The 6 best dog cooling mats and pads in 2025, tested and reviewed

Dogs need a break from the heat just like humans, and they're also at risk of overheating when temperatures spike. You can keep your dog safe on hot days by providing plenty of drinking water and time indoors. But if you'd like to give them extra relief, one of the best dog cooling mats or pads is an excellent option.

To help you find the best cooling mat for your dog, I tested 10 popular designs with my pitbull mix, Marty McFly. In addition, my editor's senior hound mix, Homer, was happy to test, too. All in all, we've tested 18 cooling mats and blankets. Both of our pups are the perfect testers since they both tend to splay out on hardwood and tile floors when they're feeling hot.

After a series of tests, we found the best overall mat is the Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad, with its strong cooling powers and durable materials. It's the priciest mat in this guide, but less expensive quality options exist, including a water mat and pads made of heat-wicking fabrics.

Our top picks for the best dog cooling mats

Best overall: Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad - See at Chewy

Best for large dogs: Arf Pets Solid Gel-Cooling Pad - See at Chewy

Best for crates: EveryYay Cool Orthopedic Dog Crate Mat - See at Amazon

Best for outdoors: K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III - See at Chewy

Best for travel: Bedsure Cooling Mat - See at Chewy

Best for the sofa: Lesure Premium Cooling Blanket - See at Amazon

Best overall

My top choice for the best dog cooling mats, the Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad, earned high points in all of my tests. Its cooling powers lie in the pressure-activated gel that absorbs a dog's body heat for up to three hours.

This mat is a longtime favorite of Homer, the senior pup of Lisa Sabatini, senior pets editor for Business Insider Reviews. He stretches out on it year-round. As soon as I unpacked it, Marty didn't hesitate to flop down in his preferred resting position: a full-bodied splay. Dogs who prefer a bit of padding may also like the cushioning of the thin but solid gel-filled interior.

A black and white pitbull mix is lying on a blue cooling mat.

In my testing, I measured only 2.8 degrees of heat transfer, considerably less than I observed with most mats. The manufacturer says that after three hours of continuous use, you'll need to "recharge" it by setting it aside for 20 minutes so the gel can regain its cooling abilities.

The mat's nylon exterior is super durable, and my dog's nails never left any scratches behind. It's easy to wipe clean, but oily smudges like those from peanut butter may leave faint stains. If that's a concern, machine-washable covers in several pastel colors are sold separately.

While the Cool Pet Pad comes in a wide range of sizes, there isn't an option for giant breed dogs.

Best for large dogs

If you have a giant breed dog or pups who like to share, our top pick, the Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad, might not be big enough for them. Instead, consider the 33-inch-by-55-inch Arf Pets Self-Cooling Solid Gel Pad.

This pad cools just as well as our best overall pick and is less expensive. However, it didn't make it to the top of our list because it offers less cushioning and has a more slippery surface that isn't ideal for dogs who are prone to instability. Still, it's an excellent choice for many extra-large pups and multi-dog households.

My 55-pound Marty had more than enough room to stretch out on the 33-in-55-inch mat. In fact, two Martys could easily fit on the pad. I sat on it, too, and although it's a firmer surface than the Cool Pet Pad, I found it comfortable.

A black and white dog is lying on a blue cooling mat.

The mat stayed in place when I ran Marty across it, but his longer nails did slide a bit. So, if your dog is prone to sliding and instability, this isn't a good option for them.

That said, I liked how easy it was to wipe the smooth material clean, and its darker color hides stains well.

Best for crates

Most cooling mats are thin and not the best choice for long snoozes in a crate. A thick cooling crate pad with added foam support, however, ups the comfort quotient for pups. The EveryYay mat has a 3-inch egg-crate foam core that molds to a dog's body for extra comfort. Its cover is a cool, silky, mesh-like fabric that provides refreshing relief on hot days. The mat comes in several sizes to match the dimensions of most of the best dog crates. In addition to neutral gray, it comes in a bright teal fabric.

My dog tends to be picky about beds, but it took very little persuasion to get him to lie down on the mat and sink into the cushy egg-crate foam. After Marty lay on it for 30 minutes, the bed's surface temperature increased by 4 degrees. While there was some heat transfer, it remained well below his body temperature. Sabatini sat on the bed herself for 20 minutes and could feel the cooling sensation the entire time.

A side by side image of a gray dog mat inside a black wire dog crate and a brown, white, and black beagle lying on the mat inside the same crate.

It's durable and waterproof, and the ability to toss the removable cover in the washer and dryer is a big bonus. If you have an older or arthritic dog who could use a little more cushion, the Bedsure Comfy Pet Cooling Bed comes in a few crate-compatible sizes and is made of the same egg-crate foam. "I was really impressed by the extra comfort provided by the polyester-filled quilted cover, and it cools just as well as the EveryYay mat," Sabatini says of the 35-inch-by-22-inch bed that fit perfectly inside her dog's crate.

