The Best Dog Thermometers: Reviewed

Written by Judie Sigdel
Updated: December 1, 2022
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Best forProduct
Best Dog ThermometeriProven Pet Waterproof Pet Thermometer
Best Digital Dog ThermometerPet-Temp Instant Pet Ear Thermometer
Best Infrared Dog ThermometerMINDPET-MED Fast Clinical Pet Thermometer
Best For Large Dogs & Farm Animalsaurynns Pet Thermometer

Monitoring your dog’s health is an important part of your job as a pet owner. One way to make sure they are healthy is checking their temperature, especially if they are showing other signs of illness. If you’re here to find the answer to the question, “What is the best dog thermometer?” we can help you.

We’ve reviewed the top thermometers for dogs, including waterproof, infrared, digital, and non-invasive models for small dogs or large dogs, we have you covered. We invite you to read on to discover our top picks and our selection for the best overall dog thermometer.

  1. iProven Pet Waterproof Pet Thermometer
    • Comfortable for your pet with a soft, flexible tip
    • Accurate reading in only 20 seconds
    • Easy to clean
    • Waterproof
    • 100-day money-back guarantee
    Check Amazon
  2. Pet-Temp Instant Pet Ear Thermometer
    • Quick and efficient thermometer can read your pet’s temperature in just one second.
    • Used and recommended by veterinarians.
    • Helps you monitor your furry friend’s temperature, so you can keep her healthy.
    • A much easier alternative to rectal thermometers.


    Check Chewy
  3. MINDPET-MED Fast Clinical Pet Thermometer
    • Fast reading in 1 second without contacting to pets, close to ear,Measuring distance needs to be 3-5cm, 32 memories recall help you monitor pet body temperature better.
    • High contrast backlight for clearly reading, Celsius or Fahrenheit switchable
    • Animal friendly, special design for dogs, cats, horses, rabbits and other big ear animals.
    • Auto Beep alarm with a Pre-setting temperature
    • Easy to carry and store, runs on two AAA alkaline batteries, measures 7-inch length with package


    Check Amazon
  4. aurynns Pet Thermometer
    • Fast and accurate digital pet thermometer for all pets
    • Measure temperature orally or anally
    • An alarm will sound if the safe temperature is exceeded
    • Switches off automatically


    Check Amazon

The Top Picks for the Best Dog Thermometer: Ranked and Rated

#1 Best Overall — iProven Pet Thermometer

The iProven Pet Thermometer is our best overall pick. This is a rectal thermometer that will provide you with accurate readings of your dog’s temperature to help you monitor their health and know when additional medical care is required.

The thermometer works quickly to keep your dog from getting too uncomfortable. After only 20 seconds, the digital display will show your dog’s temperature. The flexible tip is another design feature that will prevent your dog from feeling too much discomfort when you check their temperature.

This thermometer is also waterproof. After you check your dog’s temperature, it will be easy to clean and disinfect for the next use. A hard case for storage and keeping the thermometer clean between uses is also included with your purchase.

Some pet parents reported that this thermometer was inaccurate. Others said that it took far too long (40 seconds or longer) to reach an accurate reading.

Pros and Cons of the iProven Pet Thermometer

ProsCons
This rectal thermometer takes an accurate reading within 20 seconds.Some buyers reported that this thermometer was inaccurate.
It features a flexible tip to minimize your dog’s discomfort.Other reviewers said that the thermometer took 40 seconds or more to reach an accurate reading.
This thermometer is waterproof and easy to clean and disinfect.
It includes a hard case for storage and to keep the thermometer clean between uses.
Best Dog Thermometer
iProven Pet Waterproof Pet Thermometer
  • Comfortable for your pet with a soft, flexible tip
  • Accurate reading in only 20 seconds
  • Easy to clean
  • Waterproof
  • 100-day money-back guarantee
Check Amazon

2. Best Digital Dog Thermometer: Pet-Temp Instant Ear Thermometer

The Pet-Temp Instant Ear Thermometeroffers provides nearly instant temperature readings to make the process as hassle-free as possible for both you and your dog.

Simply place the probe in your dog’s ear, press the button, and wait a second. Your dog’s temperature will appear on the easy-to-read display on the thermometer.

Some possible uses for this thermometer include monitoring your pregnant dog to determine when she’ll go into labor, making sure your dog doesn’t develop a fever after surgery or vaccination or checking for a fever accompanying signs of illness.

The biggest customer complaint is that the temperature readings were inconsistent and unreliable.

Pros and Cons of the Pet-Temp Instant Ear Thermometer

ProsCons
This digital dog thermometer is easy to use and provides a quick reading.Readings may be inconsistent and/or unreliable.
Just place the probe in your dog’s ear and press the button. In a second, your dog’s temperature will appear on the digital display.
Best Digital Dog Thermometer
Pet-Temp Instant Pet Ear Thermometer
  • Quick and efficient thermometer can read your pet’s temperature in just one second.
  • Used and recommended by veterinarians.
  • Helps you monitor your furry friend’s temperature, so you can keep her healthy.
  • A much easier alternative to rectal thermometers.


