Pedialyte for dogs: is it safe? (2024)

Pedialyte for dogs: is it safe? (1)

Table of Contents

  • What is Pedialyte?
  • Is it safe for dogs?
  • When to give Pedialyte
  • Dehydration in dogs
  • Tips for keeping your dog hydrated
  • Frequently asked questions

While we always want to do what is best for our dogs, especially when they’re sick, Pedialyte is not the solution. Pedialyte is not suitable for dog consumption and can make the situation worse. The best option is to keep unlimited access to plain water available for your dog. If you suspect your dog is sick or dehydrated, please contact your vet. Here’s everything you need to know about Pedialyte for dogs.

What is Pedialyte?

Pedialyte is an electrolyte drink formulated for humans to replenish the minerals and salts lost through sweating, breathing, eliminating waste, etc. These electrolytes are needed to move nutrients throughout the body and help prevent dehydration. This formula is created specifically for the human body, not for dogs.

Is Pedialyte safe for your dog?

Although some Pedialyte formulas are not toxic for dogs, they are not safe for them either. All formulas contain higher levels of sodium and sugar than dogs need to maintain their health. Some formulas contain the artificial sweetener xylitol which is deadly to dogs. Even small amounts of Pedialyte can be unsafe. The best thing is to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any amount of Pedialyte.

Side effects of giving Pedialyte to your dog

If given to a dog that is vomiting, Pedialyte can actually cause the vomiting to worsen. Using it as an oral electrolyte solution for electrolyte replacement can actually cause a more severe imbalance in electrolytes. Pedialyte can also have prolonged side effects because of its high sugar content such as developing diabetes or heart disease.

I generally do not recommend Pedialyte for the aforementioned reasons. In fact, for a vomiting dog, until they are examined by a professional veterinarian, I recommend nothing by mouth. Anything orally exacerbates the vomiting, further worsening the electrolyte and fluid imbalance.

Dr. Bruce Armstrong

Can you dilute Pedialyte for your dog?

Diluting Pedialyte will not dilute any of the side effects that it may cause. Please do not give your dog any concentration of Pedialyte unless under direct guidance by your veterinarian. There is no scientific evidence that diluted Pedialyte can be used as an alternative to professional help.

When to give Pedialyte to your dog

Pedialyte should only be given to your dog if directed by your vet. Most times, they will recommend a custom formula for an electrolyte replacement. If you suspect that your dog is dehydrated or has been vomiting or has had diarrhea for more than 8 hours, seek veterinary medical attention immediately.

There are prescription and OTC ready-made liquids or powders formulated and safe to administer to sick and dehydrated dogs and puppies instead of Pedialyte.

Dr. Bruce Armstrong

Understanding dehydration in dogs

Dehydration occurs when your dog has lost more water than they have taken in. Although it is more difficult for a pup to get dehydrated compared to humans, it can still happen.

Causes of dehydration in dogs

Because dogs don’t sweat like people do, it’s very difficult for them to lose enough water to be considered dehydrated. Most dehydration in dogs is caused by vomiting or diarrhea that has been prolonged. Dogs are also more susceptible to dehydration if they are infected with the parvovirus or have a fever from another illness.

Signs of dehydration in dogs

There are different ways to tell if your dog may be dehydrated. One early sign is the elasticity of their skin — if it doesn’t bounce back into place after pinching it, your dog may be showing early signs of dehydration. Other signs include:

  • Dry gums
  • Dry nose
  • Loss of appetite
  • Panting

If your dog is showing the following symptoms of dehydration, they may have severe dehydration and need a vet’s care immediately:

  • Sunken eyes
  • Shock
  • Collapse
Pedialyte for dogs: is it safe? (2)

Tips for keeping your dog hydrated

There are ways to keep your dog hydrated that don’t include Pedialyte.

  • Keep fresh water nearby — Most healthy dogs will drink when thirsty. If your dog is active, they’ll need more water than normal.
  • Use ice cubes — Ice cubes as a treat keep your dog hydrated and cool. They’ll enjoy the crunch, too!

👉 When determining how much water a dog needs every day, a good rule of thumb is one ounce per pound of body weight. If your dog is active, they’ll need more.

If you suspect your pet has mild dehydration, give them clean water in small quantities. Too much water at once may cause them to vomit leading to further electrolyte imbalances.

Frequently asked questions

Will Pedialyte help my sick dog?

There are no scientific studies showing that there are any added benefits for giving your dog Pedialyte. Because of the amount of salts and sugars it contains, it typically does more harm than good.

How much Pedialyte should I give my dog?

Pedialyte should only be given when directed by a veterinarian to do so. Please consult with your vet before giving any amount to your dog.

Is Gatorade safe for dogs?

As another electrolyte replacer that has been formulated for humans, Gatorade should not be given to dogs unless under vet supervision.

What is the best way to treat diarrhea in dogs?

