If you’ve ever watched your dog seek out the bathroom tiles or a shady garden spot, you’ll know they’re trying to stay cool. Our mini Aussie shepherd, Doon Doon, spends summer moving from one cool spot to the next to escape the heat. Whether it’s the bathroom floor, a breezy patch in the backyard, or under the couch, he’s always looking for relief from the warmth. And we get it—our furry friends need all the help they can get when temperatures rise. That’s where cooling mats for dogs and cooling dog beds come in.
Cooling mats and beds offer dogs like Doon Doon a designated cool-down spot, keeping them comfortable and safe. However, not all dog cooling beds are created equal. Some provide intense cooling, while others offer gentle temperature control. Whether you’re looking for something portable, plush, or designed for older dogs with joint pain, here’s your guide to finding the best match for your pup.
On this page:
- Health Benefits of Cooling Mats for Dogs
- Do Cooling Mats for Dogs Work?
- Gel-Based Cooling Mats for Dogs: Best for Travel and Quick Cooling Relief
- Elevated Dog Beds for Dogs: Great for Outdoor Cooling and Clean Comfort
- Cooling Fabric Beds for Dogs: Cozy Comfort with Gentle Heat Relief
- Gel Foam Beds for Dogs: Perfect for Joint Support and Temperature Control
Health Benefits of Cooling Mats for Dogs
Cooling mats for dogs do more than keep your pet comfortable; they can also support your dog’s health. Here’s how these cooling solutions help:
- Prevent Overheating and Heatstroke: Dog cooling mats help prevent overheating by providing a safe, cool surface for dogs to relax. Since dogs only sweat through their paw pads, they rely heavily on panting to stay cool, which isn’t always effective on hot days. Cooling mats are especially beneficial for:
- Flat-faced breeds (like pugs and bulldogs) can struggle to breathe in the heat.
- Thick-coated dogs (like huskies and retrievers) retain more heat.
- Overweight dogs tend to generate more body heat.
- Relieve Joint Pain and Reduce Inflammation: A cooling mat can act as a gentle ice pack for dogs with arthritis. By reducing blood flow to sore areas, these mats help soothe aches and relieve pain, making them ideal for senior dogs or dogs recovering from surgery.
Do Cooling Mats for Dogs Work?
Yes, cooling mats for dogs are an effective way to keep your dog comfortable in the heat. In a 2019 study on cooling methods for dogs, researchers found that while water immersion was the most effective, dog cooling mats were a close second, making them a practical and convenient choice for pet owners. With dog cooling beds and mats, you get an easy, mess-free way to help dogs regulate their temperature during Australia’s hot summers.
Overview of Cooling Mat Technologies for Dogs
Several types of cooling mats for dogs exist, each offering a unique way to keep your dog comfortable. Here’s a quick look at the most popular types and their best uses:
- Gel-Based Cooling Dog Mats: These self-cooling dog mats use a gel that activates when your dog lies down, providing a steady cooling effect for hours. They’re portable, require no electricity or water, and are excellent for travel.
- Water and Ice-Based Cooling Dog Mats: These dog cooling mats offer short-term relief in intense heat. Water-filled mats are ideal for moderate temperatures but may warm up quickly. Ice-based mats use frozen ice packs or sheets for a stronger chill, perfect for brief high-temperature relief.
- Cooling Fabric Dog Beds: These cooling dog beds use breathable, moisture-wicking fabric for gentle temperature control, making them an excellent option for dogs prefer soft beds over intense cooling. They are perfect for mild cooling on warm days.
- Elevated Cooling Dog Beds: Elevated dog beds lift your dog off the ground, promoting airflow that prevents heat buildup. These beds are handy outdoors and can be paired with other cooling mats for relief.
Choosing the best option depends on your dog’s unique needs. Whether you need a gel mat for travel, an ice-based mat for intense cooling, an elevated bed for airflow, or an orthopedic cooling bed for joint relief, a cooling mat for dogs is designed to meet specific requirements.
Gel-Based Cooling Mats for Dogs: Best for Travel and Quick Cooling Relief
Gel-based cooling mats are among the top choices for keeping dogs cool during hot days. Designed with a pressure-activated gel, these mats offer instant cooling without refrigeration or power, making them a perfect self-cooling dog mat for travel.
