Dog Fever Signs and Symptoms

A dog's normal temperature should be between 100 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. A dog fever is when the dogs temperature reaches over 103 degrees Fahrenheit. However, your dogs temperature will vary one or two degrees given his emotional state and activity level, so an elevated temperature may not always be a sign of illness. A temperature over 105 degrees is very serious and should be handled accordingly.

Signs and Symptoms of a Possible Fever Are:

• Body temperature raised above 103 degrees Fahrenheit
• Cold and shivering
• Depression or appearing sad
• Increased respiratory or heart rate
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Watery eyes
• Excessive drooling
• Red or swollen gums
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fainting
• Dull coat
• Decreased activity level
• Problems urinating for more than 12 hours
• Loss of balance
• Scratching at the eyes or ears for a long period of time
• Discharge from eyes, nose or ears
• Difficulty breathing
• Prolonged panting
• Whimpering for unknown reason
• Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
• Weight loss while eating more
• Restlessness
• Excessive sleeping
• Excessive thirst

A normal, healthy dog will have bright and cheerful looking eyes. Whenever something is wrong with your dog, you should notice changes in behavior and attitude. If you suspect that your dog has a fever, the best method of checking a temperature is by using a rectal thermometer.