Learn how to read your dog for signs of a medical problem and how to make decisions about when to get more advanced medical help if needed. Using one finger, press down firmly until the gums turn white under your finger and release. You are looking for the time it took for the color to return. Also, note the color of your dogs gums and mouth. Dogs gum color can vary from black, pink, reddish brown or any combination of colors.
Temperature is taken rectally with an adult rectal thermometer.
You should hold it in place for 1 to 2 minutes. If you get a temperature of less than 100 degrees F, re-take the temperature to make sure the thermometer was in place long enough. The pulse rate and respiration rate will vary from dog to dog, and will also vary if the dog is at rest or working. So, it is a good idea to get normal values for both. It is a life threatening condition that is reversible if treated in time.