While any dog could experience dehydration, puppies are often more susceptible. Here are tips from Dances with Wolves Ranch on how to spot puppy dehydration and how to deal with it.
Symptoms of Dehydration
Here are the most common symptoms of a dehydrated dog: loss of skin elasticity, panting or fast breathing, lack of appetite, dry nose, sunken eyes, dry mouth, vomiting or diarrhea, or weak pulse. The easiest way to test for dehydration is the skin elasticity test. Hold some of your puppy’s skin near his shoulder blades, pinch it, and then let go. In well-hydrated dogs the skin will spring back into place. However, dehydrated dogs will have skin that takes longer to snap back. You can also test your dog’s gums to feel if they are dry or sticky. If you press on a healthy dog’s gums they will be white for a second and then pink immediately after. For a dehydrated dog, they will be white for much longer.
Causes of Dehydration
Puppy dehydration can be caused by many things. Maybe your puppy has a bad diet, or his routine has been disrupted. They could have dehydration from illness, fever, diarrhea, or vomiting. If it’s been hot outside your puppy could even have heat stroke. However, the most common cause is simply that your puppy does not have enough access to water.
Treatment of Dehydration
If you suspect that your Dances with Wolves Ranch puppy has severe dehydration due to something more serious, then you should immediately go to a vet. However, many cases of dehydration can just be solved at home. Give your puppy cool, clean water and maybe even add an electrolyte solution in his drink.
Prevention of Dehydration
Make sure your dog always has a supply of cool, clean water, especially when they are outside. Dogs who have higher activity levels will also need more water. Depending on the dog’s age, weight, and even the weather outside, the amount of water they need could vary. Make sure they always have access to plenty.
Some dogs develop a habit of not drinking water unless they are encouraged to. If your dog is especially sensitive, you’ll want to take extra care in noticing if they’re drinking enough. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your dog to make sure their energy levels, behaviors, and eating and drinking habits are normal.
If you would like to know more about the White Swiss Shepherd puppies we have for sale check out our site Berger Blanc Suisse Puppies for Sale.com or for more information on the breed go to our information site at DanceswithWolvesRanch.com.