The best way to treat diarrhea is by withholding food for 8 to 12 hours, and keeping fresh water on hand. If the diarrhea has not cleared up by then, consult with your veterinarian as this may be a sign of a serious condition.

Pedialyte for dogs: is it safe? (2024)

FAQs

Pedialyte for dogs: is it safe? ›

The short answer is that in small quantities, Pedialyte is likely safe for most dogs, but there are many reasons why you should not give your dog Pedialyte. Your first action should be calling your vet instead. Most importantly, there are no scientific studies at this time advocating for its use in dogs.

Which Pedialyte is ok for dogs? ›

Instead, she recommends giving your dog unflavored Pedialyte, which contains sugar and electrolytes. Compared to flavored solutions, unflavored products rarely contain sugars that are harmful to dogs, such as xylitol, which is found in some human products like toothpaste and chewing gum.

How much Pedialyte can a 50 pound dog have? ›

Some dogs may be more inclined to drink it plain while others prefer it diluted in water. Unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian, you may offer your dog a few laps of solution to drink every 1-2 hours. The recommended dose is approximately 2-4 mL of Pedialyte per pound of body weight.

How do you make Pedialyte for dogs? ›

Recipe for electrolyte fluid replacement for dogs:

Mix 4 cups of water + 1 tablespoon dextrose or honey + 1 teaspoon salt. Bring the water to a low boil and add the dextrose/honey and salt. Stir until it dissolves. Remove from heat.

Is Pedialyte the same as electrolyte? ›

What is Pedialyte? Pedialyte is an oral electrolyte solution that is specifically designed to replace vital minerals and nutrients that are lost when a child has diarrhea with or without vomiting.

Is chicken broth good for dogs? ›

Boosts immune health: Chicken broth is full of vitamins that support your dog's immune system. It contains healthy minerals and amino acids, including calcium, gelatin, silicon, magnesium, and phosphorus. Adding chicken broth to your dog's diet is also a great way to boost hydration.

Can my dog have too much Pedialyte? ›

“While Pedialyte in small amounts is likely not dangerous for dogs, the electrolytes in the drink are formulated for humans, not animals,” Dr. Mandese points out. “In larger amounts, the high concentration of additives, such as sodium and glucose, could potentially be dangerous, especially in smaller animals.”

How long does it take to rehydrate a dog? ›

A ⅛ cup of fluid per hour is enough to rehydrate small pets while a ¼ cup of fluid per hour is good for larger canines. If your pet is showing signs of severe dehydration, call your vet right away. Monitor your dog's condition – Check to see if your pet will feel better within the next few hours after getting hydrated.

Can I give my dog Pedialyte with a syringe? ›

Pedialyte should be added to your dog's water or given via a syringe if they refuse to drink water. You can also add Pedialyte to your dog's food to encourage them to stay hydrated.

Is honey good for dogs? ›

Here's some sweet news: honey is non-toxic to dogs and completely safe in small quantities. Honey might even be beneficial to your pup because it's rich in antioxidants, which help protect your pet's body cells from damage.

What do vets do to hydrate dogs? ›

An IV is the most efficient method to rehydrate. This will need to be done in a clinic with a catheter, and is closely monitored. Fluid taken in too quickly can have negative results. Dehydration left untreated can cause shock, illness, and can even result in death.

What is best to drink for dehydrated dogs? ›

If your pooch is mildly dehydrated provide your pet with small amounts of water to drink every few minutes or offer your dog pieces of ice to lick. To help restore your dog's electrolyte balance you could also provide your pup with Ringer's lactate (an electrolyte replacement fluid).

What can I put in dog's water to make him drink? ›

Adding flavor to their water. Some dogs may be more inclined to drink water if it's flavored with a small amount of chicken broth or apple juice. Offering ice cubes. Many dogs enjoy chewing on ice cubes, which can help to encourage them to drink more water.

Is there an adult Pedialyte? ›

Pedialyte is intended to rehydrate people of all ages, from toddlers to adults. It's often recommended to people recovering from the stomach flu, other viruses, and athletes. In contrast, Gatorade is recommended for adults, specifically athletes, and it's meant to meet their athletic needs.

Can you give dogs Ensure? ›

As long as the Ensure does not give him an upset stomach or diarrhea, he can have as much as he needs. Obviously, avoid the chocolate flavor (the strawberry might provoke allergy, so I'd avoid it as well).

How often should I give my dog Pedialyte for parvo? ›

You can offer the pedialyte in a bowl several times a day. If he is refusing to drink from the bowl then you can syringe 10-20mls every 2 hours or so into his mouth. Be sure to do it slowly so there is no risk of aspiration. You can offer him water at the same time as well.

What is karo syrup for dogs? ›

Karo Syrup or Pancake Syrup, either syrup can be used to help increase the blood sugar in a weak puppy that has not been eating well. Even though an adult dog can fast itself for days and maintain a good blood sugar (glucose) level, young pups under 4 months of age do not yet have the ability to do this.

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