Normal Dog Temperature: 38-39°C - What's Healthy?

Section 1: Canine Body Temperature and Its Relation to Age

It is wellknown that a dog's body temperature can vary depending on its age. Puppies tend to have slightly higher temperatures than adult dogs, but they can also be slightly warmer than other dogs. The rectal temperature of a dog is typically around 0.5 degrees Celsius higher than the surface temperature of its body.

1. Neonatal Puppies: In the first week after birth, neonatal puppies have lower body temperatures, usually ranging from 34.5 to 36 degrees Celsius. As they grow from 2 to 6 weeks old, their temperatures gradually rise to around 36 to 39 degrees Celsius (rectal temperature).

2. Young Dogs: The normal body temperature range for adult dogs is generally between 38 to 39 degrees Celsius (rectal temperature).

3. Adult Dogs: The standard temperature range is typically from 37.5 to 38.5 degrees Celsius (rectal temperature).

On average, a dog's body temperature is usually slightly lower in the morning and slightly higher in the afternoon, with a temperature difference during the day generally not exceeding 1 degree.

Section 2: The Proper Method for Measuring a Dog's Body Temperature

When measuring a dog's temperature, there are two commonly used thermometers: the rectal thermometer and the axillary thermometer. Let's explore the differences between these two methods.

It is a fact that rectal temperature measurement is the most accurate, convenient, and fastest method. Typically, veterinarians use rectal thermometers to measure a dog's temperature.

The axillary temperature measurement method requires adding an additional 0.5 degrees to the measured temperature and takes longer to complete. While rectal temperature measurement is theoretically the best method, one must be cautious when using a mercury thermometer to avoid breaking it due to the dog's resistance, potentially harming the dog or accidentally inserting it into the dog's body. It is recommended to use a rectal thermometer, which has a small hole for a rope attachment to prevent the dog from slipping it in.

1. Rectal Temperature Measurement:

First, disinfect the rectal thermometer with alcohol and adjust the temperature to zero. Apply a small amount of Vaseline to the end of the thermometer for lubrication, or use pure water if Vaseline is not available. It is best to measure the temperature when the dog is sleeping or lying down to avoid causing it distress. Having someone comfort the dog while distracting it can be helpful. Insert the thermometer about 2 cm into the rectum, but do not go beyond 3 cm.

Wait for approximately 5 minutes before removing the thermometer.

2. Axillary Temperature Measurement:

Disinfect the thermometer with alcohol and set the temperature to zero. For small dogs, you can hold the thermometer while measuring, or do so when the dog is sleeping or lying down. For larger dogs, it is advisable to measure when the dog is sleeping or lying down to prevent resistance. Place the thermometer against the inside of the dog's back leg at the root, where it connects to the belly. This is similar to how humans measure armpit temperature. Since the surface temperature is lower than the rectal temperature, you will need to wait 10 minutes before removing the thermometer. Add 0.5 degrees to the temperature at this point.

Tip: For more information on a dog's body temperature, you can read the article "How to Take a Dog's Temperature" by clicking here.