Dog cooling mats
Ice Silk Cooling Mat for Dogs and Cats, Six Sizes
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- 42 to choose from
From $13.99
Dogs
Cooling mats for large dogs
Little things. Happy tails.
2 items picked for everyday life with your pet, with shipping estimates on every item.
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All cooling mats for large dogs
Little essentials. Lots of love.
Dog cooling mats
Self-Cooling Gel Mat for Dogs, Waterproof with Non-Slip Base
- Options
- 2 to choose from
From $79.99
A little guidance
Help choosing cooling mats for large dogs
Buying guides and care advice written for this range: what to measure, what matters and what to skip.
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This page narrows our cooling range to mats big enough for large dogs: extra-large summer cooling mats around 47 by 28 inches, mid-size mats around 35 by 24 inches for medium-large dogs, and non-toxic solid gel cooling mats. They are for Labradors, shepherds, Golden retrievers, Newfoundlands and other big or thick-coated breeds that struggle in summer heat. The guide below covers sizing, how gel mats work and keeping a large dog safe on hot days.
Why large dogs need a big mat
Large and thick-coated dogs generate a lot of body heat and have more trouble shedding it. They often seek out tile floors, shady patios or the bathtub in summer. A cooling mat gives them a cool surface where they want to rest, but only if it is big enough to lie on fully.
A small mat under a big dog cools only part of the body, and many large dogs simply move off it. Measure your dog lying stretched out on their side and choose a mat close to that length. Extra-large mats around 47 inches suit most large breeds.
How gel cooling mats work
Pressure-activated gel mats contain a gel that absorbs body heat when your dog lies on it, so the surface feels cool. Once your dog gets up, the gel releases the heat and recharges, usually within a short time. They need no water, electricity or refrigeration.
Gel mats work best in shade and in a cool room. In direct sun they warm up quickly. Place the mat where your dog already likes to rest, and some dogs prefer a thin towel over it at first until they get used to the feel.
Durability and safety
Large dogs are heavy and often dig or circle before lying down, which is hard on mats. Trim nails regularly and check the mat for punctures. A non-toxic gel mat is safer if punctured, but any damaged mat should be removed so the gel is not chewed or eaten.
Supervise dogs who chew. If your dog swallows gel or pieces of the mat, contact your vet. Folded or rolled mats should be stored flat when possible to avoid creases that can weaken the seams.
Cooling mats and heatstroke
A cooling mat helps a dog rest comfortably, but it cannot prevent heatstroke on its own. Walk large dogs in the early morning or evening, provide shade and plenty of fresh water, and never leave a dog in a parked car. Flat-faced, overweight and senior large dogs are especially at risk.
The AKC lists heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, weakness and collapse as signs of heatstroke. Move your dog to a cool place, wet them with cool, not ice-cold, water and call a vet immediately, even if your dog seems to improve.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
What size cooling mat does a large dog need?
Choose a mat close to your dog's length when lying stretched out on its side. Extra-large mats around 47 by 28 inches suit most large breeds such as Labradors and shepherds.
Do cooling mats work for big dogs?
Yes, if the mat is large enough for the dog to lie on fully and placed in shade. Gel mats absorb body heat and recharge when the dog gets up.
Do gel cooling mats need to go in the fridge?
Most pressure-activated gel mats do not need refrigeration or water. Follow the instructions for your mat, since freezing can damage some gels. Store the mat flat in a cool place between uses.
Are cooling mats safe if my dog chews them?
Supervise chewers. A non-toxic gel is safer if punctured, but remove damaged mats and call your vet if your dog swallows gel or pieces of the mat.
Can a cooling mat prevent heatstroke?
No. It helps a dog rest comfortably, but shade, water, cool walking times and never leaving a dog in a car are what prevent heatstroke. Watch for warning signs.