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10 Best Thermometers for Dogs

Breeding Business is passionate about all sorts of domesticated pets. They have written dozens of articles across the web.
Published on
Wednesday 30 August 2017
Last updated on
Tuesday 9 May 2023
Best Dog Thermometers
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Your dog is a valued member of your family. As such, you diligently monitor their health every day, and you know when something is wrong. Part of monitoring your pet’s health is checking their temperature. But, the only way to really know your dog’s temperature is by keeping a dog thermometer in your dog’s first aid kit.

The best thermometers for dogs are easy to clean, sturdy, and accurate. But which thermometers on the market meet these requirements? Read on with us today to find out about our top 10 picks for the best thermometers for dogs!

10 Best Dog Thermometers

Our top 10 best thermometers for dogs are cost-effective, vary in use, and offer rapid results. As such, our top pick on our list can be found below.

Our Top Pick – ADC Veterinary Thermometer

  • Used by veterinary technicians
  • Highly accurate and rapid results
  • Long battery life, works for up to 1,500 measurements
Product NameBest FeatureRating
ADC Veterinary ThermometerHighly accurate and rapid results5.0
iProven Pet ThermometerSoft and flexible tip for comfort4.9
Pet-Temp Instant Pet Ear ThermometerAccurate and rapid results4.9
AURYNNS Pet ThermometerRectal and oral use, large breeds4.7
Animal Electronic ThermometerAccurate rectal and oral readings4.6
Aurynns Pet Dog ThermometerAccurate rectal and oral readings4.5
PetMedics Non-Contact Digital Pet ThermometerExternal use only, memory recall4.5
MINDPET-MED Fast Clinical Pet ThermometerExternal use only, memory recall4.4
MEETI Cat and Dog Ear Temperature MonitorExternal use only, lightweight4.4
DWSFADA Waterproof Digital ThermometerSoft and flexible tip for comfort3.0
10 Best Thermometers for Dogs

1. ADC Veterinary Thermometer

ADC’s Adtemp 422 is a thermometer made for veterinary use. This thermometer is regarded as one of the most accurate on the market. It meets the accuracy requirements for intermittent thermometers under ASTM E1112. In addition, this unit comes with a replaceable coin-type battery, ensuring use for up to 1,500 measurements. This thermometer is also very quick, offering results as rapidly as 10 seconds.

When buying from Amazon, there are some issues with products not arriving in full. Some customers have reported receiving the thermometer cover without the actual thermometer. As well as this, others suggest that this thermometer may be too large for small dog breeds.

Pros

  • For rectal use
  • Accurate readings
  • Replaceable coin-type battery
  • Quick results

Cons

  • Some issues with product not arriving in full
  • A larger size may be unsuitable for small dogs

2. iProven Pet Thermometer

iProven Pet Thermometer DT-K117Y is convenient and comfortable. It features a flexible tip to ensure that measuring your pet’s temperature is as unintrusive as possible. And, as this thermometer takes just 20 seconds to give results, the process is made faster and smoother for your furry friend. This thermometer is also waterproof and easy to clean, making it ideal for regular use – and furthermore, protecting your pet’s health. This product also comes with a 100-day money-back guarantee.

The most common critical reviews discuss the accuracy and alarm features of the product. Some pet parents find that the beep is not loud enough to signal when the thermometer is done taking the temperature of their pet. Others state that the thermometer does not always provide accurate readings – reading the reviews, you’ll find that some thermometers are off the mark by 2 degrees.

Pros

  • Flexible tip for comfort
  • Results in 20 seconds
  • Waterproof for easy cleaning
  • 100-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Some units may have an inaudible beep
  • Occasional inaccurate readings

3. Pet-Temp Instant Pet Ear Thermometer

Pet-Temp Instant Pet Ear Thermometer offers readings in just one second. This alleviates the stress associated with taking your furry friend’s temperature. And, because it’s designed to read temperatures from the ear, you don’t need to worry about the stress of taking a rectal temperature! Most positive reviews rave about the accuracy of this thermometer as well as its speediness.

Unlike other thermometers on our list, Pet-Temp’s product utilizes a coin battery with a lifespan of 5 years. To get a new battery, you must send it back to the manufacturer. This is because the product requires recalibration with a new battery. In addition, the beep feature for this dog thermometer cannot be disabled. This may make it stressful for dogs who are sensitive to sound.

