What to do if your dog has a fever?

Dogs can also get a fever. This is not a disease in itself, but a symptom and thus a defense mechanism of the immune system. An increase in body temperature can, for example, indicate inflammatory processes in the dog's body.

This guide shows how to recognize a fever in your dog and what to do then.

Fever in dogs

Normal body temperature in dogs is between 37.5 and 39.0 degrees Celsius. A dog is generally considered to have a fever when its body temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius.

In older and larger dogs, normal values tend to be in the lower range, while in younger and smaller dogs, they tend to be in the upper range. In puppies, the normal body temperature can even be up to 39.5 degrees Celsius.

In veterinary medicine, a distinction is also made by duration. If the dog has a fever for only one day, it is called transient fever. If the fever lasts eight to 14 days, it is acute fever. If it persists for two to three weeks, it is subacute fever. Chronic fever is present when the dog has a fever for more than three weeks.

A slightly elevated temperature of 40 degrees Celsius can sometimes be roughly estimated, for example, if the ears feel unusually hot.

As soon as the body temperature reaches 41 degrees Celsius, it is a high fever. An immediate veterinary examination is then necessary so that the cause can be treated and the fever lowered.

Causes and symptoms

Fever is most reliably identified by an elevated body temperature. In addition, there are several other signs that may indicate fever in a dog.

• Shivering and chills
• Very warm ears
• Refusal to eat
• Increased thirst
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Elevated pulse
• Diarrhea or very dry and hard stools

Because dogs have fur, fever is often noticed late. It is all the more important to observe your dog closely and check its temperature if you notice anything unusual.

How to measure your dog's temperature

A dog's body temperature should only be measured rectally with a digital thermometer. Other measurement sites do not provide reliable results.

Since the dog must remain still during the measurement, it helps if a second person holds and calms it. Digital thermometers with an angled tip, specially designed for animals, are practical.

Before measuring, the tip of the thermometer is lubricated with some medical lubricant or petroleum jelly. It is then carefully inserted two to three centimeters into the anus and held against the inner wall of the rectum.

You should not measure the temperature in the ears, under the armpits, or in the mouth, because the values can be inaccurate and there is also a risk of injury in the mouth.

Interesting facts about normal temperature in dogs

In adult dogs, 37.5 to 39.0 degrees Celsius is considered normal, and in puppies, up to 39.5 degrees Celsius. Above 41 degrees Celsius is considered high fever.

To better assess changes, it can be helpful to measure the dog's normal body temperature when there is no suspicion of fever.

First aid measures: Treating fever in dogs

A dog with a fever should not be treated on your own. However, some supportive measures can help stabilize the dog's condition until the vet appointment.

1. Provide plenty of water so the dog can drink enough.
2. Ensure peace and offer a quiet retreat.
3. Only take short walks so that the dog is not additionally stressed.
4. Place cold compresses or cold towels on the neck, paws, or abdomen.

It is important to regularly re-measure the body temperature. If it exceeds 40 degrees Celsius, the dog should be seen by a veterinarian. At 41 degrees Celsius, it is a medical emergency.

You should generally not wait too long to visit the vet, especially for very young or old dogs, or for animals with pre-existing conditions.

Prevention in focus: Can fever be prevented in dogs?

Fever itself is a natural defense mechanism and should not be directly prevented. However, some diseases that can cause fever can be prevented.

Some infections can be reduced through regular vaccinations. Through vaccination in dogs, the body forms antibodies against certain pathogens.

Nevertheless, not every viral, bacterial, or other disease can be prevented. If fever occurs, it should therefore always be understood as a warning sign whose cause should be clarified as quickly as possible.

Vet visit: When fever in dogs becomes serious

A dog should be examined by a veterinarian at the latest when its body temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius. This is especially true if additional symptoms or risk factors are present.

• The cause of the fever is unclear.
• There are pre-existing conditions.
• The dog is lethargic or listless.
• The dog is very young or already old.
• Other symptoms such as gastrointestinal problems occur.

The sooner a veterinarian clarifies the cause of the fever, the faster appropriate treatment can be initiated. This also reduces the risk of fever-related complications.

The focus of treatment is always on treating the underlying disease. Antibiotics are often used for bacterial infections. Depending on the cause, antivirals may be considered for viruses, while inflammation can be treated with anti-inflammatory preparations.

When the prescribed medications work, the body temperature usually drops again. Additionally, fever-reducing medications may be necessary.

Conclusion

Fever in dogs is not a disease but a warning sign from the body. It is crucial to measure the temperature correctly, observe the dog well, and seek veterinary care quickly if elevated values or additional symptoms occur.

A dog with a fever often appears tired, lethargic, and weak. To recover, it needs rest, a soft and warm place, and plenty of water.

It is also important to have the underlying cause treated and to regularly check the temperature. This helps support recovery as quickly as possible.