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My dog has a fever. When should I worry and call the vet immediately?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pomeranian | Male | 2 months and 8 days old | 1.5 lbs

What should i do if my dog is having fever

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Kevin Sanada, DVM

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 13th, 2017

Make sure it is in-fact a fever. Dogs have a higher temperature than people. If his temperature is less than 39C, then he does not have a fever.

Fever usually indicates one of the following:

1). Infection
2) Toxin ingestion
3). Heat stress

If he just got done playing and/or running around, then it may be heat stress. The temperature will go down if he stays calm in a cool environment.

If it's not heat stress and his temperature is above 39C, then this is an emergency and he needs to go to the vet. Do not give any fever medication meant for people, because these can be dangerous. The vet will have to give special dog medicine to bring down the fever.

I hope that helps and all is well with Softie.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Hi there and thank you for your post! It depends how high it is. If it is not above 100.0 and he is acting normal, I would monitor the temperature and schedule an appointment with your vet if it does not go down. If softie is not doing well with any fever, I would get him in right away. Fever over 100.0 and doing well or sick I would get him seen as soon as you can get him in.

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    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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