Types of Dog Cooling Mats
There are several different types of dog cooling mats to choose from:
Gel Mats
Gel mats contain a gel material inside that stays cool for a period of time. The gel absorbs the dog’s body heat and provides a cool surface for them to lie on. Gel mats need to be refrigerated or put in the freezer to recharge the cooling effect. Some gel mats are designed to be flexible and portable 1.
Water Mats
Water cooling mats circulate water through internal tubes or channels. This provides constant cooling as long as there is water flowing through the mat. The cooling temperature can be adjusted on some models. Water mats need to be connected to a water source or reservoir to function 2.
Electric Mats
Electric cooling mats contain internal tubing that circulates cool water or coolant. A small pump and power source circulates the liquid and cools the surface of the mat. Electric mats provide consistent cooling as long as they are plugged in and powered on.
Size and Shape
When choosing a cooling mat for your dog, it’s important to get the right size and shape for your pup’s needs. According to the Green Pet Shop, cooling mats come in a variety of sizes ranging from Extra Small for pets under 8 lbs up to Large for bigger breeds. Consider your dog’s weight, breed, and how they like to lay when relaxing. For instance, long, narrow mats are great for dogs that like to stretch out, while round cushions work well for pets that curl up. The Insider Guide recommends going a size up if your dog is between sizes to give them plenty of room.
The shape of the mat is also an important factor. Rectangular mats maximize surface area contact and are a smart choice for dogs that sprawl out when sleeping. Donut or cushion styles with curved edges are ideal for nesting dogs that like to curl up tight. Bolster mats with raised sides provide additional comfort and security for anxious pups who like to snuggle in. Consider your dog’s sleep style and measurements when deciding on the right size and shape cooling mat.
Materials
Dog cooling mats come in a variety of materials, each with their own benefits:
Gel – Gel mats contain a gel substance inside that stays cool even in hot temperatures. The gel soaks up the heat from your dog’s body and provides a cooling effect. Gel mats like the Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat are a popular choice.
Plastic – Plastic mats like the Arf Pets Self-Cooling Pad use a special plastic that is engineered to remain cool to the touch. The plastic has small cavities that absorb heat.
Fabric – Some mats use fabrics like cotton in their construction. The fabric allows air to flow through to keep your dog cool. Fabric mats may not stay as cool for as long as gel or plastic but provide comfort.
The material impacts how cool the mat stays, how easy it is to clean, and the overall comfort for your dog. Gel and plastic provide the most effective cooling while fabric offers better comfort but less cooling power.
Cooling Mechanism
Dog cooling mats provide cooling through various mechanisms:
Gel-based mats contain a gel substance that absorbs heat from your dog’s body. The gel feels cool to the touch and provides a surface for your dog to dissipate body heat. These mats do not require refrigeration or electricity to function. The gel absorbs ambient heat until it reaches the temperature of the surrounding environment. These mats are convenient to transport and provide cooling anytime, anywhere (Rover).
Water-based mats rely on evaporation to provide a cooling effect. These mats have a water reservoir that keeps water moving through pads or tubes in the mat. As the water evaporates, it pulls heat away from your dog’s body. The mats may need to be refilled periodically as the water evaporates. Some water-based mats can be frozen as well, providing additional cooling capabilities (Figo Pet Insurance).
Electric cooling mats use electricity to power internal fans and cooling elements. These mats plug into an electrical outlet and actively blow air and circulate chilled liquid to provide cooling. Electric mats offer adjustable temperature settings but need access to electricity to operate (Wiggles and Wags).
Easy to Clean
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dog cooling mat is how easy it is to clean and maintain [1]. Dogs can quickly make a mess on their mats with mud, drool, hair, and more. You’ll want to select a mat that can be easily wiped clean or thrown in the washing machine to keep it fresh and hygienic.
Look for cooling mats made from durable, washable materials like polyester or vinyl. Avoid mats filled with gel that can’t be laundered. Check product details to see if the mat is machine washable or needs hand washing. Mats that can go in the washing machine make cleaning a breeze.
Maintaining the cleanliness of the cooling mat is essential for your dog’s health and comfort. A dirty, soiled mat won’t be as effective at cooling. Proper cleaning will also help extend the life of the mat. Select a dog cooling mat that makes regular cleaning hassle-free.
