Fever in dogs: measure temperature and act safely

Warm ears or a dry nose do not prove a fever. Only a correctly measured body temperature provides certainty. Your dog's overall condition also matters.

Nose temperature changes with sleep, room conditions, exercise and fluid intake. Warm paws or ears are also unreliable. Fever means the body raises its temperature set point, often in response to infection or inflammation. This differs from overheating, for example after heavy exertion or heat exposure. Both situations can be dangerous but are assessed differently.

At home, a digital thermometer used gently in the rectum is usually the most reliable option. Use a dedicated thermometer for your dog and some suitable lubricant. A second calm person can help hold your dog safely. Insert the tip carefully and stop if your dog strongly resists or shows pain. Safety comes first. An anxious dog or one in pain should have its temperature taken at the practice.

Ear thermometers only provide useful readings if they are suitable for animals and positioned correctly deep in the ear canal. An ear infection can distort the result. Measurements at the nose, forehead or armpit are much less reliable.

Normal body temperature in adult dogs is often approximately 37.7 to 39.2 degrees Celsius. Excitement and exercise may briefly raise it. Let your dog rest before rechecking. Readings around 40 degrees Celsius or above, as well as significantly low temperatures, require urgent assessment. Overall condition remains crucial.

These signs can have many causes. A thermometer shows temperature, not the diagnosis.

Go straight to an emergency vet if your dog is very weak, collapses, struggles to breathe, has seizures, appears severely overheated or has a very high or very low temperature. Puppies, seniors and dogs with chronic illnesses can deteriorate more quickly.

Do not give human fever-reducing medicines. Ingredients such as ibuprofen, naproxen or paracetamol can be extremely dangerous to animals. Do not cool a dog with a true fever in ice water on your own initiative. Suspected heatstroke requires different first-aid measures that should be coordinated immediately with a veterinary clinic.

Fever can cause fluid loss and poor appetite. Offer water without forcing your dog. Record what your dog drinks and eats. Your vet decides whether special feeding is necessary. Supplements or supposed immune boosters do not replace investigation of the cause.

Note: have temperature readings assessed together with behaviour, breathing, circulation and other symptoms.