Dog Cooling Mats: The Best Ways to Help Your Dog Beat the Heat
Discover the best cooling mats for dogs to help keep your pet comfortable during hot weather. Learn what to look for and find the right cooling mat for your dog.
SUMMER SAFETY
Keep Your Dog Cool, Comfortable and Safe This Summer
When the temperatures start to climb, keeping your dog cool becomes more than just a comfort—it's an important part of protecting their health. Unlike us, dogs can't cool themselves efficiently through sweating, which means even a warm summer's day can leave them struggling to regulate their body temperature.
Whether your dog enjoys long walks, loves lounging in the garden or simply feels the heat indoors, a quality cooling mat can provide welcome relief. From self-cooling gel mats to innovative water-filled designs and supportive cooling beds, there's an option to suit every breed, age and lifestyle.
In this guide, we've carefully compared some of the best cooling mats available today, highlighting what makes each one stand out, along with any drawbacks worth considering. Our aim is simple: to help you choose the right cooling mat with confidence, so your four-legged friend can stay cool, comfortable and happy all summer long.
Quick Comparison: Our Favourite Cooling Mats
Short on time? Our overall favourite is the Green Pet Shop Cooling Pet Pad thanks to its reliable self-cooling gel technology, easy maintenance and everyday practicality. For owners looking for a more affordable option, the ChillPaws Cooling Mat offers a simple way to help keep dogs comfortable during warmer weather, while the FurHaven Cooling Gel Dog Bed is ideal for those wanting a premium cooling and comfort solution.
Green Pet Shop Cooling Pet Pad
🏆 Our Top Overall Pick
Approximate Price: £45–£70 (depending on size)
Cooling Method: Pressure-activated non-toxic cooling gel
Available Sizes: Multiple sizes suitable for small, medium and large dogs
Best For: Dog owners looking for a reliable, easy-to-use cooling mat for everyday summer comfort.
Why We Chose It
The Green Pet Shop Cooling Pet Pad earns our top recommendation because it delivers everything most dog owners look for in a cooling mat: reliable cooling performance, ease of use and a practical design that works both at home and on the go.
Using pressure-activated gel technology, the mat begins cooling as soon as your dog lies down. The gel absorbs and disperses body heat, helping to create a more comfortable resting space during hot weather without the need for electricity, water or refrigeration.
One of the biggest advantages of this style of cooling mat is its simplicity. There is no preparation required—just place it where your dog likes to relax and it is ready to use. The durable surface wipes clean easily, making it a practical choice for everyday use, especially during the summer months when dogs are often moving between indoors and outdoors.
The non-toxic gel design provides extra reassurance for pet owners, while the choice of available sizes means you can select a mat that suits your dog's breed and sleeping style. Larger options can accommodate bigger dogs who need plenty of space to stretch out and cool down.
Although it is not the cheapest cooling mat available, we believe the combination of quality, reliability and ease of use makes it the best all-round choice for most dogs.
What We Like
✔ Pressure-activated self-cooling gel
✔ No electricity, water or freezer required
✔ Non-toxic cooling materials
✔ Easy to wipe clean
✔ Foldable and portable
✔ Available in multiple sizes
Things to Consider
One of the more expensive cooling mats available.
Cooling gradually reduces after several hours of continuous use before naturally recharging.
Not designed for heavy chewers.
A Great Alternative
If you like the idea of a self-cooling gel mat but want to compare similar options, the ARF Pets Self Cooling Gel Mat is a worthy alternative.
It uses the same pressure-activated cooling technology and offers many of the same benefits, including easy maintenance and portability. We prefer the Green Pet Shop Cooling Pet Pad because of its stronger reputation and proven popularity among dog owners, but ARF is a good option if it is available at a more attractive price.
Alternative option: ARF Pets Self Cooling Gel Mat — similar gel cooling technology and a practical choice for everyday use.
ChillPaws Cooling Mat
💷 A Good Affordable Cooling Option
Cooling Method: Cooling fabric technology
Best For: Dog owners looking for a more affordable way to help their dog stay comfortable during warmer weather.
Why We Chose It
Not every dog owner wants to spend a large amount on a premium cooling mat, especially if they are trying one for the first time. The ChillPaws Cooling Mat offers a more affordable option for helping dogs stay comfortable during hot summer days.
While it doesn't use the same pressure-activated gel technology found in premium options such as the Green Pet Shop Cooling Pet Pad, it provides a simple and practical cooling solution for everyday use.
The lightweight design makes it easy to move around the home, use outdoors or take with you when travelling. For dogs who enjoy relaxing in the garden, lying on the patio or finding a cooler place indoors, having a dedicated cooling surface can provide welcome relief when temperatures rise.
