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Does your dog seem a little under the weather? If you’re concerned they could be sick, taking their temperature with a dog thermometer can help you decide whether they need to visit the vet.
A dog’s temperature will usually fall between 100°F-102°F (38°C-39°C), according to Dr. Alex Avery, a general companion veterinarian. A normal temperature can range anywhere from 99.5°F–102.5°F (37.5°C –39.2°C), depending on factors like age and environment, he adds.
Read on to learn how to use a dog thermometer and check your pup’s temperature, plus get some recommendations for the best dog thermometers.
When To Take A Dog’s Temperature
“There are no specific signs unique to a dog having a fever. Instead, signs are typically vague and just indicate a dog who is feeling unwell,” Dr. Alex explains.
He shares a few common signs of illness in dogs to pay attention to:
- Lethargy or fatigue: If your dog seems quieter, sluggish, or unusually tired, they may have a fever.
- Decreased appetite: A sudden lack of interest in food or water might suggest something’s wrong.
- Warm to the touch: Dogs with a fever may feel warmer than usual.
- Changes in breathing: Labored breathing or a cough can point to underlying issues like pneumonia, which can be accompanied by fever.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to check your dog’s temperature to find out if they have a fever.
Fever can show up with many conditions, such as
- Canine flu
- Fungal infections
- Pneumonia
- Viral and bacterial infections
- Autoimmune disorders
Monitoring your dog’s temperature can make it easier to spot illnesses right away and make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.
How To Take Your Dog’s Temperature
Taking a dog’s temperature is pretty straightforward with the right tools, once you understand the process.
Get a second pair of hands
It’s possible to take your dog’s temperature alone, but experts recommend getting a second person to help, especially if you have a large dog or an anxious one.
Dr. Alex says an extra pair of hands can help keep you and your dog safe and make the process go more smoothly—which is particularly important when your dog feels sick or uncomfortable!
Important: Whichever thermometer and method you use, follow the thermometer’s instructions in case your model has any specific directions.
Digital rectal thermometer
Many experts recommend using a digital rectal thermometer since it takes a dog’s temperature with high accuracy.
Dr. Alex explains the step-by-step process:
- Gather the tools: You’ll need a digital thermometer, not a glass thermometer. It should have a flexible tip. You’ll also want a water-based lubricant or petroleum jelly and disinfectant wipes.
- Prepare the thermometer: Clean the thermometer with a disinfectant wipe before you use it to make sure it’s safe for your dog. Apply lubricant to the tip of the thermometer.
- Position your dog: To keep yourself safe, have a second person hold your dog still. Dr. Alex says you can also use a muzzle if your dog may not handle the thermometer well or you don’t know how they’ll react.
- Insert the thermometer: Gently lift your dog’s tail and insert the lubricated thermometer into their rectum. Apply gentle pressure to the side to slide it down the wall of the rectum, making sure the tip is against the rectal wall, not in feces.
- Wait for the reading: You’ll need to hold the thermometer in place until you get a temperature reading. Some brands of thermometers will beep when they have a reading.
- Record the temperature: Write the time and the temperature down so you can have a record to show your vet and monitor your dog’s temperature over time.
- Clean the thermometer: When you’re done, wash the thermometer and disinfect it with the wipes.
Ear thermometer
If you’re uncomfortable using a rectal thermometer, you can also use an ear thermometer.
Here’s how to use an ear thermometer to take your dog’s temperature:
- Prepare the thermometer: Wipe it down with a disinfectant wipe before you use it.
- Position the dog: You may want to have a second person hold your dog still, especially if they tend to squirm or you’re not sure how they’ll react.
- Turn the thermometer on: After you turn on the thermometer, give it a second to calibrate. Most thermometers will beep when ready to use.
- Take the temperature: Gently and slowly insert the thermometer into your dog’s ear canal, pointing it towards their eardrum. Push the button and wait for the reading. This usually takes a couple of seconds.
- Clean the thermometer: When you’re done, clean the thermometer with disinfectant wipes or warm soapy water.
