When your furry friend has a fever, it's easy to feel helpless. But there are several things you can do to comfort and support them.
Key Takeaways
- A dog's normal body temperature usually lies between 100ºF and 102.5ºF.
- Anything above that is considered a fever.
- Body temperatures above 104ºF are usually considered high fever and warrant medical attention.
- High fevers, especially when accompanied by extreme symptoms, can be medical emergencies.
- You can comfort your dog by helping them stay cool, providing them with clean water, and letting them rest.
See More: Can Your Dog Sense a Storm Is Coming?
Fever In Dogs
Sean Zyer, founder of Earth Buddy, says:
"If your dog has a fever, it's important to help them rest and make sure they stay cool and hydrated. Depending on their temperature, you should also contact your vet for assistance."
If you've ever had a fever, you know it's not pleasant. It can cause all kinds of symptoms, like shivering, aches, and fatigue.
Dogs can also get a fever. It's also often unpleasant for them. And as pet parents, it can be tough watching your furry friend go through something like a fever.
A fever itself isn't contagious. You can't pass it to your dog, and they can't pass it to you.
At its core, a fever is simply your body temperature rising above normal. The body usually does this in response to something being wrong.
The higher temperatures are a defense mechanism. They're intended to kill off bacteria and viruses that might be present in the body.
However, that doesn't mean that a fever is harmless. It's often unpleasant, yes, but it can also be dangerous. A fever can mean something is wrong.
Sometimes fevers happen for unknown reasons. They're called fevers of unknown origin. Regardless of the origin, a fever can raise your dog's temperature to dangerous levels.
That's why it's important to take your dog to the vet immediately if they develop a fever.
In the meantime, there are a few ways you can support and comfort your pup. Most tips focus on helping them stay cool, hydrated, and rested.
Signs Your Dog Has a Fever
The first step is determining whether your dog actually has a fever. If you've ever experienced one, you might be familiar with the signs — at least, in humans. Dogs often experience a fever a little differently.
Look out for the following symptoms:
- Shivering (despite not being cold)
- Loss of appetite
- Coughing
- Vomiting
- Excessive panting
- Lethargy
- Warm ears
- Warm, dry nose
- Loose stool
- Runny nose
These can all be signs your dog has a fever. However, they aren't definitive dog fever symptoms. The only way to conclusively tell if your dog has a fever is by taking their temperature.
Your Dog's Body Temperature
Like humans, dogs have a normal body temperature. A dog's normal body temperature usually lies between 100ºF and 102.5ºF. That's 38.3ºC to 39.2ºC.¹
The reason body temperature is referred to as a range is because it can vary between individuals. A dog's healthy temperature might lie a little above or below the overall average. Smaller breeds usually have higher body temperatures than larger breeds.
The key is to stay within this range. Anything too low or too high can be dangerous.
To check your dog's temperature, you'll need a thermometer. There are two types.
Digital thermometers are the more modern kind. You might have one lying around.
When measuring a human's temperature, you sometimes place the thermometer under your tongue. Experts generally advise against doing that for dogs, because they might bite.
After all, you can't exactly explain to your pup why they need to let you poke this strange device into their mouth. It's a good idea to have one person assisting you, comforting and restraining your pup while you get a temperature reading.
The most accurate way to check your dog's temperature is with a rectal thermometer. You lubricate the thermometer and carefully insert it into your dog's rectum.²
However, as you can imagine, dogs often react the worst to this method.
Instead, you can take a digital thermometer temperature reading by inserting the thermometer into your dog's ear. If their ears are dirty, the reading may be less accurate. You can often use a human thermometer for this.
If both the rectum and ear are out of the question, another option is your dog's armpit. The relative lack of fur means you can get a reading. However, this is far less accurate than the other two options, so it is only a last resort.
High Fever
So, you've taken your dog's temperature. How high is too high?
Remember, a little above average isn't necessarily cause for alarm. That's especially true if your dog naturally has a higher body temperature, such as if they are a small breed.
A body temperature above 102.5ºF is generally considered a low-grade fever. Anything above 104.5ºF is considered a high fever.³
It's a good idea to consult your vet if your dog has a fever. But if their temperature is above 104.5ºF, or their other symptoms are extreme, that's usually considered an emergency. Seek immediate veterinary attention.
