When you have a four-legged companion the first thing on your mind is whether or not they will develop health problems later in life. Being a good pet parent requires knowing the most common symptoms of a sick dog and having access to a well-reputed pet. 

Because certain diseases are difficult to identify, don’t wait until it’s too late. In general, if your dog is acting strangely, you should take them to the vet for a checkup. The sooner you figure out what’s wrong with your dog, the sooner you can start treating them.

Dogs are unable to communicate their feelings and emotions; the only way to determine whether or not your dog is ill is to look for warning signs. Some of the most common sick dog indicators include changes in energy level, sudden changes in attitude, daily habits, and temperament. 

Changes in the pee, feces, or how often your fur baby urinates or defecates there is an indication of soreness while walking or running. Excessive salivation or thirst are two symptoms that can occur. Diarrhea, lack of appetite, coughing, and vomiting are all signs of sickness.

 How to know if your dog has a fever?

Fevers in dogs can be difficult to detect since their body temperatures might rise when they are excited or anxious. A dog’s temperature might also fluctuate throughout the day and at night. As a result, it’s critical to know what your dog’s ideal temperature is. You can find out by taking your dog’s temperature at different times throughout the day for many days. Some people say that if you touch your dog’s nose and it’s wet and cold, it’s normal, but if it’s hot and dry, it’s a sign of a fever. This, however, is not a reliable predictor of a fever in your four-legged pal.

What is a normal temperature for a dog and what temperature is a dog fever?

A dog’s typical temperature ranges from 36 to 40 degrees Celsius. If your dog has a fever, it suggests he or she has a cold, the flu, or another ailment. Even though fever isn’t as common as cough, it can be quite misleading, leading to your canine being taken to the emergency hospital.

A digital rectal thermometer is the most convenient way to check your dog’s temperature; some pet stores provide thermometers designed specifically for pets. 

Keep a separate thermometer for your dog in the same location as the rest of his or her equipment. The normal body temperature of a dog is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which is significantly higher than that of a human (97.6 to 99.6 F). Your dog gets a fever if his or her temperature rises above 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Your dog has a high fever if his or her temperature rises above 106°F, and he or she is in danger of serious, possibly fatal complications.

Reasons for having fever

A bacterial infection

• Leptospirosis—Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by spirochetes, which can affect animals and humans alike. Dogs get this sickness via drinking stagnant, contaminated water, coming into contact with the bacteria-infected urine of other animals. It can also be contracted by bites or mating with sick dogs.
• Staphylococcal Infection (staph infection)—Staph illness is the most frequent type of bacterial skin infection in dogs, caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus sp. It can also affect a dog’s skin or upper respiratory tract.
• Actinomycosis and Nocardiosis—Actinomycosis is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Actinomyces sp. and Nocardia sp. Both bacteria are primarily found in dirt. When bacteria enter the dog’s skin through a wound or abscess, it causes infection.

Fungal or viral infection

• Aspergillosis—Aspergillosis is a fungal infection caused by the Aspergillus type of mold. Dogs with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to this fungus. Sneezing, nose bleeding, nasal discharge, swelling nose, and decreased appetite are all common symptoms.
• Cryptococcus—Cryptococcosis is caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, a yeast-like fungus. This disease is developed by dogs inhaling spores found in soil polluted by bird droppings. The eyes, lymph nodes, skin, and brain of a canine can all be affected by Cryptococcus. Coughing,  convulsions, inflammation of the eyes, circling, swollen lymph nodes, and blindness are some of the symptoms.
• Blastomycosis—Blastomycosis is a systemic fungus found throughout the East Coast, in the Great Lakes region, and the Mississippi River lowlands. Because of the damp, decomposing organic garbage and bird droppings that are frequent in the area, the fungus thrives. Coughing, weight loss, and lameness are the most prevalent signs noticed in the respiratory system. Blastomycosis can lead to pneumonia if left untreated. Fluconazole, Ketoconazole, or itraconazole are used to treat blastomycosis.

