Your dog’s temperature is one of the most important indicators of your pet’s health. It may vary slightly depending on breed, age, physical activity, or even time of day. However, there is a clear line between normal and potentially dangerous.
Being able to recognize when your dog’s body temperature is normal and when it isn’t can help you spot health problems early and seek veterinary care in a timely manner. An abnormal temperature can signal serious health problems, so it is important to know how to recognize it and what to do.
In this article we will explain what temperature is considered normal for a dog, how to measure it accurately, and what to do if your dog’s temperature deviates from the norm.
What is the normal body temperature for a dog?
A dog’s normal temperature usually ranges from 37.5°C to 39.2°C. This is considered an indicator of good health for most dogs. Small changes depending on the time of day, physical activity or stress are natural. However, significant deviations from this range can be a sign that the dog’s body is responding to internal or external stimuli.
Leer mas
Why does a dog shed?
To understand whether the temperature has actually deviated from the norm, it is important to know not only the numbers, but also how to measure it correctly.
How to measure a dog’s temperature?
Taking your dog’s temperature at home may seem complicated, but it’s an important skill every owner needs to learn. Accurately measuring your dog’s body temperature helps you understand whether your pet is healthy or needs help.
The most important thing is knowing how to do it safely, using the right equipment and the right methodology. Even small deviations from the norm can signal an infection, inflammation or other serious ailment.
Appropriate measurements and safe measurement methods
A digital thermometer specifically designed for animals is best suited for this purpose, but you can also use a thermometer intended for human use, as long as it is only used for your pet. Before use, the thermometer should be coated with petroleum jelly or lubricant to make the procedure as gentle as possible.
Leer mas
Cough in dogs: why does a dog cough?
Gently lift your dog’s tail and insert the thermometer about 2cm into the rectum. Hold it until the device registers the temperature – this usually takes a few seconds. After taking the measurement, the thermometer must be disinfected.
As mentioned above, a dog’s normal temperature usually ranges from 37.5°C to 39.2°C. Small fluctuations may be normal, but if your dog’s temperature is clearly too high or too low and your pet is showing concerning signs such as lethargy, tremors, dry nose or loss of appetite, you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.
What does high temperature (fever) mean in a dog?
A dog’s fever is the body’s response to infection, inflammation, poisoning, or other health problems. Fever means a body temperature above 39.5°C. This condition usually indicates that the dog’s body is fighting inflammation or infection, but the temperature can also rise due to overheating or even autoimmune reactions.
If your dog becomes unusually lethargic, refuses food or water, pant often, or seems depressed, these may be the first signs that your dog has a fever. In this case, it is very important to measure his temperature as soon as possible and consult a veterinarian without delay.
Leer mas
Bichon dog: the most important things before buying
The most common causes of fever in dogs
A dog’s body temperature can rise for many different reasons. Sometimes it is a mild inflammation, sometimes it is a sign of a serious health problem. They are shown below The most common causes of fever that every owner should be aware of:
- Infections (viral, bacterial or fungal diseases)
- Inflammatory processes (e.g., arthritis, internal organ disorders)
- Food, chemicalor poisoning from poisonous plants
- Overheating due to high air temperatures or direct sunlight
- Emotional stress or fear
- Physical overloadintense running or playing
- Pregnancy and childbirth – immediately before giving birth, the dog’s body temperature may temporarily increase and then drop
If your dog’s temperature exceeds the acceptable limit, it is very important to find out the cause, because fever is not a disease, but a sign that the body is fighting a serious problem.
Reasons for a drop in temperature in the dog
A low body temperature in dogs – when the body temperature drops below 37°C – it is a serious sign that the dog’s body is no longer able to maintain normal thermal metabolism. This condition may be associated with hypothermia, shock, chronic disease, or other serious health problems.
While there is a lot of talk about high body temperatures in dogs, low body temperatures are also dangerous and require immediate attention.
Leer mas
Euthanasia for cats – Begemotas
The most common causes of low temperature in dogs
The reasons why a dog’s body temperature may drop may include the following:
- Prolonged exposure to cold environments (hypothermia)
- Shock due to trauma, severe bleeding or serious illness
- Renal failure or other chronic health conditions
- Poisoning which interrupts the thermoregulation of the body
- Old age and slow metabolism
- End of pregnancy and childbirth – before giving birth, the dog’s temperature can drop to 36.5°C, which signals that labor is about to begin
If the temperature drops below 37°C it is necessary to intervene. Too low a temperature can cause organ damage or even put your life at risk. In this case it is necessary to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible who will determine the cause and begin the appropriate treatment.
Dog overheated in the sun: how to recognize the danger and what to do?
In summer it is very important to protect your pet from overheating, as this can be life-threatening. Overheating occurs when the dog’s body temperature exceeds 40°C and the body is unable to regulate it in the usual ways. This usually happens on hot days when the dog is exposed to the sun for too long or is left in the car without air circulation.
Symptoms of overheating may include severe shortness of breath, lethargy and tremor. In severe cases, the dog may vomit, have diarrhea, lose consciousness or have seizures.
If you notice these signs, it is important to take immediate action to calm your dog and seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
How to prevent your dog from overheating?
To keep your dog’s temperature normal even in hot weather, it’s important to take care of his environment, walking times, and ways to cool him down. This is especially important for long-haired, older, physically active dogs.
Here are some simple but effective ways to help your dog stay calm:
- Walk your dog in the morning or evening. Avoid the hottest hours of the day to avoid overheating.
- Provide shade and access to water. Your dog should always have the opportunity to hide from the sun and drink fresh water.
- Use cooling aids. Cooling mats, damp towels or a coat lightly moistened with water help regulate body temperature.
- Check your dog’s condition. If they run more intensely than usual, rest in the shade for long periods of time, or show signs of lethargy, these may be the first signs of overheating.
Prevention is the easiest way to avoid serious health problems. If you suspect that your dog’s body temperature is too high, you need to act immediately.
How to regulate your dog’s body temperature at home?
A dog’s temperature, whether too high or too low, can be dangerous. While it is always advisable to seek veterinary care as soon as possible, in some cases first aid measures at home can help stabilize your pet’s condition and prevent complications.
What to do if the temperature is too high?
If your dog’s body temperature is too high, move them to a cooler environment first. You can wet his fur with cool (but not cold) water, use a fan, or place wet towels on his paws and belly.
Never give your dog drugs intended for humanssuch as paracetamol or ibuprofen. These are dangerous for dogs and can cause serious complications.
If your dog’s temperature does not drop within 30 minutes, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
What to do if the temperature is too low?
If the temperature is too low, the the dog should be warmed up gradually. Cover him with a warm blanket, offer him warm (not hot) water, you can use hot water bottles placed on his chest or stomach. Sudden heating can be dangerous, so it’s important to be gentle and monitor your pet’s condition.
If your dog is still shaking, seems weak, or is unresponsive to warming, contact your vet as soon as possible.
What to do if your dog’s temperature is not normal?
If you notice that your dog’s normal temperature has deviated from the norm and you are not sure if this is dangerous, It is always best to consult a vet than to wait and risk your pet’s health. Even the smallest changes can sometimes hide more serious problems.
Make an appointment for a consultation if you have even the slightest suspicion about your dog’s health.
latest posts published
Belgian Malinois: characteristics of the dog breed
Norwegian Buhund: characteristics of the dog breed
Caring for the Chinese Water Dragon
The best brushes for cats
How to choose the best chew toys and treats for your dog
How to train your puppy to walk on a leash
Czech Terrier (Cesky Terrier): characteristics of the dog breed
Pembroke Welsh Corgi: characteristics of the dog breed
The best bags for carrying cats
