Explore the pros and cons of summer dog cooling vests vs cooling mats, discover the 10 best picks, and get simple tips to help your pup beat the summer heat safely.

Summer Dog Cooling Vest vs Cooling Mat – Which Keeps Your Pup Cooler?

Keeping your dog cool in the blazing summer heat is essential for their health and happiness. Unlike humans, dogs can’t sweat much – they mostly cool off by panting. But when temperatures soar, panting alone might not be enough, and that’s where cooling vests and cooling mats come in. In this article, we’ll compare summer dog cooling vests vs cooling mats in a friendly, easy-to-understand way. We’ll also share the 10 best products (including both vests and mats) and some helpful tips so even a 7th-grader can be the expert on canine cool-downs!

A dog cools off by playing in water on a hot summer day. Both cooling vests and cooling mats can help pets beat the heat without constant trips to the pool or hose.

By the end, you’ll know how each option works, their pros and cons, and which might be the best choice for your furry friend. So let’s dive in (and cool down)!

Cooling Vests vs Cooling Mats: What’s the Difference?

Dog cooling vests and dog cooling mats are two popular ways to help pets stay comfy in hot weather. Both serve the same purpose (preventing overheating), but they work in different ways and are useful in different situations. Let’s break it down in simple terms:

• Cooling Vests: A cooling vest is like a lightweight dog jacket designed to pull heat away from your dog’s body. Most vests use evaporative cooling, which means you get the vest wet, wring it out, and put it on your dog. As the water in the vest evaporates, it cools your dog’s skin – similar to how sweat evaporating off our skin cools us down (dogs don’t really sweat, so the vest kind of acts like “artificial sweat” for them)rover.com. Some vests use ice packs instead – you insert special cold packs into the vest, which can keep your pup cool for 1 to 4 hours per outingrover.com. Cooling vests cover the dog’s back and chest, cooling their core while they move around. They’re great for walks, hikes, or playtime outdoors, because your dog can wear the vest and stay cool on the go. However, an evaporative vest can feel damp, so it’s not ideal for indoor use (nobody wants a soggy dog on the couch!)rover.com. Also, in very humid weather, evaporative vests may not work well – if the air is already full of moisture, water won’t evaporate quickly and the vest could just stay wet and warm. Tip: In humid conditions, consider an ice-pack cooling vest or a cooling mat instead of an evaporative vest.
• Cooling Mats: A cooling mat is basically a chilled dog bed or pad that provides a cool spot for your pup to lie on. There are a few types: gel mats, which contain a special pressure-activated gel that absorbs your dog’s body heat when they lie downakc.org; water mats or beds, which you fill with cold water; and mats with freezable inserts (you put an insert in the freezer, then into the mat). The cooling effect can last from a couple of hours to all day, depending on the mat and conditions. Many gel mats “recharge” themselves after a short period off use – once the dog steps off, the gel cools down again on its own for the next time. Cooling mats are fantastic for indoor use or shaded outdoor rest. You can put one in your dog’s crate, on the floor, or even in the car. Dogs often seek out cool surfaces like tile floors when they’re hot; a cooling mat gives them an even cooler spot made just for them. Unlike a vest, a mat doesn’t require the dog to wear anything – perfect for pups that don’t like wearing clothes or for when you’re at homerover.com. On the downside, mats are stationary – they only cool your dog when they decide to lay down on it. If your pup is running around in the sun, a mat won’t help until they take a break. Also, some cooling mats need a little prep (e.g. filling with water or freezing overnight), and chewers might be tempted to gnaw on them (always choose a durable mat and supervise at first!).

In short: a cooling vest cools the dog while they move around, and a cooling mat cools the dog when they lay down to relax. Many pet parents actually use both – a vest for walks and a mat at home. Next, we’ll look at our top 10 picks (5 vests and 5 mats) and then do a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which option is best for your dog.

Tip: No matter which cooling product you use, always provide fresh water and shade for your dog on hot days. Staying hydrated is super important – a cooling vest or mat helps reduce overheating and excessive panting, which in turn helps your dog retain fluids and avoid heatstrokeakc.orgakc.org.

5 Best Dog Cooling Vests for Summer Adventures

When it comes to cooling vests, you want one that’s effective, comfortable, and easy to use. Below are five of the best dog cooling vests available, each with something special about it. These vests come in various sizes (from small pups to big breeds) and can make a huge difference during summer outings.

1. Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Dog Vest – Ruffwear is known for high-quality dog gear, and their Swamp Cooler vest is a favorite of many pet owners. This vest uses evaporative cooling: just soak it in cold water, wring it out, and put it on your dog. The light-colored reflective fabric also helps block the sun’s heat. It’s designed to be lightweight and allow airflow, so your pup can run and play comfortably. The Swamp Cooler comes in multiple sizes and has adjustable straps for a secure fit. Bonus: It offers UV protection for your dog’s back. It’s a bit pricier than some generic brands, but it’s durable and long-lasting. (Available on Amazon).
2. Kurgo Core Cooling Vest for Dogs – The Kurgo cooling vest is another evaporative model that’s super easy to use. You wet the vest and put it on your dog to start the cooling action. The Core Cooling Vest is designed to cover the chest and back, cooling the areas that help regulate body temperature. It’s light gray in color to reflect sunlight and has orange reflective trim for visibility. This vest is known for being adjustable and comfy, with two adjustment points (chest and belly) to fit your dog just right. It even has a convenient leash attachment opening so you can use it with a harness underneath. Many dog owners love that the Kurgo vest is lightweight even when wet. (Available on Amazon in sizes from small to extra-large.)
3. Canada Pooch “Chill Seeker” Cooling Vest – Canada Pooch makes the stylish Chill Seeker cooling vest. It works on the same evaporative principle: soak it, wring it, wear it. The Chill Seeker has a fun design and comes in different colors. The fabric absorbs water and releases it slowly to cool your dog as it evaporates. It’s a popular choice for its look and functionality – often featured by dog owners who want their pet to stay cool and look cool 😎. This vest also provides a bit of UV shielding. It secures with adjustable straps, making it easy to put on and take off. Pet parents report that the Chill Seeker vest stays damp for a good amount of time before needing a re-wet. Just remember, in very humid weather any evaporative vest (including this one) will need more frequent re-wetting. (Check it out on Amazon for various sizes and colors.)
4. SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness – The SGODA cooling vest is a top-rated affordable option that many Amazon reviewers rave about. It has a three-layer design (an absorbent middle layer to hold water, with mesh outer layers) for evaporative cooling. This vest zips up on your dog’s back and even features two D-rings so it can function as a cooling harness – you can attach a leash directly to it. The SGODA vest is lightweight and flexible, allowing good range of motion (important if your dog loves to zoom around). It also offers UPF 50+ sun protection on the back, which is great for dogs with thin coats or light skinrover.com. We love that it comes in bright colors with reflective strips for safety. This vest is perfect if you want a budget-friendly cooling vest that doesn’t skimp on features. (Available on Amazon in sizes from small to XXL.)
5. Horay World Ice Pack Cooling Vest – The Horay World cooling vest is a bit different – it uses freezable gel packs instead of evaporation. If you live in a very humid area or need a longer-lasting chill, this vest is a fantastic choice. You keep the included gel packs in the freezer, then slide them into the vest’s pockets when you’re ready to go. The vest provides a steady, cool temperature along the dog’s back for up to a few hoursrover.com. It’s padded and adjustable, so it fits snugly. Dogs that have tried the Horay vest seem to stay comfortable even on muggy days, when a regular wet vest might not be as effective. Do keep in mind, you’ll need to refreeze the packs after each use (having an extra set of ice packs can be handy for swaps). And as with any ice-pack vest, don’t put it on an already overheated dog – you want to use it to prevent overheating in the first place, not treat heatstroke (sudden extreme cold on an overheated dog can be counterproductive or even riskyrover.com). Overall, the Horay vest is a cool (pun intended) innovation for hot climates! (See it on Amazon – available in multiple sizes, usually in an orange or beige color.)

How to Use a Cooling Vest Safely: With any vest, always follow the instructions. For evaporative vests, make sure to keep them wet (you might carry a bottle of water to re-wet the vest on long walks). For ice-pack vests, don’t leave them on too long continuously – give your dog breaks if the packs start warming up, and never leave a dog unattended in a vest. Watch for any signs of discomfort. A well-fitted vest (not too tight) with soft materials will prevent chafing under the arms and neck. When used properly, cooling vests can really help your dog enjoy summer activities without overheating. Just remember they are not a free pass to exert your dog in extreme heat – still avoid the hottest part of the day, provide shade and water, and know your dog’s limits.

Tip: If your dog isn’t a fan of wearing clothes, take it slow when introducing a cooling vest. Let them sniff it, put it on for short periods with treats and praise. Some dogs prefer a cooling bandana or collar as a lighter alternative (you can wet and freeze those too)rover.com, but those only cool a small area.

