How to Tell If Your Dog Has a Fever and What to Do
- chinartekchandani
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
When your dog suddenly looks dull, refuses food, or just isn’t behaving like their usual self, it’s natural to worry. Dogs can’t tell us when something feels wrong but their body often gives us quiet signs. One of the most important things to check during those moments is your dog’s temperature.
This guide will help you understand what fever in dogs looks like, how to check it safely, common causes, and when to see your veterinarian.
What Is a Fever in Dogs?
A fever is the body’s natural response to infection, inflammation, or illness. For dogs, the normal temperature range is 100–102.5°F (37.7–39.2°C).
Your adult dog is considered to have a fever if:
Their temperature is above 102.5°F (39.2°C). (For puppies, temp above 103-103.5 is considered as fever)
Their temperature reaches 103°F (39.4°C) → mild fever in dogs
Their temperature crosses 104.5°F (40.3°C) → high fever in dogs (needs urgent care)
A body temperature 106°F (41.1°C) or higher can be life-threatening.
Dog Fever Symptoms to Watch For
Fever in dogs can show up in subtle ways. Look for:
Lethargy or low energy
Loss of appetite
Shivering or trembling
Warm ears or warm body (not always reliable)
Panting more than usual
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Coughing or nasal discharge
Looking dull, sad, or withdrawn
Sleeping more than usual
These symptoms don’t confirm fever on their own — but they tell you that it’s time to check your dog’s temperature.
How to Check Your Dog’s Temperature at Home
The only accurate way to know if your dog has a fever is by using a dog digital rectal thermometer.
Step-by-step
Lubricate the tip of the thermometer with petroleum jelly or water-based gel.
Gently lift your dog’s tail and insert the thermometer 1–1.5 inches into the rectum.
Hold it still until it beeps.
Record the temperature.
If your dog is anxious, have someone hold them gently or place treats in front of them for distraction. The treats may not work if they are completely inappetant.
Vet Tip:
Do NOT rely on “warm nose” or “cold nose” myths.
Avoid checking temperature immediately after playtime or sun exposure; wait 10 minutes for your dog to cool down.
Common Causes of Fever in Dogs
Fever can occur due to many conditions, including:
Infections
Viral infections
Bacterial infections (UTIs, pyometra, wound infections)
Ear infections
Dental infections or abscesses
Tick-borne diseases like Ehrlichia and Babesia (very common in India)
Inflammation & Immune-Related Conditions
Autoimmune diseases
Pancreatitis
Organ inflammation
Other Triggers
Eating toxic plants or chemicals
Reaction after vaccinations (usually mild)
Heatstroke (technically hyperthermia, not fever)
Often, especially in India, we see fevers related to tick fever, gastroenteritis, infected wounds, or urinary infections. However, they can be stress related as well and not all fevers are extremely harmful. As a pet parent, one needs to learn how to differentiate along with a veterinarian's help.
What You Should Not Do for a Dog with a Fever
Please avoid:
Human medicines like Crocin, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, or Aspirin→ These can cause kidney failure, liver damage, and can be fatal.
Alcohol rubs or cold baths
Home remedies that delay diagnosis
Waiting too long if the fever is high
How to Help Your Dog at Home (First Aid Only)
While you arrange a vet visit, you can:
Offer cool (not cold) water in small amounts
Place a damp cloth on their paws and ears
Use a fan to gently cool your dog
Allow rest in a quiet, cool room
Stop cooling once the temperature reaches 103°F (39.4°C).These steps only provide comfort — they do not treat the underlying cause.
When Should You Visit a Veterinarian
Seek immediate veterinary care if:
Temperature is above 103°F (39.4°C) accompanied with other signs and symptoms and not immediately after play or exposure to sun
Dog fever lasts more than 24 hours
Your dog stops eating
Vomiting or diarrhea occurs repeatedly
Your dog looks extremely weak or confused
Temperature reaches 104.5°F (40.3°C) → urgent
Temperature reaches 106°F (41.1°C) → life-threatening emergency
At the clinic, your vet may run:
Blood tests
Urine tests
Tick fever panel
X-rays or ultrasound
Infection-specific tests
Treatment depends on the cause and may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, fluids, or supportive care.
FAQ
Can a dog recover from fever on its own?
Sometimes, yes — especially mild viral fevers. But since fever is a sign of something deeper, it’s safer to have your dog examined early.
Can dogs get fever from humans?
No. Fever itself is not contagious.
Do warm ears in dogs mean fever?
Not always. Dogs can feel warm after play, stress, or heat exposure.
What temperature is dangerous for dogs?
Fever in dogs above 104.5°F is serious. Anything 106°F or more can cause organ damage.
Is fever the same as heatstroke?
No. Fever in dogs comes from inside the body (infection/inflammation). Heatstroke comes from external heat and also presents with different signs and symptoms.
Can I give paracetamol to my dog for fever?
Oral paracetamol should not be given to dogs for fever. Consult with your veterinarian to know which medications can be given at home.
Takeaway-
Fever in dogs can range from mild to serious, and because dogs hide discomfort well, even small changes in behaviour matter. Checking your dog’s temperature, recognising symptoms early, and knowing when to seek veterinary help can make a huge difference in recovery.
If your dog has a fever, stay calm, keep them hydrated, and contact your veterinarian for guidance. With timely care, most dogs recover very well.
