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The unflavored variety of this drink is safe for short-term use in dogs, but you must be cautious about sweeteners and flavorings. Unflavored Pedialyte can be used short-term to help replace electrolytes, but it should not be considered a routine or primary treatment. The only time it shouldn’t be given is when your dog is vomiting and cannot keep any food or drink down. It can be given to your dog in small, frequent amounts, but it should not be used to completely replace the water in your dog’s diet.
What Is Pedialyte?
Pedialyte is an oral electrolyte solution. It is most commonly used to replace the electrolytes that are lost during dehydration. It is given to children but is also taken by adults, and as well as being used to treat dehydration caused by illness, sports players use it to help replenish essential minerals after particularly grueling workout sessions.
It primarily consists of water but also contains a host of minerals including potassium and sodium, both of which are as important to your dog when electrolyte losses are present.
Pedialyte comes in two main forms: a powder that is mixed with water before consumption, and a bottled drink that has already been mixed. Although flavored alternatives are available, the best option for dogs is the unflavored, original formulation, as some flavorings and additives may cause gastrointestinal upset.
Dehydration In Dogs
Dehydration is a loss of fluids and electrolytes from the body. This happens when the body loses more fluids than it consumes. It can cause symptoms that vary in severity, but ultimately it can prove fatal.
Causes
Dehydration can be caused by giving your dog too much exercise, without offering him water or other replacement fluids. Other possible causes include:
- Lack of fluid consumption
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive urination
- Heat exposure or fever
Signs
The signs of dehydration vary according to its severity. Mild dehydration is usually accompanied by listlessness and a lack of energy, increased panting, dry mouth and tacky gums, and possibly even signs of depression.
Signs of severe dehydration are more serious and can include extreme weakness, collapse, and sunken eyes, to the extent that your dog can barely lift themselves.
Treatment
The first treatment you should try to remedy mild dehydration is water. Ensure that your dog has a bowl of fresh water available to them. They should always be able to access fresh water, and if they can drink a moderate amount of water, their body should start the recovery process so that they become fully rehydrated and essential minerals are replaced in their body. If dehydration becomes serious, it may be necessary for your veterinarian to put them on a drip. This allows controlled fluid replacement and prevents further vomiting and diarrhea that might otherwise rid the body of fluids. This is usually considered a necessary medical treatment when oral rehydration is not sufficient.
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Is Pedialyte Safe For Dogs? Can Puppies Have Pedialyte?
If your dog is suffering mild signs of dehydration and you can’t get them to keep enough water down, or their body needs more than just water, Pedialyte may be used short-term as a supportive option. Mix the Pedialyte powder according to the instructions on the packet, or give your dog Pedialyte liquid from the bottle.
Pedialyte should not replace veterinary care, and puppies and dogs with underlying health conditions should be monitored closely if it is used. Puppies can both become dehydrated faster, and suffer more severely from its effects, so if you are concerned that your young dog is not drinking enough or is losing fluid, it is vital to have them assessed by a veterinarian.
How Much To Give
For a dog weighing around 50 pounds, you should give approximately a small amount of Pedialyte at a time. This can be given once an hour, and you should alter the amount given according to the weight of your dog.
If you do not see any signs of improvement after 12–24 hours, seek veterinarian help. Dehydration is a serious problem that can have disastrous consequences for your dog.
Alternatives To Pedialyte
Pedialyte should not be given if your dog is vomiting. He will likely reject the drink and it can cause further vomiting, adding to his distress and exacerbating the signs.
The most obvious alternative to this electrolyte solution is water. Healthy dogs do not require any liquid apart from water to stay hydrated. This should be given freely, and you should ensure that it is fresh water.
Subcutaneous or intravenous solutions are considered an alternative, but your vet will advise if these are necessary and are usually only when oral fluids are not tolerated or are insufficient.
Can Dogs Have Pedialyte?
Pedialyte is safe for canine consumption when used appropriately and short-term, although it should not be considered a full-time alternative to fresh water. It can be given every hour in small amounts while your dog is dehydrated, but if your dog is still showing signs after about 24 hours, seek professional help. Dehydration can kill, and you need to get it treated as quickly as possible to prevent long-term detrimental effects.
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