Paws for Life Cooling Dog Mat
The Paws for Life Cooling Dog Mat is a standout option for pet owners looking for the best gel cooling mat for dogs. This mat activates upon contact and stays cool for up to an hour. Made with durable, puncture-resistant materials, it's soft, portable, and ideal for providing a safe, cooling spot for your dog to relax.
Why It Stands Out
- Gel Activated Self-cooling
- Puncture-resistant
- Lightweight for travel
- Available in multiple sizes
Points to Consider
- Works best in shaded areas
- Not machine washable (wipe clean only)
Elevated Dog Beds for Dogs: Great for Outdoor Cooling and Clean Comfort
Elevated cooling dog beds are excellent for keeping dogs cool outdoors. By lifting dogs off the ground, these beds promote airflow underneath, reducing heat buildup. This dog cooling bed is perfect for dogs that love to lounge outside.
FAYDUDU Elevated Dog Bed
The FAYDUDU Elevated Dog Bed combines a sturdy metal frame with breathable Texlin mesh, making it perfect for outdoor use. Lightweight and portable, it's easy to set up for camping trips, backyard lounging, or beach days. Plus, it's designed so dirt and pet hair won't stick, making it easy to rinse and dry.
Why It Stands Out
- Durable frame
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight for travel
- Promotes airflow for cooling
Points to Consider
- Requires assembly
- Best used in shaded areas
- Lacks cushioning
Cooling Fabric Beds for Dogs: Cozy Comfort with Gentle Heat Relief
Cooling fabric beds are a comfortable choice for dogs that prefer mild, temperature-regulated beds. These beds are designed with breathable, moisture-wicking fabric to provide a gentle cooling effect, ideal for dogs with thick coats or those sensitive to warmer weather.
Snooza Cooling Comfort Cuddler
The Snooza Cooling Comfort Cuddler uses an innovative cooling fabric blend (nylon and polyethylene) that's gel-free and naturally breathable. With soft, cozy walls and a deep sleeping area, it's a top pick for dogs that love to snuggle. Eco-friendly with a fill made from recycled materials, this bed is also fully machine washable.
Why It Stands Out
- Interchangeable summer / winter covers
- Odour-resistant
- Gentle Gel-free cooling
- Eco-friendly material
- Designed for comfort
Points to Consider
- Mild cooling bed
- Premium price point
Gel Foam Beds for Dogs: Perfect for Joint Support and Temperature Control
Gel foam beds provide gentle cooling alongside orthopedic support, making them perfect for older dogs, “hot sleepers,” or dogs with joint pain. These cooling beds for dogs use gel-infused foam layers to regulate temperature, keeping dogs comfortable without intense chilling.
Sealy Dog Bed with Quad Layer Technology
The Sealy Dog Bed with Quad Layer Technology is a top choice for dogs needing cooling and joint support. This bed has four foam layers—including memory foam, cooling gel, and orthopedics support—and provides balanced comfort. The Pro-Charcoal base absorbs odours, while the machine-washable cover makes maintenance a breeze.
Why It Stands Out
- Gentle cooling
- Orthopedic support
- Odour control
- Machine washable cover
- Excellent for senior dogs
Points to Consider
- Heavy and less portable
- Higher price point
Practical Tips for Using a Dog Cooling Mat
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your dog’s cooling mat:
- Place in a Shady Spot: Avoid direct sunlight and use the mat in a shaded or breezy area to maximise cooling power.
- Use After Playtime: Cooling mats are especially effective for helping dogs cool down after walks or playtime.
- Inspect Regularly: If your dog tends to chew, check for damage to ensure the mat stays effective and safe.
Are Cooling Mats for Dogs Worth It?
Absolutely. Dog cooling mats are a low-maintenance, convenient solution to manage your dog’s comfort during Australia’s warmer months. While they may not match the chill of a water plunge, cooling mats are perfect for home or travel use, especially for dogs that avoid water or need gentle cooling.
Investing in a quality dog cooling mat can make all the difference for dogs that overheat easily or are sensitive to heat. Whether your dog needs an excellent spot after a walk, during a road trip, or while lounging at home, a cooling mat provides practical, accessible relief, helping your pet stay safe, happy, and comfortable all summer.
