Just like humans, there is a normal temperature in dogs, and if this is over what it should be, it can be a cause for concern. There are many things that can affect your dog's normal temperature, from illness to heat and even anxiety. Learn all you need to know, here.
What is a normal temperature in dogs?
Your dog's temperature should be around 38° – 39°C. A dog’s normal body temperature is naturally higher than that of humans. However, if your dog has a temperature of 39.5° or higher, then they may be considered to have a fever.
What is dog fever?
Fever in dogs, much like that in humans, is when they suffer from an increase in body temperature that is above the norm. There are many different conditions that can cause fever in dogs. Sometimes it may be straightforward for your vet to determine the underlying cause but in other cases the cause may not be so clear.
What are the signs of fever in dogs?
There are a few signs to look out for when trying to determine whether your dog has a fever or not:
- Excessive panting
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Tiredness
- Dry nose
- Warm/red ears
If your dog is showing any unusual signs, you should seek veterinary advice without delay. It is also important to pay attention to your dog's overall body language. Your dog may show subtle signs of feeling unwell early on, and these are easier to spot if you are keeping a close eye on your dog’s behaviour.
What causes fever in dogs?
There are many things that can cause your dog to get a fever, these include:
- Ear infection
- Anxiety
- Dental abscess
- Urinary tract Infection
- Kidney or lung infection
Rarely, dogs can also suffer from fever if they ingest substances or plants that are poisonous to them. These include:
- Human medications
- Toxic plants
- Toxic Foods
Just like in people, your dog may also suffer from a mild fever after vaccinations. This is uncommon but can be a sign that your dog’s immune system is responding to the vaccine. You should speak to your vet if you have any concerns.
How to take your dog's temperature
If you are seeing any of the above symptoms or think your dog may have a temperature, it is best to take them to the vet. They can take your dog’s temperature, look at any other symptoms (whether or not they have a raised temperature) and suggest any treatment if necessary.
If you need to take your dog’s temperature (ie to monitor ongoing health issues) it is straightforward – depending on how handleable your dog is. For most, it is quick, easy and stress-free.
A dog's temperature is best read with a rectal thermometer. You can use a digital thermometer that will give you your dog's temperature in 60 seconds or even less.
Ask your vet or vet nurse to show you how to use it for the first time – and either have someone to hold your dog, and/or use a muzzle. You don’t want your dog wriggling around, getting worried or feeling that they need take defensive action at this unwelcome intrusion.
How to care for dog fever
If you think your dog may be suffering from a fever, see your vet straightaway. They will assess your dog and try to determine the underlying cause. Seeking veterinary help sooner rather than later will reduce the risk of other complications like dehydration developing or conditions getting more serious.
Cool down your dog
If you think your dog is suffering from a high temperature, then you can try to cool your dog down while you wait to get to the vet. Place a cooling mat on their bed, put a fan on them or pour cool water over them. While this may make them more comfortable, it is still important to get advice from your vet.
Take your dog to the vet if you notice any unusual signs, their symptoms worsening, or if you have taken their temperature and it is above the normal temperature for a dog. This will allow your vet to assess your dog’s condition and intervene quickly to administer the right care.
Now that you know all about a dog's temperature, how to take it and what a normal reading should be, why not take a look at our article on dog heatstroke so that you know how to avoid this in the warmer months?
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