Taking Your Dog's Temperature

Dog Breeds

The normal body temperature range for adult dogs is 99.5-102.5 F° (37.5-39.2 °C), taken in normal room temperatures for a resting dog. The most common and inexpensive thermometer choice is a rectal "mercury" thermometer. Manufacturers have replaced the mercury inside with a non-toxic red liquid. For most accurate use, slide it into the rectum so that almost all of it is inside.

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Introduction

The normal body temperature range for adult dogs is 99.5-102.5 F° (37.5-39.2 °C), taken in normal room temperatures for a resting dog.

Types of Thermometers and How to Use Them

Rectal Thermometers

The most common and inexpensive thermometer choice is a rectal "mercury" thermometer. Manufacturers have replaced the mercury inside with a non-toxic red liquid. For most accurate use, slide it into the rectum so that almost all of it is inside. Keep a hold of it, or use one with a string or tape attached to prevent loss of the instrument. If it feels like it has entered some stool (high resistance), remove it and replace it. Accurate readings require the thermometer to be along the rectum wall. Make sure that the dog is restrained so that sudden movement cannot occur. Thermometer breakage can occur if an active dog moves vigorously. Apply a thin layer of lubricant before inserting.

This type of thermometer usually requires between one and three minutes to stabilize. If the temperature is not going up within a 15 second interval, you can generally assume it has reached the correct temperature reading. Remember to shake down the thermometer back into the normal range before each use. Not doing this is a common source of error. Many find reading a traditional thermometer a bit of a challenge since it often needs to be rotated to view the liquid core, and interpreting temperature readings between the marks can lead to inaccuracy.

Digital thermometers can be used as rectal thermometers. When the temperature is taken, an audible beep occurs, and the temperature readout appears in the window at the base of the instrument. It is not quicker than the traditional thermometer, but provides an easy-view readout with an exact temperature.

Make sure the thermometer is properly cleaned between uses with a soapy wash, then a wipe with alcohol. Many people prefer to wear disposable gloves while taking a rectal temperature. This is a good way to prevent soiling of hands. If gloves are not worn, it is important to remember to wash hands carefully with soap and water afterwards.

Never try to take a temperature orally in dogs

Ear Thermometers

Newer ear thermometers can take a temperature in a matter of seconds. An audible beep usually occurs to help the user know the temperature is registered. Some suggest that this type of thermometer is less accurate. Human ear thermometers are made to assess temperature at the tympanic membrane (ear drum), but since the dog's ear is built with a 90 degree turn between the tympanic membrane and the canal exit, the path of the registry is interrupted. Gently pulling the ear up and out to straighten the external ear canal can help solve this problem.

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