Body temperature is one of the main indicators of the state of the body of not only the human, but also the brothers of our smaller ones.
A loving owner needs to know that the dog's normal temperature should be between 38 ° and 39.3 ° C. But not everything is so unambiguous, and indicators can vary. For example, the temperature of a puppy of small breeds will be slightly higher (38.6⁰-39.3⁰) than the temperature of a large breed puppy (38.2⁰-39.0⁰), adult dogs of small breeds have a high temperature (38.5⁰-39.0⁰) , than adult dogs of large breeds (37,4⁰-38,3⁰). Changes in temperature, in some cases, may depend on individual characteristics, the sexual cycle, and the physiological state. Do not worry if the body temperature of the dog is slightly increased in a stressful situation - after visiting a veterinary clinic or after giving birth.
But remember that the rise should not be more than 1 degree Celsius. If you deviate from this norm, take a closer look at your pet. Emergency medical care is needed if the temperature is above 41 ° C - such a high temperature in a dog is dangerous for her life.
Symptoms of fever in a dog
Contrary to popular belief, dryness, nose moisture is not an indicator of body temperature. The main symptoms of temperature in dogs:
- lethargy;
- absence or loss of appetite;
- increased thirst;
- shiver;
- vomiting.
How to measure the temperature of a dog?
To know what is the normal temperature of your dog, you need to measure it periodically. The first time this manipulation may not please the dog, but then she will get used to it. Even if you do not do this regularly, if you suspect a temperature, measure it before visiting a veterinarian. Most likely, the dog will give you, its owner, more confidence and with less experience will transfer this procedure in a home relaxed atmosphere. How to measure the temperature in a dog, every owner should know. The temperature is measured rectally. You can do this with a special rectal thermometer, but the usual mercury or electronic is also suitable. First, prepare a thermometer: reset the reading, apply the cream tip with the thermometer tip. More convenient electronic thermometer - the dog will have to suffer only 1 minute, a little more time - 2-3 minutes will take a temperature measurement by a mercury thermometer. Do not forget to talk to the dog tenderly during the procedure, and afterwards treat it with something delicious.
What should I do if my dog has a fever?
What should I do if my dog still has a fever?
- Do not shoot down. Before you knock down the temperature in the dog, you first need to find out what caused this increase. The causes of high temperature in dogs can be infections, toxins, vaccination.
- Refer to the veterinarian.
- Dampen the dog's fur cold water or send a fan to it. But such actions should be stopped as soon as the dog's body temperature drops to 39.5 ° C.
- Give the dog as much water as possible - this will help to avoid dehydration.
- Give medicines as prescribed by the doctor.
Low temperature in the dog
A low temperature in the dog is considered a deviation from the norm. This can happen, for example, after the operation, in this case it is necessary to cover it more warmly and necessarily consult a veterinarian. Body temperature in a pregnant dog can also vary, before birth, it falls by one degree in comparison with the norm (up to 37-37.5 ° C). The normal body temperature of a newborn puppy on the first day is also slightly lower than usual - 33-36 ° C, about 15-20 days it will be about 36.5-38 ° C. During this period it is desirable for the puppy to provide the optimal conditions. Even short-term hypothermia can lead to a worsening of his condition.