Ear infection

A dog can get a bacterial ear infection if there is underlying inflammation. Allergies, excessive moisture in the ear canal, and co-infection with Malassezia yeast species are all common causes. A healthy dog can usually defend himself against this bacterium, but a dog with a weakened immune system may have a harder time.

An infected bite, scratch, or cut

If your dog gets injured or cut, you may notice red markings on his or her skin. These can cause transient pain and swelling, as well as more serious health consequences in more extreme cases.

Tooth infection or abscess

A tooth root abscess is a dangerous infection caused by bacteria in the mouth infiltrating the tooth’s root. One of two things can cause this: a damaged tooth or severe periodontal disease. An enamel covering protects a healthy tooth. This protective layer keeps bacteria out of the pulp chamber, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth. A broken tooth or chipped enamel, on the other hand, allows bacteria to enter the pulp chamber. Bacteria can move around in the pulp chamber. It allows bacteria to reach the tooth’s root directly. The infection at the tooth’s root then spreads to the bone and soft tissues around it.

Urinary tract infection

Infections of the urinary system are rather common in dogs. Dogs with urinary tract infections frequently want to pee when they go outside. If urination is painful, they may try to urinate, cry out, or sigh. You may notice blood in their pee on occasion. The evidence of flowing urine or frequent vaginal licking might also indicate a UTI. Urine with a strong odor can also suggest that your animal pal is infected.

Ingestion of poisonous materials

Poisons are frequently consumed as a result of an inquisitive dog ingesting or chewing on something potentially harmful or toxic. Unaware dog owners may give their pets medications that the canines cannot break down or metabolize, rendering the dog deadly. To avoid similar situations, poisonous chemicals should be stored out of reach of dogs. Any dog should not be given medication or food intended for human consumption. Poisoning can cause drooling, irritability, tremors, twitching, seizures, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, diarrhea, coma, or death. The severity of the symptoms is determined by the type and quantity of poison consumed.

What are the symptoms of a fever in dogs?

If you notice a critical change in your dog’s conduct this will be your first sign that your dog isn’t well. You should watch out for your dog and observe for indications. Common symptoms are given below:

• Red or glassy-looking eyes /Warm ears and nose
• Shivering
• Panting
• Runny nose
• Decreased energy
• Loss of appetite
• Coughing
• Vomiting 

Red or glassy-looking eyes/ Warm ears and nose

Any of the indicators below should make you aware that you should keep an eye on your dog’s temperature. Fever in dogs manifests itself in the following ways: Red or glassy eyes. Ears and/or nose get warmer.

Shivering

Shivering and trembling could be symptoms of high fever or anything more serious, such as poisoning, kidney disease, or an accident. As a result, if your dog suddenly starts trembling or shivering, it’s vital to keep an eye out for other symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, or limping. Then, as quickly as possible, consult with your veterinarian.

Panting

Dogs pant naturally, particularly when they are hot, excited, or active. Heavy panting, on the other hand, could mean your dog is dangerously hot, has a persistent health problem, or has experienced a life-threatening event.

Runny nose

Allergies are an immune system response to your dog’s surroundings. A foreign object has entered your dog’s nasal passages. Infection of your dog’s sinuses by bacteria or fungi. Nasal mites are parasitic infections that infect your dog’s sinuses.

Decreased energy

Infections and diseases, as well as discomfort and medicine, can cause your dog to become lethargic and weak. Because weakness and lethargy can signal anything from a chronic ailment to a life-threatening sickness, you should always consult your veterinarian if you experience either symptom.

Loss of appetite

Although a dog’s loss of appetite does not always indicate a serious illness, it is critical to seek quick veterinarian treatment because it could indicate serious illnesses such as cancer, a variety of systemic infections, discomfort, liver difficulties, and renal failure.

Coughing

Kennel cough or tracheobronchitis might be indicated by a deep, dry, honking canine cough (upper airway, meaning not the lungs). Kennel cough is a highly contagious condition that can be caused by bacteria or viruses or can also be an indication of fever.

