Companion Animals

Companion Dog Water Intoxication Welfare Risk

Water intoxication is a rare but serious welfare emergency in dogs that engage in excessive water ingestion during swimming or play.

Key Facts

Water intoxication causes hyponatraemia (low blood sodium) causing brain swelling
Dogs ingesting large volumes of water while swimming or playing with water hoses are at risk
Signs include vomiting, lethargy, and progressing to seizures and death if untreated
Small dogs and those with excessive water-play enthusiasm are most vulnerable

Welfare Considerations

Water intoxication causes rapid neurological deterioration and death if unrecognised and untreated. Owner awareness of this rare but serious welfare emergency enables early recognition and emergency veterinary referral. Monitoring water intake during prolonged water play activities prevents the most severe cases.

What You Can Do

Limit prolonged swimming and water play sessions especially in small dogs
Seek emergency veterinary care if a swimming dog shows sudden lethargy or vomiting
Educate dog owners about water intoxication risk during hot weather swimming activities