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The best dog cooling mats to help your furry friend stay comfortable in the heat
As a dog owner, all I want to do is help them stay cool
Heatwaves aren't that fun for us, but spare a thought for our four-legged friends, who are essentially wearing a fur coat in the 30-degree temperatures. Dogs can't cool themselves down through sweating like we can, either. Their only way of cooling themselves is panting, but if the outside temperature is higher than their body temperature, heatstroke can be a real risk.
You can help them out by providing access to shaded areas and cool spots (like hallways and kitchen flagstone floors), inside and out, as well as ensuring a constant supply of cold, fresh water. Water fountains and dog-proof paddling pools (always in the shade) are fun options, but as an owner of one very stubborn spaniel, I can tell you that not all pups want to plunge themselves into the pool (Monty prefers the Shark FlexBreeze HydroGo Cordless Misting Fan actually).
For anyone who wants to help their pup feel comfortable , the best cooling mat can be an affordable and effective option. They come in a range of designs, from ice and water-filled options, to pressure-activated gel mats and ones that are more like cooling blankets, made from silky, cool-to-the-touch fabric.
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How we chose the best dog cooling mats
To find the best dog cooling mats, we first did a lot of research into the range of options and fabrics available, as well as durability claims. We also spoke to the pet parents among the GH team to find out which brands they recommended, and we prioritised brands we've tested at the Good Housekeeping Institute and know to be good quality.
You'll find our top picks below, along with some alternative cooling options, from super quiet fans to those dog-safe paddling pools.
Best Deal
pecute Dog Cooling Mat Large 90x50cm
pecute Dog Cooling Mat Large 90x50cm
This large cooling mat is filled with gel, which is pressure-activated, so it will have a cooling effect when your dog lies on it. The gel is non-toxic, although we'd keep an eye on any nibblers just in case, and it's also scratch-resistant and wear-resistant.
A good entry-level option to see if your dog could benefit from a mat. It's wipe clean, too.
Ancol Ice Paws Cooling Comfortable Pet Bed
Ancol Ice Paws Cooling Comfortable Pet Bed
If your pet likes more of a comfy surface to lie on, try this version from Ancol. It uses the same cooling gel tech, but has added quilting for extra comfort. It's waterproof and wipe clean, too.
The cooling effect should last a few hours; then the brand suggests popping in a cool room before using again. The gel is non-toxic but pet owners are advised to ensure their dog doesn't bite or scratch the mat.
Water-Filled Dog Cooling Mat Summer Pet Pad (60 x 90cm)
Water-Filled Dog Cooling Mat Summer Pet Pad (60 x 90cm)
This dog cooling mat uses different tech to the designs above. This one contains water chambers you can fill to provide natural evaporative cooling. It's lightweight and made from durable materials, but note that this isn't one for biters!
This washable, non-slip cooling mat is made from breathable polyester fabric, which is cool to the touch, providing a comfortable place for your dog (or cat) to lie in a shaded spot, inside or out. It's washable on a gentle cycle and comes in three sizes.
pecute Elevated Dog Bed with Dog Cooling Mat
pecute Elevated Dog Bed with Dog Cooling Mat
This dog cooling mat takes things to the next level, literally. It contains non-toxic gel, which is pressure activated, and it sits on a pop up platform for added air flow. It's lightweight and foldable, so you can take it out and about with you, too.
Argos Summer Raised Pet Bed with Roof
Argos Summer Raised Pet Bed with Roof
This is a great option if you struggle for shade in your garden. Not only does it keep them off the ground, allowing air to circulate, but it comes with a canopy made with breathable mesh to keep the sun off. You can also remove the canopy when it's not needed. This one is suitable for a medium-sized dog.
Pelsbarn Cooling Mat Cooling Dog Mat
Pelsbarn Cooling Mat Cooling Dog Mat
More a cooling blanket, this one uses silky, cool-to-the-touch fabric, which draws heat away from their body and is completely chemical free. The benefit of this one is you can also pop it on the sofa. It's wipe clean and it's machine washable.
Ivy & Duke The Cool Crossbreed Mat
This quality dog cooling travel mat uses CoolSoft tech to regulate your pet's temperature on hot days. It's cool-to-the-touch and draws heat away from their body to keep them comfortable. Using memory foam for an extra layer of comfort, it's also moisture-wicking. The cover is removable and machine washable up to 40 degrees.
More dog cooling products
This paddling pool lasted five minutes with Monty...
This is our favourite style of dog paddling pool as it's very durable (withstanding nibbles) and you can fold it away when it's not in use. It's suitable for medium dogs. Always keep an eye on them when they're in the pool (we suggest joining them!).
This splash mat feels like the best of both worlds. It's a shallow pool you can put cold water in to keep them cool. There's also the option to turn on the sprinkler function (just plug in your hose) if they're happy to be splashed from above (some dogs aren't; so see how they react first).
For dogs that don't like cooling mats, paddling pools or any attempt to keep them cool, this seems to be the one thing they will accept. It's a hit with the GH pets who all lie by it on hot days. It's quiet in use, so doesn't disturb them, it's very lightweight and portable, and it has a misting function which very gently spritzes them as they snooze.
This one is Monty-cocker-spaniel approved. A very hard endorsement to get.
Alison is head of content for the Good Housekeeping Institute, responsible for product reviews across homes, beauty, wellness, family and food & drink. She lives by the William Morris quote that you should “have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.”
Alison has over 15 years' experience as a lifestyle editor and has written features on everything from misophonia to how to dress like Claudia on The Traitors. She has also interviewed everyone from Dame Joanna Lumley to the Kardashians.
In her spare time, you'll find her hanging out with Monty the cocker spaniel and refreshing the Sezane website every five seconds.
