18/07/2025
What Is Water Toxicity and How to Protect Your Furry Friend
Warm weather brings with it plenty of outdoor fun—especially activities involving water. Whether it’s swimming, playing with the garden hose, or retrieving toys from a lake, dogs often enjoy these moments just as much as we do. However, excessive water intake during such play can lead to a serious and potentially fatal condition known as water intoxication or water toxicity.
What Is Water Toxicity?
Water toxicity occurs when a dog consumes more water than its body can process, leading to a dangerous electrolyte imbalance—specifically a dilution of sodium (hyponatremia) in the blood. Sodium is essential for nerve and muscle function. When it's diluted beyond safe levels, cells—including brain cells—begin to swell, which can cause a rapid decline in health and even death.
This condition is rare, but it most often occurs in active dogs who play in water for long periods, especially breeds that love to retrieve or bite at water, such as retrievers, herding breeds, and working dogs.
Signs and Symptoms of Water Toxicity in Dogs
Symptoms may begin gradually or come on suddenly after excessive water exposure. Look out for:
Staggering or loss of coordination
Lethargy
Nausea or vomiting
Excessive salivation
Bloating
Dilated pupils
Glassy eyes
Seizures
Difficulty breathing
Collapse or unconsciousness
If any of these signs are observed after your dog has been playing in water, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Activities That Pose a Risk
Certain types of play can increase the risk of water toxicity:
Fetch in water: Repeatedly retrieving toys can cause a dog to swallow large amounts of water unintentionally.
Biting at water sprays: Dogs that chomp at sprinklers or hoses can ingest more water than expected.
Swimming for long durations: Endurance swimming without breaks increases risk.
Obsessional water behavior: Dogs that fixate on splashing or swimming may not self-regulate.
Prevention: How to Protect Your Dog
Water intoxication is preventable with a few mindful strategies:
Limit water play sessions: Keep games short and give your dog frequent breaks.
Supervise always: Monitor for signs of excessive swallowing or fatigue.
Use floating toys: These encourage surface play rather than diving or gulping.
Provide dry breaks: Offer time out of the water to rest and eliminate.
Watch intake: Ensure your dog isn’t obsessively biting at water or lapping large amounts while playing.
Encourage bathroom breaks: Peeing helps regulate fluid levels.
Offer small drinks of fresh water: After water play, let your dog rehydrate in small amounts rather than gulping large volumes at once.
At-Risk Breeds and Situations
Breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Border Collies, German Shepherds, and other high-drive working or herding breeds may be at greater risk due to their intensity during play. Puppies and small-breed dogs are also more vulnerable due to their smaller size and fluid reserves.
Conclusion
Water is essential for your dog’s health, but too much of it too quickly—especially during play—can be dangerous. Being aware of the signs of water intoxication and how to prevent it can help you enjoy fun summer activities safely with your furry friend.
If your dog has been playing in water and begins to act unusual, don’t wait—contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your dog may be suffering from water intoxication, seek immediate veterinary care.
References:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Water Intoxication in Dogs
VCA Animal Hospitals: Water Intoxication in Dogs
Pet Poison Helpline: Water Intoxication
** From your DDBSA health committee**
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