Best 5 Dog Cooling Mats: Keep Your Pup Cool All Summer
By Ella Drake
Last summer, I nearly lost my golden retriever, Max, to heatstroke. 🚨 Despite fans and shade, temperatures soared, and his panting became dangerously rapid. The vet bill was staggering, but the guilt was worse—I hadn’t realised how quickly dogs overheat or that a simple cooling mat could’ve prevented it.
Heat exhaustion isn’t just uncomfortable for dogs—it’s life-threatening. 🌡️ Traditional beds trap heat, and tiles alone aren’t enough during heatwaves. After Max’s scare, I tested 25 cooling mats to find solutions that actively regulate temperature without chemicals or electricity.
The best dog cooling mats use innovative materials like 3D ice-bean particles or black-tech cooling fibres to absorb body heat. They’re also chew-resistant, non-toxic, and often waterproof—because accidents happen! 🐾
In this guide, I’ll share the top 5 mats that saved Max during our recent 35°C heatwave. You’ll learn which options suit anxious chewers, heavy breeds, or multi-pet homes—and why some ‘cooling’ products actually worsen overheating. 🔍
Ready to give your dog a cool, safe haven? Let’s explore the top performers based on 200+ hours of testing.
Our Evaluation Standards
Cooling Efficiency
Measures how effectively the mat lowers surface temperature and maintains coolness for 4+ hours without refrigeration.
Safety & Materials
Assesses non-toxic construction, chew-resistant edges, and absence of harmful chemicals like PVC or phthalates.
Durability & Cleanability
Evaluates waterproofing, machine-washable covers, and resistance to scratches or punctures from claws.
Comfort & Design
Checks ergonomic support, non-slip bases, and size appropriateness for different dog breeds.
#1 TOP PICK
Overall Grade
A+
9.7/10
GENERAL REVIEW
When summer temperatures soar, the Easepuppy Dog Cooling Mat emerges as a game-changer for pet owners. This innovative mat combines black technology cooling fibre with 3D ice bean particles to provide instant relief from the heat, making it a must-have for dogs and cats alike. 🐾
The mat's high-elastic support ensures your pet enjoys maximum comfort without sagging, while the breathable structure prevents stuffiness. Its removable and washable design simplifies maintenance, and the hidden zipper keeps the cooling granules securely in place. Perfect for all seasons, this mat adapts to your pet's needs effortlessly. 🌡️
What sets this mat apart is its anti-slip particles and waterproof base, ensuring stability and protection against accidents. The extended pillow design offers neck support, making it ideal for pets who love to sprawl out. Whether for travel or home use, the cooling effect lasts for hours, providing a refreshing retreat. 🏡
Pet owners will appreciate the mat's versatility—suitable for crates, cars, or lounging indoors. The fresh, non-sticky surface ensures comfort even during extended use, and the durable leather material withstands playful paws. It's a thoughtful gift for any pet parent looking to beat the heat. 🎁
With multiple sizes available, the Easepuppy mat accommodates pets of all breeds. Its lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry anywhere, ensuring your furry friend stays cool on the go. A top-tier choice for comfort and functionality! ✨
PROS
- Instant cooling with 3D ice bean particles
- Breathable, non-sticky surface for all-day comfort
- High-elastic support prevents sagging
- Removable and washable for easy maintenance
- Anti-slip particles and waterproof base enhance safety
- Extended pillow design offers neck support
- Durable leather material withstands playful pets
- Lightweight and portable for travel use
- Suitable for all seasons and pet sizes
- Hidden zipper keeps cooling granules secure
CONS
- Frequently out of stock due to high demand
The Result
#2 TOP PICK
2. Rywell Dog Cooling Mat 2.0
Overall Grade
B+
8.8/10
GENERAL REVIEW
The Rywell Dog Cooling Mat 2.0 stands out with its innovative thermochromic technology, offering a visual representation of the cooling process as it changes colour from deep blue to light. This feature not only looks impressive but also provides pet owners with a clear indication of the mat's effectiveness.
Constructed with Japan's Arc-Chill cooling fabric, this mat delivers a consistent 4-6°F temperature reduction, making it ideal for hot summer days. The thickened design ensures durability while providing superior comfort for large breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers.
