15 Best Dog Thermometers of 2023: Rectal, In-ear, Non-Touch, Infrared

by Patricia Jackson

Just like humans, pets can get sick. However, they cannot tell you what is wrong. As a pet parent, the obvious thing to do at such a time is to call your vet. But it would help if you try to find out the problem in the meantime.

A dog thermometer is a handy tool for this as it enables you to measure your pooch's temperature. Comparing the results with the normal dog temperature will show if your pet is okay or has a fever. With that in mind, here are the best dog thermometers in the market.

Editor's Recommendation: Top Dog Thermometers

7 Best Dog Thermometers: Review

IMAGE PRODUCT FEATURES
Enji Prime Oral Thermometer

1. Enji Prime Oral Thermometer (Best Overall)

  • Quick 10 to 30-second temperature reading
  • Accurate to within +/- 0.1ºC & 0.2ºF
  • Waterproof
White Coat Oral Thermometer

2. White Coat Oral Thermometer (Best Budget)

  • Economical
  • Includes 30 probe covers
  • Fever alarm
ADC 422

3. ADC 422 (Best for Veterinary Applications)

  • Dual scales with wide ranges
  • Meets accuracy requirements under ASTM E1112
  • Lanyard attachment for enhanced removal
Hurinan Rectal Thermometer

4. Hurinan Rectal Thermometer (Best Ergonomic)

  • Easy to hold
  • Long, small-diameter probe
  • Large, easy-to-read 4-digit LCD
Femometer Oral Thermometer

5. Femometer Oral Thermometer (Best Multipurpose)

  • Works rectally, orally & in the armpit
  • Memory function
  • Power off function
Konquest KDT-1201

6. Konquest KDT-1201 (Best Quick-Reading)

  • Short 10-second reading time
  • Soft, flexible & comfortable tip
  • Waterproof
Aurynns Veterinary Thermometer

7. Aurynns Veterinary Thermometer (Best Power Efficient)

  • Up to 5000 measurement readouts
  • Includes a handy strip
  • Large LCD screen

1. Best Overall: Enji Prime Oral Thermometer

Enji Prime Oral Thermometer
Enji Prime Oral Thermometer
  • Type: Rectal
  • Celsius or Fahrenheit: Both
  • Accuracy: +/- 0.1ºC, 0.2ºF
  • Weight: 0.63 oz.

Enji Prime's piece is the best overall and best rectal thermometer for dogs because it is quick, accurate, and waterproof. The tool can give temperature readings in as little as 10 - 30 seconds, after which it gives a soft beep to alert you of the results on the screen.

You can switch between ºC and ºF, depending on your preference. In either setting, the thermometer is highly accurate to within +/- 0.1ºC and 0.2ºF.

After use, the thermometer is easy to clean due to its waterproof exterior. As such, you can wash it with warm soapy water, then wipe it and store it in the included sanitary storage case. A better option is to use probe covers, which help to prevent contamination.

The only disadvantage is that you get only five probe covers. However, these are readily available and you can get a 100-pack set for a reasonable price.

Pros:

  • Quick 10 to 30-second temperature reading
  • Accurate to within +/- 0.1ºC and 0.2ºF
  • Waterproof
  • Includes a sanitary storage case

Cons:

  • Few probe covers

2. Best Budget: White Coat Oral Thermometer

White Coat Oral Thermometer
White Coat Oral Thermometer
  • Type: Rectal
  • Celsius or Fahrenheit: Both

This oral thermometer is very reasonably priced as it includes 30 probe covers to maintain maximum hygiene. These are elastic and move with the flexible probe tip for comfortable testing of your pet or child.

Aside from that, the unit has a fever alarm that rings whenever the temperature reading exceeds 100ºF. You also get a memory function that recalls the last reading for easy comparison over time.

The thermometer is backed by a 1-year satisfaction guarantee, which means a risk-free purchase. However, the accuracy details are not provided, so you cannot be sure what you are working with.

