It really depends on what the problem is and the degree of dehydration. If you dog isn't keeping anything down you can't give them anything by mouth that would help. Pedialyte can be effective but you should still have your vet show you so that you do not force anything into the lungs and cause aspiration. Usually they are kept hydrated with the appropriate type of fluids through either IV or Sub Q methods (vet) as anything we do from home isn't likely to be ENOUGH. Whatever medications they are on can also be a factor sometimes depending on the problem (if the possibility if dehydration is present then there is a problem causing it that ALSO needs treatment). Hope your pup is feeling better soon.
You can encourage your dog to drink by flavoring the water-with a small amount (1 teaspoon) of Pedialyte, milk, vanilla ice cream or tuna juice. Do not use broth because they contain high amounts of salt which will lead to further dehydration. Feeding canned foods will increase water intake.
Dehydration of less than 5% (fluid loss that does not result in clinical signs-slow skin tent or dry gums) often due to exercise or mild diarrhea can be corrected with oral fluids if your dog is still willing to drink. Rehydration will take several hours to half a day depending on degree of dehydration and any ongoing fluid loss. If your dog has dry gums, a slow skin tent, and especially if your dog will not drink on its own please see your veterinarian for subcutaneous fluids (fluids under the skin) or if severe enough IV (intravenous) fluids.
If your dog is dehydrated the best way to hydrate him is to simply give him water.If the dehydration is sever do not give him too much water at one time as it will likely lead to vomiting.You should also take your dog to the vet to make sure any serious harm was caused.
The best and most effective way to combat dehydration is via parenteral (not orally) methods. This means administering fluids either intravenously (this is the best) or subcutaneously (fluids under the skin)--these treatments need to be done by a veterinarian. At home you can try force feeding water. You can also try flavoring the water with a small amount of Pedialyte to encourage thirst. Oral fluids do not work if your dog is vomiting. The best way to treat your dog is treat the underlying cause as dehydration is a clinical sign not a disease.
The dehydration is not only the loss of body fluids but also the loss of electrolytes or salts. It can be due to long exposure to heat or it can be result of fever. The Vet. Doctor can be the better choice. The first thing which you should do to give him water. If you give him salt solution like Pedialyte will also provide salts and water. For more details, visit dehydration in dogs.