Best for outdoors

If your dog loves the great outdoors, the K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III is perfect for chilling outside. The water-filled bed wicks heat away from your dog while maintaining a surface temperature close to the surrounding environment.

The directions say to place it in the shade, but Sabatini also set it out on a sunny deck where it worked surprisingly well. After Marty lay on it for half an hour indoors, its surface temperature rose by only 3.6 degrees. Outdoors on a sunny deck sans dog, its surface temperature only rose 3 degrees over the course of an hour.

With a thin foam insert and adjustable firmness (just add more water), the bed has a squishy, pillowy feel. Marty liked to burrow his nose into it. Dogs who like a firmer bed might hesitate, though. The sturdy cover is puncture-resistant, but you should still place it on a smooth surface free of sharp debris.

A black and white pitbull is lying on a water-filled blue dog cooling mat.

Filling the bed with water takes several minutes, and it's awkward to move after that. The good news is that you don't have to empty it between uses. If you need to recharge it, leave it inside an air-conditioned space until it cools down. Be sure to read the manufacturer's directions for how to prevent the foam insert from bunching up when moving it around.

Best for travel

The best cooling mat for travel is actually a lightweight quilted mat with a nonslip bottom. While it won't cool as effectively as a gel or water-filled pad, Sabatini says the Bedsure Cooling Mat has a luxurious, silky cover that is very cool to the touch.

Over two weeks of testing, her dog often rotated between this mat and the Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad. She sat on the mat for 10 minutes, herself, and found the temperature increased from 75.8 degrees to 84.4 degrees during that time. That said, it returns to room temperature in just five minutes.

The mat is easy to fold, roll, and tuck into small spaces. Should you take your dog on a road trip and find yourself dealing with a jam-packed trunk, it won't take up any valuable vehicular real estate. You can also lay the smaller-sized mats across the back seat or inside a dog car seat. Even more, the mat comes in five sizes that are compatible with many dog crates.

A brown, black, and white beagle is lying on top of a light blue quilted cooling pad.

Although the material feels quite delicate, Sabatini used a fork to simulate a dog's claws, and the fabric did not snag. It also came out of the washing machine in great shape and air-dried within a few hours.

Best for sofas

If your pup loves to lounge with you on the sofa or in bed, a regular cooling mat won't cut it. Gel mats perform best on hard floors, and our travel pick doesn't cover as much area as the heat-wicking Lesure Pet Cooling Blanket, which comes in a range of sizes up to a twin bed.

I was immediately impressed by the cool feel of the fabric, which also has an appealing silkiness and cute cloud embroidered pattern. My dog always enjoys being rolled into a blanket burrito, so this blanket was an easy sell. He stayed in his blanket cocoon for a full 30 minutes.

The material's starting temperature was 77.9 degrees, and after, it measured 80.8 degrees. I then followed up by draping it over my lap. While some of Marty's residual body heat carried over and took away from the cooling sensation, I still enjoyed the blanket's breathability and softness of the fabric.

A composite image of a dog wrapped in a gray blanket and the same blanket laid out on the floor.

I machine-washed the blanket and didn't notice any difference in its texture or durability. However, some reviewers say that repeated washes can take a toll on the blanket's quality over time. It is labeled air or line-dry only, and its lightweight helps it dry within a few hours.

What to look for in the best dog cooling mats

I asked two veterinarians what's important to consider when shopping for a cooling mat. There are a few key things to consider, including your dog's size, where you plan to use it, and what materials are best.

Size: Dr. Sam Meisler, veterinarian and founder of PetWell Clinic, says size is your first priority. You'll want to choose a mat that allows your dog to rest its entire body on it so it's not hanging off the sides. In terms of length and width, leave a bit of extra space so that your dog can remain cool even if it shifts around on the mat.

Use: My experts say that gel mats, water mats, and cooling blankets all achieve the same goal of wicking heat away from the body, but different types of mats can work better in different contexts. Gel mats are recommended for indoor use only, as extended time outdoors may compromise the gel's effectiveness. Water mats work well both indoors and outdoors, and while they require some setup, they don't need to recharge and can be used continuously. Blankets are lightweight, portable, and easier to introduce to dogs who don't gravitate toward mats.

Materials: Meisler and Dr. Karen Shaw Becker, veterinarian and author of The Forever Dog Life, say that anyone considering a gel mat must make sure it's labeled as nontoxic. "Beds that contain gel pose a risk because they're made with a variety of different chemicals that aren't meant for consumption," Becker says. While no dog should ingest large quantities of nontoxic gel, that designation from a reputable, well-known brand indicates that the gel won't present major health concerns if a small amount is consumed. As for the cover materials, I found nylon, vinyl, and polyethylene durable, comfortable, and cool.

