Use a digital rectal thermometer made for pets or people
Apply a small amount of lubricant to the thermometer tip
Have someone gently hold your dog still
Lift the tail and insert the thermometer about 1 inch into the rectum for small dogs or about 2 inches for larger dogs
Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps
Remove it and read the temperature
Clean the thermometer with soap and water or alcohol after use
Normal dog temperature is usually about 101 to 102.5 F
Contact a veterinarian if the temperature is above 103 F or below 99 F