When does a dog have a fever?

An increase in your dog’s body temperature does not automatically mean that it has a fever. Your dog’s temperature can also rise due to stress, physical activity, high environmental temperatures, hormones or an increased metabolic rate.

A fever involves more than just an increase in body temperature. It is generally the body’s response to an underlying trigger. In most cases, fever develops when white blood cells are activated in response to bacteria, viruses, other pathogens or autoimmune diseases. Brain tumours, head injuries and certain toxins or medicines can also disrupt temperature regulation in the brain. It is therefore important to distinguish between an elevated body temperature and a true fever.

How does a fever affect your dog?

When a dog develops a fever, there is usually a good reason for it. Fever creates less favourable conditions for certain pathogens in the body. In this way, the body can fight an infection.

Unfortunately, a fever can also make your dog feel very unwell, which is why treatment may sometimes be necessary. In addition to an increase in body temperature, fever can cause symptoms such as shivering, an increased heart rate, faster breathing and disturbances in the body’s fluid and salt balance. This can lead to dehydration.

How do you take a dog’s temperature?

In animals, body temperature is measured by inserting a thermometer into the rectum. For a reliable reading, the thermometer must be inserted far enough, often approximately 1 to 3 cm in dogs. You can apply a little petroleum jelly to the tip of the thermometer to make insertion easier. Only read the temperature once the thermometer has finished measuring.

How is fever in dogs treated?

Whether and how a fever should be treated depends on its cause and how high the temperature is. As mentioned earlier, fever serves a useful purpose in the body. However, if the temperature rises too high or the fever lasts too long and causes significant symptoms, treatment may be necessary. A vet may prescribe fever-reducing medication. Medication may also be prescribed to treat a specific pathogen, such as antibiotics for a bacterial infection. If your dog is dehydrated, fluids may need to be administered through an intravenous drip. If body temperature rises to an extreme level, it may be necessary to cool your dog down. In cases of fever, this is generally only considered when the temperature exceeds 41°C.

Are you unsure whether your dog has a fever? Try taking your dog’s temperature with a suitable thermometer and contact your vet. By providing the measured body temperature, you can make it easier for the veterinary practice team to assess how urgently your dog needs to be examined.

Never give your dog paracetamol or aspirin without veterinary advice! These medicines can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always contact your vet if your dog has a fever.

Do you have any questions? Please contact us at vet@vetsend.co.uk.