A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Take Your Dog’s Temperature

Taking care of your furry friend includes knowing how to check their temperature accurately.

Just like humans, dogs can get fevers, and it’s essential to know how to detect them.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through why taking your dog’s temperature is important, signs of fever in dogs, and different methods for taking their temperature, including detailed step-by-step instructions.

Why Take Your Dog’s Temperature?

Taking your dog’s temperature can help identify health issues early.

A normal dog’s temperature ranges from 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.

If your dog’s temperature is too high or too low, it can indicate an underlying problem such as infection, inflammation, or heatstroke.

Knowing how to take your dog’s temperature ensures you can provide accurate information to your vet, aiding in faster and more effective treatment.

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Signs of Fever in Dogs

Before you grab the thermometer, watch for these signs of fever in your dog:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Shivering
• Rapid breathing
• Red or glassy-looking eyes
• Warm ears and/or nose
• Vomiting

If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to check your dog’s temperature.

Methods for Taking Your Dog’s Temperature

There are three main methods to take your dog’s temperature: rectal, ear, and axillary.

Each method has its own pros and cons, and we’ll explain each in detail.

Rectal thermometer

Taking your dog’s temperature rectally is the most accurate way to monitor their health.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Preparation

Gather supplies

• Digital rectal thermometer: Make sure it’s designed for rectal use.
• Lubricant: Something like petroleum jelly works well.
• Paper towels: For cleaning up afterward.

Check the thermometer

Ensure it’s clean and functioning properly.

Turn it on to make sure the battery isn’t dead and it’s ready to use.

Positioning

• Get help if possible: Having someone assist you can make the process easier and safer for both you and your dog.
• Hold your dog comfortably: Your dog can either stand or lie on their side. Choose a position that your dog finds comfortable and less stressful.
• Lift the tail: Gently lift your dog’s tail to access the rectum.

Insertion

• Apply lubricant: Put a small amount of lubricant on the tip of the thermometer to make insertion easier and more comfortable for your dog.
• Insert the thermometer: Carefully and gently insert the thermometer about 1-2 inches into the rectum. Be calm and gentle to keep your dog as relaxed as possible.

Reading

• Wait for the beep: Hold the thermometer in place until you hear the beep indicating that the reading is complete. This usually takes a few seconds.
• Remove and read the thermometer: Gently remove the thermometer and read the temperature displayed on it.

Tips

• Use the right thermometer: Always use a digital thermometer designed specifically for rectal use to ensure accuracy and safety.
• Practice: Try taking your dog’s temperature when they are healthy. This helps you and your dog get used to the process.
• Clean the thermometer: Clean the thermometer thoroughly before and after each use to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of any potential infections.

Ear thermometer

Using an ear thermometer is a less invasive way to check your dog’s temperature, although it might not be as accurate as a rectal thermometer.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process.

Preparation

• Get the right thermometer: Use a canine ear thermometer that is specifically designed for dogs. These are made to fit comfortably and safely in your dog’s ear.
• Clean the thermometer: Make sure the thermometer is clean before use to avoid any inaccurate readings or potential ear infections.

Positioning

• Hold your dog comfortably: Have your dog sit or lie down in a comfortable position. It helps if your dog is relaxed, so speak to them in a calm and soothing voice.
• Steady their head: Gently but firmly hold your dog’s head to keep it still. This will make it easier to insert the thermometer without causing discomfort or injury.

Insertion

• Gently insert the thermometer: Carefully insert the thermometer into your dog’s ear canal. Be gentle to avoid causing any pain or distress.

Reading

• Wait for the beep: Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps, indicating that the reading is complete. This usually only takes a few seconds.
• Remove and read the temperature: Gently remove the thermometer from your dog’s ear and read the temperature displayed on it.

Tips

• Ensure cleanliness: Always clean the thermometer before and after each use to prevent any build-up of dirt or earwax.
• Follow instructions: Make sure you are using the thermometer correctly by following the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Axillary thermometer

The axillary method, which involves placing the thermometer under your dog’s armpit, is less accurate but can be a useful alternative in a pinch.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process.

Preparation

• Use a digital thermometer: Make sure you have a digital thermometer. These are easy to read and provide quick results.
• Clean the thermometer: Ensure the thermometer is clean before you use it to avoid any potential infections or inaccurate readings.

Positioning

• Place the thermometer in the armpit: Lift your dog’s front leg and place the thermometer snugly in their armpit.
• Hold the arm down: Gently lower your dog’s arm back down to hold the thermometer in place. Keep your dog calm and still while waiting for the reading.

Reading

• Wait for the beep: Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps, indicating that the reading is complete. This usually takes a few seconds.
• Add 1 degree to the reading: The temperature reading from the armpit will be lower than the rectal temperature. Add 1 degree Fahrenheit (or about 0.5 degrees Celsius) to the reading to estimate the more accurate rectal temperature.

Tips

• Use as a last resort: The axillary method is less precise than rectal or ear methods. Use it only if other methods are not possible.
• Follow up if needed: If the reading is abnormal or you suspect your dog is unwell, follow up with a more accurate method, like the rectal or ear thermometer, for confirmation.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Knowing when to take your dog to the vet is vital for their health.

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand when it’s time to seek veterinary care:

Temperature worries

High fever

If your dog’s temperature is above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, it means they have a fever.

Dogs can get fevers from infections, heat, or other issues.

A high fever is serious and needs a vet’s attention right away.

Low temperature

If your dog’s temperature drops below 99 degrees Fahrenheit, it could be hypothermia, often caused by exposure to cold or other health problems.

This is also a critical condition that needs immediate veterinary care.

Other serious symptoms

Persistent fever

If your dog’s fever doesn’t go away or keeps coming back, it’s important to see a vet.

Ongoing fever can signal infections or other health issues.

Breathing problems

If your dog is having trouble breathing—whether it’s rapid, labored, or noisy breathing—this is a serious issue.

Breathing problems can be related to the heart, lungs, or airways.

Extreme tiredness

If your dog is unusually tired, sluggish, or unresponsive, this could mean severe lethargy.

Many health problems can cause lethargy, like infections or pain.

Other severe signs

Be alert for vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than a day, sudden weight loss, seizures, or signs of pain (like constant whining, limping, or refusing to move).

These symptoms require urgent veterinary care.

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Conclusion

Taking your dog’s temperature is an essential skill for every pet owner.

Whether you use a rectal, ear, or axillary thermometer, knowing how to do it accurately can help you monitor your dog’s health effectively.

Always keep a close eye on any signs of illness and don’t hesitate to consult your vet when needed.

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