Last year, a friend of mine called me in full-on panic mode. Her golden retriever wasn’t acting like himself, he was sluggish, shivering even though it wasn’t cold, and just not “right.” She’d taken his temp using a pet thermometer, but didn’t know what it should be.
Turns out, he was running a fever, and thankfully, she caught it early. But it made me realize how many of us don’t really know what normal temperature looks like for our dogs and how quickly things can go wrong when we’re unsure.
That’s why having a dog temp chart or canine temperature chart on hand is so helpful. It gives you a clear frame of reference, so you’re not second-guessing what’s normal and what needs a vet visit.
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Dog Temperature Status Chart
A dog temperature status chart usually lays out the ranges you need to know, what’s healthy, what’s borderline, and what’s considered an emergency. Dogs run a bit warmer than humans, and their “normal” can vary slightly depending on size, breed, and age. Knowing where your dog falls in that range can help you catch illness or stress early.
| Condition | Temperature Range | Key Symptoms | Action Required |
| Severe Hypothermia | <90°F (<32°C) | • Coma • No shivering • Weak pulse | EMERGENCY VET!- Gradual warming (blankets)- No hot water/rubbing |
| Mild Hypothermia | 90-99°F (32-37.2°C) | • Shivering • Lethargy • Cold paws | 1. Warm room + dry towels 2. Warm fluids 3. Vet if no improvement |
| Normal | 99-102.5°F (37.2-39.2°C) | • Relaxed breathing • Pink gums | Maintain hydration & comfort |
| Fever | 103-104°F (39.4-40°C) | • Warm ears/nose • Loss of appetite | 1. Cool resting area 2. Hydrate 3. Vet within 24 hours |
| Heat Stress | 104-105°F (40-40.6°C) | • Heavy panting • Bright red gums | 1. Cool towels (armpits/groin) 2. Room-temp water 3. Urgent vet consult |
| Heat Stroke | >105°F (>40.6°C) | • Vomiting • Collapse • Purple gums | EMERGENCY VET NOW!- Pour cool water on body- Fan while transporting |
Small Dog Temperature Chart
Small dogs tend to have slightly faster metabolisms, which can reflect in body temperature that runs on the higher side of normal. A small dog temperature chart is especially useful for toy breeds, who can swing quickly from normal to dangerous if they’re too hot or too cold. Here’s a general breakdown for small breeds:
| Temperature (°F) | Status |
| 100.5°F – 102.5°F | Normal for small dogs |
| 102.6°F – 103.5°F | Mild fever, monitor |
| 103.6°F – 104.9°F | High fever, call vet |
| 105°F or higher | Emergency |
| Below 99°F | Hypothermia risk |
Medium Dog Temperature Guide
Medium-sized dogs fall right in the middle when it comes to body temp expectations. Their normal temperature range is the same as most breeds but what’s “normal” for your dog might vary slightly depending on their lifestyle and health.
Generally speaking, anything from 100.5°F to 102.5°F is healthy for medium breeds. If your dog is panting heavily after exercise but their temp is still under 103°F and they recover quickly, it’s probably just exertion. However, if the number remains high, that’s your cue to slow things down or contact your veterinarian.
If you notice consistent low temps (under 99°F), especially in colder weather or after surgery, that’s just as concerning. Hypothermia can sneak up on dogs faster than you think.
Large Dogs Body Temperature
Large dogs’ normal range stays roughly the same between 100.5°F and 102.5°F. The difference with big breeds is how their body handles extremes. Overheating might happen slower than with small dogs, but once it starts, it can escalate quickly due to their size.
Heavy-coated breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs or Newfoundlands can mask fever symptoms with their thick fur, so regular checks matter. After surgery, long car rides, or intense exercise, keep a thermometer on hand to spot any changes early. Remember, if your large dog is acting off and their temp is even slightly outside the range, it’s worth checking in with your vet.
How to Take a Dog’s Temperature at Home
You’ll need a digital rectal thermometer (the kind made specifically for pets is best), water-based lubricant, and treats for afterward. So what you need to do is gently insert about an inch of the thermometer into your dog’s rectum and wait for the beep.
It’s not fun for anyone involved, but it’s the most reliable method. Ear thermometers can work too, though they’re slightly less accurate unless they’re the high-quality vet kind. Either way, practice helps, and rewards after making it less stressful for your dog.
Signs of Hypothermia in Dogs
Low body temperature can be just as dangerous as a fever. Hypothermia sets in when your dog’s temp drops below 99°F. This can happen during cold weather, wet conditions, or after surgery. Signs to look for:
- Shivering or trembling
- Lethargy, sleepiness
- Cold ears or paws
- Stiff movements
- Slow breathing or heart rate
If your dog is small, senior, or has a thin coat, they’re more at risk. Wrap them in warm blankets and contact your vet right away if their temp stays low.
Signs of Fever in Dogs
On the flip side, fevers in dogs usually start above 103°F. Causes can include infection, inflammation, heatstroke, or reaction to medication. Common symptoms include:
- Warm ears or nose
- Red or glassy eyes
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Shivering or whining
A canine temperature chart is helpful here, but also listen to your instincts if your dog seems off and their temp is high, don’t wait it out.
FAQs
What is a normal temperature for dogs?
Most healthy dogs have a body temperature between 100.5°F and 102.5°F. That might seem high compared to humans, but it’s totally normal for dogs. Anything outside that range especially above 103°F or below 99°F could point to a health issue that needs attention.
Do different breeds have different normal temperatures?
Not drastically, but some small dogs might run a touch hotter, and large dogs might stay a bit cooler at rest. If they usually sit around 101.8°F, then anything much higher or lower than that is a red flag. A canine temperature chart broken down by size or breed can help guide you.
Can I use a human thermometer on my dog?
Yes, but only if it’s digital and clean and ideally labeled “pet use only” in your house. Ear thermometers work in a pinch, but they can be off by a degree or more, which matters when you’re tracking a fever.
When should I take my dog’s temperature?
Any time they’re acting off sluggish, refusing food, shivering, or panting for no reason it’s a good idea to check. Also take their temperature if they’ve just had surgery, traveled in extreme weather, or have been exposed to illness. Don’t rely only on how they feel temp checks give real answers.
How can I bring down a dog’s fever at home?
You really shouldn’t try to treat a fever at home without calling your vet first. Never give human meds like ibuprofen or Tylenol that can be toxic to dogs. If your vet recommends it, you can help cool your dog down by offering water, moving them to a cool space, and using damp cloths on their paws and ears. But vet guidance is always step one.