Bonus: What to Feed Your Dog for Liver Health
How to Comfort a Dog With Fever
In the meantime, there are a few ways you can comfort your dog.
The first and most important thing to note is that you should never give your dog human medications, even ones marketed for fever. They can be toxic and cause serious effects.
Instead, focus on supporting your dog by helping them stay cool, hydrated, and rested. Watch your dog closely to make sure their fever doesn't worsen.
Lower Your Dog's Temperature
One technique involves lowering your dog's body temperature. There are various ways you can do this.
This doesn't have to be complicated. For example, you could place a fan near them. If it's cold outside, you could crack a window to let in a breeze.
Water can also help. You could dip your dog's paws in cool water or place a cloth soaked in cool water over their ears. If they're willing, a lukewarm bath can also help. Don't use cold water.
Make sure not to let your dog's temperature drop too much. It's not a good idea to put them outside or somewhere really cold. That can actually make their body temperature increase.
Make Sure They're Hydrated
It's common for a fever to cause dehydration. Make sure your dog has easy access to fresh, clean water. Cool water can also help with their temperature.
If your dog is able to eat, consider giving them wet food or wetting their food. That can help them stay hydrated.
Help Them Rest
If you've ever had a fever, you know how important it is to get rest. Chances are your dog will want to rest, too.
Try to give your dog somewhere comfortable, Calm, and cool where they can lie down and rest. Ideally, this place would be out of direct sunlight and quiet. If they have a safe space, like a crate, that could work.
Give Them Support
Some dogs with a fever will seek your presence. They might seem strangely clingy. If that's the case, try to support them and comfort them.
Other dogs might want space. They might prefer being left alone. If that's the case, don't overwhelm them, but don't forget to check up on them regularly to make sure they are doing OK.
How to Support Your Dog's Immune System
If your dog has a fever, they may require veterinary attention.
Certain supplements can support and enhance a dog's immune response. One example is functional mushrooms.
Functional mushrooms are "adaptogenic," explains Earth Buddy founder Sean Zyer. "They help [regulate] the immune system."
One example of a functional mushroom is the reishi mushroom. They're rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage. One study concluded that reishi mushrooms have an immunomodulatory effect, which means they may help support the immune system in healthy adult dogs.⁴
Another functional mushroom is Lion's Mane. It also contains antioxidants, including beta-glucans. One 2023 paper noted that beta-glucans help activate certain immune cells, supporting the immune response.⁵
Earth Buddy's Allergy & Immune Support Mushroom Tincture blends reishi and lion's mane mushrooms with three other powerful adaptogenic mushrooms. It also contains added beta-glucans. Together, these ingredients help support your healthy dog's immune system function and can help enhance their immune response.
Conclusion
A fever can be unpleasant and dangerous. If your dog has a fever, you can comfort them by helping them stay cool, providing clean water, and letting them rest. It's important to seek veterinary assistance if your dog's fever is high.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 104°F fever an Emergency for a Dog?
A fever of 104.5ºF or higher is generally considered an emergency. If your dog has a fever of 104ºF, it's best to seek veterinary attention immediately.
How Long Does a Dog's Fever Typically Last?
That depends on what is causing the fever. In some cases, a fever can dissipate within a day or two, but sometimes it lasts longer. If your dog's fever lasts longer than a day, make sure to contact your vet.
What Are Dog Fever Symptoms?
The only way to confirm if your dog has a fever is by taking their temperature. Other common symptoms include shivering, lethargy, feeling warm, loss of appetite, and panting.
Keep Reading: Can Your Dog Sense a Storm Is Coming?
Sources
- Taking Your Pet's Temperature | VCA Animal Hospitals
- How to Take a Dog's Temperature | How Do I Take My Dog's Temperature? | PetMD
- Fever in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment | PetMD
- 113 Immunological Effects of Ganoderma Lucidum Supplementation in Canine Nutrition | Journal of Animal Science | Oxford Academic
- Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): A Potential Treatment for Neurologic Disorders in Veterinary Medicine
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Earth Buddy is an environmentally conscious and family-owned company dedicated to providing natural solutions for pets. From our CBD Oils for Dogs and Cats to our Colostrum Supplements, our products are designed to promote calmness and encourage relaxation for our furry friends. To learn more and stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Pinterest.
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