How To Check A Dogs Temperature – 5 Step Guide

When a dog’s body temperature isn’t natural as a human’s, it might become a matter of concern. Many pet owners get worried about whether it’s time to see a veterinarian. They even try to check the temperature. That being said, do you know how to check a dog’s temperature?

Dogs can get hot in a lot of situations, including when they’re playing or during their sleep. You’ve probably noticed that your dog’s normal temperatures are way higher than yours. It makes sense because they have fur instead of skin! However, it’s critical to keep an eye on the temperature to prevent your dog from overheating.

There is various type of thermometer available for your dog. The categories include a digital ear thermometer, electronic thermometer, or even a glass thermometer. You can purchase any of those and get an accurate reading to see whether your dog’s condition demands a vet appointment.

What is a Normal Temperature for a Dog

If your dog seems unusually lethargic or uncomfortable, consider taking his body temperature. Most veterinarians suggest that dogs’ normal body temperature is 101-102.5 F (38-39.2 C). Dogs with thick coats often hide their illnesses well. Besides, they are slow to show signs of fevers or infection. So taking their temperature can help you detect any issues more quickly.

You can get a personal thermometer for your four-legged friend when necessary. Check out our best recommendations regarding a digital rectal thermometer. We have gone through all-out research before picking our top selection amongst the regular ones!

FitBark 2 Dog Activity Monitor | Health & Fitness Tracker for Dogs

Ultimate Dog GPS Tracker Plus Dog Health & Fitness Monitor

How To Check a Dogs Temperature

When your dog acts unusual or has an increased body temperature, it’s time you take the symptoms seriously. You can also look for other signs, including,

• Increased heart rate or respiratory rate
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
• Panting, whining, and pacing

When you notice these common symptoms, you must test fever in dogs. But how should you get accurate readings? Here’s a quick guide:

1. It’s better to avoid the oral temperature reading method. Even if your dog allows you to insert a thermometer in its mouth, oral readings are not ideal for dogs. Most thermometers can’t read accurately in the dark color of a dog’s mouth, and dogs don’t have the concept of holding still.
2. Knowing your dog’s body temperature without taking a rectal reading is possible. However, if you’re uncomfortable with the idea, you can take its temperature the old-fashioned way — by using your hands.
3. A rectal digital thermometer is the most accurate technique to take a temperature reading. These thermometers are the most accurate and simple to use. You can insert it up to 12 inches and still get the correct reading. However, you can also use an armpit thermometer for a less precise but faster read.
4. Before taking your dog’s temperature rectally, you’ll need to manage a few things. The first and most essential is to get another adult to help you. Then get some amounts of water, petroleum jelly, and a thermometer. This way, you can hold your dog securely while the other adult help with the process.
5. On the other hand, you can gently lift the dog’s tail using one hand. Then, insert the thermometer about an inch into his anus with the other hand. Hit the button to start. Wait for the thermometer beep to indicate it’s complete.

How to Take a Dogs Temperature Without a Thermometer

It’s not always necessary to have a thermometer while checking fevers in dogs. You can apply some of our recommended techniques instead. This segment especially highlights the procedure for checking your dog’s healthy temperature. So, when you feel something unusual, you can instantly run up to a doctor and get him cured!

Feel the Paw and Ear Temperature

If your dog’s ears and paws show abnormal temperature, he might be about to get sick. Dogs are warm-blooded animals with a higher body temperature than humans. It is, therefore, perfectly normal for their ears and paws to be slightly warmer than your hands. So, make sure to give proper attention to their health when you feel these parts of their body are way too warm.

Check the Nose

Pets with a runny nose need to see the vet. So, be aware of your pet’s nasal discharge. There are many signs of a cold, and one of the most obvious is nasal discharge. Sometimes this discharge will be clear. Other times it might be yellow or green. This is a perfectly regular occurrence, and there is no reason to panic. But if you’ve noticed any unusual changes, like blood, it might lead to fatal complications.

Feel the Gums External Temperature

A dog’s gums can also disclose a lot about his overall health. When your dog’s gums are pale or cool and appear weak, lethargic, and depressed, he may be feverish. If your dog’s gums turn red, he could be suffering from a viral infection.

Check the Groin Area and Armpits

If you can’t wait for a thermometer, you can try checking through other parts of the body. The back of his head and neck, armpit, and groin area would be best to feel the temperature. Excessive heat in any of these areas could mean that he’s running a fever.

Closing Thoughts

Dogs are the best. But when they’re not well, it can be a big problem. Any sudden change in their behavior is cause for concern. That’s where medical treatment comes in.

However, sometimes it might be that your dog is just going through a low-grade fever, which is nothing too serious to check on. Curing such low fever is easy with regular veterinary medicine. But also be aware if he is carrying any contagious germs. Check the rectal temperatures take tests for diagnosing an infection such as ear infections.

Follow your vet’s instructions and immediately take the pet to a vet when seen serious dogs symptoms. If you want more information, talk to local vets for more details or reach out to us below. We’d be glad to help in any way!