When to seek expert assistance
Your dog may not want you to take their temperature at home, and that’s OK. If your dog struggles or has a hard time with the process, it’s best to stop and let an expert handle it.
Dr. Alex recommends calling your vet if your dog reacts too much and you can’t get a reading or if you have any concerns about their general health.
Best Thermometers For Dogs
It’s possible to use a thermometer meant for humans to take a dog’s temperature, but you definitely don’t want to use the same thermometer you put in your mouth!
The most accurate way to take a dog’s temperature is rectally. So, having a dedicated dog thermometer is the best practice for everyone’s health.
You’ll also want to keep in mind that glass thermometers containing mercury aren’t safe for pets. Your dog could move suddenly while you’re taking their temperature, and the thermometer may break. Both glass shards and mercury can severely harm you and your pet, so it’s best to stick with safer digital devices.
Plus, mercury thermometers need far more time than digital thermometers, and taking a dog’s temperature is a job best done as quickly as possible!
Dr. Alex recommends opting for a digital dog thermometer with a flexible tip that gives a rapid readout.
Not sure which one to buy? We put together a list of the best dog thermometers to help you start your search.
Best Overall Dog Thermometer: iProven Pet Thermometer
This digital thermometer has a soft, flexible tip that offers maximum comfort during use. It’s waterproof for safe, easy cleanup, and it’s fairly fast. It gives a result in just 20 seconds.
What we like:
- Fast, accurate readings
- Large LCD display is easy to read
- Offers Fahrenheit and Celsius readings
- Waterproof and easy to clean
Why you might consider other options:
- Rigid thermometers may be easier to insert
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Best No-Contact Dog Thermometer: PetMedics Non-Contact Digital Dog Thermometer
If you prefer not to take your pet’s temperature rectally, this is the thermometer for you. It works with a “point and shoot” sensor that measures your dog’s temperature from their belly or inner ear. The large LCD screen also offers color-coded temperature readings: when it’s red, head to the vet.
Note: Because this type of thermometer only takes a dog’s external temperature, it’s not the most accurate way to detect a fever. It’s most useful for taking a quick scan to help you decide when it’s time to call the vet.
What we like:
- Comfortable to hold and use with no insertion necessary
- Bright LCD screen
- Fast readings
Why you might consider other options:
- Not as accurate as rectal thermometers
- Some reviewers note inconsistent temperature readings
- Requires two AA batteries
Best Speed Thermometer: Easy@Home Digital Thermometer
This digital thermometer is safe for human babies, so you know it will be gentle on your dog! The large, color-coded digital display is easy to read. Plus it’s very fast, with readings in just 8 seconds.
Pros:
- Rigid probe for easy insertion
- Water resistant for easy cleaning
- Automatic shut-off to preserve battery life
- Very fast readings
Cons:
- This thermometer was designed for humans, so its red danger light may show at a dog’s normal temperature range
Non-Invasive Ear Dog Thermometer: Pet-Temp Ear Thermometer
While a rectal reading is the most accurate way to take your dog’s temperature, an ear thermometer can still detect a fever and help you decide when to go to the vet. This model is designed to fit inside your dog’s ear and measure the infrared heat waves coming from the eardrum.
Pros:
- Easy to hold and comfortable for your dog
- Very fast results
- Reviewers say it’s easy to use
Cons:
- Some reviews note inconsistent temperature readings
- Limited use for in-ear readings only
What To Do If Your Dog Has A Fever
Knowing how to take your dog’s temperature and check other vital signs can give you valuable insight into their health. Taking your dog’s temperature once or twice when they’re feeling fine, for example, can give you an idea of their normal temperature. Then, if they seem sick, you’ll be able to compare their temperature with their usual reading.
Plus, if your dog is a little lethargic but without a fever or other unusual symptoms, they’re most likely fine. But if your dog’s temperature goes above 39°C, or 102°F, or you notice any signs of illness, it’s important to contact your vet right away. They can help diagnose any health conditions and recommend the right treatment for your pup.
Veterinary care can get expensive, but investing in pet insurance can give you some peace of mind in times of emergency, not to mention help save you some money on vet bills!
