It’s always good to know how to check your dog’s temperature, especially when they seem off. The most accurate way is with a digital thermometer—usually in the rectum or ear.
Your dog’s normal temperature runs a bit higher than yours. Knowing what’s normal for your dog makes it easier to catch problems early.
If you can take their temperature at home, you’ll feel more confident when they’re not feeling well. We’ll walk you through the safest and easiest ways, so you and your dog both feel as comfortable as possible.
Taking your dog’s temperature doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can check on their health and know when it’s time to call the vet.
Key Takeaways
- Use a digital thermometer for the most accurate temperature reading.
- Know your dog’s normal temperature range to spot changes.
- Follow safe methods to keep your dog calm and comfortable during the process.
Understanding Your Dog’s Normal Temperature
Knowing your dog’s usual temperature helps you spot when something isn’t right. Dogs naturally run warmer than humans, so it’s worth understanding what counts as normal and what might signal a problem.
Breed, activity, and environment all play a role in your dog’s body heat. These factors can shift what you should expect as their normal.
Typical Temperature Range in Dogs
Your dog’s normal body temperature usually falls between 38.3°C and 39.2°C (101°F to 102.5°F). Temperatures up to about 39.4°C (103°F) can be okay, especially after exercise or excitement.
If you see anything above 39.4°C (103°F) and it sticks around, your dog probably has a fever. Temperatures over 40.5°C (105°F) are dangerous, and you should get your dog emergency care right away.
Your dog’s temperature can shift during the day. It’s smart to check more than once to get a better sense of their normal range.
What Influences a Dog’s Body Temperature
Plenty of things can change your dog’s temperature.
- Breed and coat type: Dogs with thick fur or those from cold climates might have slightly different “normal” temps.
- Activity level: Exercise or excitement can bump up their temperature by a degree or so.
- Environment: Hot weather or humidity can make your dog overheat, which isn’t quite the same as a fever.
- Stress: New places or vet visits can make your dog’s temperature rise for a bit.
Knowing these factors makes it easier to decide if your dog’s temperature is truly a concern.
How to Check Your Dog’s Temperature Safely
Checking your dog’s temperature is pretty simple with the right gear and know-how. Using a digital thermometer and knowing where to take the reading helps you get a good result without stressing your dog out.
Comfort and safety matter most—for both of you.
Choosing the Right Thermometer
Pick a digital thermometer made for pets, or a human one with a fast reading and clear display. Digital thermometers are easier and safer than glass or mercury ones, which can break and cause trouble.
Make sure your thermometer covers the range dogs usually have—between 37.2°C and 39.2°C (99°F to 102.5°F). Disposable sleeves or covers help keep things clean and prevent germs. If you have more than one pet, label the thermometer with your dog’s name to avoid mix-ups.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking a Rectal Temperature
The rectal method is the most accurate way to check your dog’s temperature. Ask someone to help hold your dog steady so they feel safe.
Put a little lubricating jelly on the thermometer tip. Gently lift your dog’s tail and slowly insert the thermometer about 1-2 cm (less than an inch) into their rectum.
Hold it steady until it beeps or shows a reading. Remove the thermometer, clean it off, and check the number right away.
Try to stay calm and talk softly to your dog. If they get uneasy, take a break and try again later.
Alternative Methods for Measuring Temperature
If the rectal method isn’t an option, there are other ways, though they’re less accurate. An aural thermometer for dogs checks temperature in the ear.
Insert the thermometer gently at the right angle toward the ear canal. Don’t use this method if your dog has an ear infection—it’ll throw off the result.
You can also try under the armpit with a digital thermometer. It’s not as reliable but might work for nervous dogs.
Hold your dog close and keep the thermometer in place until it beeps. Skip oral thermometers—dogs can bite or move suddenly, which isn’t safe for anyone.
Keeping your dog calm during any temperature check helps you get a better reading. If you want more details, check out this guide on how to take your dog’s temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knowing your dog’s temperature helps you spot when they might need extra care. It’s good to know what’s normal, how to check safely, and what signs could mean a fever.
What’s the normal temperature range for a dog?
Most healthy dogs have a temperature between 38°C and 39°C (100.5°F to 102.5°F). Small changes happen depending on your dog’s size, age, and activity.
If your dog’s temperature falls outside this range, it’s probably time to check with your vet.
Can you use an armpit thermometer to check a dog’s temperature?
Armpit thermometers aren’t very accurate, but they can give you a rough idea in a pinch. Rectal or ear thermometers made for dogs are much better.
Armpit readings tend to be lower and less consistent.
What signs might suggest my dog has a fever?
Watch for your dog feeling hotter than usual, shivering, panting more, or losing appetite. You might also see red eyes, dark gums, or that your dog seems extra tired or restless.
These clues can point to a fever, even before you take their temperature.
How do I take my dog’s temperature using a no-touch thermometer?
No-touch thermometers aren’t very reliable for dogs. They measure surface temperature, and fur or the room can mess with the reading.
For the best results, stick to a digital rectal or ear thermometer made for pets.
Is there a way to determine if my dog is feverish without a thermometer?
You can try feeling your dog’s ears or the inside of their thighs, since those spots have less fur. If they feel much warmer than usual, your dog might have a fever.
But honestly, the only sure way is to use a thermometer.
What are the differences in temperature readings between large and small dogs?
Small dogs usually run a bit warmer because their metabolism works faster. For instance, a temperature of 39°C (102.2°F) might be totally normal for a tiny dog.
On the other hand, if a big dog hits that same temperature, it could mean something’s off—maybe even a fever. It’s honestly worth knowing what’s normal for your own dog, so you can catch changes before they become a problem.
