Many pet parents believe that if a dog’s nose is wet, their body temperature is normal, and if their nose is dry, then they’re sick or have a fever. But this is not the best way to gauge your pet’s temperature or if they have a fever. It can be difficult to determine if your dog has a fever by simply touching their paws or checking their noses, as their body temperature varies with the weather changes, their excitement levels, or how stressed or anxious they are.
But once you know how to accurately check your dog’s temperature, you can safely monitor your pet’s health and avoid any health scares or emergency trips to the vet. With the recent dip in temperatures in Pune and several parts of India, keeping your pets warm has become increasingly important. If you are, however, concerned about their health and afraid they are sick, our BCS Pune team has put together a few pointers and crucial information to help you identify if your pet has a fever.
What is the Normal Body Temperature for Dogs?
It is normal for your pets, especially dogs, to have a higher body temperature than we humans. So, if you touch your dog and find them slightly warmer than you are, then it’s considered normal.
To get a more accurate understanding of your dog’s body temperature, here’s a guide you can follow:
| Age group | Temperature Range (Celsius) | Temperature Range (Fahrenheit) |
| Puppy | 35°C – 37.2°C | 95°F – 99°F |
| Adult | 37.5°C – 39.2°C | 99.5°F – 102.5°F |
| Senior | Typically, the same as adults | Typically, the same as adults |
Light Fever: 103°F to 104°F (39.4°C to 40°C)
High Fever: 104°F or higher (40°C and higher)
Hypothermia: A dangerously low body temperature below 99°F (37.2°C)
How to Check Your Dog’s Temperature Safely
First things first, avoid using an infrared thermometer or relying on touching your dog’s stomach, ears, nose, or paws to determine if they have a fever. We recommend that you only use a digital rectal thermometer, which is considered safe and causes no discomfort to the dog.
Step-by-step process:
- Keep your thermometer, petroleum jelly or lubricant, and support person ready.
- Lay your pet on its side or stomach. Have your support person hold your dog or distract them while you prepare to use the thermometer.
- Apply a little lubricant to the tip of the rectal thermometer
- Lift the tail and insert the rectal thermometer 1-2 inches inside the rectum. Wait for the thermometer to beep.
- Take the thermometer out and note the reading with the time and date.
- Clean the thermometer with a disinfectant after use.
*Avoid taking your dog’s temperature immediately after a vaccine or surgery. Wait a few hours or as instructed by the vet before taking your dog’s temperature again.
Recognising Dog Fever Symptoms (Early + Visible Signs)
Not all dogs show the same symptoms when they are feverish or unwell. There are, however, a few common signs that can help you to identify if your dog has a fever:
Physical signs
- Lethargy or slow movements
- Loss of appetite
- Shivering
- Warm nose and ears
Behaviour-based early warning signs
- Withdrawal or hiding
- Excessive clinginess
- Unusual whining or discomfort
- Alternating restlessness and fatigue
In severe cases, there could be vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive sneezing, sniffling, and coughing. In such cases, you should take their temperature and rush them to the nearest veterinarian.
Common Fever Causes in Dogs in India
There could be a rise in temperature in your dogs due to a change in weather conditions. In recent months, we’ve experienced extreme temperatures in India during the summer and winter. This could affect your dog as much as it affects you. Viruses and bacteria in the air, which are mostly rampant during the monsoons, can be another reason for your dog’s temperature to rise. High temperatures during hot summers can also be a cause for a rise in body temperature.
At BCS Pune, we have noticed that a few dogs after vaccination may get a fever within 24-48 hours of the vaccination. This spike in body temperature could also mean it is their immune system fighting an infection. The body temperature can rise even if you find your dog stressed or anxious, especially if they are in a new or unknown location, causing them to be afraid or threatened.
When Your Dog Needs Isolation at Home
Like humans, even dogs need to be left alone when they are sick, even if it is just a mild fever. Keeping your dog separate from other pets and family members can be beneficial, especially in keeping contagious diseases like parvovirus and kennel cough contained. Disinfect the area and toys that your pet may have touched. Wash your hands before and after feeding, medicating, or handling your pet. Use separate food and water bowls that your pet may otherwise share with other pets in the house. Use gloves while cleaning bodily fluids or disinfecting the area to keep the infection from spreading.
Only once your vet advises family interaction can you allow other pets or family members to interact with your ailing pup.
Home Environment Checklist for Monitoring Your Dog’s Temperature
If your dog’s temperature is above 104°F and you notice your dog shivering, it is advised that you move them to a clean, cool, and quiet space. Ensure there is a window, fan, or AC with a cool breeze to lower their temperature. You could also sponge your dog with a damp cloth to make them as comfortable as you can.