ChillPaws is a newer option compared with some established cooling mat brands, so it does not yet have the same long-term reputation or volume of customer feedback. However, early customer reviews are very positive, with buyers highlighting its comfort, convenience and value.
For owners looking for an affordable entry point into cooling mats, this could be a sensible choice.
What We Like
✔ More affordable price point
✔ Lightweight and easy to move
✔ Simple, fuss-free cooling solution
✔ Suitable for home, garden and travel
✔ Positive early customer feedback
Things to Consider
Newer product with fewer customer reviews than established brands.
May not offer the same cooling performance as premium gel-based mats.
Best suited for general comfort rather than dogs needing maximum cooling support.
Our Verdict
The ChillPaws Cooling Mat is a good option for owners who want to try a cooling mat without making a larger investment.
While more established products may offer longer track records and more advanced cooling technology, ChillPaws provides an affordable and practical way to give your dog a cooler place to rest during warm weather.
K&H Cool Bed III
🐕 Good for Large Dogs
Cooling Method: Water-filled cooling system
Best For: Larger breeds who need plenty of space to stretch out and a cooling solution that doesn't rely on gel.
Why We Chose It
The K&H Cool Bed III offers a completely different cooling experience from traditional gel mats. Instead of using pressure-activated gel, this innovative cooling bed uses the natural cooling properties of water to help draw heat away from your dog's body.
Simply add water through the easy-fill opening, adjust the comfort level and the bed creates a naturally cooler resting surface for your dog. The water-filled design helps distribute cooling across the surface, making it especially appealing for larger dogs who need more room to relax.
Large breeds often struggle more during hot weather because they have more body mass and can quickly become uncomfortable on smaller mats. The K&H Cool Bed III provides a spacious area where dogs can fully stretch out rather than curling up on a smaller cooling pad.
Unlike gel-based mats, this design contains no cooling gel and provides a different option for owners who prefer a water-based solution. It can be used indoors or outdoors, making it a versatile choice for summer months.
What We Like
✔ Water-based cooling system
✔ Large surface area for bigger breeds
✔ No electricity required
✔ No cooling gel needed
✔ Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
✔ Adjustable comfort by adding the right amount of water
Things to Consider
Availability and sizing can vary between sellers.
A water-filled bed is less lightweight and portable than a traditional gel mat.
Requires filling and occasional maintenance.
Our Verdict
The K&H Cool Bed III is a great choice for owners of larger dogs who want a spacious cooling area that allows their pet to fully stretch out. While it requires a little more preparation than a simple gel mat, its water-filled design offers a different type of cooling comfort that many larger breeds will appreciate
CoolerDog Hydro Cooling Mat
❄️ An Innovative Cooling System
Cooling Method: Water-based cooling system with reusable ice inserts
Ideal For: Dogs who need a versatile cooling solution for home, travel, outdoor adventures and warmer days.
Why We Chose It
The CoolerDog Hydro Cooling Mat stands out because it takes a different approach to keeping dogs comfortable in hot weather. Rather than using traditional gel technology, it combines a water-filled cushion, reusable ice inserts and an insulating base to create a multi-layer cooling system.
Its clever Triple Layer Design is made up of three key components. The waterbed cushion provides a comfortable resting surface, the FlexiFreeze Ice Sheet delivers active cooling using frozen water, and the insulating foam layer helps reduce heat transfer from the ground below.
This combination makes CoolerDog more than just a simple cooling mat. It is designed to provide both comfort and cooling performance, making it suitable for use at home, in the garden, during car journeys, holidays or outdoor adventures.
Another standout feature is the modular design. The standard-size mats can be connected together using built-in snaps, allowing owners to create a larger cooling area when needed. This gives dog owners flexibility depending on their dog's size and where the mat will be used.
The Mini version offers a more compact option that is particularly convenient for travel, crates and smaller spaces.
What We Like
✔ Veterinarian-approved cooling system
✔ Uses water-based cooling rather than gel
✔ Triple-layer design for cooling and comfort
✔ Reusable FlexiFreeze ice inserts
✔ Modular snap-together design
✔ Suitable for home and travel
✔ Machine-washable outer cover
Things to Consider
The ice inserts need to be frozen before use, so a little preparation is required.
During periods of very warm weather, some sizes or packs may sell out quickly due to increased demand.
The Mini version is a great compact option for travel, while larger dogs may benefit from the standard-size mats or connected mats.