Now that we’ve covered the wearable coolers, let’s switch gears to the lay-down kind: cooling mats and pads!

5 Best Dog Cooling Mats and Pads for Chilling Out

Cooling mats are like portable cool spots for your dog. Here are five of the best cooling mats we’ve found, each with different features. Whether you need something for a large dog, a crate, or just a comfy bed on the porch, there’s an option below. All of these have great reviews from dog owners and will help your pup beat the heat while lounging.

1. CoolerDog Hydro Cooling Mat – The CoolerDog Hydro Cooling Mat is often picked as the “best overall” cooling mat, and for good reason. This innovative mat uses a 3-layer system: a water-retaining foam layer, a cold gel layer, and an insulating layer. Essentially, it comes with freezable ice sheet inserts that you place inside the mat. The result is a super-chilled surface that can last for hours. In fact, in one test, the CoolerDog Hydro Mat stayed cold for over 7 hours in a 95°F roombusinessinsider.com – pretty impressive! This mat is awesome for very hot conditions or for dogs that need long-lasting cooling (like senior dogs or breeds prone to overheating). It’s also modular – you can connect multiple mats to cover a larger area or a bigger dog. The cover is machine-washable, which is a nice bonus. Keep in mind you do have to freeze the ice sheets in advance, so some planning is needed. If your dog doesn’t mind a firmer surface (due to the ice packs), this mat will give them the ultimate cool spot. (Available on Amazon – comes in different sizes or connectable panels.)
2. The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad – This is one of the most popular cooling pads on the market, and you might have heard of it. The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad is a pressure-activated gel mat. That means as soon as your dog lies down, the special gel inside starts absorbing their body heat and cooling them down. No water, electricity, or freezing required! It “recharges” itself automatically after 15-20 minutes of non-use, which is super convenientakc.org. This pad is lightweight and portable – you can easily fold it up to take to the park or on a road trip. It’s also a favorite among owners of senior dogs or dogs with health issues, because it provides a cool, cushioned spot that can even help soothe aches and pains in the joints on hot daysakc.org. The Cool Pet Pad comes in sizes from small to extra-large (they even have special edition prints like Disney characters). One thing to note: if your dog chews things, you’ll want to supervise at first – the outer material is durable, but determined chewers could damage it. Overall, this mat is a tried-and-true solution for keeping dogs comfy and preventing overheating. (Find it on Amazon in various sizes. It’s often sold by size, e.g. small, medium, large Cool Pet Pad.)
3. Arf Pets Self-Cooling Dog Mat – The Arf Pets cooling mat is another gel-based pad with a lot of fans. It’s known for being thicker and more durable than many other gel mats, which makes it great for larger dogs or those who might scratch/nest a bit before lying down. The Arf Pets mat provides up to 3 hours of continuous cooling and automatically recharges when not in useamazon.com. It has a solid gel interior (no water) that is sealed and safe – the gel is non-toxic in case of any leak, but the cover material is tough to prevent punctures. Many reviewers mention that even big dogs (100+ lbs) can use it comfortably; the largest size is quite ample. It’s also easy to wipe clean, which is handy if you have a drooly dog or one that comes in from the pool and plops down on it. The Arf Pets mat is a great value for the quality, and it’s perfect for crates, hardwood floors, or even the back seat of your car. (Check it out on Amazon – available in sizes like 23” x 35” and larger.)
4. K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III – The K&H Cool Bed III is a water-filled cooling bed that’s a bit different from the gel pads. This is essentially a durable vinyl dog bed with a special insert that you fill with water. The water absorbs your dog’s heat and can be pre-chilled (you can add cold water or even put the whole mat in a cool place before use). The Cool Bed III provides a soft, cushioned feel – kind of like a waterbed for your pup! It’s ideal if your dog likes something more plush to lie on, instead of a thin mat. Because it uses water, there’s no gel that could potentially leak or get hot after a while; you just need to occasionally check the water level and maybe refresh it with cooler water. It’s important to set it up according to instructions (get all the air out when filling, etc.) for best results. One big plus: this bed can be used outdoors (in shade) since you don’t have to worry about the sun heating a gel – the water will always even out to a cooler temperature than your dog’s body. Some people use it on covered patios or in outdoor dog houses in summer. It comes in multiple sizes (and the large size is quite big). If you want an eco-friendly option with no electricity or refreezing, this water mat is great. Just be sure your dog’s nails are trimmed so they don’t accidentally poke it. (Available on Amazon – K&H is a reputable pet brand known for heated beds and cool beds alike.)
5. Bedsure Cooling Dog Mat Pad – The Bedsure Cooling Mat is a fabric-based cooling pad that’s lightweight, foldable, and perfect for travel or indoor use. It doesn’t use gel or water; instead, it’s made of a pressure-activated cooling fabric that feels cool to the touch. (Bedsure mentions it has an arc-chill cooling material with high “Q-max” rating – basically, it draws heat away quickly.) This pad is on the thinner side (more like a quilted blanket or crate liner), but it’s ultra portable – you can easily put it in a crate, on the sofa, or anywhere your dog likes to chill. Because it’s fabric, it’s also machine-washable, which is a huge bonus for maintenance. It’s not going to stay cold as long as a gel or ice mat would, but it’s great for giving your dog a noticeably cooler surface than the floor or their regular bed. Many owners use it as a topper on the dog’s bed. It’s also safe for chewers (nothing to leak out). If you need a convenient, soft mat for moderate cooling, Bedsure has you covered. And since it’s so lightweight, you can take it on outings – just shake it out or rinse it if it gets dirty, and you’re good to go. (See sizes on Amazon – it comes in medium, large, XL, etc. and in different colors/patterns.)