Check Chewy

3. Best Infrared Dog Thermometer: MINDPET-MED Clinical Pet Thermometer

The MINDPET-MED Clinical Pet Thermometer is a top choice if you’re looking for a no-contact infrared thermometer. This model offers quick, 1-second readings. You simply need to hold it about 3 to 5 centimeters away from your dog’s ears; it doesn’t have to actually touch their ear or skin.

The thermometer’s memory will save 32 temperature readings to help you monitor your pet’s health and compare their temperature at different times. You can switch between Fahrenheit or Celsius, depending on your preference.

Another feature we think you’ll like is the backlight. This makes it much easier to clearly read your dog’s temperature and identify if there is anything you need to be concerned about. To operate the thermometer, you’ll just need two AAA batteries.

The main complaint from verified users is that they received inaccurate readings.

Pros and Cons of the MINDPET-MED Clinical Pet Thermometer

ProsCons
This thermometer requires zero contact with your dog.Some buyers reported that the thermometer provided inaccurate readings.
Simply hold it 3 to 5 centimeters away from your dog’s ear for 1 second to read their temperature.
This infrared thermometer stores 32 temperature readings so you can monitor your pet’s health over time.
You can select Fahrenheit or Celsius.
The thermometer’s backlight makes it easier to read your dog’s temperature.
It runs on two AAA batteries.
Best Infrared Dog Thermometer
MINDPET-MED Fast Clinical Pet Thermometer
  • Fast reading in 1 second without contacting to pets, close to ear,Measuring distance needs to be 3-5cm, 32 memories recall help you monitor pet body temperature better.
  • High contrast backlight for clearly reading, Celsius or Fahrenheit switchable
  • Animal friendly, special design for dogs, cats, horses, rabbits and other big ear animals.
  • Auto Beep alarm with a Pre-setting temperature
  • Easy to carry and store, runs on two AAA alkaline batteries, measures 7-inch length with package


Check Amazon

4. Best For Large Dogs and Farm Animals: aurynns Pet Dog & Horse Thermometer

While our review is focused on dogs, a practical thermometer that can read temperatures of other animals, like the aurynns Pet Dog & Horse Thermometer, may be what you’re looking for. This rectal thermometer that will take readings for dogs, cats, horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, and fowl.

The thermometer only reads in Fahrenheit, but gives accurate readings within 20 seconds on an easy-to-read LCD display, which it will store in its memory. An alarm beeps when animal’s temperature is above normal, and will automatically switch off in time. The entire thermometer is 9 inches in length, and sports a round handle that’s easy to grip.

It must be washed after each reading with soap and water, and you should avoid totally submersing it in water. A battery is included with the purchase.

This thermometer would not be recommended for small dogs or puppies, as it is meant for larger animals.

Some purchasers said that the device was too large, while others indicated that it took too long to provide a reading.

Pros and Cons of the aurynns Pet Dog & Horse Thermometer

ProsCons
You can use this thermometer to read the temperature of dogs, cats, horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, and fowl.You cannot submerge the thermometer in water.
This thermometer gives accurate readings within 20 seconds.It’s not recommended for small dogs or puppies.
It features an easy-to-read LCD display and stores the last reading in its memory.The device may be too large for some animals.
If the animal’s temperature is above normal, an alarm will beep, and will switch off automatically in time.It may take too long to provide a reading.
The device is 9 inches long and features a round, easy-grip handle.
You must wash the device thoroughly in soap and water after each use.
A LR 41 battery is included.
Best For Large Dogs & Farm Animals
aurynns Pet Thermometer
  • Fast and accurate digital pet thermometer for all pets
  • Measure temperature orally or anally
  • An alarm will sound if the safe temperature is exceeded
  • Switches off automatically


Check Amazon

The Different Types of Dog Thermometers: Pros and Cons Compared

Rectal Thermometers

ProsCons
Rectal thermometers are highly accurate.Dogs don’t like having their temperature taken this way.
They’re inexpensive.They can be challenging to use.
Some have a flexible tip.

Digital Ear Thermometers

ProsCons
Digital ear thermometers are pretty accurate most of the time.They won’t provide accurate readings for dogs with ear infections.
They’re non-invasive.Some dogs still don’t like digital ear thermometers.
Many offer nearly instant readings.

Infrared/No-Contact Thermometers

ProsCons
These thermometers are non-invasive.They’re not always very accurate.
Dogs may not object to having their temperature checked this way.They’re more expensive.

How Do I Choose the Best Thermometer for My Dog?

When you’re looking for the best overall thermometer for your dog, there are a few different considerations to keep in mind. Weighing these considerations and deciding what is most important to you before shopping will help ensure that you are happy with the product you decide to purchase.