Pros

  • Suitable for use in the ear
  • Speedy readings
  • Accurate readings

Cons

  • Critical reviews state that the product often doesn’t work
  • The thermometer needs to be sent back for a battery replacement

4. AURYNNS Pet Thermometer

AURYNNS Pet Thermometer is a reliable and pet-safe thermometer. If the temperature is steady, you can expect a reading within 6 seconds, according to the Amazon listing. This unit will also beep when the reading is ready, making the process more efficient for you and your pet. Additionally, this may be one of the more accurate thermometers on the market, offering an accuracy of +/-1℃ between 35.00℃ and 39.00℃.

The main critical reviews state that the thermometer does not provide results within 6 seconds as described on Amazon – rather, it can take 25-40 seconds, as per the instructions. This may also make it too slow for veterinary medicine. Also, this product is not waterproof, as the instructions state not to submerge it into any liquid.

Pros

  • Accurate to +/-1℃
  • Audible beep when reading is complete

Cons

  • Results within 25-40 seconds
  • Not waterproof

5. Animal Electronic Thermometer

Hurinan Vet Thermometer is pet-safe, easy to use, and designed to reduce stress for clinicians and patients. With its smooth and sturdy exterior, the unit is easily cleaned with soap or alcohol. Unlike some other thermometers on our list, this product is suitable for use both rectally and orally. This product is well-regarded for being reliable and easy to use amongst pet parents.

However, two of the main critical reviews include mentions of battery and accuracy issues. Some customers note that batteries leak or begin smoking when inserted into the product. Others find that the product will not work regardless of what batteries are used. Additionally, others mention that the time it takes to get a reading can range from 40 seconds to a minute.

Pros

  • Easy to clean
  • Safe for use rectally and orally
  • Most units give a fast reading

Cons

  • No batteries with the product
  • Occasional battery safety issues
  • Some issues with the length of time to get a reading

6. Aurynns Pet Dog Thermometer

Aurynns Pet Dog Thermometer offers results in 20 seconds. It is suitable for both rectal and oral use. Also, this thermometer is made with a ring-shaped handle for easy use. It’s also one of the more accurate thermometers on our list of dog thermometers, offering an accuracy of +/-0.1℃ between 35.00℃ to 39.00℃.

Some customers note that this thermometer is bulkier than others. This could make it difficult to use for smaller dog breeds. In fact, many reviews state that this thermometer is more suitable for horses and livestock rather than our furry friends. As well as this, others note the time it takes to get an accurate temperature – taking up to a minute in some instances.

Pros

  • Accuracy of +/-0.1℃ between 35.00℃ to 39.00℃.
  • Ring-shaped handle
  • Offers results within 20 seconds
  • Suitable for both oral and rectal use

Cons

  • Large in size, unsuitable for small dog breeds
  • Occasional difficulty with time to get results

7. PetMedics Non-Contact Digital Pet Thermometer

PetMedics Non-Contact Digital Pet Thermometer is a thermometer for external use. This unit works best when aimed at your dog’s belly or inner ear, meaning that you don’t need to insert it into your dog’s rectum or mouth to get results! As well as this, the thermometer includes memory recall so that you can pull up a log of your pet’s temperature readings.

However, the accuracy of this non-contact thermometer is debated in reviews. Because this thermometer is designed for external use, its readings are bound to be less accurate than internal types of thermometers. As such, some customers find that the readings are off by as much as 4 degrees.

Pros

  • For external use – less invasive for your pet
  • Memory recall provides a log of your dog’s temperatures
  • Easy to clean and maintain

Cons

  • Accuracy is not as good as internal thermometers
  • Occasional issues with the unit not working on arrival

8. MINDPET-MED Fast Clinical Pet Thermometer

MINDPET-MED Fast Clinical Pet Thermometer offers readings within one second without needing to make contact with your pooch. This thermometer needs to be used within 3 to 5 cm of your dog’s ear to be most effective. However, it also offers a memory recall feature so that you can look back on your dog’s previous temperatures. Because this dog thermometer works using infrared rays, it’s reasonable for there to be an accuracy within +/-0.4°F~+/-0.6°F.

The main issue with this thermometer is the volume of the audible beep. As the unit takes the temperature of your dog, it lets out several “shrill” beeps. Also, this may make it unsuitable for dogs who are sensitive to sound. And, because it’s designed for external use, it’s expected for the readings to be less accurate – some pet parents find an inaccuracy of up to 4°C.

