Uncovering Signs of Fever in Your Dog

The signs of a fever in a dog are not always straightforward. While a high body temperature is the main characteristic, there are other physical and behavioral signs that can give us clues. Understanding these signs is crucial as it allows us to take prompt action. Early detection of a fever can lead to quicker diagnosis and treatment, potentially preventing more severe health issues from developing.

In this article, we will explore the various ways to uncover the signs of fever in your dog. We'll start with the more obvious physical signs, such as changes in the nose, ears, and paws. Then, we'll delve into the behavioral changes that often accompany a fever, like lethargy and loss of appetite. Finally, we'll discuss the most accurate method of determining if your dog has a fever - measuring their body temperature. By the end of this read, you'll be better equipped to recognize when your dog may be running a fever and know what steps to take next.

What Causes Fever in Dogs?

There are several potential causes of fever in dogs. The most common ones include:

1. Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause a fever as part of the body’s immune response.
2. Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like arthritis or immune-mediated diseases can trigger fever.
3. Heatstroke: If a dog gets overheated, they may develop a fever as their body struggles to regulate temperature.
4. Cancer: Some forms of cancer, particularly lymphoma, can cause chronic fever in dogs.
5. Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics or vaccinations, can sometimes trigger a fever.

If you suspect any of these causes, your vet will need to perform tests to determine the underlying cause of your dog’s fever.

How to Tell If Your Dog Has a Fever？

Identifying a fever in your dog can be challenging since dogs can’t communicate their discomfort directly. However, there are a few signs and symptoms to look for that might indicate your dog is running a fever.

Here are the signs that a dog may have a fever.

I. Physical signs

• Elevated body temperature

A normal dog's body temperature ranges between 38.0°C - 39.2°C (100.5°F - 102.5°F). You can use a rectal thermometer to measure your dog's temperature, and if it exceeds this range, it is likely to have a fever.

• Nose Condition

Usually a dog's nose is moist and cool. If your dog has a fever, his nose may become dry and hot, but it is important to note that your dog's nose may also be temporarily dry when he has just woken up from a nap or is in a dry environment, so this is not the only basis for determining a fever.

• Ears and foot pads

The ears and foot pads of a healthy dog are usually cool. When a dog has a fever, the ears and pads of the feet may be hot, but conditions such as exercise may also cause the ears and pads of the feet to temporarily increase in temperature.

II. Behavioral Signs

• Mental depression

Dogs with fever can become listless and lack energy. An otherwise active dog may lose interest in playing, going for walks, or its favorite toys, and just want to lie down and rest.

• Loss of appetite

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When a dog has a fever, it may experience a loss of appetite and a lack of interest in its usual favorite foods, or it may even refuse to eat. This is because the functioning of the digestive system may be affected as the body fights the illness.

• Changes in breathing and heart rate

A fever may cause your dog's breathing and heart rate to increase. If you notice that your dog is breathing rapidly and his heartbeat is noticeably faster than usual, it could be caused by a fever or other health problem.

• Eye condition

Your dog's eyes may look dull when he has a fever, and the conjunctiva may be red. Some dogs may also have increased eye boogers.

How to Measure Your Dog's Temperature?

There are several methods you can use to take your dog's temperature.

(1) Rectal temperature measurement method

• Preparation

Prepare a pet-specific rectal thermometer or use a regular mercury thermometer. Sterilize the thermometer by wiping it with an alcohol cotton ball and shaking it off to below 35 degrees. Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or lubricant to the tip of the thermometer to minimize discomfort during insertion.

• Procedure

Have your dog stand or lie on its side and gently lift its tail. Slowly insert the thermometer into the dog's anus to a depth of approximately 2 - 3 cm (depending on the size of the dog). Hold the thermometer in place with your hand to prevent the dog from moving around. Keep the thermometer in the anus for 3 - 5 minutes and then remove it to read the temperature.

(2) Ear Thermometry

• Preparation

Use a specialized electronic ear thermometer or infrared ear thermometer gun. Make sure the probe of the ear thermometer is clean and free from earwax or hair interference.

• Procedure

Gently pull your dog's ear up, insert the probe of the ear thermometer into the ear canal and press the measurement button. Keep the probe steady in the ear canal and wait a few seconds until the ear thermometer shows a temperature reading.

(3) Oral thermometry

• Preparation

Prepare an oral thermometer. Make sure the probe of the thermometer is clean and free of odor or residue.

