How To Take A Dog's Temperature (with Pictures) - WikiHow Pet

Skip to Content

• DOGS
• CATS
• BIRDS
• MORERabbits & Furry FriendsFishHorsesOther PetsRandom Article

• Home
• Random
• Dogs
• Cats
• Birds
• Fish
• Rabbits & Furry Friends
• Horses
• Other Pets

Terms of Use

• Home
• Dogs
• Health and Safety

How to Take a Dog's Temperature Co-authored by Ray Spragley, DVM

Last Updated: June 6, 2025 Approved

• Preparing to Take the Dog's Temperature
|
• Holding the Dog
|
• Taking the Temperature
|
• Assessing the Results
|
• Video
|
• Expert Q&A
|
• Tips
|
• Warnings

|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Ray Spragley, DVM. Dr. Ray Spragley is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and the Owner/Founder of Zen Dog Veterinary Care PLLC in New York. With experience in multiple institutions and private practices, Dr. Spragley’s specializations and interests include non-surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament tears, Intervertebral Disk Disease(IVDD), and pain management in osteoarthritis. Dr. Spragley holds a BS in Biology from SUNY Albany and has a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM) from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. He is also a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) through the Canine Rehab Institute as well as a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) through Chi University. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 195,065 times.

Sick dogs often show a lack of appetite and energy, restlessness, panting, or inactivity. If you suspect that your dog is not feeling well, you may want to take his temperature at home to gather information about symptoms of illness. Unlike humans, dogs will not show the same signs of having an elevated temperature, such as warm skin or shivering. Therefore, it is important to learn how to take a dog's temperature to get an idea how high his or her fever is and to possibly see a veterinarian.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 4:

Preparing to Take the Dog's Temperature

1. 1 Gather the appropriate materials. It is best to use a digital thermometer purchased at a pet supply company. You will also need a lubricant such as petroleum jelly or KY jelly. You may also want a muzzle and a pen and paper to write down the temperature reading.
2. 2 Find a helper. Taking a dog's temperature is much easier with two people. Ideally, one person will restrain the dog while the second person inserts the thermometer and takes the dog's temperature.[1] Advertisement
3. 3 Determine the best location for the procedure. A small room such as a bathroom may be a good option for taking the dog's temperature so that the dog will not try to run away. Placing a dog on top of a table is a good approach, as it can keep you from straining your back and give you more ready access to the dog's rectum. [2]
   • Small or medium-sized dogs should be placed on a table for easier access.
   • Be sure that someone stays with any dog on top of a table. An unattended dog may try to jump down from the table and injure herself.
   • Larger dogs may remain on the floor for the procedure.
4. 4 Stay calm. If you are nervous about taking your dog's temperature, your dog may pick up on your energy and become anxious. Stay calm and confident as you go through the steps of this process, and be sure to praise and talk to your dog. Advertisement

Part 2 Part 2 of 4:

Holding the Dog

1. 1 Place the dog on a table or the floor. Have your helper place the dog on the table or in the room in which you are going to take the dog's temperature. The dog's tail should be on the same side as your dominant hand. For example, if you are right handed, you will face the side of the dog with the dog's head on your left side and his tail on your right.
   • Your assistant should stand on the opposite side of the dog, so you are facing towards each other with the dog in between.
2. 2 Put a muzzle around the dog's mouth. Even friendly dogs can, at times, bite people if they feel threatened. If you think that your dog will be upset by the procedure, or if he is acting anxious, you may want to place a muzzle on his mouth to ensure your safety.
   • A walking muzzle should work if you have one.
3. 3 Make a muzzle if necessary. A standard necktie can be made into an effective temporary muzzle in a pinch. [3]
   • Make a single-throw loop in the middle of a necktie.
   • Make the loop slightly larger than the diameter of the dog's muzzle.
   • Place the loop carefully and slowly over the dog's nose and tighten it.
   • The muzzle should be tight enough that it will not slide off of the dog's nose if he shakes his head.
   • Wind the ends of the tie around the dog's muzzle in loops until you reach the ends, and tie the ends together.
4. 4 Restrain the dog securely. Be sure that your helper holds the dog securely by kneeling next to a dog on the floor or holding a dog on a table securely. [4]
   • Your assistant should slide her arm under the dog's stomach and curl it up to pull the dog's rear half against her chest.
   • She should then put her other hand around the front of the dog's neck, underneath his chin and towards his ear.
   • She should gently pull the dog's head and neck towards her to rest on her shoulder.
   • If the dog begins to wiggle or squirm during the procedure, the assistant should pull him in towards her more tightly, using a soothing tone of voice to reassure the dog.
5. 5 Know when to stop. If the dog shows obvious signs of discomfort, aggression, or panic, do not continue to restrain him to take his temperature. It is better for the safety and health of all involved to use discretion and know when your dog feels threatened. [5] Advertisement