Vomiting

Vomiting in dogs can happen for a variety of causes. It’s likely that your canine ate more than they could tolerate, or ate too soon. It’s likely that in certain circumstances, the cause is more serious. It’s possible that your dog has swallowed something dangerous, or it could be a sign of a serious sickness that demands a trip to the vet.

How to Take Your Dog’s Temperature

First, grease the thermometer with baby oil or petroleum jelly before taking your dog’s temperature. After that, insert the thermometer into your dog’s anus with caution and wait for the results. The majority of thermometers designed for this purpose will register in under 60 seconds.

Rectal thermometer

Rectal temperature is taken by gently and slowly inserting the thermometer into the rectum of the dog. The thermometer is often lubricated to ease insertion and you can buy it from here. For larger dogs; the thermometer is advanced 2-3 inches while for tiny dogs, the thermometer is advanced about an inch

Ear thermometers

Ear thermometers are a reliable and less invasive method for taking your dog’s temperature when utilized accurately, you can buy it from here, it identifies the infrared hotness waves delivered by the dog’s eardrum. To get an exact perusing, embed the thermometer deep into the flat ear canal.

Without thermometer

Feel your dog’s ears and paws

Dogs’ ears and paws should only be slightly warmer than your hands because they have a slightly higher temperature than humans. It’s also useful to know what your dog’s regular ear and paw temperatures are. He could have a fever if they’re warmer than usual.

Feel and check your dog’s nose for any discharge

The yellow or green nasal discharge could be caused by a sinus infection. Fever can be caused by an infection. In such circumstances, you should seek immediate medical attention from a veterinarian.

Check your dog’s gums

Before you examine your dog’s gums, make sure he is calm. Examine his gums with two hands for dry, heated gums that are redder than the normal pink. This is a list of fever symptoms.

Feel your dog’s groin area and armpits

While your dog is lying down, gently rub his groin and armpits. If these places are hot and swollen, your dog is most likely suffering from a fever.

Care for a dog with a fever

Cool the body with a cold bath

Apply cold water around his paws and ears first to assist a pet with a fever of 103 degrees or higher. You can chill your dog with a damp cloth or towel, or cooling clothing. Continue to check his temperature, and cease using the water when it goes below 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Try to get him to take a glass of water. You should keep a watch on your dog to make sure his fever doesn’t return, and if he develops any other symptoms, you should take him to the vet. Always remember that it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Encourage your dog to drink a little water

Try to persistently persuade your furry companion to drink small quantities of water to keep them hydrated, yet don’t compel your dog to drink. If your dog’s fever is 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher they need to see a vet right away. Contact the crisis veterinarian closest to you immediately.

Apply cool water with a soaked cloth or towel to their paws and ears

Apply a cool-water-soaked towel or cloth to your dog’s ears and paws, and position a fan near your dog to reduce fever. Stop giving water to your dog when his temperature dips below 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep a watch on your furry companion to make sure the fever does not come back.

General FAQs-

What can you give your dog for fever?

Try to persistently persuade your dog to drink small quantities of water to keep them hydrated, yet don’t compel your dog to drink. Apply a cool-water-soaked towel or cloth to your dog’s ears and paws, and position a fan near your dog to reduce fever. Stop giving water to your dog when his temperature dips below 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep a watch on your dog to make sure the fever does not come back. If your dog shows some other indications, like vomiting, shivering, or panting it’s time to go to the vet.

 Can you give your dog paracetamol?

Dogs can be poisoned by paracetamol, and cats are even more vulnerable than dogs. You should never give paracetamol to your dog to treat a fever or any other disease unless directed to do so by your dog’s veterinarian. Especially, if administered in excess, paracetamol can be extremely harmful to canines.

How to know if your dog is feeling cold?

Trembling, shaking, and shivering in an attempt to warm the body is one of the most common symptoms of a cold dog. By keeping the legs and tail tucked under, a dog’s extremities may also be tucked closer to the heat of the chest, with the ears pinned back against the head.