Average Body Temperature Of A Dog
Introduction
You may not be able to teach an old dog new tricks, but you can take its temperature. To do so, you’ll need a thermometer and some treats or peanut butter to keep your pup still. The process is simple: just insert the thermometer gently into the rectum (yes, there…) and wait for it to beep or a minute or two to elapse. But once you have that number—what does it mean? Is this good or bad? What should I do next? Here’s everything you need to know about measuring your dog’s temperature:
How to take your dog’s temperature
If your dog has a fever, the easiest way to measure it is with a rectal thermometer. If you don’t have one and are concerned about getting one at the store, go ahead and order one online—they cost just a few bucks. You can also use an ear thermometer or digital rectal thermometer at home if necessary.
If you’re using an oral thermometer that measures in both Fahrenheit and Celsius, use the Celsius reading (the higher number) as this will be closest to what your vet will want to know.
It’s important not to take a temperature that’s too low; doing so could lead to inaccurate results and may cause harm to your pet by raising his body temperature even higher than he already is!
What is a dog’s normal body temperature?
If you’re wondering what a dog’s normal body temperature is, we can tell you it varies. Dogs have a normal range of between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38 to 39 degrees Celsius). This means that the temperature of your dog may be lower or higher than this depending on their age, breed and activity level.
Puppies tend to have warmer bodies than adults; likewise, older dogs will tend to have lower temperatures than younger ones. The same applies for dogs who are sick or have been sick recently: they may experience an increase in body temperature at the onset of illness compared with healthy dogs.
What are the symptoms of a fever in a dog?
Fever is a symptom of an underlying disease, not necessarily the disease itself.
A fever is your dog’s body’s way of fighting off illness. It may be a symptom of a serious illness, such as cancer or bacterial infection, or it may indicate something more minor like a cold. A high temperature can be caused by heat stroke too—that’s why it pays to keep your dog cool during summer months!
When should you take your dog to the vet?
If you suspect your dog is sick, take him to the vet. If it’s a mild illness, he may be able to recover at home. A high temperature indicates that he’s fighting off something. Lethargy and a high temperature are both symptoms of illness, but lethargy can also indicate that your pooch isn’t feeling well because he hasn’t eaten in a few days or is just exhausted from chasing his tail all day long.
If your dog has any of these symptoms and you have reason to believe he’s sick: take him to the vet. This should go without saying; if your dog is vomiting or having diarrhea, especially if there are blood streaks in either case (and if it hasn’t been going on for more than 24 hours), then yes—go straight to the vet!
You can measure your dog’s temperature but it’s better to call the vet.
If you have a thermometer, you can use it to measure your dog’s temperature. But if you don’t, ask your vet as soon as possible. If your dog is sick, take him to the vet right away (or at least call).
Conclusion
Now you know what a dog’s normal body temperature is and how to take it. However, it is best to call the vet if you notice any of the symptoms we’ve mentioned here. As with people, dogs can get sick quickly so it’s important that you act fast.