Fever in Dogs

Fever in Dogs

It’s not always easy for dog owners to know if their pup has a fever. In this post, the veterinary team at Good Mojo Pet Care in River Hills explains how to tell if your dog has a fever, the common causes, symptoms to watch for, and how to care for your pet.

What temperature indicates a fever in dogs?

A healthy dog’s normal body temperature ranges between 101°F and 102.5°F — higher than a human’s average temperature of 97.6°F to 99.6°F.

A temperature above 103°F is considered a fever in dogs. A high fever of 106°F or more can quickly become dangerous and may even be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

What are the symptoms of a fever in dogs?

Before you notice changes in your dog’s temperature, you may see changes in behavior or energy levels. Watch closely for these signs of fever:

• Coughing
• Decreased energy or lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Runny nose
• Shivering or trembling
• Panting
• Red or glassy eyes
• Warm ears or nose
• Vomiting
• Excessive drooling
  
  

If you observe these symptoms, check your dog’s temperature and contact your veterinarian.

How do I take my dog’s temperature?

Determining whether a dog has a fever isn’t as straightforward as feeling their nose. The only reliable method is using a rectal thermometer.

• Keep a thermometer just for your dog’s use.
• Wash it with soap and water, then rinse and dry.
• Lubricate the tip with petroleum jelly or water-based lubricant.
• Gently lift your dog’s tail and insert the thermometer about an inch into the rectum.
• Hold it in place until the reading registers, then carefully remove and clean it.

Enlist another person if possible to help keep your dog calm and still during the process.

What causes fever in dogs?

Enlist another person if possible to help keep your dog calm and still during the process.There are many reasons your dog may develop a fever. Common causes include:

• Infected bite, scratch, or wound
• Tooth abscess or oral infection
• Urinary tract infection
• Ear infection
• Ingesting poisonous substances
• Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections

Sometimes, the exact cause is not immediately clear. This is called a fever of unknown origin (FUO). In these cases, the underlying cause may be cancer, an immune system disorder, bone marrow disease, or another internal condition.

How can I treat my dog’s fever?

If your dog has a fever of 103°F or higher:

• Apply cool water to the ears and paws with a damp towel.
• Place a fan nearby to help cool them.
• Stop cooling once their temperature drops below 103°F.
• Encourage small sips of water to stay hydrated.

Never give human medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as these can be toxic to dogs and cause serious harm. If your dog shows additional symptoms like shivering, vomiting, or severe lethargy, seek emergency veterinary care right away.

Veterinary Internal Medicine at Good Mojo Pet Care

If your dog’s fever does not have an obvious cause, our veterinarians at Good Mojo Pet Care in River Hills can help. We provide comprehensive exams and internal medicine services to diagnose underlying health conditions and develop a tailored treatment plan. If your pet requires specialized care we do not provide, we can refer you to a trusted veterinary specialist.