What Is a Dog Cooling Mat?
Want to keep your dog cool on a hot summer day, after exercising outside, or at sporting competitions? Dog cooling mats are designed to cool down pets and keep them comfortable on warm days. Some dog cooling mats are made with non-toxic gel that automatically cools down, while others need to be refrigerated for use. You'll also find a range of sizes of dog cooling mats, and even some beds that have cooling gel in them. These cooling surfaces keep dogs from overheating and are recommended for dogs of all ages, sizes, and coat lengths.
In extreme heat, cooling pads are good to have on-hand, especially if your power or AC goes out. Cooling pads should be used alongside other cooling methods, such as constant access to fresh water and keeping your dogs in a cool place indoors. Always monitor your dog for signs of heatstroke and call your vet if you notice your dog is overheating.
You can find both high-tech and affordable cooling mats for your dog. It's best to buy one in advance because they tend to sell out in the hottest summer months.
Absolutely. If you buy a dog cooling mat from this list or dedicated pet mats, they are safe for dog and human use. Automatic cooling mats are made with non-toxic gel. However, if your dog does ingest the gel, keep an eye on them for any abnormal reaction and contact your vet as a precaution.
Yes, all the mats on our list have great customer reviews. Dog owners say they cool down their pets and keep them safe and comfortable.
Some cooling mats have ice inserts and you need to freeze or refrigerate them before use. However, others have gel inserts that are automatic. Automatic cooling mats typically stay cool for up to three hours and need around 20 minutes to recharge.
Some dog cooling mats have a gel inside, while others have water or memory foam.
If a cooling mat is pressure-activated, it will start working as soon as your pet lays down on it. Most mats can cool for 4 or more hours and recharge automatically. A quality cooling mat will last years. Some cooling mats require you to put them in the freezer. If this is the case, the mat can be used for a couple of hours and will need to re-freeze in the freezer after each use.
We like the The Green Pet Shop Self-Cooling Dog Pad as the best dog cooling mat. This gel mat is super easy to use and requires no water, electricity, or refrigeration. It recharges automatically in 15-20 minutes, so you don't need to do any additional work.
Dog cooling mats and pads can be bought most places where set supplies are sold. For quick and easy shopping, we've compiled the best dog cooling mats on Amazon and Chewy.