What is a dog’s temperature?
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What is a dog’s normal temperature?
It is considered normal for an adult dog to have a rectal temperature between 38 and 39°C, so the average temperature of a dog is 38.5°C. For puppies, the normal body temperature varies slightly and is between 37.5 and 39.2°C.
If the thermometer indicates a temperature below 37.5°C or above 39.4°C, the dog should be taken to the veterinarian immediately, as its life may be in danger.
As with humans, a dog’s body temperature can vary during the day and increase between morning and evening. This natural phenomenon is due to the ambient temperature and/or the activity of the animal.
When to take a dog’s temperature?
At birth, the puppy’s body temperature is only 28-30°C; after 24 hours, it increases to 34-35°C, and then rises by an average of one degree per week to reach about 38.5°C after one month. However, puppies are not able to thermoregulate until they are 45 days old. They need their mother’s warmth!
When should I be concerned and go to the vet? If your dog’s body temperature is below 38°C, it is suffering from hypothermia. It may simply be a drop in temperature due to low temperatures. Try to warm him up and see if it warms up.
How to take a dog’s temperature?
If, despite several attempts, you are still unable to take your dog’s temperature, you should consult a veterinarian who will take care of your dog and explain what to do if necessary. In any case, a consultation is necessary if your dog has a fever. Forget thermoflash thermometers: this measurement is absolutely inaccurate because of the hair of our animals.
How to take a dog’s temperature without a thermometer?
The only real way to get an accurate idea of a dog’s temperature is to take it with an electronic rectal thermometer. Avoid the older models as they contain mercury and can break if the animal struggles.
Make sure you have a digital thermometer at home, preferably a soft one, so you can take your dog’s temperature. It is also necessary to create a calm environment where your dog feels confident and does not get too agitated.
Avoid stressing or exciting your dog unnecessarily
Taking its temperature is an intrusive behavior that can be a real aggression towards a dog. Quiet is ideal. For example, avoid having too many people in the room. Walk up to your dog and pet him to build its confidence. Ask someone close to you to help you hold your dog and lift its tail while you take its temperature.
Even if it’s done gently, taking a temperature is never fun for a dog. After the procedure, it will need to be comforted. Think about what he’ll get in return if it stays calm and quiet. Petting him, praising him for being so nice, gives him confidence, especially when it is sick.