How to Give a Dog Tylenol for Fever

Dogs with fever have some of the same symptoms as humans with fever. Like humans, fever in dogs is an internal mechanism that serves as protection against infection and illness. In order to calm a fever to prevent further internal damage, it is possible to give a dog Tylenol, however, it is pertinent to take the proper steps to prevent accidental poisonings.

Things You'll Need

Thermometer
Tylenol caplets or gelcaps
Calculator
Cheese, peanut butter, or your dog's favorite snack

Instructions

- 1
  Take your dog's temperature to ensure that fever is the culprit. Unlike humans, a dog's temperature is obtained through the rectum. Take a clean thermometer and place it in the dog's rectum. If your thermometer is digital, the reading will be taken automatically. If it is a manual thermometer, wait up to two minutes for the most accurate reading. Normal temperature for dogs is 100.5 to 102.5; anything higher than this is considered fever.
- 2
  Give the proper dosage of Tylenol. According to Petplace.com, in the proper dosage, Tylenol is not toxic to dogs. However, if given in the wrong amounts, Tylenol can be deadly. Therefore, calculate the proper dosage before administering. Dogs should be given 5 to 10 milligrams of Tylenol per pound. For example if your dog weights 60 pounds, administer between 300 to 600 milligrams up to three times daily.
- 3
  Place the Tylenol inside food or treats. Place the Tylenol inside cheese, peanut butter or your dog's favorite treat to disguise it. Dogs will not usually consume pills on their own, so disguising it with food will make it easier, especially if your dog's fever has caused a lack of interest in eating.
- 4
  Monitor your dog's temperature and behavior. Your dog's behavior should change if the Tylenol is working. Lethargy should be decreased and energy should be more evident. Check your dog's temperature frequently and compare it to your dog's behavior to see if the Tylenol is working.