Dogs, just like humans, can come down with a fever — but recognizing it isn’t always straightforward. Since our furry companions can’t tell us how they feel, we rely on observation. A subtle change in behavior, loss of appetite, or warm ears might be their body’s way of signaling that something’s wrong. Knowing the signs of fever in dogs can help you respond quickly and ensure your pet gets the care they need.
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6 Signs of Fever in Dogs
When your dog’s temperature rises above normal (about 101–102.5°F or 38.3–39.2°C), their body is fighting infection or inflammation. However, not every symptom is obvious. Here are the most common dog fever signs every pet owner should watch for.
Lethargy
A dog who suddenly becomes tired, slow-moving, or disinterested in play might be fighting a fever. Lethargy is one of the earliest and most common symptoms of fever in dogs.
Pay attention to whether your pup’s energy level changes dramatically. If your normally energetic dog seems withdrawn, sleeps longer than usual, or avoids activities they typically enjoy, it’s a sign that something’s off. Fever affects your dog’s metabolism and can drain their energy, leaving them feeling weak or uncomfortable.
Keep in mind that lethargy can also be caused by other health issues — from pain to infection or even anxiety — so always consider this sign alongside other symptoms.
Dry or Warm Nose
You’ve probably heard the myth that a dry nose automatically means your dog is sick. While not always true, a persistently dry or warm nose can indeed point toward a fever.
If your dog’s nose remains warm and flaky for most of the day — not just after waking up from a nap — it might indicate a higher body temperature. When fever strikes, the body’s hydration balance shifts, sometimes leading to a dry or slightly cracked nose.
Still, this symptom alone isn’t conclusive. Environmental changes like warm indoor air or sun exposure can also cause temporary dryness. Combine this observation with other warning signs before jumping to conclusions.
Red or Glassy Eyes
When your dog has a fever, the eyes can often tell the story. Fever may cause the small blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, making them appear red, irritated, or glassy.
Red eyes in dogs may also come with tearing, squinting, or sensitivity to light. In some cases, the whites of the eyes look pinkish or veined. If both eyes appear unusually red and your dog also seems tired or warm, fever is a likely culprit.
However, if only one eye is affected, the issue could stem from something else — like conjunctivitis, allergies, or a scratch. Either way, persistent redness means it’s time to schedule a vet visit.
Warm Ears and Head
Dogs with fever often feel noticeably warmer around the ears or the top of the head. Since these areas have thinner fur and better blood circulation, temperature changes become easier to feel.
Gently place your hand on your dog’s ears or forehead. If they feel unusually warm — more so than the rest of the body — a fever may be present. However, note that sleeping on one side or sunbathing can also cause temporary warmth, so assess the context before worrying.
You can also use a digital thermometer (ear or rectal) to check your dog’s actual temperature if you suspect a fever. This is the only accurate way to confirm it.
Loss of Appetite
Has your dog turned down their favorite meal or treat? Loss of appetite often accompanies fever. When a dog’s body is fighting infection or inflammation, digestion slows down, and food becomes less appealing.
If your dog misses more than one meal or eats significantly less than usual, pay attention. Reduced appetite combined with other fever indicators — like tiredness and warm ears — signals that something’s not right.
Persistent lack of appetite can quickly lead to dehydration, especially if your dog also refuses to drink water. Always encourage hydration and monitor for worsening symptoms.
If your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours or shows other signs like vomiting or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian right away.
Shivering or Trembling
When running a fever, dogs can feel chills just like humans. Shivering, trembling, or shaking may occur as their body tries to regulate temperature.
While a little shiver on a cold day might be harmless, persistent trembling combined with other symptoms — such as lethargy, red eyes, or loss of appetite — may indicate fever. Some dogs also hide or curl up tightly when they don’t feel well.
Be cautious, though: shivering can also signal stress, fear, or mild seizures. If your dog’s shaking doesn’t stop or is accompanied by unusual behavior, seek veterinary advice immediately.
Other Possible Clues
In addition to the six main signs above, dogs with fever might also show:
– Rapid breathing or panting
– Warm, dry paw pads
– Dehydration (sticky gums, reduced skin elasticity)
– Whining or restlessness
If multiple symptoms occur together, it’s safest to assume your dog may have a fever and contact your vet.
How to Confirm a Fever
The only reliable way to confirm a fever in dogs is to measure their temperature using a digital rectal thermometer. Anything above 102.5°F (39.2°C) suggests a fever.
For safety, always lubricate the thermometer and have another person gently hold your dog. Never use a mercury thermometer — they can break and are dangerous if swallowed.
If your dog resists or seems stressed, don’t force it. Let a professional handle the check during your vet visit.
When to See a Vet
You should call your vet immediately if your dog’s temperature reaches or exceeds 104°F (40°C), or if the fever lasts more than 24 hours. High or prolonged fever may indicate infection, immune disorders, or exposure to toxins.
It’s especially urgent if fever accompanies other severe symptoms, such as:
– Vomiting or diarrhea
– Seizures
– Collapse or unresponsiveness
– Pale or blue gums
Your veterinarian can identify the underlying cause and may prescribe medication, fluids, or other treatments to bring your dog’s temperature back to normal.
Home Care Tips for Mild Fever
If your vet confirms that your dog’s fever is mild and not dangerous, you can support recovery at home with these gentle steps:
- Encourage hydration: Offer cool, fresh water frequently.
- Rest and comfort: Provide a quiet, cozy space for rest.
- Cool compress: Gently place a damp cloth on your dog’s paws or ears to help reduce body temperature.
- Monitor symptoms: Check temperature twice a day and note any changes in behavior or appetite.
Never give human medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen — these can be toxic to dogs.
Final Thoughts
Recognizing the signs of fever in dogs is one of the most important parts of responsible pet ownership. From lethargy and loss of appetite to warm ears and red eyes, every symptom provides a clue to your dog’s health.
If you ever feel uncertain or notice several warning signs at once, err on the side of caution and call your vet. Acting early can prevent complications and keep your loyal companion happy and healthy for years to come.
For more general wellness advice, check out our guide on Everyday Pet Care Tips for a Clean and Happy Companion.
