When our furry friends seem off or out of sorts, it’s natural to be concerned. Unfortunately, recognising the signs of illness in dogs isn’t always easy. Just like us, dogs can develop fevers in response to illness or infection. But how can you tell if your dog has a fever? And what does a fever in dogs really mean? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fevers in dogs, including signs, symptoms, and what steps to take if you think your dog might have a fever. So you can keep your furry friend safe!

Key Takeaways:

  • A temperature above 102.5°F is considered a fever in dogs.
  • Signs of fever in dogs include sleepiness, warm ears or nose, shivering or shaking, panting, loss of appetite, red eyes, vomiting and rapid heart rate.
  • The best way to tell if your dog has a fever is by taking their temperature – it’s nearly impossible to tell just by touching them.
  • When in doubt about you dog’s health, it’s a good idea to visit your veterinarian.
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What temperature is considered a fever in dogs?

A fever is the body’s way of fighting off infections, whether caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. In dogs, a normal body temperature ranges between 101°F and 102.5°F (38.3°C – 39.2°C). Anything higher than this is considered a fever. Unlike humans, where 98.6°F is the normal baseline, dogs naturally run warmer, which can make it tricky for dog parents to tell when their pup is feeling a little hot under the collar.

How to tell if your dog has a fever

Unlike humans, dogs can’t tell us when they’re not feeling well. They also can’t easily display fever symptoms the way we do—so no hand to the forehead to check! However, there are still several signs that may indicate your dog is running a fever.

Common symptoms of fever in dogs

  • Lethargy or tiredness: If your usually energetic dog seems unusually sluggish or sleepy, it could be a sign of a fever. Fever drains energy as the body works to fight off illness.
  • Warm ears, nose or paws: Dogs with fevers often have warm ears and paw pads, though this can be a little tricky to gauge by touch alone.
  • Shivering or shaking: Fever can cause chills, which might make your dog shake, even when it’s not cold.
  • Panting: A fever may be accompanied by panting in dogs.
  • Loss of appetite: Fever often causes a decrease in appetite. If your dog is suddenly uninterested in food, take note.
  • Red eyes: Blood vessels in the eyes may dilate during a fever, giving your dog a red or glassy-eyed appearance.
  • Coughing, sneezing or runny nose: If the fever is caused by an infection or virus, respiratory symptoms may accompany it.
  • Vomiting
  • Rapid heart rate
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Confirming a fever: how to take your dog’s temperature

If you suspect your dog has a fever, the best way to confirm it is by taking their temperature with a thermometer. A digital rectal thermometer is the most accurate tool for this. And while it may sound daunting, it’s the surest way to get a reliable reading. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Lubricate the thermometer: Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the tip for easier insertion.
  2. Gently insert the thermometer: Insert the thermometer about an inch into your dog’s rectum. Hold it steady until it beeps or gives a reading.
  3. Record the temperature: If your dog’s temperature is above 102.5°F, they have a fever.

It’s important to note that ear thermometers are less reliable in dogs, and forehead thermometers used on humans won’t give you an accurate reading due to the differences in skin and fur.

What causes a fever in dogs?

Fevers in dogs can be triggered by a variety of underlying health issues. Some common causes include:

  • Infections: Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections are the most common cause of fever in dogs. These infections can affect the skin, internal organs, respiratory system, or other areas.
  • Injury or inflammation: If your dog has an injury, such as a cut or bite, the body’s inflammatory response may result in fever. Even internal injuries can trigger a fever.
  • Vaccination: It’s not unusual for dogs to develop a mild fever after receiving vaccinations, as their immune system reacts to the vaccine. This is generally mild and resolves quickly.
  • Toxins: Ingestion of toxic substances, such as certain plants or chemicals, can lead to fever as the body tries to expel the toxin.
  • Autoimmune disease: Some autoimmune disorders cause the immune system to attack the body’s own cells, leading to fever and inflammation.
  • Cancer: Certain types of cancer can cause fever in dogs, particularly if the cancer involves internal organs or triggers a widespread inflammatory response.

In some cases, the exact cause of the fever may be unknown, a condition referred to as “fever of unknown origin” (FUO). If your vet can’t pinpoint the cause of your dog’s fever after a thorough examination and testing, they may categorize it as FUO.

What to do if your dog has a fever

If you’ve confirmed that your dog has a fever, you’re likely wondering what the next steps should be. Here are some actions to take to help reduce the fever and care for your furry friend:

  1. Help cool your dog down: using a wet cloth or towel, apply cool water around your dogs ears and paws. You can also use a dog cooling vest (which are also great for keeping your dog cool on hot humid days).
  2. Keep your dog hydrated: Fever can quickly lead to dehydration, so make sure your dog is drinking plenty of water. You can offer ice cubes or wet food to encourage fluid intake.
  3. Monitor their behavior: Keep an eye on your dog’s symptoms. If they seem to be getting worse, or if they start exhibiting new symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, it’s time to contact your vet.
  4. Never give human medication: While it might be tempting to give your dog something like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce the fever, this can be extremely dangerous for dogs. These medications can cause serious health issues, including kidney failure.
  5. Provide a comfortable environment: Keep your dog in a cool, quiet place, away from excessive heat or cold. You can place a damp cloth on their paws or ears to help cool them down if they seem too warm, but avoid using ice packs, as these can cause the opposite effect by constricting blood vessels.
  6. Visit the vet: Read on to find out when you might need to take your dog to the vet for a fever (hint – it’s better to be safe than sorry and get your dog to the vet at any sign of fever or illness).

When to visit the vet

In some cases, fever in dogs resolves itself naturally as the body fights off infection. But other times medical attention may be required. If your dog’s fever lasts for more than 24 hours or reaches 104°F (40°C), it’s time to contact your vet. Fevers above this threshold can be dangerous and may lead to more serious complications, such as seizures or organ damage. A fever of 106°F can even be fatal, so when in doubt, don’t wait and visit the vet.

In case your dog has a fever (103°F of higher) and is showing other signs of illness such as vomiting, lethargy or loss of appetite, it’s also a good idea to take them into the vet.

Your vet will likely perform a physical exam and tests to determine the cause of your dog’s fever. These may include blood work, X-rays, urinalysis or other diagnostic tests. Depending on the underlying issue, your vet may prescribe antibiotics (if an infection is present) or other medications to address the specific cause.

Preventing fevers in dogs

While not all fevers can be prevented, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your dog developing one:

  • Stay up to date on vaccinations: Keeping your dog’s vaccinations current is one of the best ways to protect them from infections that could lead to fever.
  • Regular vet visits: Routine check-ups can help catch potential health issues before they lead to more serious complications.
  • Monitor for signs of infection: Keep an eye on any cuts, scrapes, or injuries that could become infected. If you notice swelling, discharge, or a bad odor, contact your vet.
  • Keep harmful substances out of reach: Many household plants, foods, and chemicals can be toxic to dogs. Make sure your home is pet-proofed to avoid accidental ingestion of harmful substances.

Final thoughts on fever in dogs

Fever in dogs is a sign that something may be wrong. While it can be caused by a range of issues, from mild infections to more serious conditions, recognising the signs early and taking appropriate action is key. By knowing what to look for, how to take your dog’s temperature, and when to contact your vet, you can help ensure your dog gets the care they need to recover.

If your dog has a fever and you’re unsure what to do, always err on the side of caution and consult your vet. They’ll help you get to the bottom of the issue and guide you on the best path forward to keeping your dog happy and healthy. After all, our furry friends rely on us to keep them safe—and with a little knowledge, you can be their best advocate when they’re feeling under the weather.

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