Pros:

  • Economical
  • Includes 30 probe covers
  • Fever alarm
  • Recalls the last reading
  • 1-year satisfaction guarantee

Cons:

  • No accuracy details

3. Best for Veterinary Applications: ADC 422

ADC 422
ADC 422
  • Type: Rectal
  • Celsius or Fahrenheit: Both
  • Accuracy: +/- 0.1ºC, 0.2ºF
  • Weight: 0.8 oz.

If you are looking for a dog thermometer for veterinary applications, ADC's 422 is best suited for this job in our dog thermometer review. It has dual scales wide ranges of between 90°F - 111.9°F and 32.0°C - 43.9°C.

Each of these meets the accuracy requirements for intermittent thermometers under ASTM E1112. This assures you of getting reliable results to within +/- 0.1ºC or 0.2ºF.

Apart from that, the thermometer features a specially-designed housing with a lanyard attachment for enhanced removal. A long-lasting 1.55V coin battery provides the required power and it is enough to take up to 1,500 measurements.

On the downside, the unit is very costly but is worth the money.

Pros:

  • Dual scales with wide ranges
  • Meets accuracy requirements under ASTM E1112
  • Lanyard attachment for enhanced removal
  • Long-lasting 1.55V coin battery

Cons:

  • Costly

4. Best Ergonomic: Hurinan Rectal Thermometer

Hurinan Rectal Thermometer
Hurinan Rectal Thermometer
  • Type: Rectal
  • Celsius or Fahrenheit: Both
  • Accuracy: +/- 0.2ºF

With its ergonomic design, Hurinan rectal thermometer is very easy to hold. On top of this, it adds on a small-diameter 3-inch-long probe for easy temperature measurement on any dog size.

The product is recommended for veterinary use and it has a large, easy-to-read 4-digit LCD. This screen shows the temperature measurement to an accuracy of +/- 0.2ºF.

A status function is built-in to indicate when the battery is low. Once this happens, readings are recorded in memory and closed, then the power saving is turned off after 60 seconds.

After use, you can wipe the thermometer with soapy water or alcohol to disinfect the surfaces. That said, a probe cover is not required, but you may use it to prevent contamination.

However, the tool is quite expensive and it does not come with the required 2AAA batteries.

Pros:

  • Easy to hold
  • Long, small-diameter probe
  • Large, easy-to-read 4-digit LCD
  • Status function

Cons:

  • Quite expensive
  • No batteries

5. Best Multipurpose: Femometer Oral Thermometer

Femometer Oral Thermometer
Femometer Oral Thermometer
  • Type: Rectal
  • Celsius or Fahrenheit: Both
  • Accuracy: +/- 0.1ºC, 0.2ºF
  • Weight: 1.13 oz.

Femometer's oral thermometer is designed for multipurpose use as it works rectally, orally, and in the armpit. That aside, the product features a memory function, which displays the last measured temperature so that you can easily track fevers as they progress.

Also, there is a power-off function that shuts off the thermometer if no action is taken within 10 minutes. This helps to extend the battery life.

On the downside, the tool is not waterproof and you must wipe it with care. Additionally, it has a relatively long reading time of 30 - 60 seconds.

Pros:

  • Works rectally, orally, and in the armpit
  • Memory function
  • Power off function

Cons:

  • Not waterproof
  • Relatively long reading time

6. Best Quick-Reading: Konquest KDT-1201

Konquest KDT-1201
Konquest KDT-1201
  • Type: Rectal
  • Celsius or Fahrenheit: Both
  • Accuracy: +/- 0.1ºC, 0.2ºF

With a reading time of only 10 seconds, the Konquest KDT-1201 delivers fast and precise results so that you can detect fevers as quickly as possible. It has a flexible tip that will stay in place during this period to deliver accurate results.

That said, the tip feels soft in the mouth and is very comfortable to use. This section and the entire thermometer are waterproof for easy and thorough cleaning after use.

A fever alarm with three short beeps is built-in to alert you of your pooch's fever if the temperature exceeds 99.8ºF or 37.8ºC.

The only issue is the battery life and even though the duration is not given, some customers complain of receiving brand new thermometers with a low battery.