Type

The first thing you need to do is to decide which type of thermometer you’d prefer. The three main types, as shared above, are rectal thermometers, digital ear thermometers, and infrared/no-contact thermometers. The right type for you will largely depend on your comfort level with taking your dog’s temperature and their willingness to cooperate with you. Rectal thermometers can deliver the most accurate temperature readings, but infrared/no contact and ear thermometers are non-invasive options that your dog may prefer.

You may also want to consider your dog’s size when deciding which thermometer to buy, as some may be better suited for small dogs than others.

Accuracy

Next, consider the accuracy of each thermometer you are considering. As we’ve shared, rectal thermometers are generally the most accurate. However, there will be some variability between different brands as well, so be sure to look for a high-quality product from a trusted company.

Additional Features

As you compare the various dog thermometers out there, you’ll notice that some offer different features that can make them easier to use or a better choice for your specific needs. Some of these features you may want to be on the lookout for include: digital displays, flexible tips (for rectal thermometers), instant or very quick readings, the ability to save your dog’s temperature history/the most recent readings, resistant against breaking, the ability to use disposable cover, and whether the thermometer is waterproof and easy to clean.

Budget

Finally, don’t forget to also keep your budget in mind as you shop. You should always look for a good and accurate thermometer for your dog, but you also don’t want to choose one that you really can’t afford or that costs more than you were looking to spend.

Taking Your Dog’s Temperature

So what are some indications that your dog may have a fever? If your dog’s nose feels warm or dry, if its ears are warm, or if your dog seems lethargic, is panting excessively, or is coughing, those are some indicators that it’s temperature may be up.  If your dog’s temperature reading is lower than 99.5 or higher than 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, it has a fever and it’s advisable to contact your veterinarian for advice, or take your dog to the vet to be seen. Do not use human medications on your pet.

When taking it’s temperature, it’s best to stay calm, as your dog will feed off whatever emotion it senses from you. Make sure that you have read the instructions on how to use the thermometer before attempting to take your pet’s temperature–first time’s a charm. If needed, wash the thermometer before and after use. And note that dog thermometers won’t take a temperature by mouth.

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Best forProduct
Best Dog ThermometeriProven Pet Waterproof Pet Thermometer
Best Digital Dog ThermometerPet-Temp Instant Pet Ear Thermometer
Best Infrared Dog ThermometerMINDPET-MED Fast Clinical Pet Thermometer
Best For Large Dogs & Farm Animalsaurynns Pet Thermometer
About the Author

My passion is writing about animals. I’ve published articles on pet parrots, birds, and small animal care and reviews about pet food and products. I have an ever-evolving aviary and menagerie that has included cockatiels, parakeets, conures, European starlings, a chukar partridge, guinea pigs, dogs, and cats. I’m also the author of Faith without Labels: a Guide to Eclectic Spirituality.

The Best Dog Thermometers: Reviewed FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is a normal temperature for a dog?

The normal temperature for a dog is between 101- and 102.5-degrees Fahrenheit.

How do you take a dog’s temperature?

The steps to take your dog’s temperature will vary based on the type of thermometer you are using.

To take a temperature using a rectal thermometer, start by lubricating the probe using petroleum jelly. Then, while your dog is being held or distracted by someone else, slowly push the thermometer into the rectum. For small dogs, you should push it in about one inch. And for larger dogs, you should aim to push it in between two and three inches. Keep your dog distracted and don’t continue pushing if their muscles feel too tight, as it could lead to an injury or feel painful. Leave the thermometer inserted for about two minutes, then remove it to read their temperature.

To use a digital ear thermometer, start by replacing the probe cover, and then put the thermometer in their horizontal ear canal. Try to keep the thermometer’s base at about a 90-degree angle. For most dogs, this shouldn’t feel too invasive, and they likely won’t struggle or move around. However, if your dog tries to pull their head and ear away, it could be an indication that they have an ear infection. Plus, the reading you get likely won’t be accurate if they have an ear infection.

What should you do if your dog has a fever?

If you think your dog has a fever, start by confirming and rechecking their temperature. This will make sure that the temperature reading you got was accurate. If your dog’s temperature is higher than 104 degrees Fahrenheit or lower than 99 degrees Fahrenheit, it is considered in the emergency range, and you should bring your them to the vet right away.

If their temperature is just a little high or a little low, you should be able to manage it at home. For dogs who have a slight fever, you can try to cool them down by placing cool and damp cloths on their paws. You should also provide cool water to drink and may want to offer some ice chips.

If your pup’s temperature is a bit low, try to warm them up using towels or blankets. Should your dog’s temperature remain abnormal for more than a day, contact your veterinarian and see if they’d like you to bring them in for a checkup.

What are common causes for fevers in dogs?

Just as humans can have a fever for a number of reasons, the same is true for dogs. Below are some of the possible reasons why your dog has a fever:
• Viral or bacterial infection
• Urinary tract infection
• Infection
• Respiratory infection
• Heat stroke
• Pancreatitis
• Cancer
• Tick-borne illness
• Recent vaccination

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.