Can you tell if a dog has a fever by their ears? - The Environmental Literacy Council (2025)

The short answer is: Yes, a dog’s ears can be an indicator of a fever, but it’s not a definitive diagnosis on its own. While a warm or hot ear can be a sign of a fever, it’s essential to understand that there are other reasons why your dog’s ears might feel warmer than usual. Relying solely on ear temperature to determine if your dog has a fever can be misleading. It is crucial to look for other symptoms and, if you suspect a fever, confirm it with a reliable method like a rectal thermometer reading.

Understanding Ear Temperature in Dogs

A healthy dog’s ears should generally feel room temperature or only slightly warmer to the touch. When you notice that your dog’s ears are noticeably hotter than normal, it can indeed raise concerns about a potential fever. This elevated temperature in the ears often occurs because of the increased blood flow associated with fighting off an infection or other inflammatory processes. However, it’s also important to know that a hot ear can stem from other issues like a localized ear infection.

The Link Between Fever and Hot Ears

A systemic infection, where the infection spreads throughout the dog’s body, is a common cause of fever in dogs. The body’s immune response leads to an elevated body temperature as it tries to fight off the infection. This elevated temperature manifests in several ways, including through warm or hot ears, along with other signs like lethargy and a dry nose.

Hot Ears Due to Ear Infections

It’s vital to distinguish between hot ears due to a general fever and hot ears due to a localized ear infection. Ear infections, often caused by bacteria, yeast, or ear mites, can result in inflammation and heat in the ear canal. The area might become sensitive, red, and you may also notice a discharge or odor.

Other Signs of Fever in Dogs

Relying solely on the temperature of the ears to diagnose a fever is not advisable. A more accurate assessment involves looking for a combination of symptoms. Here are some of the common signs of a fever in dogs:

• Red or Glassy Eyes: Inflamed and bloodshot eyes are often a sign of fever or illness.
• Lethargy/Lack of Energy: A usually energetic dog may become unusually quiet, tired, or reluctant to engage in normal activities.
• Warm, Dry Nose: A dog’s nose is usually cool and moist, so a warm, dry nose can be indicative of a fever, though this is not always reliable on its own.
• Shivering: Dogs may shiver when they have a fever due to their body trying to regulate its temperature.
• Loss of Appetite: A feverish dog might show a decreased interest in food.
• Coughing and Vomiting: These symptoms can often accompany an illness causing a fever.

How to Accurately Check Your Dog’s Temperature

While your dog’s ear temperature may be a helpful clue, the most reliable way to determine if your dog has a fever is by taking their temperature rectally. Here’s how to do it:

1. Use a Digital Thermometer: Use a digital thermometer specifically designed for rectal use in dogs. These are usually readily available at most pet stores.
2. Lubricate: Apply a lubricant like petroleum jelly to the thermometer tip.
3. Gently Insert: Carefully insert the thermometer about one inch into your dog’s rectum.
4. Wait for Reading: Hold the thermometer in place until you get a stable reading. The digital thermometer will beep when ready.
5. Clean Thoroughly: Clean the thermometer thoroughly after use with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.

The normal body temperature range for dogs is between 101.0°F to 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C). If your dog’s rectal temperature exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), it indicates a fever, and you should seek veterinary care.

Can You Rely on Ear Thermometers in Dogs?

While human ear thermometers are readily available, they are not generally recommended for use in dogs. Although some studies indicate that ear (auricular) temperature can be a reasonable estimation of core temperature in dogs, they are not as reliable as rectal readings. The positioning of the thermometer in the ear is critical, and it can be difficult to achieve accurate measurements, especially when using a human thermometer. Most importantly, human ear thermometers are not designed for a dog’s ear canal.

Addressing a Dog’s Fever at Home

If your dog has a mild fever (below 103°F), you can try some at-home remedies while continuing to monitor their condition:

• Cool Water Application: Use a cool, damp towel or cloth to apply cool water to your dog’s ears and paws. This can help bring down their body temperature.
• Fan: Run a fan near your dog to help them cool down.
• Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water. Dehydration can worsen a fever.

It’s crucial to monitor your dog closely and if the fever persists or if it goes above 103°F, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about fevers in dogs and the role of ear temperature:

1. Is it normal for my dog’s ears to feel slightly warm? Yes, a healthy dog’s ears can be slightly warm. The concern is when they are noticeably hotter than usual.

2. Can a dog’s ears feel hot without a fever? Yes, ear infections can cause a dog’s ears to feel hot to the touch without the presence of a systemic fever.

3. How can I tell the difference between a hot ear due to fever and a hot ear due to infection? Look for other symptoms such as red eyes, lethargy, loss of appetite, and changes in behavior. If only the ears are affected with discharge or odor, it’s more likely an ear infection.

4. Is it okay to use a human forehead thermometer on my dog? No, forehead thermometers are unreliable due to the presence of hair, and they do not accurately measure temperature in dogs.

5. Why is it important to use a rectal thermometer for dogs? Rectal thermometers provide the most accurate measurement of a dog’s core body temperature.

6. What should I do if my dog has a fever of 103.5°F? Consult a veterinarian immediately. A fever of 103.5°F requires immediate medical attention.

7. Can I give my dog human medication like paracetamol for a fever? No, many human painkillers, including paracetamol, are toxic to dogs and should not be administered without veterinary guidance.

8. Can a dog’s fever go away on its own? Some fevers can resolve on their own, but it’s always best to seek veterinary advice, especially if the fever is high or persistent.

9. What are some signs that my dog is unwell besides a fever? Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, behavioral changes, changes in urination, changes in weight, and issues with skin or coat.

10. Why is my dog shivering when their ears are hot? Shivering is a common symptom of fever as the body attempts to regulate temperature.

11. What if I can’t take my dog’s temperature at home? Contact your veterinarian. They can properly measure your dog’s temperature and treat any underlying cause.

12. What is the average temperature of a dog’s ear? The average ear temperature is usually just slightly higher than oral but can fluctuate. It’s not as reliable as rectal temp.

13. What kind of medications will my vet prescribe for a fever? Vets commonly prescribe anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, pain medications, and supportive care, including fluids if needed.

14. What is Parvo, and how does it relate to fever? Parvo is a serious viral infection that often includes a high fever along with symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea (sometimes bloody).

15. How can I prevent my dog from getting a fever? Regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring your dog receives the necessary vaccinations can help prevent infections that lead to fever.

Conclusion

While feeling a dog’s ears can offer a preliminary indication of potential fever, it’s not the most accurate method. It’s critical to observe your dog for other symptoms and take a rectal temperature using a digital thermometer to confirm if a fever is present. Understanding that hot ears can be caused by both systemic fever and localized ear infections can help you provide the best care for your canine companion. When in doubt, always seek advice from your veterinarian.