How to Check Your Dog's Body Temperature

Do you know your dog's normal body temperature? You may be surprised to learn that the normal internal body temperature of a dog is higher than yours. This explains why your dog feels so warm and cozy on cold nights!

As a dog owner, it's important to know how to check your dog's temperature and to interpret the reading. Understand what is normal and what is not. Know what to do if it's abnormal.

What Is a Dog's Normal Body Temperature?

The normal body temperature of dogs is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit plus or minus 1 degree. If your dog's temperature is outside of this range, you should contact your veterinarian.

What To Do If Your Dog's Temperature is Abnormal

If your dog's temperature is dangerously high or low, go to the nearest open veterinarian immediately. If possible, contact them for advice on the way. Do not attempt to give medications to your dog at home without your vet's advice.

If your dog has hypothermia (low body temperature), you may wish to use hot water bottles to help warm him up. Only use electric heating pads on the lowest setting and do not leave them on for too long. Make sure to use blankets or towels in between the heat source and your dog to avoid burns. Make sure your dog can get away from them if they get too hot. Be sure someone is supervising your dog at all times.

If your dog has hyperthermia (high body temperature), offer him cool water to drink. Don't force your dog to drink if he is not interested. You can also use towels soaked with cool water over the back of the neck, in the armpits, and in the groin region. Don't leave the soaked towels in place; letting cool air circulate around your dog's damp skin helps with cooling.

Any methods to cool or warm your dog do not necessarily resolve the cause of the abnormal body temperature. Be sure to still bring your dog to a vet for an examination.

How to Take Your Dog's Temperature

Checking body temperature is an important step in canine first aid. Here's how to take your dog's temperature at home:

1. DO NOT attempt to take your dog's temperature orally as you may get bitten. Even if your dog were to allow it, you will not get an accurate reading from the mouth of a dog.
2. The most accurate way to measure a dog's body temperature is rectally. As unpleasant as it sounds, taking a rectal temperature is possible and many dogs can learn to tolerate it well.
3. Gather your supplies. You will need a rectal digital electronic thermometer and some lubricant (water-based lubricating jelly works best, but petroleum jelly or baby oil can also be used). Look for a fast digital thermometer to make the process go a bit easier.
4. Most dogs dislike having their rear ends manipulated for obvious reasons so this will be easier to do if you get another adult to help hold your dog. Have that person gently place one arm around your dog's neck and the other arm under your dog's belly, gently hugging the dog against his or her body. Then, lift your dog's tail and gently (but quickly) insert the well-lubricated thermometer about one inch into your dog's anus. Press the start button and wait for the beep that signals completion.

Having Trouble with the Rectal Temperature?

In a pinch, your dog's approximate temperature can be measured in the axillary region (underarm). Simply place the tip of the thermometer into the armpit area and hold your dog's arm down until the thermometer beeps (this usually takes longer than it does for the rectal). Then, add one degree to the thermometer's reading to get a general idea of your dog's body temperature. Be aware that this measurement is not precise. If you are in doubt, go to your vet for an accurate temperature check.