Pros

  • For external use
  • Memory recall offers a log of your dog’s temperatures
  • Accurate to +/-0.4°F~+/-0.6°F.

Cons

  • The beep volume may be too loud for sensitive dogs
  • Issues with accuracy due to external use

9. MEETI Cat and Dog Ear Temperature Monitor

MEETI Cat and Dog Ear Temperature Monitor is a non-contact thermometer that offers results within two seconds. Additionally, this thermometer is suitable for use in your dog’s ear. According to the Amazon listing, this thermometer offers accuracy of up to ±0.36℉. Additionally, it’s lightweight and easy to clean, making it super convenient.

As with most other external-use thermometers, MEETI’s non-contact thermometer may have some issues with accuracy. As well as this, there are also some issues with the product not working on arrival, and the batteries included arriving dead.

Pros

  • Suitable for use in the ear
  • For external use
  • Accuracy of up to ±0.36℉.

Cons

  • Issues with accuracy due to external use
  • Occasional issues with product not working

10. DWSFADA Waterproof Digital Thermometer for Pets

DWSFADA Waterproof Digital Thermometer is a small unit made for taking rectal temperatures. It’s also designed with a soft and flexible tip for your pet’s comfort. Once the reading is complete, the thermometer sounds a continuous beep. It also comes with a carry case and features a hole for hanging from a hook if necessary.

This thermometer only reads the temperature in Celcius. Also, some customers also report that the thermometer does not turn on when removed from the box for the first time.

Pros

  • For rectal use
  • Soft and flexible tip for comfort
  • The smaller size makes it ideal for small dogs
  • It sounds a continuous beep when the reading is complete

Cons

  • No option for Fahrenheit readings
  • Occasional issues with product not working

Different Types of Dog Thermometers

There are three main types of dog thermometers on the market. These are the ear (aural) type, the rectal type, and the infrared type. Each thermometer also has its own pros and cons. The best type for your dog depends on why you need to use it, your dog’s temperament, and the accuracy you require.

Dog Ear Thermometer

There are both pros and cons to ear thermometers for dogs. For this type to work, you must insert the thermometer into the ear canal – this may involve you needing to tilt your dog’s head a little to access the ear canal. This can be troublesome if your dog has more hair in its ears, and ear infection or wax buildup can make it painful. Also, we note that there is some variation in temperatures depending on your dog’s ear shape. This is because certain breeds have differently-shaped pinna, leading to some inaccuracies when comparing the temperatures of two dogs.

In saying this, the pros greatly outweigh the cons. Most dogs tolerate ear thermometers better than rectal thermometers. They are also often faster at providing results, making the process smoother for you and your pooch. It’s important to use a thermometer designed for your dog, as human ear thermometers do not perform well on our furry friends. This is because the horizontal and vertical ear canals curve downwards in dogs, unlike in the human ear.

Dog Rectal Thermometer

In veterinary medicine, rectal temperature measurements are the gold standard. This is because there is a good agreement between the rectal temperature and core body temperature. Several studies report that rectal temperatures are more accurate than ear temperatures. For example, one study found that ear thermometers underestimated rectal temperatures in 82% of the trials done. Furthermore, only 68.4% of these readings fell within the 0.5°C tolerance. This suggests that rectal thermometers have higher accuracy than ear thermometers.

However, rectal thermometers have some drawbacks. They cannot be used easily on aggressive dogs. They are also unsuitable for dogs with infections or ruptures in the anal mucosa. Additionally, rectal thermometers often take a little longer to provide results. And, of course, many dogs will struggle to accept the process – it is uncomfortable for them, and understandably so.

No Contact/Infrared Thermometer

There is an increasing number of remote ear thermometers on the market for dogs – and these come with their own pros and cons. Also known as tympanic thermometers, these types use infrared rays to measure the temperature of your pet’s ear canal. Because the temperature must be taken from a small distance, there are more issues with accuracy between different models. Also, within wider veterinary literature, the clinically acceptable difference in temperature between thermometers is ±0.5°C. However, even this difference can negatively influence clinical decision-making. According to studies, less than a third of all readings from remote thermometers for dogs measure within the ±0.5°C tolerance. This renders them unsuitable for veterinary use.

