Just like humans, dogs too can fall sick, and sometimes suddenly. As a pet parent, it would be wise to stay informed about any illness that may affect your beloved furry friend. Hence, checking your dog’s body temperature regularly is a good practice. But, if you are new to dog parenthood, you might have a hard time understanding a dog’s normal body temperature and most importantly, how to check it. If you too are clueless about how to check a dog’s body temperature, this article is for you. Continue reading.
What is a dog’s normal body temperature?
Canine normal temperatures range between 38.3°C and 39.2°C (101°F and 102.56°F). Although the average temperature for adult dogs is comparatively higher, it is common for puppies, mostly the newborns, to have a slightly lower temperature, around 34°C to 36°C (94°F to 97°F). Therefore, it is a good practice to check your dog’s body temperature from time to time. Just bear in mind that the methods used to check temperatures in humans and dogs are very different.
A gentle touch on the forehead or neck may indicate a fever in a human, but this is highly ineffective for dogs. Neither can you take an oral temperature; trying this could result in being bitten or damaging the thermometer. Instead, a rectal temperature check is the most appropriate way to determine your dog's health and well-being.
How to check a dog’s body temperature
Before you begin the challenging task of taking a dog’s temperature, make sure you have a few essential items at hand: a digital thermometer (preferably a rectal thermometer designed for dogs) and petroleum jelly. You can also ask another hooman to assist you in taking your dog’s body temperature… just in case your pooch seems unmanageable during the process. It is important that the helper is someone familiar to your fur baby. Dogs already don’t like having their body temperature checked, so asking an unfamiliar person for help might cause more discomfort to them.
Once you have everything ready, ask your helper to gently but firmly hold your pet. This leaves you free to lubricate the tip of the thermometer, which you will then insert one or two inches into your dog's anus. Press the button on the thermometer and wait for the result. If your dog’s temperature is between 37°C and 38.9°C (98.6°F and 102.02°F), there’s no cause for worry.
Taking your dog’s rectal temperature might be challenging for you, but it’s necessary to keep track of its health and normal temperature.
How to take a dog’s temperature with a human thermometer
If you do not have a digital thermometer for dogs, you can use a human thermometer. Here’s how to do it effectively:
Ensure that you disinfect the thermometer before using it. For an accurate reading, checking your dog’s ear is the second-best option; the first choice should always be the rectal region. And you can simply steer clear of your fur baby’s mouth. To check the temperature through your dog’s ears, gently insert the thermometer into your dog's horizontal ear canal at a 90° angle to their head. Do not force it in if your pooch is trying to resist. In case your dog has an ear infection, this process could be extremely painful.
When should you take your dog to the vet?
Regular check-ups are essential to ensure your dog’s health and well-being. It’s also crucial to monitor your dog’s body temperature regularly. If your dog’s temperature rises above 39.4°C (103°F) or drops below 37.2°C (99°F), immediate veterinary care is needed. Signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite should never be ignored. Behavioural changes like increased aggression or unusual withdrawal might also indicate health issues. Brachycephalic breeds, like Bulldogs, are particularly prone to overheating, so be vigilant about their body temperature during hot weather. Always keep an eye on canine normal temperature ranges to catch any early signs of distress.
Now that you know how to check your dog's temperature using both human and digital thermometers, choose your method wisely. Share this information with a friend who might benefit from learning how to take a dog’s temperature. A little bit of good karma never hurts anyone!
