## Dog Trainer Offers Practical Advice on Dehydration Signs in Pets – Dispels Popular Nose Myth
As summer temperatures soar, pet owners are being urged to stay vigilant when it comes to their dogs’ hydration. A leading dog trainer has recently highlighted both practical advice and widespread misconceptions surrounding signs of dehydration in dogs—timely guidance as heatwaves become more frequent across the UK.
Max Randall, an Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT) qualified professional and founder of MK9 Plus, took to social media to share simple yet effective ways for owners to keep an eye on their pets’ hydration. As a wealth of information circulates online regarding canine wellbeing, Randall’s tips aim to cut through the noise with hands-on, easily applicable methods.
According to Randall, one of the quickest checks involves simply examining your dog’s gums. “The gums and lips should appear moist and glistening,” he explained. “If you notice they are dry or have a tacky, rubbery feel, this suggests your dog is not getting enough moisture.” This tactile check is a straightforward means of observing changes in your pet’s health, and it can serve as an early warning sign before more severe symptoms develop.
Another test recommended by Randall is the ‘skin tent’ technique. This involves gently lifting a small portion of skin on the back of your dog’s neck and releasing it. Healthy, well-hydrated skin will swiftly return to its original position. However, for a dehydrated dog, he notes the skin will take longer to settle back in place due to a lack of elasticity caused by insufficient fluids. “It’s a useful check to perform regularly, as you’ll become familiar with your dog’s normal skin response and more readily spot when it changes,” Randall advised.
Perhaps the most surprising part of Randall’s guidance is his debunking of the ever-popular dry nose myth. For generations, dog owners have believed that a warm or dry nose signifies poor health, particularly dehydration. However, Randall is quick to clarify: “A dog’s nose tends only to be wet because they lick it. If it’s dry, it’s not automatically a concern—it might be because they haven’t licked it recently or perhaps they’ve just drunk water.” Such advice reminds owners to avoid leaping to conclusions based on a single, often misunderstood sign.
Reinforcing Randall’s recommendations, Dr Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer at the American Kennel Club, has also spoken about the importance of the skin check. Dr Klein, an expert in veterinary emergency care, underscores that loss of skin elasticity remains a classic early warning sign of dehydration—valuable for pet owners to understand and act upon.
Dr Klein further elaborates on symptoms that can indicate a dog is dehydrated. These include marked loss of skin flexibility, refusal to eat, vomiting (with or without diarrhoea), persistent lethargy, pronounced panting, depressed or sunken-looking eyes, parched noses, sticky gums, and unusually thick saliva. Many of these symptoms may also point to other health concerns, so consulting a vet is always recommended if your dog exhibits any of them.
It is clear from both Randall’s and Dr Klein’s advice that regular checks and an understanding of your pet’s normal behaviour and appearance are crucial. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, these simple habits can make all the difference during spells of hot weather.
Pet owners are encouraged to keep fresh water readily available and to monitor their dogs, especially during walks or playtime outdoors. Prevention and early intervention, experts agree, are key measures in keeping four-legged companions safe and healthy throughout the summer months.
As with many myths in animal care, relying on outdated or misunderstood indicators can sometimes do more harm than good. Information from credible sources remains vital, and practical checks such as looking at gums or conducting the skin test empower owners to care more effectively for their pets—while letting go of notions, like the dry nose myth, that don’t stand up to scrutiny.