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Can I use a human thermometer to take my dog's temperature, and how?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Hi-- we have a dog in distress and want to take his temp. We have a digital human thermometer-- can we use this on him? If so, where? Thank you!

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 2nd, 2019

Hello. Yes, you can use the thermometer you have. Put a little lubricant on the end ( even a little cooking oil will work ) & gently insert it into the rectum. Just go far enough in that you can no longer see the silver tip ( so you do not have to put the entire thermometer all the way in ). Wait for the beep & read. A normal temperature for a dog is approximately 101.5 F. We consider anything over 103 F to be a true fever. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on August 11th, 2017
Yes, you can use a rectal digital thermometer. Mark it with your pet's name so nobody else in the house uses it!
Use sterile lubricant and insert it into the puppy's rectum (butt). Normal temp for a dog is between 99 F and 102.5 F. If any pup has a temp higher than 103 F, have it (or them) examined by your veterinarian.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on November 1st, 2017
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Use a digital thermometer and use lube or petroleum jelly on the thermometer. Insert the thermometer in the rectum until it beeps. Normal rectal temperature is 100-102 F. If Chloe has a fever she should see a Veterinarian. There are many causes for a fever: infection, inflammation, pain and cancer.

I hope this helps and I wish Chloe well!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Normal temperature in dogs runs between about 100 and 102.5. You will need to take Chico's temperature rectally. I am attaching a handout below that discusses normal physical exam findings for dogs for your reference including information on taking the temperature. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951314 Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

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