Portability
When shopping for a dog cooling mat, portability is an important consideration if you plan to travel with your dog or move the mat between different areas. Some dog cooling mats like the Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat are lightweight and specifically designed for portability and outdoor use. The manufacturer markets it as easy to roll up and transport. Other options like the Hydro Cooling Mat contain ice packs and are heavier, making them better suited for home use. Consider if you want a fixed cooling mat for your home or one that can be folded up and taken on car rides, camping trips, to the park, or anywhere else you go with your dog.
Safety
When choosing a cooling mat for your dog, it’s important to consider safety. Some key things to look out for according to Do Dog Cooling Mats Work To Keep a Dog Cool? are:
- Avoid chewing hazards – Certain mats like gel-based ones can be a choking hazard if chewed and ingested.
- Ensure non-toxic materials – You’ll want to make sure the mat is made from non-toxic materials, especially if your dog tends to chew.
- Proper supervision – Don’t leave your dog unattended with the mat, as you’ll want to monitor them to prevent chewing and ingestion.
- No electric mats – Electrically powered cooling mats can pose risks like burns or electrocution so it’s best to avoid those.
Choosing a non-toxic cooling mat made from durable materials, and properly supervising your dog can help minimize any safety issues. It’s also wise to look at product reviews to see if any safety concerns are reported by other buyers.
Compare Pricing on Different Types of Dog Cooling Mats
When shopping for a dog cooling mat, price is an important consideration. Cooling mats can range in price from $20 to over $100 depending on the size, features and durability.
Some of the most affordable options are basic gel mats like the Arctic Cool mat which starts at $20 for a small size. These provide a cool surface but only when chilled in the refrigerator prior to use. Once they warm up, they lose effectiveness.
For more advanced self-cooling mats that don’t require refrigeration, prices are higher. The popular Green Pet Shop Cooling Mat starts at $30. It uses an inner gel layer and outer pressure-activated material to provide constant cooling.
Higher-end cooling beds like the Cool Pet Pad cost $60 and up. These are very durable and made from advanced materials that can maintain a cool surface for hours. They are a good investment for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.
When comparing prices, consider how long the cooling effect lasts, the overall quality, size and convenience. More expensive self-chilling mats tend to provide longer-lasting cooling without the need to refrigerate.
Reviews
When choosing a dog cooling mat, it’s helpful to consider reviews from other pet owners to get an idea of real-world performance and quality. According to reviews on Amazon and pet retailer sites, some top choices include:
The K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III is a popular pick, with over 8,500 Amazon reviews and a 4.5-star rating. Customers say it provides excellent cooling power for dogs thanks to its water-filled design. They also praise its durability and ease of cleaning. Some owners say their dogs love sleeping on it during hot weather.
For travel, the Green Pet Cool Pet Pad earns high marks, with a 4.6-star Amazon rating based on 3,500+ reviews. Owners like that it folds up for portability and can provide cooling when wet or used dry. They say it’s lightweight and their dogs seem comfortable lounging on it.
The Arf Pets Dog Cooling Mat is a budget-friendly option that still provides cooling power, according to over 7,000 Amazon reviews. Owners say it helps their dogs stay chill and comfortable. They like that it’s easy to wipe clean as needed. Some do note it can flatten over time.
Conclusion
When looking for the ideal dog cooling mat, there are several key factors to consider. The most important consideration is the mat’s cooling mechanism – does it use water, gel, or evaporative technology to keep your dog cool? Evaluate which system will work best for your needs and environment.
You’ll also want to take into account the size and shape of the mat to ensure it fits your dog comfortably. Measure your dog while laying down to determine the appropriate dimensions.
Additionally, consider the mat’s portability if you plan to travel with it, along with how easy it is to clean. Breathable, machine-washable fabrics often work best for cleaning and maintenance.
Finally, read reviews from other pet owners to get an idea of the cooling mat’s real-world performance and durability. This will give you added assurance about your investment.
By factoring in these key considerations – cooling method, size, portability, easy cleaning, and customer reviews – you’ll be able to select the ideal cooling mat to keep your dog comfortable all summer long.