• Procedure

Place the probe of the thermometer under your dog's tongue and allow your dog to gently bite down. Keep the thermometer in the mouth for 2 - 3 minutes and then remove it to read the temperature. It is important to note that this method may be less accurate as the dog may chew the thermometer or not cooperate.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when taking your dog's temperature:

1. Ensure that your dog remains quiet and avoids fidgeting while the temperature is being taken, as this may affect the results or cause damage to the thermometer.
2. If using a mercury thermometer, take extra care to avoid the thermometer breaking inside the dog.
3. Before measuring the temperature, it is better to let the dog rest for a while, and avoid measuring the temperature immediately after strenuous exercise, as exercise may cause the temperature to rise temporarily.
4. Different methods of measurement may have a certain degree of error. Rectal thermometry is the most accurate method, but extra care is needed when handling it.

How to Take Care of Dogs After Fever?

The main methods of caring for your dog after a fever include both physical cooling and medication. The following are the specific care measures.

1.Physical cooling

Environmental cooling: Move the dog to a cool place and use electric fans, air conditioners, ice pads and other items to lower the environmental temperature.
Alcohol wipe: Use a cotton ball dipped in alcohol to wipe the dog's paws, belly, ears and other parts of the body, or use a cloth wrapped in ice to put on the dog's body.
Warm water wipe: use warm water to wipe the dog's Ⅳ limbs, soles of the feet, armpits and groin, or use a towel soaked in cool water to apply cold compresses to these parts.
Drink more water: Encourage your dog to drink more water to promote urination and lower body temperature.

2.Medication

Use pet-specific medications: If your dog has a severe fever, you can use pet-specific fever-reducing medications, such as aspirin, Anacin, tolfenamic acid, Chaiwu, and Flunixin Glucosamine.
Avoid human medications: Human antipyretics are not recommended as they may cause damage to the dog's liver3.
Anti-inflammatory treatment: If the fever is caused by inflammation, anti-inflammatory medication can be given to your dog.
Transportation to a doctor for treatment: If your dog's temperature persists or if other serious symptoms appear, you should transport your dog to a doctor for treatment immediately.

3.Diet and Nutrition

Light diet: During the period of fever, the dog's diet should be light and avoid feeding greasy, spicy or irritating food.
Supplementary nutrition: You can feed your dog some easy-to-digest foods, such as chicken, rice, vegetables, etc., to help regain strength.
Increase electrolyte intake: you can give your dog pet electrolyte concentrate to help restore body functions.

4.Observation and Care

Monitor body temperature: Measure your dog's body temperature regularly to ensure it returns to normal.
Observe symptoms: Closely observe your dog's symptoms, such as mental state, appetite, breathing, etc. If there is any abnormality, seek medical attention promptly.
Avoid bathing: Avoid bathing your dog during fever to avoid aggravating the condition.

What Kind of Food Can Dogs Eat When They Have a Fever?

When the dog has a fever, the diet should be easy to digest as a principle, and appropriate choice of food that can supplement nutrition and regulate body temperature. The following are some food suggestions for dogs with fever.

Streaming food: such as millet porridge, vegetable porridge, etc., this kind of food nutrition is easy to absorb, will not cause too much burden on the dog's stomach and intestines.
Egg custard: rich in protein, can regulate the stomach and intestines, but should not be fed too much.
Vegetables: such as pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots, celery, etc., rich in dietary fiber and vitamins, help relieve digestive discomfort.
Fruits: such as watermelon, pears, apples and strawberries, which are high in water content and have a cooling effect.
Meat: such as chicken breast, pork and fish, which are easy to digest and provide protein.
Anti-inflammatory foods: such as celery, carrots, broccoli, and tomatoes, which help fight inflammation.

When feeding, you should pay attention to the following points.

1. Eat small, frequent meals and avoid feeding too much at once.
2. Ensure food is fresh and clean and avoid feeding spoiled food.
3. Avoid feeding greasy and irritating foods, which may aggravate the gastrointestinal burden.
4. Ensure that your dog has plenty of water to replenish the water loss caused by fever.
5. It is important to note that if your dog's fever symptoms persist or are accompanied by other serious symptoms, you should seek medical attention.

FAQs

Will a dog feel warm with a fever?

Conclusion

Fever in dogs is a sign that something is wrong, and it’s important to recognize the symptoms early to provide your dog with the best care. While some fevers are mild and can be managed at home, others require professional veterinary attention. Keep an eye out for key symptoms like loss of appetite, shivering, or changes in behavior, and always take your dog to the vet if you’re concerned. Prompt treatment can help ensure a speedy recovery.

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