Warranty: K&H Pet Products and Green Pet Shop offer limited warranties, while other brands provide none. Whether a warranty is worth narrowing your pool of potential mats depends on how much you value the peace of mind from that guarantee.

How we tested the best dog cooling mats

I evaluated the best dog cooling mats with my trusty accomplice, Marty McFly, my 55-pound pitbull mix. I ran all tests indoors for maximum temperature control and set my thermostat to 78 degrees. I conducted the following tests to compare how each mat measured up to the competition.

Cooling abilities: I first placed my hands on each mat to get a feel for its coolness. I then measured its surface temperature with an infrared thermometer. Next, I had Marty lie on the mat for 30 minutes and sat beside him on the mat during that time. Afterward, I measured the temperature again to see whether the mat retained heat from our bodies.

Safety of materials: Before testing, I checked each mat to ensure its materials were labeled nontoxic. Exterior materials like nylon, vinyl, and polyethylene are strong enough to withstand nail scraping and minor chewing. They're also nontoxic unless they're consumed in large quantities.

Comfort: After Marty settled down on each mat, I evaluated how comfortable he seemed. I observed whether he was happy to rest there for an extended time or immediately got back up. I also sat on each mat to evaluate its softness, moldability to the body, how easy it was to get on and off, and the mat's ability to accommodate bodies in different positions, such as seated and lying down.

Durability: After Marty spent time on each mat and moved around, I examined the materials for wear and tear. I also ran a fork over the surface of each mat 20 times to see if the materials tore or incurred any damage.

Skid resistance: I put Marty on a leash and ran him across each mat 10 times as it was laid on a laminate floor. I observed whether the mats slid around on the ground and whether Marty's feet slipped on their surfaces.

Ease of cleaning: I smeared a tablespoon of peanut butter and a tablespoon of mud onto each mat, then let them sit for 24 hours. I cleaned each mat according to the manufacturer's instructions. I recorded how long the process took, whether I needed any special equipment or supplies, the general ease of the experience, and how effectively it removed the mud and peanut butter, along with any organic materials that were left behind after testing, like drool and hair.

Dog cooling mats FAQs

Do dog cooling mats actually work?

The short answer is yes, but even the best dog cooling mats have their limitations. "By using gel, water, and/or special fabrics, the mats absorb heat from a dog's body, which makes them feel cooler," Meisler says. There are, however, a few caveats that could reduce a cooling mat's effectiveness. Becker says a mat might be a waste of money if your dog doesn't typically use mats or beds. It's also important to remember that a cooling mat is intended to provide added comfort. Proper hydration and a cool environment are the most important things to provide your dog. "If the ambient temperature is excessive, a cooling mat alone is not enough to prevent heat stroke or overheating," says Becker.

Are cooling mats safe for dogs?

Meisler and Becker agree that cooling mats are generally safe for dogs, but it's important to do your research before ordering a mat. Above all else, Becker says to pay attention to the quality of a mat's construction and types of materials and coatings. Look for brands that use puncture-resistant materials like nylon, and always choose materials labeled as nontoxic. Most importantly, closely supervise your dog when introducing new items. "If you have a dog that tends to chew or eat their toys and/or bedding, all mats could be a choking or GI obstruction risk," Becker says. If you know that your dog is a tenacious chewer, never leave them with a cooling mat without supervision.

Can dogs sleep on cooling mats overnight?

Meisler says that while pets can sleep on a cooling mat, it doesn't mean they should. While nothing about the mats themselves makes them unsafe for sleeping, Meisler encourages people to pay attention to their dog's preferences, as they have keen instincts for what makes them feel comfortable and happy. "Just like humans, some dogs may prefer a cooler surface for shorter periods versus a prolonged amount of time," he says. "While prolonged use might be safe, it isn't always advisable or necessary. Dogs regulate their body temperature through various means. It is essential they have access to normal temperatures to prevent muscle stiffness or other issues." Becker says many cooling mats, especially gel-filled ones, have limits for how long they can sustain their cooling properties before needing to be recharged. "Don't assume that the mat will continue to cool your pup past about 4 hours, and never rely on any mat or bed to prevent overheating or heat stroke," she says.

How should cooling mats be stored for maximum longevity?

Always follow a manufacturer's instructions for storing a mat. In general, avoid storing cooling mats in direct sunlight, in high-temperature areas, or in places where they could get wet.

Best overall: K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III

A white and brown beagle is lying on a K&H gray cooling mat outside in the grass.

Pros: Soft, comfortable surface; foam core and water provide cushion; less expensive than gel mats; works continuously without the need to recharge; no weight limit

Cons: Must fill with water, need to drain before storing, only available in three sizes, too small for very large and giant breeds

The K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III is excellent for indoor and outdoor use in temperatures up to 95 degrees. When placed in the shade, it remains at ambient air temperature, keeping the bed cooler than a dog's normal body temperature of 99.5 to 102.5 degrees. My dogs and I like this cooling pad the best because the foam core and water provide extra cushioning and support like the best dog beds.