FurHaven Cooling Gel Dog Bed
⭐ A Premium Cooling Choice
Cooling Method: Cooling gel layer with supportive foam base
Ideal For: Dogs who need a comfortable everyday bed with added cooling benefits.
Why We Chose It
The FurHaven Cooling Gel Dog Bed takes a different approach to summer comfort. Unlike a traditional cooling mat, this is a full-sized dog bed designed to combine a supportive sleeping surface with cooling technology.
It's built-in gel layer helps create a cooler place for dogs to relax, while the supportive foam construction provides the comfort many dogs prefer for longer periods of rest.
This makes it a great choice for dogs who don't simply want to lie on a flat cooling pad but enjoy having their own dedicated sleeping space.
The premium design means it feels more like a piece of everyday dog furniture than a seasonal cooling product, allowing your dog to enjoy comfort throughout the year while still benefiting from cooling features during warmer months.
What We Like
✔ Cooling gel layer built into a proper dog bed
✔ More comfortable than a basic cooling mat
✔ Supportive design for everyday use
✔ Premium materials and construction
✔ Ideal for dogs who love their own sleeping space
Things to Consider
Higher price point compared with simple cooling mats.
Larger and less portable than lightweight cooling pads.
Not designed for owners looking for a quick grab-and-go cooling solution.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Dog Cool This Summer
Finding the right cooling solution for your dog is about more than simply choosing the most popular mat. Every dog is different, and the best choice will depend on your pet’s size, lifestyle, comfort preferences and how you plan to use it.
For a simple everyday cooling solution, the Green Pet Shop Cooling Pet Pad is a reliable choice that offers easy, fuss-free cooling at home. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the ChillPaws Cooling Mat provides a practical way to help your dog stay comfortable during warmer weather.
Larger breeds may benefit from the extra space and water-based cooling design of the K&H Cool Bed III, while the CoolerDog Hydro Cooling Mat offers an innovative cooling system for owners who want something versatile and adaptable. For those looking for a more luxurious option, the FurHaven Cooling Gel Dog Bed combines cooling technology with everyday comfort.
Whichever option you choose, a good cooling mat or bed can be a valuable addition to your dog’s summer essentials. During hot weather, providing a cool place to rest, plenty of fresh water and a shaded area can help your dog stay more comfortable.
Ready to find the right cooling solution for your pup? Browse our recommended cooling mats and choose the option that best suits your dog’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooling Mats for Dogs
Do cooling mats really work for dogs?
Yes, cooling mats can help dogs feel more comfortable during hot weather by providing a cooler surface for them to rest on. Different mats work in different ways, including pressure-activated gel technology, water-filled systems and ice insert designs. A cooling mat should be used alongside other summer safety measures such as providing shade, fresh water and avoiding excessive exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
How long do dog cooling mats stay cool?
The cooling time depends on the type of mat, the temperature of the room or outdoor area and how your dog uses it. Gel cooling mats often provide several hours of cooling before they need time to recharge, while water and ice-based systems may provide longer-lasting cooling depending on the design.
Are cooling mats safe for dogs?
Most cooling mats designed specifically for pets are safe when used correctly. Always choose a product made for dogs, follow the manufacturer's instructions and regularly check the mat for signs of damage. If your dog is a strong chewer, supervision is recommended.
Are gel cooling mats toxic to dogs?
Reputable pet cooling mats are designed with dog safety in mind and many use non-toxic gel formulations. However, no cooling mat should be considered chew-proof. If the outer material becomes damaged, stop using the mat and replace it.
What size cooling mat does my dog need?
Your dog should be able to comfortably lie down and stretch out on the mat. Measure your dog from nose to tail while they are lying down and compare this with the product dimensions before buying. Larger breeds will usually benefit from a larger cooling surface.
Can puppies use cooling mats?
Yes, puppies can use cooling mats, but they should always be supervised, especially if they like to chew or scratch at new items. Choose a durable mat and make sure your puppy has the option to move away from the cooling surface if they become uncomfortable.
Can dogs sleep on cooling mats overnight?
Many dogs can safely rest on cooling mats for extended periods, but it is best to follow the manufacturer's guidance. Your dog should always have the option to move away from the mat if they choose.
What is better for dogs: a gel cooling mat or a water cooling mat?
Neither option is best for every dog. Gel mats are often lightweight, convenient and easy to use, making them a popular everyday choice. Water-based cooling systems can offer a different type of cooling experience and may suit dogs who prefer a softer or larger cooling surface.
Where is the best place to put a cooling mat?
Place the cooling mat somewhere your dog already likes to relax, such as a shaded area indoors, a cool part of the garden or inside a crate. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can reduce its cooling effectiveness.