8 Warning Signs of Dehydration in Dogs

It can range from fixable to super-serious. Here’s what you need to know.

May 2, 2025

In This Article:

Stages of Dehydration in Dogs Why Dehydration Is So Serious 8 Common Signs of Dehydration in Dogs Causes of Dehydration in Dogs and Puppies What to Do if Your Dog Is Dehydrated How to Check Your Dog for Dehydration When to Seek Vet Help Treatment for Dehydration in Dogs

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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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, DVM

Dr. Shelby Neely is a freelance writer and veterinarian who graduated from The University of Pennsylvania and has practiced veterinary medicine for 30 years. She has found homes for hundreds of stray pets and has two cats as well as four grand-dogs and two grand-cats. In her spare time, Dr. Neely likes to be with her three children, their dogs and cats, and her own two cats. She also likes to see as many Broadway shows as possible.