Pros:

  • Short 10-second reading time
  • Soft, flexible, and comfortable tip
  • Waterproof
  • Fever alarm

Cons:

  • Short battery life

7. Best Power Efficient: Aurynns Veterinary Thermometer

Aurynns Veterinary Thermometer
Aurynns Veterinary Thermometer
  • Type: Rectal
  • Celsius or Fahrenheit: Both
  • Accuracy: +/- 0.1ºC, 0.2ºF

If you are a parent to multiple dogs, this unit is one of the best pet thermometers due to its long battery life. It can give approximately 5000 measurement readouts with two new AAA batteries, which will ensure you follow up on your dogs' temperature changes.

A handy strip is included in the set, and this helps you to hang the thermometer on your hand in between taking readings. This is more convenient as compared to putting it down.

You also get a large LCD screen for easy reading of the temperature and an alarm to indicate when the reading is on the fever side. However, some customers complain that it takes too long to give a reading.

Pros:

  • Up to 5000 measurement readouts
  • Includes a handy strip
  • Large LCD screen
  • Fever alarm

Cons:

  • Takes too long to give a reading
Other Recommended Dog Thermometers
Other Recommended Dog Thermometers

8. Advanced Monitors PT-300

Advanced Monitors PT-300
Advanced Monitors PT-300

If you are in the market for a dog ear thermometer, we recommend the PT-300 due to its quick reading time. The unit gives accurate results within a second after placing the probe into your dog's ear.

It does so by measuring infrared heat waves emanating from your dog's eardrum. The quick action makes it less annoying for pets as it stays in the ear for a very short time. After use, the probe arm folds for compact storage.

Key Features

  • Quick 1-second reading time.
  • Measures infrared heat waves.
  • Less annoying for pets.
  • Folding probe arm.

9. Mindpet-Med Thermometer

Mindpet-Med Thermometer
Mindpet-Med Thermometer

This thermometer uses a non-contact infrared system to give temperature readings by only placing it close to the ear. As such, it is the best puppy thermometer because your pooch will feel no discomfort.

That said, the unit has three switchable modes, whereby it can be used to measure pet body temperature, room air temperature, and surface temperature. You also get 32 memory slots to recall & track your pet's body heat changes and quick 1-second reading.

Key Features

  • Comfortable non-contact infrared system.
  • Three switchable modes.
  • 32 memory slots.
  • Quick 1-second reading.

10. Kamsay Oral Thermometer

Kamsay Oral Thermometer
Kamsay Oral Thermometer

Kamsay's oral thermometer would come in very handy if you are measuring your pet's temperature in the dark because it has a large green-backlit display. Here, you can easily switch the readings from ºC to ºF and back at the press of a button.

Aside from that, the tool is water-resistant for easy cleaning after use. You also get a soft & flexible tip and auto shut-off to extend the battery life.

Key Features

  • Large backlit display.
  • Easy switching between ºC and ºF.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Auto shut-off.

11. iBaby-Fish Ear Thermometer

IBaby-Fish Ear Thermometer
IBaby-Fish Ear Thermometer

This iBaby-Fish ear thermometer is one of the best dog ear thermometers as it is available with CE and FDA for use in different parts of the world, including the US. It has a probe that goes into the ear canal to capture infrared heat waves.

That said, the probe does not need direct contact and it read in as short as 1 second. The tool's display is backlit with a soft blue light for clear reading in the dark without harming your eyes.

Key Features

  • Available with CE and FDA.
  • Does not need direct ear contact.
  • Quick 1-second reading.
  • Soft blue backlight.

12. Pavia Rectal Temp

Pavia Rectal Temp
Pavia Rectal Temp

With a quick 6-second reading time, Pavia's rectal temp stands out as one of the fastest dog rectal thermometers in our review. The tool is widely used in vet clinics around the world because apart from being quick, it delivers accurate results to within +/- 0.2ºF.

You also get an ergonomic design for easy holding and a small-diameter, 3-inch-long flexible probe for easy reading on any animal. The exterior is rugged for maximum durability.

