How To Take Your Dog’s Temperature

Do not rely on your dog’s nose/forehead/armpit as a guide to his temperature or state of health. If you are unsure whether your dog is ill, taking his temperature is the most accurate guide whether or not you should contact your veterinarian.

A dog’s normal body temperature ranges between 100°F to 102°F (38°C to 39°C). His temperature may rise slightly if he is in a state of nervous excitement or right after exercise. It would be best to take his temperature when he is calm and collect. During which if his temperature rises above 103°F, it is abnormal and you should seek veterinarian guidance.

Personally, I prefer using a digital rectal or ear thermometer to glass thermometer as it will not break compare to a slender glass thermometer. Whichever thermometer you choose to use on your dog, just make sure you don’t (never ever) use it on humans. The next thing you will need is water-soluble jelly or olive oil.

Step by Step of Taking Your Dog’s Temperature

1. If you are using a glass thermometer, shake down the mercury. For digital thermometer, just turn it on.
2. Lubricate the thermometer bulb (approx. 2 inches) with jelly.
3. You may need someone to help you to restrain the dog. Usually, it doesn’t require to because the process is not at all unpleasant unless your dog resent being touched around his rear area.
4. With the other hand of yours, raise the dog’s tail slightly and move it to one side. Insert the thermometer about an inch into your dog’s rectum. Make sure you angled it so that the bulb is against the rectal wall.
5. Hold it still for 30 seconds (glass thermometer) or until you hear the beep sound coming from digital thermometer.
6. Remove the thermometer and read it.

Tips: By any chance, if you could empty your dog’s anal sacs before taking his temperature would be best. Remember to wipe the thermometer thoroughly and sterilize after each use.

What Your Dog’s Temperature Means

• 106°F and above: Heatstroke; cool down immediately and seek urgent veterinary attention.
• 105°F: Dangerous, seek veterinary attention immediately.
• 104°F: High fever, seek veterinary attention within that day.
• 103°F: Moderate fever, seek veterinary advise promptly.
• 102°F to 100°F: Normal.
• 99°F: Abnormal; seek veterinary attention within that day.
• 98°F: Hypothermia; keep the dog warm and seek urgent veterinary attention.