How to tell if your dog is dehydrated

Puppies and smaller dogs are particularly susceptible to dehydration. A healthy dog typically drinks 20-70ml of water per kilo of body weight each day. If your dog has been ill, suffering from diarrhoea and/or vomiting for a while, it's worth checking for dehydration.

There are a few simple checks you can do at home to see if your dog might be dehydrated. Start by gently pinching the skin on your dog's scruff (the back of their neck) and lifting it slightly. If your dog is well-hydrated, the skin should snap back into place immediately when you let go. However, if it takes a noticeable moment to return to normal, it could indicate dehydration.

You can also check the mucous membranes inside your dog's mouth. Lift their lip and look at the colour – it should be a healthy, moist pink. Gently press your finger against the gum for a couple of seconds. The colour should quickly return to pink within 1-2 seconds after you release the pressure. If it's slow to return, or if the membranes feel dry and sticky, this could be another sign of dehydration.