How Can You Tell If Your Puppy Has A Fever: Signs And Symptoms

Determining whether your dog has a fever can be a bit challenging. There’s a prevalent misconception that you can gauge a dog’s fever by touching their nose and checking if it feels warm and dry. While it’s true that dogs have a naturally higher body temperature than humans, the most accurate method for confirming if your pet is running a fever is by measuring their body temperature using a thermometer. Simply feeling their nose might not provide a conclusive answer. So, to ensure your dog’s health, consider using a thermometer to monitor their temperature when you suspect they might be unwell. (Published: August 26, 2022)

What are the signs of a fever in puppies? When a puppy has a fever, their body temperature typically rises to 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Alongside this elevated temperature, they may exhibit various symptoms, including panting excessively, displaying lethargy or an overall sense of tiredness, and shivering. These symptoms can serve as important indicators of a fever in puppies. (Published: August 24, 2020)

How can I check my puppy’s fever at home? Checking your puppy’s temperature at home is essential for monitoring their health. Most thermometers designed for human ears are not suitable for this purpose. To properly measure your dog’s temperature, follow these steps:

1. Choose the Right Thermometer: Use a digital thermometer specifically designed for pets. These are safer and more accurate than human ear thermometers.

2. Prepare the Thermometer: Coat the thermometer’s tip with a pet-safe lubricant like petroleum jelly or baby oil. This ensures a smoother and more comfortable insertion.

3. Positioning: Gently lift your puppy’s tail and have them stand or lie down in a comfortable position. If your puppy is small, you can also hold them securely.

4. Insert the Thermometer: Carefully insert the lubricated thermometer about one inch into your puppy’s rectum. Ensure it goes in gently and does not cause discomfort.

5. Wait for Results: Be patient as you wait for the thermometer to provide a reading. Most pet thermometers will give a signal or beep when they have a stable measurement.

6. Recording the Temperature: Record the temperature and keep track of it for future reference. The normal rectal temperature for a puppy is around 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 to 39.2 degrees Celsius).

By following these steps, you can effectively monitor your puppy’s temperature at home and detect any signs of fever or illness. Regular temperature checks are crucial for your pet’s well-being.

• Red or glassy-looking eyes.
• Warm ears and/or nose.
• Shivering.
• Panting.
• Runny nose.
• Decreased energy.
• Loss of appetite.
• Coughing.

1. Red eyes.
2. Lethargy/lack of energy.
3. Warm ears.
4. Warm, dry nose.
5. Shivering.
6. Loss of appetite.
7. Coughing.
8. Vomiting.