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Why is my dog hot to the touch but still eating and playing?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 7 lbs

My dog feels very hot to the touch. Around his head, the back of his neck and side of his body. His ears seem like they may be a lil warm to. He's eating and drinking normally and is pretty playful as usual. What could be causing him to feel so hot?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2017

Hi. This is hard to say. But you can determine if he has a fever by checking it with a digital thermometer rectally, then discard the thermometer. Normal temp is 99-102.5. At rest. Get him checked out if he has a true fever. Good luck

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 1st, 2019

    Rocky may have a fever. If he's really hot to touch, I would a thermometer to take his temperature rectally (in his anus). A dog's normal temperature is between 101-102.5F. If his temperature is above 103F, take him into a vet now.

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