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Dog Cooling Mats can help keep our dogs cool in summer. Unlike us humans, dogs don’t sweat through their skin.
They sweat a little bit through their paws, but for the most part, dogs have to rely on their panting behaviour to release excess heat that is trapped inside their bodies.
Panting isn’t the most effective way to release excess heat, so dogs often suffer during hot and humid summer days.
A cooling mat for dogs can help to address this issue by cooling off your dog’s body from underneath. They can help to make your dog more comfortable on hot days or after an energetic play session.
Quick Picks: Best Dog Cooling Mats for Australian Dogs
With Australian summers regularly hitting 40°C+ in many regions, choosing the right cooling mat can make a real difference to your dog’s comfort and safety. Let’s start with our top recommendations.
🏆 Our Top Pick
Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad
The most recommended cooling mat across Australia. Features pressure-activated gel that cools for up to 3 hours, then automatically recharges in just 15-20 minutes. No water, electricity, or refrigeration needed.
Perfect for indoor use, travel, and crate cooling. The non-toxic gel stays 5-10°C cooler than room temperature, providing instant relief on hot days.
From $45-$120 (depending on size)
BEST BUDGET OPTION
Rywell Dog Cooling Mat
Features unique color-changing technology (blue to white) that shows when it’s actively cooling your dog. Arc-Chill fabric lowers temperature by 3-5°C. Washable, non-toxic, no gel or water needed. Multiple sizes available.
From $24-$65
BEST FOR LARGE DOGS
K&H Extra-Thick Cooling Bed
Water-filled design provides longer cooling duration (up to 7 hours). Extra-thick construction supports heavy dogs (up to 100kg+). Ideal for senior dogs with joint issues who need both cooling and orthopedic support.
From $70-$120
Types of Dog Cooling Mats
Now that you’ve seen our top picks, let’s dive into the different types of cooling mats available so you can choose the best option for your dog’s specific needs.
🤔 Which Type is Right for Your Dog?
❄️ Pressure-Activated Gel Mats
The most popular type. Contains non-toxic gel that activates when your dog lies down, absorbing body heat and staying cool for 3-4 hours.
Best for: Indoor use, travel, crates, most dog owners
- No water, electricity, or refrigeration needed
- Automatically recharges in 15-20 minutes
- Lightweight and portable
- Not recommended for direct sunlight (absorbs heat from environment)
💧 Water-Filled Mats
Fill with cold tap water for immediate cooling. Can stay cold for up to 7 hours depending on water temperature and environment.
Best for: Outdoor use, extremely hot days, budget-conscious owners
- Longest cooling duration (especially with cold water)
- Most affordable option
- Requires refilling/draining
- Risk of leaks if punctured
- Can develop mildew if not dried properly
🌬️ Elevated Cooling Beds
Raised design allows air to circulate underneath and around your dog. Doesn’t feel “cold” but prevents heat from being trapped underneath.
Best for: Outdoor use, humid climates, dogs who prefer firm surfaces
- Works well in Brisbane/Darwin humid heat
- Durable and easy to clean
- Doesn’t provide “cold” sensation like gel mats
- Great for camping and outdoor adventures
🧊 Ice Pack Cooling Pads
Features removable ice packs that you freeze overnight and insert into the mat. Provides the coldest cooling option available.
Best for: Extreme heat days (40°C+), post-surgery cooling, heat-sensitive breeds
- Coldest option (can be too cold initially for some dogs)
- Requires freezer space and overnight prep
- Multiple ice packs allow rotation
- Can be uncomfortable if too cold
When You Need a Dog Cooling Mat
Choosing the right type is only part of the equation. Let’s look at when cooling mats are most beneficial for Australian dog owners.
When to Use a Cooling Mat
🌡️ Extreme Heatwaves (40°C+ Days)
Many parts of Australia regularly hit 40°C+ in summer. On these days, even air-conditioned homes can struggle to keep up. A cooling mat provides a guaranteed cool spot your dog can retreat to for instant relief.
👴 Senior Dogs & Temperature Regulation
Older dogs lose their ability to regulate body temperature efficiently. They overheat faster and recover slower. A cooling mat helps senior dogs stay comfortable without needing to pant excessively, which can be exhausting.
🐕 Thick-Coated Breeds
Huskies, Malamutes, Samoyeds, German Shepherds, and other double-coated breeds can suffer intensely in Australian heat. Their thick coats are designed for Arctic temperatures, not 38°C days. Cooling mats are essential for these breeds.
🏃 Post-Exercise Cooling
After beach runs, dog park play, or morning walks, your dog’s body temperature is elevated. A cooling mat helps them recover faster and prevents overheating during the cool-down period. Perfect for active dogs who don’t know when to stop.
🏠 No Air Conditioning
Not everyone has air conditioning (or wants to run it all day). Cooling mats provide relief without the electricity costs. Combined with fans and closed curtains, they’re an effective heat management strategy for budget-conscious owners.
How to Choose the Right Size Cooling Mat
Sizing is crucial for cooling mats. Your dog needs to be able to lie fully stretched out on the mat for maximum cooling benefit.
Sizing Guide for Cooling Mats
1. Measure Your Dog Lying Down
- Wait until your dog is lying fully stretched out (not curled up)
- Measure from nose to base of tail (not tip of tail)
- Measure width at widest point (usually shoulders)
- Add 10-15cm to both measurements for comfort
2. General Size Guide
- Small (50cm x 40cm): Up to 10kg | Chihuahuas, toy breeds, puppies
- Medium (65cm x 50cm): 10-25kg | Beagles, Cavaliers, Cocker Spaniels
- Large (90cm x 60cm): 25-40kg | Labradors, Kelpies, Border Collies
- Extra Large (110cm x 70cm): 40kg+ | German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Great Danes
3. Getting the Right Fit
- When in doubt, size up: Dogs prefer to stretch out on hot days
- Multiple dogs: Get individual mats (they won’t share well)
- Large breeds: Consider two medium mats if one XL is too expensive
- Crate use: Mat should fit flat on crate floor without folding
Common Questions About Dog Cooling Mats
When you’re investing in a cooling mat for your Australian summer, it’s natural to have questions. Here are the most common ones we hear from dog owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dog cooling mat?
