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How does a dog feel when they have a fever?

When a dog has a fever, it may feel lethargic, lose its appetite, shiver, and exhibit signs like warm ears or nose, vomiting, or glassy eyes.

Understanding How a Dog Feels When They Have a Fever

Just like humans, dogs can experience fevers as part of their immune response to illness, infection, or inflammation. However, since dogs can't communicate directly how they feel, it’s essential for pet owners to recognize the subtle behavioral and physical changes that suggest a fever.

What Constitutes a Fever in Dogs?

A dog’s normal body temperature ranges between 100°F and 102.5°F (38.1°C to 39.2°C), which is naturally higher than in humans. A temperature above 103°F is considered a fever, and anything over 106°F can lead to serious, potentially fatal complications such as internal organ damage.

Common Causes of a Fever in Dogs

  • Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections in any part of the body (e.g., lungs, skin, kidneys, ears)
  • Dental Issues: Abscessed or infected teeth
  • Wounds: Infected bites, scratches, or surgical sites
  • Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions that trigger immune system overactivity
  • Cancer: Some types of cancer can induce fever
  • Vaccinations: Occasionally lead to a low-grade fever post-injection
  • Toxin Ingestion: Contact with toxic substances like antifreeze, medications, or toxic plants
  • Unknown Causes: Often coined as Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO)

How Does a Dog Feel When They Have a Fever?

Dogs with fevers typically exhibit the following physical and behavioral signs:

  • Lethargy: Reluctance to play, walk, or engage with humans
  • Loss of Appetite: Refusal to eat usual foods or treats
  • Shivering or Panting: May resemble signs of anxiety or cold
  • Dry or Warm Nose: Not always reliable, but may be a symptom
  • Warm Ears: A noticeable temperature change felt by hand
  • Vomiting and Diarrhea: Signs of gastrointestinal distress
  • Red or Glassy Eyes: Discomfort or sensitivity to light
  • Runny Nose or Coughing: Signs of respiratory involvement
  • Decreased Energy: Sleeping more or reduced responsiveness
  • Fast Heart or Breathing Rate: Especially in more serious cases
  • Stiffness or Reluctance to Move: Possible muscular discomfort

Early Detection Through Observation

In many cases, the dog’s behavior will shift before their body temperature obvious rises. Owners should carefully track subtle signs such as reduced alertness, disinterest in food, fewer bathroom trips, or less engagement with physical activity. These early warning signals can help detect fever before it becomes critical.

How to Accurately Measure a Dog’s Temperature

  • Rectal Thermometer: Digital or veterinary thermometers are inserted about one inch into the rectum. Use lubrication and assistance to hold the dog still.
  • Ear Thermometer: Special veterinary ear thermometers can provide an accurate inner ear temperature reading, though slightly less reliable than rectal measurements.
  • Nose Check: Despite common belief, a warm or cool nose is not a reliable fever indicator.

It is recommended to record your dog’s temperature at various times over several days when they are healthy to identify their normal baseline, as this helps avoid false alarms due to normal daily fluctuations caused by stress or activity.

When to Call the Vet

  • If your dog’s temperature is over 103°F
  • If there are signs of serious distress such as persistent vomiting, refusal to eat or drink, neurological symptoms, or blood in vomit or stool
  • For any body temperature above 106°F, seek emergency veterinary care immediately

First Aid While Waiting for the Vet

  • Apply a cool, damp towel to the dog’s ears and paws
  • Use a fan to aid cooling
  • Encourage slow, voluntary water intake to avoid dehydration
  • NEVER administer human medications like Tylenol or ibuprofen, which can be fatal to dogs

Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment

A vet may conduct a range of diagnostics, such as:

  • Physical exam
  • Blood tests (CBC, biochemistry)
  • Urinalysis or urine culture
  • X-rays or ultrasound imaging
  • Serological tests for infections

Treatment varies by the underlying cause, including:

  • Antibiotics or antifungal medications for infections
  • IV fluids to combat dehydration
  • Immunosuppressants for autoimmune conditions
  • Cancer therapy if applicable

Prognosis and Long-Term Outlook

Most dogs improve with prompt treatment once the underlying condition is identified. High or persistent fevers require serious attention to prevent damage to organs or systems. For fevers of unknown origin, close monitoring and empirical treatments may be needed over time.

Conclusion

A fever in dogs often presents with physical discomfort and behavior changes that shouldn't be overlooked. By staying vigilant, properly measuring temperature, and seeking timely veterinary care, pet owners can ensure their dogs receive the care they need for a full recovery.

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