How to determine if a dog has a fever at home? - briefly
To determine if a dog has a fever at home, feel its nose and paws. A normal temperature for dogs is between 100.5°F and 102.5°F (38°C and 39.2°C). If these areas feel hotter than usual or the dog exhibits other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or excessive panting, it may have a fever.
How to determine if a dog has a fever at home? - in detail
To determine if your dog has a fever at home, you can follow these detailed steps:
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Feel Your Dog's Ears: A common and effective way to check for a fever is by feeling your dog's ears. Gently touch the inside of their ear flaps with your finger. Normal temperature should feel cool to the touch. If the ears are warm, it could indicate a fever.
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Check Their Nose: Dogs typically have wet and cold noses due to the moisture in their breath. A dry or hot nose can sometimes signal a fever. However, this method is not always reliable as environmental factors can affect nasal temperature.
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Use a Thermometer: The most accurate way to determine your dog's temperature at home is by using a digital thermometer. Place the thermometer gently in your dog's rectum for about two minutes until it beeps, indicating that it has finished recording the temperature. A normal body temperature for dogs ranges between 100°F and 102.5°F (37.8°C to 39.2°C). If the reading is above this range, your dog likely has a fever.
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Observe Their Behavior: Changes in behavior can also indicate a fever. Look for signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, panting or shivering, and disorientation. While these symptoms alone do not confirm a fever, they often accompany elevated body temperature.
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Feel Their Body: Gently run your hand over your dog's body, particularly their head, neck, and belly. These areas should feel cool to the touch if there is no fever present. Warm skin in these regions could indicate a fever.
If you determine that your dog has a fever, it is important to monitor them closely and consult with your veterinarian promptly. Fever can be a sign of underlying health issues that require professional attention.