A dog cooling mat is a special pad designed to help dogs cool down during hot weather. It works by providing a cold surface for your dog to lie on, similar to how dogs naturally seek out cool tiles or concrete floors when they’re hot.
What is inside pet cooling mats?
This depends on the type. Water-filled mats contain cold tap water. Ice pack mats have removable ice packs you freeze overnight. Pressure-activated gel mats contain non-toxic gel that absorbs your dog’s body heat and stays cool without refrigeration or electricity.
How do you use a dog cooling mat?
Simply place the mat on the floor, in a crate, or on your dog’s bed. For gel mats, no preparation is needed—they activate automatically when your dog lies down. For water-filled mats, fill with cold water first. Some dogs figure it out immediately; others need encouragement with treats and praise.
Do you put dog cooling mats in the fridge?
You don’t have to, but you can. Gel and water-based mats can be refrigerated (not frozen) for extra cooling power, especially on extreme heat days. However, pressure-activated gel mats work fine at room temperature without refrigeration.
Are dog cooling mats safe?
Yes, when used as directed. Most modern cooling mats use non-toxic gel and are designed with safety in mind. However, any product can be a hazard if chewed and ingested. Monitor your dog initially, especially if they’re prone to chewing. If concerned, discuss with your vet.
Are dog cooling mats toxic?
Reputable cooling mats use non-toxic materials. The gel inside pressure-activated mats is typically non-toxic, and water-filled mats contain just water. However, like anything, they can become a problem if chewed and swallowed in large quantities. Always supervise chewing-prone dogs.
Can my dog sleep on a cooling mat?
Yes! Many dogs love sleeping on cooling mats, especially on hot Australian summer nights. If your dog likes cool surfaces, they may choose to sleep on it throughout the night. Just ensure the mat is placed somewhere comfortable and safe.
Do dog cooling mats actually work?
Yes, when used correctly. Gel mats typically stay 5-10°C cooler than room temperature. Water-filled mats can stay cold for up to 7 hours. The effectiveness depends on the type of mat, your climate (dry vs humid), and whether it’s used indoors or outdoors. They work best in shaded, cool environments.
How long do dog cooling mats work?
Gel mats typically cool for 3-4 hours before needing to recharge (15-20 minutes of non-use). Water-filled mats can stay cool for up to 7 hours depending on water temperature. Ice pack mats stay coldest but require overnight freezing between uses.
Do cooling mats work in humid Australian climates?
Yes, but less effectively. Gel mats work better in dry heat (Perth, Adelaide). In humid climates (Brisbane, Darwin), consider elevated cooling beds that allow airflow instead. The humidity prevents heat from dissipating as efficiently from gel mats.
Can I use a cooling mat in direct sunlight?
Not recommended for gel mats. They work by absorbing heat—if placed in direct sun, they’ll absorb heat from the sun instead of your dog. Water-filled mats and elevated beds handle sunlight better, but shaded areas are always best for any cooling product.
Are pet cooling mats safe for humans?
Yes! Humans can absolutely use dog cooling mats. They’re perfectly safe and can provide relief on hot days. Many people use them for outdoor concerts, camping, or as a cooling pillow insert.
Pro Tips for Dog Owners
Understanding how cooling mats work is one thing, getting the most out of them in Australian conditions is another. Here are our top tips based on years of experience with harsh Aussie summers.
💡 Pro Tips for Australian Summer
- Always use in shade: Direct sunlight causes gel mats to absorb environmental heat instead of your dog’s body heat. Place under trees, verandahs, or indoors for best results.
- Combine with other cooling methods: Cooling mats work best as part of a complete heat management strategy. Use with fans, frozen treats, wet towels, and plenty of water. Don’t rely on mats alone during extreme heat.
- Introduce gradually: Some dogs are suspicious of new surfaces. Place treats on the mat, praise when they step on it, and let them investigate at their own pace. Once they feel the cooling effect, most dogs love them.
- Storage matters: Store gel mats flat in cool, dry locations. Don’t leave in hot cars or garages during summer—they’ll absorb that heat. Water-filled mats must be completely dry before storage to prevent mildew.
- Clean regularly: Wipe gel mats with damp cloth and mild soap. Never machine wash unless specifically stated. Keep covers on water-filled mats to prevent algae growth. A clean mat is a mat your dog will actually use.
- Know when it’s not enough: Cooling mats are great for comfort, but they’re not emergency treatment. If your dog shows signs of heatstroke (excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, collapse), get to a vet immediately. Don’t wait.
- Australian summer buying strategy: Cooling mats sell out fast during summer (December-February). Buy in November before peak season, or during Boxing Day/Click Frenzy sales when stock is still available.
- Consider backup options: If your dog loves their cooling mat, have a backup. When one is recharging (gel mats) or being cleaned, the second one can be in use. This is especially important during multi-day heatwaves.
Are Dog Cooling Mats Worth Your Money?
It really depends on the dog if a cooling mat is worth your money. Many dogs will love having access to a cool surface; others won’t be interested.
You can certainly play a role in your dog appreciating the cooling mat though. Put some toys and treats on the mat, so that your dog associates it with something great.
Sometimes it will take some time for your dog to figure out the purpose of the cooling mat, but many dogs will love them once they do. If your dog is absolutely not interested in the cooling mat, why not use it for yourself or your children on a hot summer day?
