Fluid replacement for dogs

A dog that vomits or has diarrhea may suffer from dehydration. Here we teach you how to make your own fluid replacement and when you need to contact a veterinarian.

Important to know

Please note that it is wise to contact your vet before you start rehydrating your dog yourself. Because a dog that needs fluid replacement instead of regular water can be so unwell that it instead feels better by being put on a drip directly into the blood.

You can make your own fluid replacement for your dog by mixing water, dextrose and salt. Boil the water so that the liquid substitute is mixed well. Be sure to let the replacement cool down properly before giving it to your dog. The replacement must be stored in a refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. Then you need to make a new fluid replacement.

Recipe for fluid replacement for the dog

1 litre of water
1 tablespoon dextrose or honey
1 teaspoon of salt

A dog normally needs around 0.5 decilitres of fluid per kilogram of body weight per day. In case of fluid loss, the dog may need twice as much.

This is how you give the dog fluid replacement

At first, you may need to "feed" the dog with the help of a spoon or syringe, most simply via the corner of the mouth. Portion out the fluid replacement that you give the dog. Excessive and rapid fluid intake can lead to vomiting.