Can I Use A Human Thermometer On A Dog?

Technically, yes. However, the result may be inaccurate, and that’s why I recommend using a digital thermometer specifically designed for rectal use in dogs.

Human thermometers are designed to be used orally (in your mouth) or under the armpit (axillary). They work by measuring the temperature of the fluids in your body. They have a probe at one end and a display at the other.

How to Use A Thermometer On A Dog?

Apply a generous amount of lubricant to the tip of the thermometer such as petroleum gel or baby oil
Insert the thermometer into the dog’s rectum a few inches until you feel resistance
Gently insert the thermometer into the dog’s rectum until it is fully inserted
Wait for 1-2 minutes until you hear the beep, indicating that the reading is complete
Remove the thermometer and clean it with alcohol before storing it away

Can I Use Any Digital Thermometer on My Dog?

The answer is no, not all digital thermometers can be used on dogs. So, what type of digital thermometer should you use on your dog?

There are two different types: rectal and ear. A rectal digital thermometer is going to give you the most accurate reading as it measures the core body temperature. To use this type of thermometer, lubricate the tip with petroleum jelly and insert it into the rectum about one inch.

Leave in place for about 60 seconds or until the thermometer beeps. An ear digital thermometer can also give you an accurate reading but is not as invasive as a rectal one. To use this type of thermometer, insert it into the opening of the ear canal and leave in place for about 60 seconds or until the thermometer beeps.

What Kind of Thermometer Can I Use on My Dog?

There are a few types of thermometers that you can use on your dog. The most common type is the rectal thermometer. This type of thermometer is inserted into the rectum, and takes the temperature of the dog from there.

It is important to make sure that you lube up the tip of the thermometer with some petroleum jelly before inserting it, to make sure that your dog is comfortable and to prevent any injury. Another type of thermometer that you can use on your dog is an ear thermometer. Ear thermometers work by measuring the temperature of the ear canal, which is a good indicator of body temperature.

Make sure that you clean the ear canal out before taking the temperature, or else you might get an inaccurate reading. Finally, there are also infrared forehead thermometers that you can use on your dog. These work by measuring the heat emanating from your dog’s forehead, and can give you a pretty accurate reading without having to physically touch your pup at all.

What is a Normal Temperature for a Dog?

A normal temperature for a dog is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, though this can vary depending on the breed of dog. Some dogs may have a lower or higher average body temperature than others. For example, small breeds tend to have higher temperatures than large breeds.

Temperatures above 103 degrees Fahrenheit are considered to be elevated, and those above 105 degrees Fahrenheit are considered to be high. If your dog’s temperature is above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

How to Take a Dogs Temperature With a Human Thermometer?

As I told earlier, I recommend using a digital thermometer specifically designed for rectal use in dogs cause the result may be inaccurate. But if you have no options , you can use a human thermometer. Here are easy instructions on how to do so:

1. Lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly. This will help the thermometer slide in easily and prevent it from sticking to your dog’s skin.

2. Insert the thermometer into your dog’s rectum, about 1-2 inches deep. If you have a long-haired breed, you may need to part the fur in order to get an accurate reading.

3. Leave the thermometer in for about 60 seconds, or until it beeps indicating that it is done taking the reading. 4. Remove the thermometer and check the reading. A normal temperature for dogs is between 101 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can You Use a Forehead Thermometer on a Dog?

Technically yes, you can use a forehead thermometer on a dog, but the result will be inaccurate. You can use it as an emergency solution.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Place the thermometer on your dog’s forehead, just above the eyes.

2. Gently press the thermometer against your dog’s skin.

3. Hold the thermometer in place for 30 seconds or until you hear a beep.

4. Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

Find Out Whether You Can Use These on Your Dog

Conclusion

So, can I use a human thermometer on a dog?

Technically yes, but the result may be inaccurate. That’s why I recommend using a digital thermometer specifically designed for rectal use in dogs. Human thermometers have been designed to work in human bodies, so they tend to be more reliable in humans than in dogs.

The difference between a high and low temperature reading can be significant in dogs because they’re so small—a few degrees can make all the difference between life and death if they’re sick with something like parvo or distemper. So if you want to get an accurate reading of your dog’s body temperature, it’s best to use a digital thermometer specifically designed for pets.