Cooling pads help your dog regulate their body temperature and combat excessive heat, which keeps them more comfortable while also preventing against heat-related issues.
Elevated dog beds have shown to be beneficial in the heat. However, for this guide, we sought out cooling mats that will keep dogs at ease in their crates, outside in the backyard, or while camping.
I wasn’t convinced cooling mats would make much of a difference, but Krista Miller, a veterinarian who goes by the online handle Dope Black Vet, spoke with me about the benefits of these mats. She suggested that cooling mats could be very beneficial for pets who become overheated, particularly after exercising and relaxing outdoors or even at the beach. They might also help brachycephalic breeds like your French and English bulldogs, which are prone to overheating. “.
During some of the hottest summer weeks we had in the Pacific Northwest, I put five of the most popular cooling mats to the test with my dogs. Sherman, my nearly 15-year-old beagle mix, and Walter, my 9-year-old dachshund, are two senior hounds who occasionally have trouble with the heat.
You should watch over your dog the first few times they use one of these, just like you would with any mat or bed. Either water or a non-toxic heat-absorbing gel is used in these mats. Miller emphasized how crucial it is to prevent dogs from ingesting the contents of the gel, which can result in gastrointestinal distress and other problems. Despite the fact that you might believe you can use a cooling mat in the sun, you cannot leave these mats in the sun. It impacts their performance, which their user guides note.
Each mat’s manufacturer provided a sample for editorial review. I assessed them based on their effectiveness, design, and intended use. Check out our testing methodology slide for additional details.
Cons Of Getting a Cooling Mat For Your Dog
Getting your dog to use the cooling mat is the biggest drawback!
I’ve heard of so many people over the years who buy their Newfie a cooling mat, only to watch the Newfie completely disregard it.
This is totally normal and a popular issue!
Dogs are creatures of habit, so it can be challenging to persuade them that a cooling pad is superior to a hard floor.
The majority of my dogs have taken a few weeks to get used to lying on the cooling pad, but once they do, it’s practically impossible to pry them away from it!
Typically, I keep one inside and one outside.
If you’re looking for a less expensive way to keep your dog cool this summer, check out the Amazon Basics Cooling Elevated Pet Bed.
I can’t rave enough about these elevated beds because we have two of them.
They hold up really well, are reasonably priced for large dogs, and this year’s design was improved.
Take a look at these 4 Simple Tricks To Get Your Dog To Use That Cooling Mat.
How Long Do Cooling Mats Last?
I’ve only used The Green Pet Shop Cooling Mats and they seem to last about 2-3 years with year-round use.
Our pads are used all year long because I keep them out.
The gel will become hard and no longer be pliable when it’s time for a replacement, I’ll notice.
Most cooling pads will stay cool for 4 to 6 hours when used daily, depending on the type and material of the cooling mat you have.
AFP Pet Cooling Mat Sold Out – What Now?
As previously mentioned, dog cooling mats in Australia’s summers can sell out quickly.
When that occurs, you might get lucky checking your neighborhood pet store because they frequently bulk up beforehand. Examine Bunnings as well because many of their stores stock cool mats for dogs in the summer.
If you prefer to make an online purchase, below is an alternative option from Catch.com.au with good reviews from other dog owners.
FAQ
Is a dog cooling mat worth it?
People who live in hot climates and want to minimize the amount of electricity used to keep their dogs cool should consider investing in dog cooling mats. The majority of gel cooling mats are pressure activated, which is an effective way to quickly cool down a dog.
Can dogs sleep all night on a cooling mat?
Create a cool surface for your dog to sleep on that is away from any sources of excessive heat if you know they are having trouble with the heat. Here, investing in a cooling mat can be wise and is a great way to guarantee your dog’s safety on a hot night.
How long does a dog cooling mat work?
Up to four hours of cooling can be experienced before the mat needs a 20-minute break to recharge.
Are gel cooling mats good for dogs?
Gel mats are a popular option because they are “self-cooling. “Your dog’s weight is all that is required to activate the cooling mechanism. They are convenient for traveling with your dog because they provide a gentle chill for long periods of time and are typically portable and simple to clean.