Best Dog Cooling Pads: Reviewed

It’s a necessity to make sure your pet doesn’t overheat. A dog cooling pad helps your dog stay cool on hot days. Some dog breeds thrive in cold climates, and warm weather can make them uncomfortable. Getting overheated can make your dog feel sluggish, and it can have serious health effects. Cooling pads also soothe orthopedic conditions in dogs like providing joint and muscle support.

We put extra research and care into making our recommendations for the best dog cooling pads available. We not only looked at the science behind the cooling technologies, but we also took customer testimonials into account to verify that these cooling pads actually do the job. We looked at cooling pads that could function indoors or outdoors, were durable against wear and tear, and were also portable. Our selections covered all dog sizes, as the entire dog’s body should be able to fit on the pad to effectively cool it down. We looked for cooling pads that would be best for crates and travel as well. If you think your dog would benefit from a cooling pad, read our review to learn more.

The Best Dog Cooling Pads: Ranked

#1 Best Overall: Chillz Cooling Mat for Dogs

We chose the Chillz Cooling Mat for Dogs as the top overall winner because of its ease of use and portability.

This dog cooling pad with pressure-activated gel works without refrigeration or electricity. You simply lay it on the floor or the ground, and it instantly begins to work when your dog lies on it. This mat has a soft gel that is comfortable for most dogs and it automatically resets itself after 15 to 20 minutes of non-use. This cooling pad works well in crates and dog carriers. It’s suitable for outside or inside use and can easily be folded away when not in use.

There are three sizes available and even though the large mat may seem small for very big dogs, customers reported it still worked well if the main part of the dog’s body was on it, so even if the dog’s legs and head don’t fit on it, the mat will still work. However, if you’re using it for small dogs then they can stretch out. Unfortunately, some customers have found that the material is not particularly durable and can be punctured by dogs nails or chewed by rambunctious pets.

Pros and Cons of the Chillz Cooling Mat for Dogs

Best Overall

Chillz Cooling Mat for Dogs

• Pressure-activated gel mat.
• Usable outdoors or indoors.
• Folds for easy storage.
• Needs no refrigeration or electricity.
• Available in sizes S, M, L.

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2. Best for Outside Use: Arf Pets Self-Cooling Mat

If you’re looking for a cooling pad that is suitable for outdoor use then we recommend the Arf Pets Self-Cooling Mat.

This cooling pad in another pressure-activated gel pad and is made from rugged materials. It is a good choice for crates or outside use as is made from durable vinyl fabric that will stand up to pets of all sizes. The coolness lasts for up to three hours and the pad works automatically as soon as the dog lays on it.

This pad can be used both indoors and outdoors and is even suitable to use on furniture as it requires no refrigeration or power supply. It’s also easy to just wipe clean.

This cooling pad is made from non-toxic materials which are completely safe for your pets. This mat comes in a several sizes to suit both small and large dogs. It is also foldable for travel or storage.

Although this product has a lot going for it some owners have found that their pets are unwilling to lay on it and that it does not remain cool for the three hours it is supposed to.

Pros and Cons of the Arf Pets Self-Cooling Mat

Best for Outside Use

Arf Pets Self-Cooling Mat

• Dog’s body activates the cooling mechanism.
• Can be used on floors, furniture or outside.
• Durable vinyl fabric.
• Requires no water or electricity.
• Comes in sizes XS, S, M, L and XL.

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3. Best Blanket: PetFusion Premium Cat & Dog Cooling Blanket

If your dog likes to wrap up then the PetFusion Premium Cat & Dog Cooling Blanket is the perfect choice.

This soft yet cooling blanket is the perfect way to cool your dog down. With its soft cushioned design, this blanket is easy to fold up and provides a cozy cooling cushion for your dog to lie on. It it suitable to use on your dog’s bed, on furniture, or even in a crate.

This cooling blanket requires no electricity or refrigeration and works by releasing the heat from your pet’s body. It is available in several sizes so it fits all dogs. It is even machine washable too as it is made from non-shedding and non-pilling fabric. The only drawback to this product that we could find is that it is not made from chew-proof material.

Pros and Cons of the PetFusion Premium Cat & Dog Cooling Blanket

Best Blanket

PetFusion Premium Cat & Dog Cooling Blanket

• Requires no electricity or refrigeration.
• Suitable for outdoor or indoor use.
• Machine washable.
• Comes in light gray or cool brown.
• Available in XS, M, L and XL.

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4. Best on a Budget: Mannice Self-Cooling Dog Mat

The Mannice Self-Cooling Dog Mat is an excellent option for dog parents who are on a budget.

This cooling pad is lightweight and is well-made with a soft cotton later on the top. It also contains no toxic materials or chemicals so your pet is always completely safe when using it. This cooling mat does not require any refrigeration or electricity. It makes your pets three to four degrees cooler simply by touching it!

This cooling mat is suitable for dogs from up to 80 pounds. However, the one downside to this cooling mat is that it only comes in one large size.

Pros and Cons of the Mannice Self-Cooling Dog Mat

Best Budget Option

Mannice Self-Cooling Dog Mat

• Breathable cotton layer.
• Soft top layer is comfortable for all pets.
• Foldable for travel or storage.
• Machine washable.
• Comes in one size.

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When to Use a Dog Cooling Pad

Some people suffer in hot weather, and the same is true for dogs. Dogs with thick double coats and those with breathing problems often feel distressed when it’s hot outside.

If your dog is suffering from the heat, you may notice these signs:

• Constant panting or drooling
• Rasping or having difficulty breathing
• Loss of interest in playing or running
• Looking for cool spots to lie on
• Increased heart rate

Heat exhaustion in dogs is a serious concern. If your dog gets overheated, your dog is at risk of heatstroke and dehydration. Always be sure your dog has enough water to drink, and keep your pup in shady areas when it’s hot outside.

Certain dogs are more prone to heat discomfort than others. Dogs with thick double coats, especially herders and mountain dogs, may also need help staying cool in hot weather. Additionally, brachycephalic breeds have short muzzles that make it difficult for them to pant. Panting is a dog’s way of sweating and lowering their body temperature.

Brachycephalic breeds include:

• Chihuahua
• Chow Chow
• Bulldog
• Boxer
• English mastiff
• Lhasa Apso
• Pekingese
• Pug
• Shih Tzu

Also, dogs that suffer from orthopedic conditions may find a cooling mat useful to reduce inflammation in their joints. If your dog is recovering from surgery or orthopedic treatments, they may appreciate a cool sleeping surface.

How Do Dog Cooling Pads Work?

Some cooling pads are electric. They work like heating pads. You plug them in, and electricity powers the cooling effect.

Other mats are self-cooling. These pads have a special foam interior and absorbent crystals. Water activates the crystals. They produce a cooling effect by absorbing heat and dissipating it. Some pads use gel instead of water.

Self-cooling mats can be pressure-activated or phase-activated. Pressure-activated gel pads only work when you exert pressure on them, for instance, when your dog lies on the pad. Phase-activated cooling pads work when the surrounding temperature reaches a certain point.

Some mats must be cooled in a freezer or refrigerator to work. The mats on our list require no refrigeration.

Our Criteria: What to Look For in a Dog Cooling Pad

Durability: Your pad should be tough enough to last for many summers of use. Look for durable materials and construction.

Type: Which type would work best for you? You can choose an electric cooling pad or a self-cooling mat. If you choose the latter, decide if you want a mat with pressure-activated gel or one that’s phase-activated.

Portability: If you travel with your dog, choose a mat that folds up easily.

Easy to clean: Your dog cooling pad should be washable or easy to wipe clean.

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