Dog Low Temperature Causes

The normal temperature of a dog is 38-39 degrees Celsius. When a dog's temperature remains below normal levels for an extended period, it indicates that the dog is experiencing hypothermia. There are many causes of hypothermia, such as prolonged exposure to cold environments, hunger, inability to regulate body temperature, and diseases. A dog with hypothermia is in a dangerous situation, and the owner needs to immediately take insulation measures to help the dog recover its body temperature as soon as possible.

Prolonged exposure to cold environments

Different breeds of dogs have different tolerances for low temperatures. When a dog is exposed to a very low ambient temperature, if the dog is not tolerant of cold or does not have enough fur to keep warm, its body temperature will rapidly decrease. In this case, the owner can dress the dog in a cotton coat and take the dog to a warmer place to promote temperature recovery.

Hypoglycemia caused by hunger

When a dog is deprived of food for a long time and enters a state of extreme hunger, it can develop hypoglycemia or even shock. At this time, the dog's body temperature will drop, accompanied by symptoms such as seizures, vomiting, accelerated heartbeat, slowed breathing, and so on. The owner needs to administer a suitable amount of glucose water and high-energy food to the dog and take warming measures to help the dog recover.

Inability to regulate body temperature

This condition mostly occurs in young and old dogs. Because the dog's temperature regulation center has not fully developed, it is prone to repeated bouts of low and high temperatures. If there are no other clinical symptoms, close observation is sufficient. In addition, as dogs reach the later stages of life, organs gradually fail, physical abilities decline, and temperature regulation capabilities are impaired, making it easier for them to develop hypothermic symptoms.

Disease causes

Hypothermia symptoms can be caused by diseases such as hypothyroidism. In addition, if a dog is infected with viruses such as parvovirus, distemper virus, or contracts acute enteritis, it can experience severe diarrhea, leading to dehydration. When dehydration occurs, the temperature of the dog's limbs, tail, and other areas will drop, resulting in hypothermia. Owners need to promptly administer fluid replacement measures to dogs.