Part 3 Part 3 of 4:

Taking the Temperature

1. 1 Lubricate the thermometer. Holding the thermometer in your dominant hand (which should be near the dog's tail end), dip the end of the thermometer in the lubricant.[6] Be sure to apply a generous amount of lubricant, preferably retrieving a substantial blob on the end of the thermometer.
2. 2 Lift the dog's tail. Use your non-dominant hand (eg. your left hand if you are right-handed) to grasp the base of the dog's tail and lift it up. You should firmly but gently lift up on the dog's tail, exposing the dog's anus. [7]
3. 3 Locate the dog's anus. The dog's anus is directly beneath the tail and is circular. Be aware that in female dogs, the vulva is lower, between the dog's legs, and is shaped more like a slit. Do not insert the thermometer into a dog's vulva. [8]
4. 4 Position the thermometer. Hold the thermometer parallel to the dog's long axis, holding the thermometer horizontal and pointing from tail to head. Keeping the thermometer in this position, touch the end of the thermometer to the anus. [9]
   • Be sure not to tilt the thermometer up or down when inserting into the anus. Instead, keep it completely horizontal.
5. 5 Insert the thermometer. Muscles in the anal ring (the muscles surrounding the anus) rest in a contracted position, closing the anus. To insert the thermometer you need to gently override these muscles and slide the thermometer into the rectum by slowly twisting the thermometer as you slide it in.
   • Use a slight twisting motion to carefully slip the thermometer into the dog's anus.
   • Insert half the length of the thermometer into the dog's rectum, or about 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) deep.[10] This may be less with a very small dog.
   • Be sure to hold on to the thermometer. Do not let the entire thermometer slip into the dog's rectum.
6. 6 Avoid forcing the thermometer. DO NOT force the thermometer if it does not go in to the anus easily. You could puncture the dog's bowel and cause him serious harm or even death.
   • If the thermometer encounters resistance, remove the thermometer and try again. You may need to reapply lubricant if you start over.
7. 7 Take the dog's temperature. If you are using a digital thermometer, you will need to push the button on the shaft of the thermometer to turn it on. Push it again to begin taking the dog's temperature.
   • The display will likely flash or you will see the temperature increasing while you take the dog's temperature.
   • Wait between 5 and 60 seconds, depending upon the thermometer.
   • When you hear the thermometer beep, or if the temperature has leveled off and is remaining steady, you are finished.
   Advertisement

Part 4 Part 4 of 4:

Assessing the Results

1. 1 Read the results. Look at the screen on the digital thermometer when it has beeped. If possible, write down the temperature reading so that you do not forget.
   • The thermometer can be read while still in the dog's anus or after removal, but be sure to check it quickly, before the screen shuts off.
2. 2 Remove the thermometer. Slide the thermometer out of the dog's anus, pulling straight back and continuing to keep the thermometer horizontal (parallel with the table or floor).
3. 3 Disinfect the thermometer. Use a disinfectant or rubbing alcohol to disinfect the thermometer. Place the disinfectant on a cotton ball and rub the end of the thermometer, twisting the thermometer until the cotton ball comes away clean.[11] Place the thermometer back in its original packaging for storage.
4. 4 Consult normal temperature ranges. Dogs' body temperatures differ slightly from human temperatures. While humans' normal body temperature is 98.6, a dog generally ranges from 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (or 38 to 39.2 degrees Celsius).[12] [13] [14]
   • A temperature above 39.2 Celsius is slightly raised but may not be a cause for concern.
   • A temperature above 39.5 Celsius is classed as a fever and may be a sign of need for veterinary care.
5. 5 Call your veterinarian. If your dog has an elevated fever, particularly if accompanied by other signs of illness such as loss of appetite or lethargy, call your vet for advice.[15] You may need to make an appointment to care for your pet. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question How do you know if your dog has a fever? Ray Spragley, DVM Veterinarian Dr. Ray Spragley is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and the Owner/Founder of Zen Dog Veterinary Care PLLC in New York. With experience in multiple institutions and private practices, Dr. Spragley’s specializations and interests include non-surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament tears, Intervertebral Disk Disease(IVDD), and pain management in osteoarthritis. Dr. Spragley holds a BS in Biology from SUNY Albany and has a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM) from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. He is also a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) through the Canine Rehab Institute as well as a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) through Chi University. Ray Spragley, DVM Veterinarian Expert Answer Your dog probably has a fever if their temperature is over 102.5° F (39.2° C). Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 4
• Question What kind of thermometer should I give my dog? Ray Spragley, DVM Veterinarian Dr. Ray Spragley is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and the Owner/Founder of Zen Dog Veterinary Care PLLC in New York. With experience in multiple institutions and private practices, Dr. Spragley’s specializations and interests include non-surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament tears, Intervertebral Disk Disease(IVDD), and pain management in osteoarthritis. Dr. Spragley holds a BS in Biology from SUNY Albany and has a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM) from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. He is also a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) through the Canine Rehab Institute as well as a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) through Chi University. Ray Spragley, DVM Veterinarian Expert Answer A lubricated digital thermometer is best since you'll be sticking it directly into your dog's anus. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 2
• Question Is a human thermometer okay for my dog? Pippa Elliott, MRCVS Veterinarian Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. Pippa Elliott, MRCVS Veterinarian Expert Answer Yes, although obviously now keep that thermometer solely for using with the dog. Mark it clearly as only for use in the dog, so that it doesn't accidentally get used on a person! Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 8

See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

• If you prefer, pet ear thermometers are available for taking a dog's temperature. However, keep in mind that they are not as accurate as a rectal thermometer. Thanks Helpful 83 Not Helpful 25
• Keep in mind that though you can use an oral human thermometer to measure dog temperature, a digital pet thermometer is best. The traditional kind that contains mercury can be dangerous if accidentally broken. Thanks Helpful 64 Not Helpful 29
• When learning how to take a dog's temperature, stay relaxed and don't show signs of anxiety to your dog. Thanks Helpful 12 Not Helpful 5

Advertisement

Warnings

• Do not get frustrated with your dog if he or she will not calm down enough to allow you to insert the thermometer. Take him or her to your veterinarian if you are not able to take your dog's temperature. Thanks Helpful 29 Not Helpful 6
• Do not insert the thermometer into your dog's rectum without lubrication. This can cause pain and be difficult to insert properly. Thanks Helpful 27 Not Helpful 7
• Do not attempt to take your dog's temperature if he or she is very upset or acting hyper. Doing so could cause injury to you or your dog. Wait until your dog calms down before attempting to insert the thermometer. Thanks Helpful 27 Not Helpful 7
• Do not attempt to treat your dog if his or her temperature is very high or very low. He or she will need to be seen by a veterinarian. Thanks Helpful 26 Not Helpful 11
• Be very careful and gentle when taking your dog's temperature. Do not put it in his or her rectum too deeply because it could cause pain, or be hard to remove. Thanks Helpful 68 Not Helpful 22

Advertisement

You Might Also Like

How to Stop Cat Bullying: Recognizing the Signs and Stopping the Behavior How toTreat Benign Fatty Skin Tumors on Dogs How toTame a Feral Cat How toTake Care of a Dog How toGive an Insulin Shot to Dogs How to Get Dog Poop Out of Your Carpet in 8 Easy Steps How toIdentify Canine Ear Mites How toTrick Your Dog Into Drinking Water How to Get Rid of Cat Allergies Naturally with 12 Easy Remedies How toLeash Train a Puppy How toHouse Train Your Dog Quickly How toDetect Skin Cancer in Dogs How toGet Your Cat to Like You How toBreak Up a Dog Fight Advertisement

