small, young, or sick pets. Common causes include: Vomiting, diarrhea, or fever; Not drinking enough (illness, pain, nausea); Heat exposure or overexertion; Underlying disease (kidney disease, diabetes).

Is dehydration in dogs an emergency?

See a vet today. See a vet right away if: Sunken eyes, very sticky/dry gums, or skin that stays 'tented' when lifted; Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, or they can't keep water down; Weakness, collapse, or a young, small, or senior pet; Known kidney disease or diabetes.

What can I do at home for a dog with dehydration?

Offer fresh water and, if advised, a pet electrolyte solution Check the gums — sticky or dry gums suggest dehydration Address the cause (e.g., cool a hot pet) and call your vet

Sources

Reviewed by the Webvet Veterinarian Team

This guide is general information, not a diagnosis, and does not replace an exam by your veterinarian. If your pet is in distress, contact your vet or an emergency clinic right away.

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