What is a dog's normal body temperature and how do I know if it has a fever?

A dog’s normal body temperature lies between 38-39°C. It is normal for the body temperature to be slightly higher if the dog has just been exercising or is stressed. The best way to take a dog’s temperature is by using a rectal thermometer (ear thermometers are not accurate and you can not tell if a dog has a fever by touching its nose). Use a small amount of Vaseline on the thermometer as lubricant to minimise discomfort when taking its temperature.

It is best practice to take your dog’s temperature a few times when it is healthy; by doing so you know what temperature is normal for your dog.