Dog With a Knee Injury Feels Warm

A dog's normal temperature is higher than ours, so a dog can feel warm to the touch without having a fever. The most reliable check is a rectal thermometer reading; a normal dog's temperature is roughly 101 to 102.5°F (38.3 to 39.2°C). Pain and stress can raise it slightly. Pain and anti-inflammatory medicines don't usually cause a fever, so a real fever is worth mentioning at the appointment because it can mean infection. Never give human fever or pain medicines, which can be dangerous for dogs.

See a vet sooner if she is lethargic, won't eat, is panting heavily at rest, the knee is hot and swollen, or there is an open wound.

See dog knee problems.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.