Key Features

  • Quick 6-second rectal thermometer.
  • Ergonomic design.
  • Small-diameter, 3-inch-long flexible probe.
  • Rugged exterior.

13. Cornell Thermometer

Cornell Thermometer
Cornell Thermometer

If you prefer measuring pet temperature the old fashion way, we recommend Cornell's thermometer . It is a safe non-mercury thermometer with a gold-colored backing for quick and easy ºF scale readouts.

That said, the unit is designed for large dogs and it includes a big, heavy-duty 5-inch ring top for easy holding. A case is included to protect the thermometer from damages when in storage.

Key Features

  • Safe non-mercury thermometer.
  • Gold-colored backing.
  • Big, heavy-duty 5-inch ring top.
  • Includes a storage case.

14. Medrachel EW1006-1

Medrachel EW1006-1
Medrachel EW1006-1

Infrared dog thermometers are usually expensive but the EW1006-1 is different from the rest. It is relatively affordable but has very impressive features. This includes 32 memory slots that help you track temperature changes in your pooch.

An automatic power-off feature shuts down the display after 30 seconds of inactivity to conserve the battery. A fever alarm goes off when the temperature is above 107.96ºF. Overall, these features make the EW1006-1 one of our best digital dog thermometers.

Key Features

  • Relatively affordable for its type.
  • 32 memory slots.
  • Automatic power-off feature.
  • Fever alarm.

15. Aurynns HIPCHEW100

Aurynns HIPCHEW100
Aurynns HIPCHEW100

Aurynns's HIPCHEW100 is characterized by a large round ring top for easy holding, especially when inserting/removing the probe from the anus. Once inserted, the thermometer takes the temperature within 20 seconds and has an alarm to inform you if the reading is too high.

You can get the readings in either ºC or ºF, and the display shuts off automatically after long periods of no use.

Key Features

  • Large, round ring top.
  • 20-second read time.
  • ºC and ºF options.
  • Automatic shut-off.

How to Buy the Best Dog Thermometers

How To Buy The Best Dog Thermometers
How To Buy The Best Dog Thermometers

1. Types of Dog Thermometers

Rectal Thermometers

Rectal thermometers have probes that are inserted in the anus, under the tongue, or in the armpit. However, the best spot is in the anus. They are very accurate but can be intrusive, uncomfortable, and messy.

In-Ear Thermometers

As the name suggests, these thermometers have probes that are fitted into a dog's ear canal. They are also very intrusive but deliver accurate results.

Infrared Thermometers

Within infrared thermometers, there are contact and non-touch types. Contact-type thermometers are mostly used in the ear and they have a probe that goes into the ear canal to measure the infrared heat waves. They cause very little discomfort.

On the other hand, non-touch infrared thermometers do not make any contact with your pooch. Simply bring the probe close enough and point it to your dog. They do not cause any discomfort.

Both options are very fast, but costly as well.

Buying Guide: Infrared thermometers have an edge over rectal and in-ear units. They are faster and less intrusive. However, rectal thermometers are highly accurate, which is why we recommend Enji Prime's oral piece .

2. Accuracy

Accuracy shows how correct the thermometer is and the smaller the deviation, the better. Most units have an accuracy of +/- 0.1ºC or +/-0.2ºF. This gives the best results for an accurate diagnosis.

3. Ease of Use

Ultimately, non-touch infrared dog thermometers are the easiest to use as no contact is required. However, with rectal units, ensure they are easy to hold for easy insertion into your pet's anus. This will also help when pulling out the probe.

With that in mind, we recommend Hurinan's rectal thermometer due to its ergonomic, easy-to-hold design.

4. Quick Results

Each thermometer takes a certain amount of time to read the temperature and display results. The shorter the wait time, the better. Most infrared units have a 1-second wait time, which is very impressive.

For rectal thermometers, this is usually longer, but some can be as low as 10 seconds. This can be found in the Konquest KDT-1201 .

5. Study Design

For manual thermometers, you have to lift them to your eye level while holding the stem, not the bulb. They are a bit difficult to read.

