How to Get a Dog's Temperature Down

A dog's normal temperature, which they regulate by panting, is between 101 degrees and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. However, panting is inefficient and can be inadequate on hot, humid days. On such days, a dog's temperature can rapidly rise to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. At this dangerous point, your dog can suffer from permanent internal damage and even death. It is crucial that you cool your dog immediately if it is suffering from heat stroke.

  1. Symptoms of Heat Stroke

    • Dog owners should be aware of the signs of canine heat stroke. If your dog has heat stroke it may collapse and pant excessively, and its pulse and heart rate will be accelerated. Additionally, your dog's tongue will be bright red and its gums pale. Furthermore, your dog's saliva may be thick, and it may vomit and have difficulty breathing. Behaviorally, your dog may be confused or unable to respond to its name. In extreme cases, your dog may go into a coma.

    First Steps

    • If your dog exhibits any heat stroke symptoms, move it into the shade or away from the heat immediately. Give it a small amount of water to sip or ice cubes to lick. Too much water will cause your dog to vomit, increasing its dehydration.

      Next, take your dog's temperature with a glass, rectal thermometer. Shake the thermometer to about 96 degrees Fahrenheit, then dip it into lubricating jelly. Hold your dog under its stomach to keep it in place. Insert about an inch of the end of the thermometer into your dog's rectum for three minutes. After you remove the thermometer, wipe the end on a paper towel before reading the temperature. If your dog's temperature is under 104 degrees Fahrenheit, keep it in a cool place and continue to give it small sips of water. You will want to take your dog to a veterinarian to ensure it has not been harmed.

    Temperatures over 104 Degrees

    • If your dog's temperature is over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, spray or immerse it in cool, not icy, water. Alternatively, place cool, water-soaked towels on your dog's head and neck and under its legs. However, don't leave towels on too long, as they will not allow your dog to remove the heat from its body.

      You can also apply rubbing alcohol on the pads of your dog's feet or under its arms, but make sure your dog doesn't have any skin irritation or the alcohol will sting. Stop cooling your dog when its temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

      Always take your dog to the veterinarian if it has had heat stroke to ensure it is okay.

    Prevention

    • It is best to prevent your dog from having heat stroke. First, restrict your dog's activities on hot, humid days. If you must exercise your dog in hot weather, do so in the morning or evening when it is cooler. Also, give your dog a lot of water whenever it is outside in steamy weather.

      Though it may be tempting to shave off all your dog's hair to keep it cool, don't do it. The fur helps insulate your dog from the heat. A good option is a puppy cut.

    Other Causes of High Temperatures

    • Dogs can have high temperatures when they have an infection, virus or inflammation. In these situations, they must be put on antibiotics or receive other medical treatment.

      Indications of a fever include pale gums and cloudy eyes as well as an inflated temperature. Your dog may also be lethargic. Dog owners should note any symptoms their dog is exhibiting and take their dog to the veterinarian immediately.