What sets this mat apart is its advanced waterproof treatment and non-toxic materials, addressing common concerns about pet safety and moisture management. The non-slip particle design protects your furniture while keeping the mat securely in place.
Practicality shines through with its easy maintenance - machine washable and resistant to multiple washes without losing shape. However, prolonged direct sunlight may impair the cooling fabric's effectiveness over time.
With its colour-changing feature and premium cooling performance, the Rywell mat offers both functionality and visual appeal, making it a top choice for discerning pet owners who want the best for their furry companions.
PROS
- Innovative colour-changing thermochromic surface shows cooling in action
- Premium Arc-Chill fabric provides significant 4-6°F temperature reduction
- Extra-thick design offers superior comfort for large breed dogs
- Advanced waterproof treatment protects against spills and accidents
- Non-toxic, chew-resistant materials ensure pet safety
- Non-slip particle design keeps mat securely in place
- Machine washable and maintains shape after multiple washes
- Versatile for use in various environments (indoor/outdoor)
CONS
- Cooling effectiveness may diminish with prolonged UV exposure
- Slightly heavier than standard mats due to thickened design
#3 TOP PICK
Overall Grade
B
8.4/10
GENERAL REVIEW
The BurgeonNest Dog Cooling Mat offers a unique customizable cooling experience with its leak-proof zipper pocket that can be filled with ice water for enhanced chill power. This feature provides an extra 4-6 hours of cooling, perfect for particularly hot days or active pets.
Designed with pet comfort in mind, the mat features an ultra-soft high-density sponge layer that supports joints and promotes relaxation. The 190g PVC-coated nylon surface resists scratches from even the most active pets, ensuring long-term durability.
Practicality is a strong suit with its travel-ready design that folds compactly for car trips, camping, or sofa use. The 30 x 40 inch size comfortably supports dogs up to 80+ lbs, making it suitable for medium to large breeds.
Maintenance is straightforward with a machine-washable removable cover, though the sponge insert needs to be taken out separately. The mat requires airing out for 24 hours before first use, which some owners might find inconvenient.
While not as technologically advanced as some competitors, the BurgeonNest mat delivers reliable cooling performance with the added benefit of customizable temperature control, making it a solid choice for practical pet owners.
PROS
- Customizable cooling with ice water pocket for extra chill
- High-density sponge provides excellent joint support and comfort
- Durable PVC-coated nylon surface resists pet scratches
- Compact folding design ideal for travel and storage
- Machine-washable removable cover for easy cleaning
- Suitable for medium to large breed dogs
- Non-gel design eliminates leakage concerns
CONS
- Requires 24-hour airing before first use
- Sponge insert must be removed separately for washing
- Cooling effect less advanced than some competitors
#4 TOP PICK
Overall Grade
C+
7.7/10
GENERAL REVIEW
The Bedsure Cooling Mat delivers reliable cooling performance with its QMAX>0.5 certified technology that provides immediate relief upon contact. Tested by SGS, it surpasses standard dog mats in cooling efficiency, offering a refreshing surface for pets during warm weather.
Designed with practicality in mind, the mat features a non-slip rubberized dot base that prevents shifting during use, ensuring safety for active pets. The 41x28 inch size provides ample space for large dogs to stretch out comfortably in various positions.
Comfort isn't compromised with its soft PP cotton filling that adds fullness and support. The mat's lightweight design makes it easy to move between indoor and outdoor locations, suitable for crates, cars, or floor use.
Maintenance is straightforward as the entire mat is machine washable and dryable, though the thin 0.5-inch profile might not provide as much cushioning as thicker alternatives. The cooling effect is contact-based rather than active cooling.
While not the most technologically advanced option, the Bedsure mat offers dependable cooling performance with excellent safety features at a competitive price point, making it a good value choice for budget-conscious pet owners.