On the other hand, digital thermometers are much easier to use. This is because they display the exact reading, so you won't have to approximate the figure. Additionally, some store measurement readings for studying the temperature changes.

Q&A

1. How Do I Take My Dog's Temperature?

This depends on the thermometer. For rectal units, we recommend using probe covers, especially if they are not waterproof. Lubricate this section using petroleum jelly, then gently insert about an inch to the dog's anus.

For infrared thermometers, bring the probe close enough to your pooch to get an accurate reading. In-ear thermometers should be inserted into your dog's ear canal.

2. What is a Normal Dog Temperature Range?

A range of about 99.5ºF - 102.5ºF. This is equivalent to 37.5ºC - 39.2ºC.

3. What Should I Do If My Dog Has an Elevated Temperature?

Excessively high temperatures can damage your pet's internal organs. If you get a reading above 103ºF, seek emergency dog treatment from your vet.

4. Can I Use a Human Thermometer Instead?

Yes. In fact, some thermometers are designed for humans and pets. Just make sure you label the thermometer "for pets use only" as it might be contaminated, especially if it is a rectal type.

Buy on Etsy

iProven Pet Thermometer (Termometro) for Accurate Fever Detection - Suitable for - Walmart Link

Thermometer for Adults, Oral Thermometer for Fever, Medical Thermometer with Fever Alert, - Walmart Link

AURYNNS Pet Thermometer Dog Thermometer, Fast Digital Veterinary Thermometer, Pet - Walmart Link

ADC Veterinary Thermometer, Dual Scale, Adtemp 422 - Walmart Link

Hzran Cat and Dog Ear Temperature Monitor, 3 in 1 Pet Thermometer, Dog or Cats Ear - Walmart Link

Aurynns Pet Thermometer Dog Thermometer, Fast Digital Veterinary Thermometer, Pet - Walmart Link

AikTryee Aquarium Thermometer Sticker Fish Tank Temperature Sticker Brewing Thermometer - Walmart Link

This iBaby-Fish ear thermometer - Walmart Link

Enji Prime's oral piece - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

iProven Pet Thermometer (Termometro) for Accurate Fever Detection - Suitable for - eBay Link

Thermometer for Adults, Oral Thermometer for Fever, Medical Thermometer with Fever Alert, - eBay Link

AURYNNS Pet Thermometer Dog Thermometer, Fast Digital Veterinary Thermometer, Pet - eBay Link

ADC Veterinary Thermometer, Dual Scale, Adtemp 422 - eBay Link

Hzran Cat and Dog Ear Temperature Monitor, 3 in 1 Pet Thermometer, Dog or Cats Ear - eBay Link

Aurynns Pet Thermometer Dog Thermometer, Fast Digital Veterinary Thermometer, Pet - eBay Link

AikTryee Aquarium Thermometer Sticker Fish Tank Temperature Sticker Brewing Thermometer - eBay Link

This iBaby-Fish ear thermometer - eBay Link

Enji Prime's oral piece - eBay Link

Conclusion

Dog thermometers are essential for tracking your pooch's health temperature-wise, and we recommend Enji Prime's unit as the best of the best. This is due to its quick 10 to 30-second reading time, high accuracy and waterproof design.

That said, ADC's 422 is the best dog thermometer for veterinary use as it has wide-scale dual ranges with high accuracy that meets requirements under ASTM E1112.

When it comes to ease of use, Hurinan rectal thermometer features an ergonomic design for easy holding. Additionally, it has a small-diameter 3-inch-long probe for easy measurement in any pooch size.

About Patricia Jackson

Patricia just simply loves pets.
When she was eight years old, her parents got her a beautiful Maine Coon as a gift; and later an affectionate Husky.
Since then, she has raised them as her children; done minor first aid, taken in strays, administered antibiotics, bottle fed them when sick, and even midwifing.
Pat received her bachelor's degree in computer science at Univercity of Califronia Davis. She really hopes to transofrm her programming skills into something that really helpful for all pets someday. For now, lets just do that through writing.

Thoughts on "15 Best Dog Thermometers of 2023: Rectal, In-ear, Non-Touch, Infrared"