What is an indicator of dehydration when checking canine hydration status?

An indicator of dehydration in canines is a turgor return time that is slower than normal, specifically taking longer than 1 second. Typically, when assessing hydration status, a quick return of skin turgor (up to 1 second) indicates adequate hydration. If the skin takes longer than this to return to its original position, it suggests that the dog may be dehydrated.

Thus, if turgor return is observed in 2 seconds or longer, it is a clear sign of dehydration, indicating that the elastin fibers in the skin are less hydrated and do not spring back as quickly. This method is frequently utilized in clinical assessments of hydration status in dogs and is a practical, quick evaluation that can be performed in a variety of settings, including field conditions.

Other methods of assessing hydration status, such as capillary refill time or gum color changes, can also provide helpful information but may not be as direct or immediate as the assessment of turgor return.