22/06/2025
During warmer months, dogs often enjoy splashing in water, whether in a paddling pool or a lake. Swimming is a great form of exercise for many dogs, especially on hot days. However, swallowing too much water quickly can lead to water intoxication, a rare but potentially fatal condition.
Water intoxication occurs when a dog consumes excessive amounts of water. Even water-based activities like playing in a river or using a garden hose can cause dogs to swallow too much water and become ill.
Swallowing excess water can dilute a dog’s sodium levels, leading to hyponatremia. This causes cells to absorb more water, swelling and increasing in size.
Over time, the kidneys can usually correct the sodium and water levels. However, if the brain cells swell, it can lead to irreversible brain damage before the dog can recover.
Symptoms of water intoxication in dogs include staggering, loss of coordination, tiredness, weakness, bloating, vomiting, passing large amounts of clear urine, dilated pupils or glazed eyes, excessive salivation, difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, or coma in severe cases.
Prevention methods…
Limit their time in water to prevent them from swallowing too much.
Give them regular breaks to allow their body’s fluid balancing system to manage any excess intake.
Use floating toys to prevent your dog from diving under the water. Avoid tennis balls and other rounded toys; instead, opt for flat toys that allow your dog to close their mouth tighter, avoiding excessive water intake.
Consider training your dog to wear a flotation vest to keep them above water.
Never leave your dog unsupervised when in water.
Have fun out there but be careful!!! 💦 💧
