Introduction
Hunting dog cooling vests are essential pieces of gear for keeping your canine companion comfortable and safe in warm weather conditions. As retrievers, pointers, spaniels and other hunting breeds work hard in the field, they can quickly overheat. This poses a serious risk, with heat stroke being a leading cause of death for hunting dogs. Cooling vests help regulate your dog’s body temperature and prevent dangerous heat-related illness.
In this guide, we will recommend the best hunting dog cooling vests on the market in 2022. We have researched and reviewed the top options to help you find the right vest for your loyal companion. We will outline key features to look for and provide picks at different price points.
Having the proper cooling gear can make all the difference on those long, hot days in the field during hunting season. Read on for our complete guide to choosing the best cooling vest to keep your hunting dog safe and comfortable.
How Hunting Dog Cooling Vests Work
Hunting dog cooling vests work through the power of evaporation and phase change materials to bring down your dog’s body temperature. When a dog becomes overheated, they are at risk for heat stroke, which can be life-threatening. Cooling vests help prevent this by providing a cooling effect as the dog wears it.
Evaporative cooling is one of the main ways dog cooling vests provide relief. The vests are made of highly absorbent materials that soak up water. As the water evaporates, it draws heat away from the dog’s body. This evaporation happens continuously as long as the vest remains wet, creating a sustained cooling effect (Source).
Many cooling vests also utilize phase change materials (PCMs) that are engineered to stay at a cool temperature. These materials absorb heat as they change from solid to liquid. This phase change requires heat energy, resulting in a cooling effect on the dog’s body. The materials are activated by being immersed in water before going on walks or hunts (Source).
By leveraging both evaporative cooling and PCMs, hunting dog cooling vests can effectively keep working dogs cool and comfortable during physically demanding activities in hot weather.
Benefits of Cooling Vests for Hunting Dogs
Cooling vests provide several important benefits for hunting dogs. The primary benefit is preventing overheating and heat stroke. Dogs do not sweat like humans – they cool themselves by panting and through their paw pads. This makes them prone to overheating, especially when working intensely during hunting activities (1). Cooling vests help regulate the dog’s body temperature by utilizing evaporative or ice pack cooling methods. This allows the dog’s body to stay within a safe temperature range and prevents heat-related illnesses (2,3).
Another key benefit is allowing dogs to work harder and longer. Cooling vests improve stamina and endurance by keeping the dog’s temperature regulated. This prevents early fatigue from heat buildup. With a cooling vest, dogs can exert themselves at peak levels for longer periods while hunting. Their overall performance and working capacity improves significantly (1,3).
By keeping the dog cooler, cooling vests also improve vitality and alertness. Hot dogs become lethargic and disinterested. Cooling vests allow dogs to stay energized, focused, and eager during hunting activities. This leads to an overall better hunting experience for both the dog and the owner (2).
Sources:
(1) https://doggearreview.com/article/coolingvest/
(2) https://www.rover.com/blog/do-dog-cooling-vests-work/
(3) https://www.retrievertraining.net/threads/effectiveness-of-neoprene-vests-on-dogs.64000/
Key Features to Look for in a Cooling Vest
When shopping for the best cooling vest for your hunting dog, there are a few key features to keep in mind:
Lightweight and breathable material: You’ll want a vest made of a lightweight, breathable fabric like mesh that won’t weigh your dog down. The vest should allow for air circulation while still providing cooling power.
Good coverage area: Look for a vest that provides ample chest and back coverage to cool your dog’s core temperature. Full torso coverage is ideal.
Effective cooling technology: The best dog cooling vests utilize evaporation, phase change materials, or ice packs to provide sustained cooling relief for your pup. Vests that contain cooling gels or liquids that can be activated provide the most cooling power.
Easy to activate: Your dog’s cooling vest should be quick and simple to get ready for use. Vests with removable ice packs that can be frozen ahead of time or cooling elements that just require water are most convenient.
Choosing a cooling vest made with lightweight, breathable fabric that provides extensive coverage and utilizes advanced cooling technology will offer the best performance. Prioritize vests that are easy to activate when you need to cool your hunting dog down fast.
Our Top Pick: Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Vest
Our top pick for the best hunting dog cooling vest is the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Vest. This vest utilizes evaporative and phase change cooling technology to keep dogs cool in hot weather (https://www.rover.com/blog/review-ruffwear-swamp-cooler-vest/).
The lightweight mesh construction allows air to flow freely, while the vest’s four velcro straps ensure a secure and customizable fit. The vest is very easy to activate – simply submerge it in water for a couple minutes and the cooling fibers absorb the liquid. As the water evaporates, it pulls heat away from the dog’s core to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Testers found the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Vest effective for hours of cooling relief in hot climates. The phase change material continues cooling even as the external layer dries out. Owners report the vest is comfortable for dogs to wear and doesn’t restrict movement during hunting excursions or on hikes (https://leashandlearnnyc.com/ruffwear-swamp-cooler-dog-cooling-vest-experience-and-review/).