Using Cooling Mats: Most cooling mats require little work – for gel mats, just lay it out where your dog likes to relax. For water mats, you’ll need to fill them (and occasionally replace with fresh cool water). Always place the mat out of direct sunlight for best results (for example, indoors or in a shaded area), because direct sun can heat up even a cooling mat over time. Encourage your dog to try the mat by placing it in their favorite nap spot or by using treats. Never force them to stay on it – animals have instincts and will move to a cooler spot when they need to. Keep the mat clean by wiping it with a damp cloth or following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. And check the mat for wear and tear periodically. A good cooling mat can be a lifesaver during heatwaves, giving your pup a safe zone to lower their body temp and avoid overheating.

Tip: If you have tile or hardwood floors that are naturally cool, place the cooling mat there for an extra chill effect. And remember, monitor your dog for signs of overheating on hot days: heavy panting, drooling, or weakness mean it’s time to get them cooled down fast and in a cool areaakc.org. If a cooling mat feels warm after hours of use, let it “recharge” or pop a gel mat in the fridge for a bit.

Now that we’ve highlighted some great products, let’s compare cooling vests and mats directly on a few key points to help you make the best choice for your situation.

Cooling Vest vs Cooling Mat: Side-by-Side Comparison

Both cooling vests and cooling mats can help your dog weather the summer heat, but they shine in different scenarios. Here’s a quick comparison of factors to consider:

• 🔹 Mobility: Cooling Vest – Great for when your dog is up and active. It cools them continuously as they move. Perfect for walks, hikes, or playtime outdoors. Cooling Mat – Great for stationary cooling. It works when your dog decides to lie down and rest. Perfect for indoor use, naps, and after exercise cool-downs.
• 🔹 Cooling Method: Vest – Uses evaporation or ice packs. Evaporation vests need to be wet and will dry out over time (usually cooling for 30 minutes to a couple hours before re-wetting, depending on heat and humidity). Ice pack vests provide a consistent cold but require frozen inserts and can last 1-3 hours before packs warm up. Mat – Often uses cooling gel or water. Gel mats activate with pressure and can cool for a couple of hours, then recharge on their ownakc.org. Water mats stay cool as long as the water inside remains cooler than the dog (which can be several hours; you might occasionally need to add cold water or put the mat in a cooler place to “reset”). Some high-end mats with ice inserts (like CoolerDog) can go many hours but need prep (freezing).
• 🔹 Best Use Cases: Vest – Best for outdoor activities: walks, runs, agility, hiking, or any time you can’t bring a mat along. Also good for dogs that won’t voluntarily rest – the vest cools them while they’re on the move. Mat – Best for indoor or travel use: lying in the house, in a crate, in the car, on the patio, etc. Ideal for cooling down after exercise or for older dogs who lay around a lot. Also great overnight – you can put a cooling mat on your dog’s bed if your home is warm at night.
• 🔹 Comfort & Tolerance: Vest – Your dog has to tolerate wearing it. Many dogs are fine with a lightweight vest, but some might dislike the feeling of dampness or the straps. It’s important to get a good fit to avoid chafingrover.com. Mat – Your dog has to be willing to lie on it. Most dogs love a cool surface, but a few might avoid a mat at first if it’s new or has a different texture. Usually, they come around, especially if you lead them to it when they’re panting and they feel the coolness.
• 🔹 Climate Considerations: Vest – Works best in dry heat (evaporative vests need dry air to evaporate water and cool effectively). In humid climates, an ice-pack vest or a reflective cooling coat (that deflects sun) might perform better than a wet vest. Mat – Works in any climate since it doesn’t rely on air evaporation. In very hot but dry climates, dogs might prefer mats during downtime and vests when moving. In humid climates, mats are a safe bet for any time. Mats do not add moisture to your dog’s fur.
• 🔹 Maintenance: Vest – Needs to be re-wet or re-frozen periodically. After use, you should let it dry out or toss it in the wash if it’s getting dirty (check if the vest is machine-washable; many evaporative vests are). Mat – Very low maintenance. Wipe it down as needed. If it’s a water mat, change the water occasionally to keep it fresh (and add a bit of disinfectant as instructed to prevent mold). Some fabric-based mats are machine-washable.
• 🔹 Safety: Both are generally safe when used properly. With vests, avoid using an ice-cold vest on a dog that’s already overheated – cool them gradually or get them to AC/shade firstrover.com. With mats, ensure the materials are non-toxic (most are) in case of leaks, and supervise initial use to make sure your dog doesn’t try to eat the mat. Always allow your dog to move off the cooling product if they want; they’ll regulate their own comfort.