To set up the bed, you'll have to remove the cap from the spout on the bottom, fill it with the recommended amount of water, replace the cap, then adjust the pad's air valve. When filled with water, the bed measures about 1.5 inches high. You can move it around, but you'll need to handle it carefully. The manufacturer's directions explain how to lift it — most importantly, you should not pick it up by the corners because the foam core can bunch up.

My dogs like to hang out in the kitchen, so whenever I turn off the air conditioning and open the sliding door, I lay it on the floor for them. The bed performed well both on the kitchen tile and outdoors in the shade. When filled with water, it's pretty heavy, so there's no chance it'll slip on smooth surfaces. The nylon/vinyl cover is soft, and the water distributes evenly throughout the pad so dogs can balance comfortably. Make sure your dog's nails are trimmed short so the cover doesn't tear if they like to dig before lying down.

If you travel with this mat, you'll need to drain the water to make it lighter and more portable. I used a damp towel to clean it and let it air-dry on the porch. The cover is also mold and mildew-resistant.

Best for travel: Green Pet Cool Pet Pad

A black shorthaired dachshund is sitting on a blue dog cooling mat from the green pet shop.

Pros: Available in five sizes, suitable for dogs under 8 pounds, can place in refrigerator for faster recharging, easily folds up for storage and travel, no setup required, protective cover available for purchase, nontoxic gel

Cons: Not suitable for very large and giant breeds, lacks cushioning

The Green Pet Cool Pet Pad contains a patented pressure-activated gel that absorbs a dog's body heat to keep them cool for up to three hours. Because this thin mat is divided into sections, you can easily fold it up for travel and storage. Plus, it's available in a range of sizes to fit most dogs and crates, including an extra-small size for toy breeds.

The brand recommends using it indoors and out of direct sunlight. I tested it both indoors and outside in the shade. Outdoors, it still helped cool my dogs. I took it on a camping trip, where it remained cool for the entire hour my dog lay on it.

The mat's nylon covering is very soft but also quite slick. If your dog runs across it, it could easily slide out from underneath them. Therefore, I recommend placing it on a softer surface where it won't slide.

The mat was easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. A machine-washable cover is also available for purchase, but I did not test it for this guide.

Best mat for large dogs: Arf Pets Self-Cooling Solid Gel Pad

A beagle is lying on the arf pets cooling mat for dogs in the grass.

Pros: Available in extra large size for large and giant breeds, easily folds up for storage and travel, no setup required, can place in refrigerator for faster recharging, protective cover available for purchase

Cons: No warranty, lacks cushioning

The Arf Pets Pad uses gel technology similar to The Green Pet Shop mat, absorbing a dog's body heat to keep them cool for up to three hours. In testing, the two mats had the same cooling and recharging abilities. However, the Arf Pets Pad is the clear winner for this category because it's available in a 33-by-55-inch size not offered by other brands I tested. It's also a half-inch thick, with a bit more cushioning than the thinner Green Pet mat.

I used this mat in one of my dog's crates during a nearly three-hour car ride. The mat was still cool at the end of our trip. I also tested it on the floor in our kitchen, which is next to our outdoor deck. Typically, my dogs come in from the deck and immediately lie on the cool tile floor. When the mat was on the floor, they often chose it over the cool tiles.

The vinyl covering is stain-resistant. The manufacturer says to wipe down the mat with warm soap and water. I used a damp cloth to remove the dirt left behind from my dog's paws. The material is very soft, so you'll need to keep your dog's nails well-trimmed. Dogs that like to dig in their beds may accidentally tear this pad if unsupervised.

How we tested the best cooling mats and pads for dogs

A black shorthaired dachshund is standing on a blue paws life cooling pad that's inside a dog crate.

The best dog cooling mats in this guide were provided as editorial review samples by their manufacturers. Each mat was tested for at least one month and evaluated according to the following criteria.

Keeping dogs cool on hot days: The most important test is how long each pad stays cool in a warm environment whether indoors or outside. I left the mats in the shade for an hour, then checked to see how cool they remained. After bringing them indoors, I also checked them every 15 minutes to determine how long each one took to recharge.
Material and weathering outside in the shade: I evaluated the mats based on the durability of their materials and whether or not they could stand up to dirt and a dog's nails.
Ease of cleaning: All of the mats came with manufacturer cleaning instructions. I washed each pad according to its instructions to see how easily it came clean.
Overall comfort: All five mats tested were placed in the shade, and I let my dogs choose among them. Over a month, it was evident which mats they preferred when the temperatures rose.

The post The 6 best dog cooling mats and pads in 2025, tested and reviewed appeared first on Business Insider