Does Your Dog Have A Fever?

​Fever in dogs means an underlying condition that needs medical attention.  Recognizing the signs of fever can help pet parents take action and provide the necessary treatment.  At-home remedies like using a wet cloth to cool the dog down can make your pet more comfortable.  If the fever lasts more than 24 hours or rises above normal temperature, seek veterinary help immediately.

Does Your Dog Have A Fever?
By Pierre Mouchette | Bits-n-Pieces

It is a common myth that you can tell if a dog has a fever by touching their nose and seeing if it is warm and dry.  Dogs run warmer than humans, but the best way to identify if your pet is running a fever is by taking their body temperature.  If your dog’s temperature goes up to 103°F or higher, it indicates it is ill.  Fever is often a sign that something is wrong and needs attention.  Recognizing fever symptoms in a dog can help address the underlying condition and make your pet feel healthier and comfortable again.
 
What are fever symptoms in dogs?
Signs of a fever in dogs range from subtle to more easily noticeable.  The following symptoms of fever that pet parents need to look out for are:

• Decreased energy
• Decreased appetite
• Panting
• Shivering
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Coughing

 
How long should your dog’s fever last?
The duration of a dog’s fever depends on the underlying cause and can vary greatly.  But if the fever lasts more than 24 hours, it is recommended that you bring your pet to the vet right away.
 
How can you check your dog for a fever?
Dogs with a fever may feel warm to the touch.  But without taking their body temperature, it is not easy.  A rectal temperature reading with a thermometer is the most accurate way to assess a dog's overall body temperature.
It is best to use a rectal digital electronic thermometer that gives results in less than a minute.  To take your dog’s temperature, follow these steps:

• Apply petroleum jelly to the tip of the thermometer to lubricate it.
• Slowly insert the thermometer into the dog’s rectum, around one to two inches.  Give your dog a treat to divert their attention.
• Do not force the thermometer if it does not slide.
• Keep the thermometer in for up to 2 minutes or until it beeps, then record the temperature.

Remember that many dogs do not like having their temperature taken, so do it with caution at home or bring your dog to the veterinarian for a checkup.  It is essential not to take your dog's temperature right after they have been active, playing, or lying in the sun.  These activities will likely elevate their body temperature, which is expected.
 
What causes a fever in dogs?
Your veterinarian will perform an exam and run tests to help determine the cause of your dog’s fever.  A fever can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, including:

• Bacterial, fungal, or viral infection
• Ear infection
• Eating a toxic substance
• Heat stroke
• Infected scratch or cut
• Tooth infection or abscess
• Urinary tract infection
• An autoimmune disease
• Cancer

Fever does not always mean an infection.  If your dog recently received a vaccination, this can sometimes also cause a low-grade fever.
 
How do you treat a dog’s fever?
While it is essential to get to the bottom of what is causing the fever and treat the illness, pet parents can perform first aid at home.  Follow these steps to make your pet more comfortable:

• Wet your pet's hair/coat with cold water, paying attention to their ears and feet.
• Put a damp cloth on their paws.
• Direct a fan on the dampened spots to further cool your dog.
• Encourage your dog to drink small, frequent amounts of water (unless they are also vomiting).
• Stop the cooling once their temperature reaches 103°F.

 
When should you see a vet about a dog’s fever?
A dog’s normal temperature ranges from 101°F to 102.5°F.  Call your veterinarian if the temperature reads above 103°F or if the fever lasts more than 24 hours.  A temperature of 106°F can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention.