With the hottest temperatures of 2024 still to come, it’s worth considering one of the best dog cooling mats for your panting pooch. Soaring temperatures can be tricky for dog owners. The furrier breeds, whose thick coats equip them so well during winter, can really struggle to keep cool in summertime. Dogs, of course, do not sweat to get rid of heat. They have alternative cooling mechanisms, such as panting and also their paw pads and noses release heat, but sometimes they need a helping hand. There are obvious steps dog owners can take, such as keeping the dog in the shade, providing plenty of fresh water, hosing him down or leaving out a paddling pool, but another handy option is a cooling mat.
Dog cooling mats do not require a power source; they typically contain a non-toxic gel that absorbs the heat from the dog’s body, helping to regulate their core temperature and ward off heat-related conditions such as heatstroke. If you have an older dog, he may benefit from a one of the best orthopaedic dog beds or cooling mats.
Six of the best dog cooling mats
Furhaven Water-Resistant Cooling Dog Bed
Sizes: Small–Jumbo Plus
Colours: Deep Lagoon, Stone Grey, Forest, Chestnut
Reasons to buy: Extra cushioned and super cooling
This bed features a water-resistant base to protect the non-toxic cooling gel and memory foam interior that whisks heat away from your pup’s body. Its pet-friendly design means your dog is free to sprawl.
Its removable, durable polyester cover wipes clean easily and can cool your pet’s sleeping surface down by up to two degrees, which he’ll thank you for on tropical nights.
In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk
Pecute Dog Cooling Mat
Sizes: XS–XXL
Colours: Light blue, blue, dark Blue or grey
Reasons to buy: Durable design and easy to clean
This cooling mat features an inner material of 100% non-toxic gel, safe for humans and pets. No need to freeze or chill the mat, as it works by absorbing your dog’s body heat to keep them from overheating in hot weather.
Made from high-quality 300D Oxford composite PVC material, which is 0.4mm thick and waterproof, scratch-resistant and durable. The edges of the mat are pressed twice with strong pressure ensuring the gel inside will not leak.
Easy to clean with a sponge.
In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk
Rosewood Chillax Cool Pad
Sizes: 50x40cm, 60x90cm
Colour: Blue
Reasons to buy: Long activation time
This pressure-activated pad is suitable for a variety of uses and can stay cool for up to four hours with constant use.
It can be placed in a crate, car or simply on the floor of your home. It doesn’t require chilling, freezing or electricity and is easy to clean.
In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk
Simply Natural Pet Cooling Mat
Size: 90x60cm
Colour: Blue
Reasons to buy: Double-sided and long cooling time
This large mat can accommodate even big dogs needing to cool down. It has extra cooling gel, making the mat fuller and fluffier, for the benefit of joints – and providing five hours of continuous cooling. You can flip the mat for more cooling time.
It is constructed with 300D rip-resistant Oxford fabric and filled with non-toxic cooling gel. All the materials are pet-safe and designed to withstand heavy use by dogs of all sizes. It is waterproof, puncture-resistant, and crafted cruelty-free. Wipe clean.
In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk
All For Paws Cooling Pad
Size: One size
Colours: Orange, kiwi or papaya
Reasons to buy: Self-activating and fun design
This self-cooling pad is weight activated, meaning it activates as soon as your pet’s paws hit the mat and you don’t need to add water, freeze or chill. The inner material is 100% non-toxic, safe for humans and pets. It works by absorbing your dog’s body heat, and can reduce body temperature by up to 20%.
Made from waterproof PVC material. To clean, just wipe with wet sponge.
In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk
PawPride Polar Paws Ultra Chill Cooling Mat
Sizes: S–XL
Colour: Blue
Reasons to buy: Foldable and quick reactivation
A comfy self-cooling dog mat which employs a pressure-activated gel technology cushion that cools and soothes your pet upon contact for up for four hours. It takes just 15–20min of non-use to cool down again.
No water, electricity or refrigeration required. It simply starts to work as soon as your pooch sits down. It is non-toxic and water-resistant, made from PVC foam and durable nylon.
In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk
How to choose the best dog cooling mat
First, consider your dog’s size and how it corresponds to the sizes available in the mat of your choice. You wouldn’t want your pointer trying to get comfy on a mat that’s more terrier sized! Make sure the sizes run big enough for your pup.
Secondly, what’s your dog’s sleeping style? Does he curl up or sprawl out? Smaller dogs who like to stretch out may benefit from sizing up.
Next, where are you likely to be when the mat’s in use? If you’re often on the road, a lightweight portable mat’s a good option.
Finally, does your dog favour a super-cushioned mat, or is he happy to settle on something thinner? Taking your dog’s preferences into account will help you choose the best mat.
One last thing – if your dog’s a prolific chewer, perhaps think twice about a cooling mat. You don’t want him ingesting the gel inside. Instead, consider alternatives for how to cool a dog in summer, such as the best dog paddling pools or best dog cooling jackets.
You may also enjoy reading…
These are the Amazon Prime Day dog deals 2024 we’d buy ourselves
Hydrate and be healthy: best water fountains for dogs
Oh so cool! Best dog cooling jackets to help prevent your pooch overheating
Ready for the heatwave? How to keep your dog cool in summer
Best orthopaedic dog beds to ease stiffness and boost sleep
Don’t miss your chance to save 35% on Horse & Hound subscriptions in this special Black Friday deal
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.