References

1. ↑ Ray Spragley, DVM. Veterinarian. Expert Interview
2. ↑ Jones's Animal Nursing. Bruce Jones. Publisher: Pergamon
3. ↑ Jones's Animal Nursing. Bruce Jones. Publisher: Pergamon
4. ↑ Jones's Animal Nursing. Bruce Jones. Publisher: Pergamon
5. ↑ Jones's Animal Nursing. Bruce Jones. Publisher: Pergamon
6. ↑ Ray Spragley, DVM. Veterinarian. Expert Interview
7. ↑ BSAVA Manual of Practical Veterinary Nursing. Mollineaux & Jones. BSAVA Publication
8. ↑ BSAVA Manual of Practical Veterinary Nursing. Mollineaux & Jones. BSAVA Publication
9. ↑ BSAVA Manual of Practical Veterinary Nursing. Mollineaux & Jones. BSAVA Publication

More References (6)

10. ↑ Ray Spragley, DVM. Veterinarian. Expert Interview
11. ↑ Jones's Animal Nursing. Bruce Jones. Publisher: Pergamon
12. ↑ Ray Spragley, DVM. Veterinarian. Expert Interview
13. ↑ BSAVA Manual of Practical Veterinary Nursing. Mollineaux & Jones. BSAVA Publication
14. ↑ Jones's Animal Nursing. Bruce Jones. Publisher: Pergamon
15. ↑ Ray Spragley, DVM. Veterinarian. Expert Interview

About this article

Co-authored by: Ray Spragley, DVM Veterinarian This article was co-authored by Ray Spragley, DVM. Dr. Ray Spragley is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and the Owner/Founder of Zen Dog Veterinary Care PLLC in New York. With experience in multiple institutions and private practices, Dr. Spragley’s specializations and interests include non-surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament tears, Intervertebral Disk Disease(IVDD), and pain management in osteoarthritis. Dr. Spragley holds a BS in Biology from SUNY Albany and has a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM) from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. He is also a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) through the Canine Rehab Institute as well as a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) through Chi University. This article has been viewed 195,065 times. 11 votes - 100% Co-authors: 14 Updated: June 6, 2025 Views: 195,065 Article SummaryX

To make it easier to take your dog’s temperature, have a friend restrain your dog so you can handle the thermometer. If you think your dog might feel threatened during the procedure and try to bite, consider using a muzzle to keep you or your friend from getting hurt. Once your dog is safely restrained, lubricate the thermometer with a generous amount of either Vaseline or KY jelly and lift your dog’s tail with your non-dominant hand. Next, insert the thermometer horizontally into your dog’s anus, slowly twisting the thermometer to make it go in easier. Never force the thermometer in, because you might puncture your dog’s bowels. Instead, take it out and try again with more lubricant. After the thermometer is inserted, you can read your dog’s temperature on the thermometer’s display. For more tips, like how to make a temporary muzzle out of a necktie, read on. Did this summary help you?YesNo

• Print

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 195,065 times.

Reader Success Stories

• 

  Jeff C.

  Aug 11, 2016

  "I wasn't sure what the proper temperature should be or whether a regular thermometer would work, so reading..." more

More reader stories Hide reader stories

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Ray Spragley, DVM Veterinarian Co-authors: 14 Updated: June 6, 2025 Views: 195,065 100% of readers found this article helpful. 11 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote

Jeff C.

Aug 11, 2016

"I wasn't sure what the proper temperature should be or whether a regular thermometer would work, so reading..." more

Iris Preston

Dec 2, 2016

"Brilliant, clear, and concise. Very helpful, leaves no room for doubt on how to take a dog's temperature."

Vivian Jacobson

Feb 20, 2020

"Helpful to know to do it safely." More success stories Hide success stories

You Might Also Like

How to Stop Cat Bullying: Recognizing the Signs and Stopping the BehaviorHow toTreat Benign Fatty Skin Tumors on DogsHow toTame a Feral CatHow toTake Care of a Dog Dogs Cats Rabbits & Furry Friends Fish Birds Other Pets Horses

• Home
• Dogs
• Health and Safety

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. CATEGORIES Dogs Cats Rabbits & Furry Friends Fish Birds Other Pets Horses

WIKIHOW

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Contact Us
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Follow Us

--547