VitalPaw
How to use

Temperature

Learn how to accurately take your dog's temperature with a digital rectal thermometer.

What you're checking

Temperature helps identify fever or abnormally low body temperature.

Before you start

  • Use a digital rectal thermometer
  • Have lubricant ready
  • Never force the thermometer

Three simple steps

  1. A digital pet thermometer resting on a surface showing a temperature reading.

    Step 1

    Get the thermometer ready

    Use a digital rectal thermometer. Put a water-based lubricant (or petroleum jelly) on the tip.

  2. Hands gently using a digital thermometer on a golden retriever held steady.

    Step 2

    Insert gently and wait

    Have someone hold your dog steady. Gently insert the thermometer about one inch (2.5 cm) into the rectum and wait for the beep. Stop if you feel resistance.

  3. A hand holding up a digital thermometer to read the temperature beside a dog.

    Step 3

    Read and enter the result

    Remove the thermometer, read the number, and type it into VitalPaw. We'll compare it to the normal range.

Enter Temperature

VitalPaw does the math

You only need to count, tap and observe.

  • Times the reading
  • Calculates the result
  • Compares it with your dog's normal range
  • Explains what it means
  • Saves it to your history

If your dog shows emergency signs, don’t wait — find an emergency clinic.