With its innovative cooling technology, breathable fabric, secure fit, and ease of use, the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Vest is our top recommendation for keeping your hunting dog cool and comfortable.
Budget Pick: PETCEE Cooling Vest
The PETCEE Cooling Vest is a great budget-friendly option for keeping your hunting dog cool in warm weather. This vest features gel ice packs that can be chilled in the fridge or freezer and provide cooling relief for up to 2 hours. The packs are removable so you can swap fresh chilled packs whenever needed.
The vest is made from lightweight mesh fabric that allows maximum airflow to your dog’s skin while the ice packs do their work. Adjustable elastic straps ensure a secure and customizable fit. There are also reflective strips for visibility and safety when hunting at dawn or dusk.
Reviews on Amazon say the PETCEE vest is reasonably lightweight and water-resistant, though not fully waterproof. The fit can be tricky for some dog breeds with very thick necks or bodies. But overall most owners say it performs well for cooling given the budget price point.
For hunters looking for an affordable cooling vest without breaking the bank, the PETCEE is a solid choice to consider.
Upgrade Pick: Techniche Instant Cooling Vest
The Techniche Instant Cooling Vest is an excellent option for hunters looking for maximum cooling power and all day wearability. This vest features 13 cooling points to keep your dog cool across their entire core and chest. It utilizes a reflective outer layer to reflect heat and inner ice packs that can be reused by freezing them.
According to reviews on Amazon, users say the Techniche vest provides significant cooling relief even during strenuous, hot weather activities. The vest is adjustable for a customized fit and the cooling packs contour the dog’s body without any bulky or heavy sensations. The cooling effect lasts for 2-3 hours before needing to be re-frozen.
With its unmatched cooling power and convenient reusability, the Techniche Instant Cooling Vest is the top choice for hunters who need serious cooling for their dogs during lengthy, active hunts in high temperatures (MyCoolingStore). Its reflective outer layer and 13 cooling points provide superior heat relief compared to other options.
Other Notable Options
For hunters looking for additional high-quality cooling vest options for their dog, here are some other top picks to consider:
Kurgo Loft Cooling Vest
The Kurgo Loft Cooling Vest features a lightweight, breathable mesh outer layer andsoft Velcro closures. It contains non-toxic gel packs that provide cooling through evaporation. The vest is easy to put on and take off, with adjustable belly straps and neck openings for a customized fit. It comes in sizes from XS to XL.
Hurtta Expedition Cooling Vest
Designed for challenging outdoor conditions, the Hurtta Expedition Cooling Vest uses innovative Japanese cooling fabric technology. It wicks moisture away while providing a cooling effect through evaporation. This vest offers full coverage over the dog’s back and sides. It has an adjustable belly strap and comes in sizes from XXS to XL.
RC Pets Cooling Vest
The RC Pets Cooling Vest contains flexible ice packs that provide cooling through direct contact. It has adjustable neck and belly straps to customize the fit. This vest features a lightweight polycotton exterior and comes in sizes from XS to XXL. The ice packs can be quickly removed and recharged in the freezer as needed.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Cooling Vest
When looking for the right hunting dog cooling vest, there are some key factors to keep in mind:
Weather Conditions
Consider the climate and weather where you’ll be hunting with your dog. In hot and humid conditions, look for vests with maximum breathability and cooling power. In milder weather, a lighter vest may suffice.
Duration of Wear
Think about how long your hunting dog will be wearing the cooling vest. For all-day hunting trips, look for vests that offer sustained cooling over many hours of wear.
Dog Breed and Coat
Choose a vest suited for your particular dog’s breed, size, and coat length. Some vests are designed specifically for short-haired breeds that need extra heat relief.
Vest Coverage Area
Assess what parts of your dog’s body need cooling. Full-body vests provide the most coverage, while some vests focus on just the back, sides or neck. Prioritize cooling the vital organs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about hunting dog cooling vests:
How Long Do They Last?
Most hunting dog cooling vests will provide 2-4 hours of cooling relief when properly soaked and activated. Higher quality vests with more cooling material can provide cooling for up to 6 hours. Be sure to check the product details for expected cooling times.
Do They Need To Be Refrigerated?
No, hunting dog cooling vests do not need to be refrigerated. Simply soak the vest in cool water to activate the cooling properties of the material. Some vests recommend soaking in ice water for extra cooling power. Refrigerating is not necessary for proper function.
Are They Machine Washable?
Most hunting dog cooling vests are machine washable for easy cleaning between uses. Be sure to check the care instructions for your specific vest. Wash in cold water and air dry for best results. Do not use fabric softener as it can affect the cooling properties.
When Should They Be Worn?
For maximum benefit, have your hunting dog wear a cooling vest when the temperatures rise above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Dogs with thick fur coats, respiratory issues or heart conditions will benefit from wearing the vest in even cooler weather. Put the vest on your dog 15-20 minutes before outdoor activity for ideal cooling.