Keep a bowl of clean water to hydrate them whenever possible. Keep your dog’s bed and surroundings clean, dry, and comfortable. Monitor your pet for any changes in behaviour, especially their breathing and appetite. Be in touch with your vet.
What to Avoid When Your Dog Has a Fever
When your dog has a fever of over 104°F (40°C), the first thing you need to do is take them to a cooler room, preferably with an AC. You can use a wet sponge to wipe them down and reduce the temperature. Avoid ice baths or applying ice packs directly. Human medication should also be avoided, as home medication can be toxic to them.
One of the first symptoms your dog might exhibit is a loss of appetite; you must refrain from force-feeding. Overfeeding or force-feeding could lead to indigestion and cause additional discomfort to your pet. Lastly, avoid guessing your pet’s temperature and always use a digital thermometer for an accurate reading of their body temperature.
When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Attention
If you notice that your dog’s temperature reading is 105°F (40.5°C) or it is having seizures, vomiting, diarrhoea, or is sneezing or coughing excessively, you should visit the nearest vet to get your pet checked urgently.
In case your pet’s condition is deteriorating quickly, you should rush them to a veterinarian. This could include any of the symptoms mentioned above or changes in breathing, blood in stool or vomit, or fever for over 24-48 hours.
How NGOs Like BCS Pune Support Animal Health Awareness
- Role in educating pet parents– Every pet parent and caregiver who visits BCS Pune OPD is well informed by our vets about the condition of the patient and how to take care of them.
Our vets explain the importance of timely vaccinations and deworming. They also educate pet parents and caregivers regarding sterilisation and its health benefits - Community outreach– BCS Pune conducts FREE sterilisation and vaccination drives for stray dogs.
- Empowering citizens to care responsibly– BCS Pune encourages citizens by offering FREE Anti-rabies vaccination to all dogs and cats at the OPD. Helping pets and strays live a safe life.
BCS Pune also offers FREE sterilisation for stray dogs.
FAQs
1. What is a dog’s normal temperature in °C and °F?
The average temperature for an adult dog ranges between 99.5°F and 102.5°F (37.5°C and 39.2°C)
2. Can climate affect a dog’s body temperature?
Yes, especially during summer. Dogs are prone to heat strokes during extreme heat or hypothermia during cold winters. It’s crucial to track their body temperature, especially if they have been exposed to extreme weather for long durations.
3. How often should I check my dog’s temperature during illness?
It is recommended that you check your dog’s temperature at least 2-3 times a day when they are unwell or have undergone surgery. This helps to monitor their progress and ensure they are comfortably on their way to recovery.
4. Do puppies have higher temperatures than adult dogs?
No. On the contrary, a puppy’s body temperature varies between 95°F and 99°F (35°C and 37.2°C), a few degrees lower than an adult dog’s.
5. What signs show that a fever might be getting serious?
If your dog develops other symptoms, like shivering, panting, and vomiting, these symptoms are an indication that the fever is getting serious. You should consider taking your dog to the vet immediately.
6. Can anxiety or stress raise a dog’s temperature?
Yes! Your dog’s body temperature can increase if they are excited, stressed, or anxious.
7. Is it safe to use ear thermometers for dogs?
It is not recommended that you use ear thermometers for your dog, as they may not show an accurate temperature. It is ideal to check your dog’s temperature by using a digital rectal thermometer.
8. What should I prepare at home to check the temperature safely?
Keep a lubricant, such as petroleum jelly or Vaseline, and the rectal thermometer handy. Start by lubricating the tip of the thermometer with Vaseline or a water-soluble lubricant. Also, ensure there is another person nearby to hold your dog and prevent him from sitting.
Then lift your dog’s tail up and carefully insert the thermometer about an inch into your dog’s rectum. Once the thermometer temperature is registered, carefully remove it.
Final Message: Care, Awareness, and Compassion
Monitoring your dog’s temperature can be tricky; however, it is important to keep an eye on their behaviour and energy levels to ensure they are well. If you notice your dog is lethargic, drowsy, or shivering, these are signs you should check their temperature, not just by touching their ears or nose, but by correctly using the digital rectal thermometer. In case the symptoms do not subside or the temperature is higher than 104°F (40°C and higher), you are advised to visit a vet immediately.
Your dog might not say much, but they express a lot through their behaviour if you are attentive and observant. Keep checking on them, monitor their movements and temperature, and when in doubt, call your vet.
You must stay vigilant, caring, and compassionate to your four-legged family; their wellness and happiness are your responsibility.