Fever in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026
Table of contents

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

?

RED for impaired consciousness, collapse, shortness of breath, pale mucous membranes, petechiae/bleeding, very severe pain (e.g., abdomen), dehydration, persistent vomiting/diarrhea, or suspected sepsis.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

Definition

Fever in dogs is a condition where the body temperature rises above the normal range of about 38 to 39.2 degrees Celsius in response to an infection, inflammation, or other health issues.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Fever is a natural defense reaction of the body and occurs when the immune system reacts to invaders such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The body increases its temperature to inhibit the growth of these pathogens, as many of them are less likely to survive at higher temperatures.

Another common scenario for fever is an inflammatory response, where the immune system responds to injuries or irritants. This reaction can be triggered by a variety of factors, including autoimmune diseases, where the body mistakenly attacks its own cells, or by physical injuries such as cuts or bruises.

Additionally, vaccinations in dogs can temporarily cause fever. This is because the vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce an immune response, which in rare cases can lead to a slight increased body temperature.

Some chronic conditions, such as cancer or endocrine disorders, can also cause fever. In these cases, the fever is often a sign of an underlying, more serious illness that requires a comprehensive veterinary examination.

Poisoning or the consumption of toxic substances can also trigger fever. In such cases, the fever is often accompanied by other severe symptoms that require immediate veterinary help.

Typical accompanying symptoms

  • Lethargy: Dogs with fever are often unusually tired and withdrawn because their bodies conserve energy to fight the disease process.

  • Loss of appetite: A dog with a fever may lose interest in food as the body needs all resources to fight the infection.

  • Dehydration: Fever can lead to increased fluid loss and thus to dehydration. This often shows in a dry mouth and decreased skin elasticity.

  • Shivering or chills: Dogs may shiver in an attempt to regulate their body temperature.

  • Rapid breathing and increased pulse: Heart and breathing rates may increase to meet the body’s increased metabolic needs.

When to see a vet?

A veterinarian should be consulted if a dog’s fever lasts longer than 24 hours or if the body temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius. Such temperatures are potentially dangerous and can lead to organ damage.

If the fever is accompanied by other severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or a severe cough, an immediate veterinary examination is also necessary. These symptoms can indicate a serious underlying disease that must be treated immediately.

Especially in young, elderly, or immunocompromised dogs, fever should be treated quickly, as these animals are more susceptible to complications.

If the dog has recently been vaccinated and develops a fever, this should also be discussed with the veterinarian to ensure that it is a harmless vaccination reaction and not something more serious.

Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure

For pet owners, recognizing fever is often difficult because dogs can hide their symptoms well. Measuring the body temperature with a digital thermometer in the dog’s rectum is the most reliable method for determining fever.

In addition to measuring the temperature, an experienced veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination to look for signs of infection or inflammation. This includes palpating the abdomen, listening to the heart and lungs, and examining the mucous membranes.

Additionally, blood tests may be ordered to check the white blood cell count, which is often elevated during an infection. X-rays or ultrasound examinations may also be required to uncover hidden sources of infection or tumors.

In some cases, a urinalysis or examination of body fluids may be necessary to identify specific causes of the fever, such as a urinary tract infection or other inflammatory processes.

What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options

As a pet owner, there are some measures you can take immediately to help a dog with a fever. First, the dog should be kept in a cool, quiet environment to avoid additional stress.

It is important to provide the dog with plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Fresh, clean water should always be within reach, and the dog should be encouraged to drink regularly.

Giving medication to lower fever should only be done after consulting a veterinarian, as many medications suitable for humans can be toxic to dogs.

Gently cooling the dog can help lower the temperature. This can be done by rubbing with a damp cloth or a cool, wet washcloth, paying particular attention to the paws and belly.

If the fever persists or worsens, the pet owner should not hesitate to seek professional veterinary help to determine the cause of the fever and treat it appropriately.

Outlook on current research

Fever in dogs is a symptom that occurs as a body’s response to various triggers, including infections, Inflammatory conditions, medications, or environmental factors. Current research focuses on understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms that lead to an increase in body temperature. An important discovery is that cytokines, which are proteins released by immune cells, play a key role in inducing fever. These cytokines affect the hypothalamus, which acts as the thermoregulatory center in the brain, to increase body temperature. This helps the body to act more efficiently against pathogens.

Another area of research deals with identifying biomarkers that can be used for the early detection and monitoring of fever in dogs. By analyzing blood samples and examining specific proteins or genetic markers, scientists hope to develop more accurate diagnostic tools that enable early intervention. Such approaches could help improve treatment outcomes for febrile illnesses by allowing veterinarians to respond more quickly to the underlying cause of the fever.

Regarding treatment, intensive work is being done to develop new medications that can effectively lower fever without compromising the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Traditionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to control fever, but they can have side effects. Researchers are exploring alternative active ingredients that target the mechanisms causing fever more specifically while showing better tolerability.

Another exciting research approach is the study of genetic predisposition for fever in dogs. Some breeds seem more susceptible to febrile illnesses, and through genetic studies, scientists hope to identify the specific genes that influence the risk. In the long term, this could lead to targeted breeding programs that reduce the frequency of fever in susceptible breeds.

Environmental factors are also increasingly being investigated as potential triggers for fever in dogs. Studies show that stress, climate, and other external influences can affect the immune response and thus the body temperature. The research aims to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how these factors interact with other causes to trigger fever.

Overall, current research efforts show that fever in dogs is a complex symptom resulting from an interplay of various biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Advances in research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies, ultimately improving the health and well-being of dogs worldwide.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the normal body temperature of a dog?
A dog's normal body temperature is between 37.5 and 39.2 degrees Celsius. Temperatures above this can be considered a fever.
2. How can I tell if my dog has a fever?
Fever can be detected by measuring the rectal temperature. Signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, shivering, and warm ears can also indicate fever.
3. What are the most common causes of fever in dogs?
Common causes include infections, Inflammatory conditions, reactions to medications, and heatstroke. Stress and environmental factors can also play a role.
4. What should I do if my dog has a fever?
It is important to consult a veterinarian to determine the cause of the fever and start appropriate therapy. Self-medication should be avoided.
5. Can vaccinations cause fever in dogs?
Yes, vaccinations can occasionally cause a temporary increase in body temperature, which usually subsides on its own.
6. Is fever always a cause for concern?
Fever is a sign that the body is responding to a problem. While a mild fever is not always serious, a veterinarian should be consulted for persistent or high fever.
7. Can home remedies help with fever?
Some home remedies, such as offering cool water and providing a cool resting place, can help, but they do not replace veterinary care.
8. How long can fever last in a dog?
This depends on the cause. A short fever can subside within 24 to 48 hours, while chronic fever can last longer and requires a veterinary examination.
9. Can certain breeds be more prone to fever?
Yes, some breeds may be genetically more susceptible to febrile illnesses. Research is being conducted to understand the specific genetic factors.
10. How can fever in dogs be treated?
The treatment depends on the cause. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or other specific therapies may be required. Always treat under veterinary supervision.