When the temperature starts to rise, it’s easy for your beloved pup to get overheated. Puppies, older dogs, and certain breeds may have trouble keeping themselves cool in the heat. The best dog cooling mats help your dog stay comfortable and safe when it’s hot outside.
There are many dog cooling mats available on the market today, and choosing the right product for your pet can be difficult. Because of this, we asked our veterinarian, Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, to help us identify the top choices and she selected the Arf Pets Pet Dog Self Cooling Mat as her top pick.
While this was Dr. Whittenburg’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best dog cooling mats, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best cooling at for a variety of specific use cases.
The 5 Best Dog Cooling Mats
- Best Overall – Arf Pets Pet Dog Self-Cooling Mat
- Best Budget – Pawple Dog Cooling Mat
- Best for Large Dogs – The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat’s
- Best Outdoor – Coleman Pet Indoor/Outdoor Cooling Mat
- Best Water Cooling – SCENEREAL Dog Cooling Mat
Cooling Mats Compared
Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating | Dimensions | Material | Cooling Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Arf Pets Pet Dog Self Cooling Mat | 27 x 43 | nylon | gel | |
| Best Budget Buy | Pawple Dog Cooling Mat | 32 x 22 | vinyl, nylon, foam | water | |
| Best Large Dog Cooling Mat | The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat | 43.3 x 27.5 | vinyl, plastic | gel | |
| Best Outdoor Cooling Mat | Coleman Pet Indoor/Outdoor Cooling Mat | 20 x 36 | vinyl, plastic | gel | |
| Best Water Cooling Mat | SCENEREAL Dog Cooling Mat | 35.4 x 23.6 | polyvinyl chloride | water |
*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers
In This Article
Who Should Buy a Dog Cooling Mat
- Owners of short-nosed breeds — Breeds like bulldogs and pugs that have flattened snouts cannot cool themselves as efficiently as other breeds. Consequently, they can easily overheat.1
- Owners of dogs with thick or double coats — Huskies, chow chows, and Akitas are only a few of the dog breeds bred for cold weather that could have trouble staying cool in hot temperatures. Breeds with double coats have two layers of fur and can get too warm as well. Breeds designed to live in cold weather may have a double coat, as do some working dogs like Australian shepherds, golden retrievers, and Labrador retrievers. Double coats have twice the fur, leading to twice the insulation and heat.2
- Owners of a puppy or senior dog — Puppies and senior dogs cannot control their body temperature as well as dogs in their prime. The young and old may need extra help staying comfortable and safe.3
- Owners of an overweight dog or one with a dark coat — Excess weight makes a dog work harder to move, leading to excessive panting. In the heat, that puts them in danger of heat stroke.4 Dogs with dark coats can also get warmer than average, putting them at risk for heart problems too.
- Hot climates — If you live where the temperatures get into the upper digits, your dog might need extra help staying cool, no matter his breed.
Who Should Not Buy a Dog Cooling Mat
- Mild climate — If you live in a mild or moderate climate, you probably don’t need a dog cooling mat unless you own a breed that’s prone to overheating.
- Owners of dogs who are primarily indoors — A dog who lives primarily in an indoor, climate-controlled environment may rarely be in an environment over 75-degrees Fahrenheit.
If a cooling dog mat isn’t right for your dog, you can you may want to check out one of our other guides to find the right bed for your dog, such as our guide to comparing the best waterproof dog beds, our breakdown of the best outdoor dog beds buying guide, our list of elevated dog beds, or our guide to evaluating the best dog couches.
Buying Guide: Research Tips from a Veterinarian
To assist a dog that will be staying outside during hot weather, cooling mats wick heat away or apply a cool substance like water to cool the dog. There are many options available, so it is important to evaluate your pet’s unique situation and needs before you purchase a dog cooling mat. Consider the following when making your decision.
- Cooling method —My favorite (and the most common) type of dog cooling mat is the gel variety. These mats contain a special type of pressure-sensing gel that absorbs your dog’s body heat. Gel mats do not require refrigeration, batteries, or electricity. Water mats cool the dog using cold water. They’re not as convenient as gel mats and are more likely to burst. After the dog uses the pad for some time, it will need to be refilled with cold water, too. Ice cooling mats must be placed in the refrigerator or freezer prior to use. These mats will also need to be re-refrigerated or refrozen after one use. It may be necessary to place a blanket or towel over an ice mat to prevent a mat that’s too cold from damaging your dog’s skin. Care should be taken, especially with small or thin-coated dogs.
- Size — Before purchasing a dog cooling mat, you will need to consider your dog’s size and their typical body position when they lay down. If a cooling mat is sold by the weight of the dog only, it is essential to obtain actual measurements and compare them with your dog. A slim dog may require a much larger pad than the one that correlates with their weight.
- Cleaning requirements — Some dog mats quickly accumulate hair and unpleasant odors, and it is vital to be able to clean them. Mats made of nonporous materials are easier to clean because they can simply be wiped down. These materials do not absorb odors as readily as cloth-like materials. However, mats with a washable cover tend to be the easiest to clean because the cover can be removed and cleaned in the washing machine.
- Durability — Cooling mats are only designed to withstand a dog lying on them. While some brands are more durable than others, cooling mats are not a good option for destructive chewers.
- Additional features — Cooling mats with a nonslip base offer a safe, sturdy surface when on a hard surface, including tile, hardwood, or linoleum floors. The nonslip base keeps the mat in place when your dog is getting comfortable or getting up from the mat. Also, take note of the mat’s cooling time. Most dog cooling mats claim to cool for two to four hours. However, the exact length of time the mat stays cool depends on the ambient temperature, the mat’s material, and the dog.
It’s vital to remember that dogs cannot control their body temperature by sweating the way humans do. Dogs have a very small number of sweat glands located in their footpads, but these are not effective for body cooling. When hot, a dog will pant in order to dissipate heat.
Please note that if your dog is showing signs of hyperthermia (0verheating) or heat stroke, a cooling pad is not sufficient. Heat stroke in dogs is very serious and often fatal. Take your dog to the nearest veterinarian if he has been in the heat and:
- is breathing rapidly or heavily
- has dry, tacky gums or pale gums
- is very tired or disoriented
- has a seizure
Cooling mats can be used in an indoor dog house, back porch, or wherever your dog likes to relax when he gets warm.
How Much Do They Cost?
Between $20 and $75
Most dog cooling mats cost between $35 and $70. The price typically reflects the materials used and the mat’s size. Large gels mats are at the mid to top of the price range, depending on their size. Water mats tend to be less expensive, especially if they’re made for small dogs. The mat’s size plays an important factor in the price—the bigger the mat, the higher the price.
Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily
As a veterinarian, I’ve seen the dangers of overheated dogs. Many of these products were chosen based on the features I know to make a difference in a dog’s comfort and temperature control. High-quality gels that absorb body heat and durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of an active dog both factored into the decision-making process. I also looked for mats that came in several sizes to fit dogs of different breeds. — Dr. Jamie Whittenburg
The Best Dog Cooling Mat Reviews
1. Best Overall – Arf Pets Pet Dog Self Cooling Mat
The Arf Pets Pet Dog Self Cooling Mat caught Dr. Whittenburg’s attention for the combination of cooling materials, quality, and durability. This particular model is ideal for dogs weighing less than 80 pounds. However, it comes in five sizes, recommended by weight (so make sure to get the measurements before committing). The model designed for 50 to 80-pound dogs measures 27 by 43 inches.
The cooling gel center is activated by your dog’s body weight, cooling him as soon as he lies down. It keeps pups cool for three hours and only needs 15 minutes to “recharge.” The nylon exterior and gel interior are both made of non-toxic materials. Should your dog chew or damage it, no toxins will enter your dog’s system. The nylon resists moisture and easily wipes clean, too.
- Weight-activated, cooling gel center
- Cools for three hours
- Non-toxic materials on the interior and exterior
- Recharges in only 15 minutes
- Some dogs repelled by the gel’s odor
- Fabric can rip from scratching
2. Best Budget – Pawple Dog Cooling Mat
The Pawple Dog Cooling Mat provides both cooling and cushioning at an affordable price. This water mat comes in three sizes to help you get the right fit for your dog. Water goes in through an adjustable air valve. A foam interior helps extend the cooling power of the water while adding cushioning for older or arthritic dogs.
The tear-resistant fabric wipes clean, but it’s non-toxic, too. Everything from the foam on the inside to the sturdy exterior are safe should your dog ingest them. The Pawple is also approved for indoor or outdoor use.
- Foam center adds cushioning
- Water cooling lets you adjust the temperature
- Non-toxic materials on the interior and exterior
- Must refill through a small valve
- Time-consuming to empty and fill
3. Best for Large Dogs – The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat’s
The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat’s XL mat can cool the large breeds that struggle in the heat. The XL size measures 27.5 x 43 inches. However, it comes in five sizes, so small dogs can get the same benefits in a mat that fits their body. This self-cooling mat doesn’t require water, refrigeration, or electricity. The pressure-activated gel naturally absorbs body heat, pulling it away from the dog for up to three hours. It recharges in 15 to 20 minutes, so your dog doesn’t have to go long before he’s comfortable again.
This particular mat isn’t designed for extra cushioning, as it’s only 0.2 inches thick. If your dog needs some cushioning, it can go on top of a dog bed, sofa, or another soft surface. The mat is also made of non-toxic materials.
- Pressure-activated gel absorbs body heat
- XL size accommodates dogs weighing 80+ pounds
- Lasts 3 hours and recharges in 15 to 20 minutes
- May shrink over time
- The surface may be too slippery for older dogs
4, Best Outdoor – Coleman Pet Indoor/Outdoor Cooling Mat
Coleman is a well-known brand in the outdoor/camping industry. The Coleman Pet Indoor/Outdoor Cooling Mat meets the brand’s reputation for durable outdoor gear. This model comes in four colors and two sizes with a vinyl-like exterior material. Each mat has chambers filled with cooling gel. The gel maintains a temperature that’s five to ten degrees cooler than room temperature.
The chambered design creates seams that make the mat easier to fold, transport, and store. It doesn’t offer extra cushioning, so you may need a dog bed or another soft surface underneath it for older or arthritic dogs.
- Cooling gel-filled chambers
- 4 colors
- Durable, vinyl-like exterior
- Easy to fold for transport and storage
- Narrow widths
- Sharp claws may puncture the exterior material
5. Best Water Cooling – SCENEREAL Dog Cooling Mat
The SCENEREAL Dog Cooling Mat comes in two sizes and two exterior design patterns. Both sizes have a small valve through which cool water can enter and fill the mat. Once full, the PVC exterior material cools your dog. You can adjust the fill level to add some extra cushioning or keep the water level low to reduce the risk of a puncture.
A chambered design folds easily when in storage or for travel. Keep in mind that the water stays cooler if kept in the shade and laid on a cool surface like shaded grass or an indoor location. Placing the mat on hot cement quickly heats the water and makes the mat more at risk for puncture due to the rough surface.
- Chambered design is easy to store
- Adjustable fill level
- Durable, PVC exterior
- Can puncture if placed on a hard surface
- Dogs may require time to get used to it
Frequently Asked Questions
Article Sources
Pet News Daily uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
- Johnson T. Don’t Make my Mistake: Prevent Heatstroke. VETzInsight. Published August 15, 2019. Accessed January 3, 2022.
- Glen Oak Dog & Cat Hospital. Dogs and Heat Stroke: 11 risk factors & warning signs and how to prevent it. Glenoakanimalhospital.com. Accessed January 3, 2022.
- Meyers H. How Hot is Too Hot? Heatstroke in Dogs. Akc.org. Published May 6, 2021. Accessed January 3, 2022.
- Meyers H. How Hot is Too Hot? Heatstroke in Dogs. Akc.org. Published May 6, 2021. Accessed January 3, 2022.
Dr. Jamie Whittenburg is a graduate of Texas Tech University and Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine. A practicing veterinarian for 16 years, she works with cats, dogs, and small exotics. She has a special interest in feline medicine and surgery. In 2013, she opened her own practice, Kingsgate Animal Hospital. When not working, Dr. Whittenburg enjoys hiking and reading.