However, infrared thermometers do come with plenty of positives, too. First and foremost, these thermometers are the least invasive. So, you do not need to put this type into your dog’s ear or rectum for a general temperature reading. However, because you need to access the ear canal or underbelly, you may still need to touch the dog to take their temperature. So, this can still lead to issues for aggressive animals.

What Features to Look For in a Dog Thermometer

There are several things to look for when buying a new dog thermometer. These include ease of use, durability, accuracy, and cost. Also, you may desire other useful features such as memory recall.

Ease of Use

It’s important for your dog thermometer to be convenient and easy to use. Taking your pup’s temperature shouldn’t be stressful for you or them! So, you may find comfort in thermometers that feature soft and flexible tips if you wish to take an accurate reading. Another feature to look for is quick results – regardless of whether the thermometer is for aural or rectal use, you’ll want quick results to reduce stress for your pooch.

Durability

It’s important that your dog thermometer is durable, especially if you intend to use it often. So, the ideal thermometer will be sturdy and easy to clean to prevent damage. You’ll also need a sturdy rectal thermometer to prevent injury to your pup – the last thing you want is your thermometer breaking or chipping as you take their temperature!

Accuracy

Your dog’s body temperature rests between 38 and 39.2° Celcius (101° and 102.5°F). As such, it’s important that your dog thermometer provides accurate readings. This is especially important for pregnant dams, as drops in body temperature signal that labor is underway. In veterinary medicine, the generally acceptable difference in temperature between thermometers is ±0.5°C. So, it’s best to seek a dog thermometer that falls within this tight range for the best results.

Cost

As much as it’s important to look after your pet, it’s also important to get a dog thermometer that’s reasonably priced. For the more expensive thermometers, always check that the manufacturer accepts returns or refunds in the unlikely event that your unit does not work.

Temperature History

Some thermometers come with memory storage that allows you to look back on your pup’s previous temperatures. This is extremely useful and convenient if you need to closely monitor your dog’s condition. However, many thermometers with this function are infrared, and are likely to be less accurate than standard rectal or aural thermometers.

Dog Thermometer: FAQs

Have any more questions or concerns about dog thermometers? Feel free to check out our Frequently Asked Questions section for more details. If in doubt about your dog’s health, always ask your vet for the advice!

What kind of thermometer is best for dogs?

The rectal thermometer is the gold standard in veterinary medicine. This is because rectal temperatures are regarded as the most accurate when evaluating a dog’s core body temperature.

Can you use a human thermometer on a dog?

In short, a human thermometer can be used on a dog. However, from a health and cleanliness perspective, you should label this thermometer as “pet only” when storing it. And, you can’t just use any thermometer – for example, glass thermometers aren’t safe for our pets, as they are likely to break if your pet struggles. In addition, some dog thermometers are calibrated to best read your dog’s specific body temperature, which will be a little higher than your own, so for greater accuracy it may be best to stick with a dog-specific model.

What is a normal dog temperature?

Your dog’s body temperature sits between 101.0 and 102.5°F (38.3 to 39.2°C). Like humans, some dogs maintain a baseline temperature that is a little higher or lower than this. However, if your pup’s temperature rises above 104°F (40.0°C) or falls below 99°F (37.2°C), you must seek veterinary attention right away.

What thermometer does a vet use?

Most vets will use a rectal thermometer for your dog. This is because rectal thermometers are the most accurate at reflecting your dog’s core body temperature. However, some vets may use ear thermometers alongside rectal ones for comparison.

Are ear thermometers accurate for dogs?

In general, ear thermometers are accurate for dogs, but are less accurate than rectal thermometers. Studies show that ear thermometers underestimate rectal temperatures more often than not. Because of this, it’s important to invest in a quality ear thermometer if you are to use one for your pooch.

How do you put a rectal thermometer in a dog?

To insert the thermometer, start by lubricating the tip with petroleum jelly to make the insertion easier. For small dogs, slide the thermometer in by about 2-3 inches. Make sure to hold on to the end to keep it steady. If you feel any stool in your dog’s rectum, try to angle the thermometer around it to avoid falsely low temperatures.

To conclude, the best thermometers for dogs are rectal thermometers. While these thermometers are the most invasive, they provide the most accurate results.

One comment on “10 Best Thermometers for Dogs”

  1. Pat

    Amazon links not working. I found the product thru search.

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