What is a common method for evaluating hydration status?

Checking capillary refill time is indeed a common and effective method for evaluating hydration status in dogs. This technique involves pressing on the gums or another mucous membrane until it blanches or turns white and then observing how quickly the color returns to normal. In a well-hydrated dog, the capillary refill time is typically under two seconds. If the time is excessive, it could indicate dehydration, as fluids are not circulating effectively, resulting in slower blood flow to the area.

While energy levels, coat quality, and heartbeat are important indicators of overall health, they may not directly reflect hydration status. For example, a dog may exhibit low energy due to a variety of reasons unrelated to hydration, or coat quality may not change significantly until dehydration becomes severe. Similarly, an altered heart rate could be influenced by several other factors, including stress, pain, or medical conditions, rather than hydration alone. Therefore, capillary refill time provides a more specific and immediate assessment of hydration in canines.