So, which one is better? It truly depends on your dog’s needs and your activities:

• If you and your dog are outdoorsy and active in summer, a cooling vest is probably your best friend (along with lots of water breaks!). It will let your dog run around while staying cooler. For example, a cooling vest is fantastic for a summer hike or even a trip to the dog park.
• If your dog spends a lot of time indoors or in the yard lounging, or if you need something for the crate/car/bed, a cooling mat is extremely useful. Older dogs, dogs with thick fur, or brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds often love lying on a cool mat in the heat of the day.

Many pet owners actually use both: maybe a vest during exercise and a mat during rest. They aren’t mutually exclusive. In fact, using both gives your dog options – they can wear the vest on a walk and later choose to flop on the cool mat to recover.

If you’re not sure which your dog will like, consider factors like your dog’s personality and your climate. A bit of trial and observation will tell you what they prefer. Some dogs might initially be puzzled by a cooling mat (why is this bed cold?!), but once they feel relief, they often gravitate to it. Similarly, with a vest, some dogs will do a funny “what am I wearing” dance for a minute, then forget about it once they start feeling cooler during the walk.

Bottom line: Both vests and mats can prevent overheating and heatstroke in your dog when used properly. It’s less about which is “better” overall and more about which is “better” for a given situation. The good news is you really can’t go wrong – providing any form of cooling aid shows you’re a responsible pet parent looking out for your pup’s well-being 💕.

And remember, these tools work best alongside basic heat safety: lots of water, rest breaks, and avoiding peak heat hours. For more summer pet safety tips, you can read our guide on 10 Cool Dog Beds for Summer (another great way to keep your dog chilled!) which also covers additional ideas like dog pools and cooling treats.

Conclusion

Summer adventures with your dog don’t have to be cut short because of the heat. Whether you choose a cooling vest, a cooling mat, or both, you’re taking a smart step to keep your best friend comfortable and safe when temperatures rise. Cooling vests vs cooling mats isn’t a battle with one winner – they each have their place, and many dogs will benefit from having one of each in their summer toolkit.

In summary, use a cooling vest when your pup is out and about, so they can stay cool on the move, and set out a cooling mat at home for instant chill whenever they need a rest. Watch your dog’s behavior; they’ll tell you what they like best. Some pups might flop down on their cooling mat with a happy sigh of relief, while others dance excitedly when you pull out their cooling vest for a walk – every dog is different!

Also, please visit Pet Buddies Care for getting more pet related blogs and products.

Md Soriful Islam Manager, Blogger, Marketing Specialist, Pet E-commerce Specialist

Md Soriful Islam brings over 10 years of hands-on experience in pet care and training. As a dedicated pet expert and proud owner of two lovable companions, Md Soriful Islam combines professional knowledge with real-life insights to support pet owners in creating healthier, happier lives for their animals. With two master’s degrees—one in Urban & Regional Planning and another in Business Administration (MBA)— Md Soriful Islam brings a rare blend of analytical thinking and entrepreneurial passion to the pet care world. As the founder of a trusted pet blog, YouTube educator, and e-commerce entrepreneur, Md Soriful Islam shares helpful advice on pet wellness, product reviews, and real-life pet parenting tips. Follow along for honest insights, expert guidance, and a whole lot of tail-wagging joy.

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