To care for our dog’s health, it is crucial to regularly monitor its well-being and respond to any disturbing symptoms. One of the signals that something may be wrong is increased body temperature. In this article you will learn what the correct temperature of a dog is, how to recognize a fever and how to correctly measure your pet’s temperature.
As a pet owner, keeping an eye on your dog’s health and responding to unusual symptoms is essential. One of the signs that something might be wrong is a raised body temperature. In this article, you’ll learn about a dog’s normal body temperature, how to identify signs of fever, and how to properly measure your dog’s temperature.
A healthy dog’s body temperature typically ranges from 37.5°C to 39°C. This can vary slightly depending on breed, age, size, and even the time of day. For instance, smaller dog breeds might naturally have a slightly higher temperature, whereas older dogs may exhibit a slight decrease. Knowing what is normal for your dog is important – regular measurements can help determine your pet’s unique “normal” range.
Keep in mind that a dog’s body temperature can rise temporarily due to physical activity, stress, excitement, or even exposure to warm environments. However, if the temperature is over 39°C at rest, it may indicate inflammation or infection.
Temperature is an indicator of a dog’s overall health. Elevated body temperature can signal bacterial or viral infections, autoimmune diseases, or even cancer. Monitoring your dog’s temperature can help you react quickly to signs of illness before symptoms worsen.
A dog’s body reacts to illness by raising its temperature, much like it does in humans. Fever is a natural defence mechanism, but a temperature that’s too high can be dangerous, particularly if it persists or is accompanied by symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite.
Recognising a fever in dogs isn’t always straightforward, as symptoms can be subtle. Here are common signs that may indicate a raised temperature:
Certain dogs may display unusual fever symptoms. Puppies and younger dogs are more prone to quick energy loss and appetite reduction, whereas older dogs may show subtler signs. Knowing your dog’s behaviour is essential for early detection of fever.
The most reliable way to determine if your dog has a fever is to measure their temperature using a thermometer. This process requires a bit of practice but is the most effective method.
If you don’t have a pet thermometer, infrared thermometers are a viable alternative, though they are less accurate than rectal thermometers.
There are different types of thermometers that you can use to measure a dog’s temperature. The most recommended options are:
Each of these thermometers has its pros and cons, but for accuracy and safety, a rectal thermometer is best.
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