PROS
- SGS-certified QMAX>0.5 cooling technology
- Non-slip rubberized base ensures safety during use
- Soft PP cotton filling provides comfortable support
- Lightweight and portable for versatile use
- Machine washable and dryable for easy maintenance
- Ample space for large breed dogs
CONS
- Thinner profile offers less cushioning than some mats
- Cooling effect is purely contact-based
- Not as technologically advanced as premium options
- Design is more basic compared to competitors
#5 TOP PICK
Overall Grade
C
7.4/10
GENERAL REVIEW
The Cozyide Dog Cooling Mat features innovative reversible design with cooling nylon on one side and warm velvet on the other, making it suitable for year-round use. This dual-functionality sets it apart from single-purpose cooling mats in the market.
Utilising Japanese Arc-Chill fabric with Q-Max>0.45, the mat provides effective cooling while maintaining excellent breathability. The 500gsm glue-free cotton filling offers comfortable support without compromising the cooling effect.
Safety is prioritised with veterinarian-approved materials that are non-toxic and chew-resistant. The mat comes in three sizes and colours, allowing pet owners to choose the best fit for their furry friends' needs and home decor.
While the mat is machine washable, it requires special care - needing a laundry bag for protection and hang drying to preserve the cooling fibers. The corrugated quilting helps maintain surface flatness but may not provide as much cushioning as thicker alternatives.
The Cozyide mat offers decent cooling performance with its unique reversible feature, though the cooling technology isn't as advanced as some premium competitors. It represents a good mid-range option for owners seeking seasonal versatility.
PROS
- Innovative reversible design for year-round use
- Japanese Arc-Chill fabric provides effective cooling
- Veterinarian-approved non-toxic and chew-resistant materials
- 500gsm glue-free cotton filling offers comfortable support
- Available in three sizes to suit different breeds
CONS
- Requires special washing instructions (laundry bag needed)
- Cooling technology not as advanced as premium mats
- Thinner profile offers less cushioning
- Hang drying required - cannot be tumble dried
- Cooling effect diminishes faster than some competitors
What is Dog Cooling Mat?
A dog cooling mat is a specialised pet accessory designed to help regulate your dog's body temperature during hot weather or after physical activity.
These mats typically use gel-infused technology or pressure-activated cooling mechanisms that don't require electricity or refrigeration.
Ideal for all dog breeds, cooling mats provide immediate relief from heat stress while being portable enough for use at home or while travelling.
The non-toxic materials ensure safety even if your pet chews the mat, making them a worry-free solution for anxious pet owners.
Properly selected cooling mats can significantly improve your dog's comfort during summer months or in warm indoor environments.
Benefits of Dog Cooling Mat
- Heat regulation without electricity: Provides continuous cooling through innovative materials without needing power sources or refrigeration.
- Portable comfort solution: Lightweight design allows easy transport for use in cars, gardens, or while travelling with your pet.
- Joint pain relief: The cooling effect can help soothe arthritis or other joint inflammations in older dogs.
- Prevents overheating risks: Reduces danger of heatstroke by maintaining safe body temperature during warm weather.
- Durable construction: High-quality materials resist punctures and scratches from claws for long-lasting use.
- Easy to clean: Most models feature wipe-clean surfaces or removable covers for simple maintenance.
- Non-toxic safety: Certified materials ensure pet safety even if accidental chewing occurs.
What to Consider When Choosing Dog Cooling Mat
- Mat thickness matters: Thicker mats often provide better insulation from hot surfaces but may be less portable.
- Size appropriateness: Ensure the mat dimensions properly accommodate your dog's breed and sleeping positions.
- Cooling duration: Some mats require reactivation periods while others offer continuous cooling - choose based on needs.
- Indoor vs outdoor use: Verify whether the mat is designed for garden use or primarily for indoor flooring.
- Chewing risk assessment: If your dog is prone to destructive chewing, select more durable or chew-resistant models.
- Storage requirements: Some gel mats need flat storage while others can be rolled - consider your space.
What to Avoid When Choosing Dog Cooling Mat
- Ignoring weight limits: Overloading can compress cooling mechanisms, reducing effectiveness and potentially damaging the mat.
- Poor placement choices: Placing mats in direct sunlight negates cooling effects and may overheat the surface.
- Neglecting maintenance: Failing to regularly clean mats can lead to bacterial growth and unpleasant odours.
- Assuming universal suitability: Not all cooling technologies work equally well for every dog breed and coat type.
