Methods for measuring the temperature of dogs

There are actually many ways to measure the temperature of dogs. Among them, the most commonly used methods of measuring body temperature are rectal thermometry and inner hind leg thermometry.
1. In fact, rectal thermometry is the most accurate method of measuring body temperature, and it is convenient and quick. Veterinarians usually use rectal thermometry to measure the temperature of dogs. Just like human temperature measurement, you need to shake the mercury to a low mark beforehand, then wipe and disinfect the thermometer (preferably apply lubricant), and then slowly insert 1/3 of the thermometer into the dog's anus for 3 minutes. Then take it out and check the measurement results.
2. If the internal measurement method of the hind legs is used, it will take longer to measure and is not as convenient and quick as measuring the anus. However, it should be noted that the dog must be fixed during anal measurement to prevent the mercury thermometer from breaking due to resistance and causing injury.

Normal body temperature range of dogs

Generally speaking, the body temperature of puppies is higher than that of adult dogs. The body temperature is slightly lower in the morning and slightly higher in the afternoon. The temperature difference between day and night is average. No more than 1 degree. The normal body temperature of a dog is between 37.7°C and 39.2°C, and for a puppy within a week of birth, it is between 34.5°C and 36°C. This mainly depends on the age of the dog. The temperature measured in the dog's buttocks is slightly lower than the rectal temperature. When the body temperature rises, it can also be felt by hand. In addition, when the temperature is hot and dogs eat, exercise, and are excited, their body temperature will also rise, and they will stick out their tongues to breathe.

Dogs need medical attention if their body temperature is too high

If the dog is found to have high or low temperatures that persist and do not subside, you need to be sent to the hospital for medical treatment in time, because the dog is likely to have an acute disease and is prone to causing death.

Be careful when measuring a dog’s temperature

1. Choose a suitable thermometer:

You can use an ordinary medical thermometer or an electronic thermometer for children. If you are measuring rectal temperature, it is safer to use an electronic thermometer if you are not familiar with it.

2. Measure when the dog is quiet:

Exercise, drinking a lot of water, and eating may cause body temperature changes. Therefore, it is best to take measurements when your dog is quiet.

3. Keep the dog calm during measurement:

Whether measuring rectal temperature or surface temperature, make sure the dog does not break away from the thermometer when measuring. If you place the thermometer on the top of your thigh, always hold the thermometer in place with your hand to keep it in contact with your dog's skin.

4. Measure the rectal temperature after defecation:

When measuring the rectal temperature, it needs to be measured after the dog defecates. Otherwise, the correct temperature cannot be measured.

5. Apply lubricant and then measure:

When measuring the rectal temperature, you need to apply lubricant such as Vaseline on the test end of the thermometer. Putting the thermometer abruptly into the anus will make the dog very uncomfortable.suitable. If Vaseline is not available, you can use olive oil or baby oil instead.

6. Multiple measurements:

The dog's body temperature may change at any time, especially when it has a fever. The owner should measure the dog's temperature multiple times and monitor it at all times.