Heatwaves have arrived, and they are not holding back. As loving pet owners, it is our duty to do everything in our power to make sure our dogs are happy and healthy, especially when facing the dangers of this relentless heat.
Pet technology has provided us with many solid options to fight against these risks but picking the best solutions for you and your dog can be tricky. Luckily, we are here to break it down for you.
Our selections below outline the best ways for you and your pup to cool off this summer.
Got your own suggestions? Please do let us know!
Dog Cooling Beds/Mats
When it comes to pet cooling products, dog cooling beds/mats are often a dog owner's first instinct. And for good reason. These products are a great way to cool down your dog in a way that's completely comfortable for them. Here are a few of our picks.
Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat
This revolutionary product is a pressure-activated cooling mat that doesn’t require any water, refrigeration, or electricity. It enacts a strong cooling process through the non-toxic gel formula that can last up to 3 hours. It even automatically recharges itself within 15-20 minutes of non-use after your pup gets up. Its portability makes it easy to place it in your dog's favorite spot; be it outside, on top of his bed, in the car, or next to you on the couch. It comes in all sizes from XS ($24.99/~€21.13) to XL ($84.99/~€71.87) and everything in between.
Frisco Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed
This simple dog bed does more for cooling your dog than what meets the eye. The tight, breathable fabric, combined with elevation, allows for air flow to cool your dog on all sides. The fabric is coated with PVC for max durability, and it is water resistant to help prevent heat stroke. Furthermore, the powder coated steel frame continues to ensure it is built to last. It’s even machine washable! The Frisco bed comes in Small, Medium and Large, with respective prices being $22.99 (~€19.44), $21.99 (~€18.60), and $23.99 (~€20.29).
PawHut Elevated Portable Dog Cot Cooling Pet Bed with UV Protecting Canopy Shade
Though similar to the option above, this relatively more expensive route comes with the unique feature of a UV protecting canopy. It contains all the cooling capabilities of the above, including all around airflow and breathable/washable fabric. It too is durable and long lasting. The canopy is a great add-on as it protects the dogs from sunburns as well as provides shade. It is also removable for more temperate days through simply unplugging it from the corners. Though take note that for extremely large/tall dogs, this canopy may be awkward to get beneath. It comes in Small, Medium, and Large sizes with respective prices of $45.99 (~€38.89), $45.99 (~€38.89), and $57.99 (~€49.04).
Sealy Premium Bolster Dog Bed
This high quality, ultra-comfortable dog bed is fitted with cooling energy gel that conforms to the shape of your dog’s body, making this option irresistible to any pup. It comes with a washable outer cover, as well as a waterproof internal cover, both with features to remove odor. However, the bed is rather expensive with the smallest option being $105.99 (~€89.63) and the largest option being $129.99 (~€109.93). If you have had issues with cooling using other options, this would be a great investment, however, we would recommend trying out some other methods first.
Wearable Cooling Dog Vests/Collars
These wearable items provide constant cooling for any dog, making it perfect for heat packed activities such as hiking. Our top picks for these innovative dog-wear are listed below.
Ruffwear Jet Stream Cooling Vest
This extremely popular and well-reviewed product is fit with high powered cooling capabilities by providing a mix of top notch evaporative and heat dispensing qualities. It is known to be extremely light and comfortable, making this our recommended choice for the general active dog.
The spandex on the top provides cover and shading from the direct sun, while the three-layer chest panel disperses the heat from within the dog's core. To activate these cooling capabilities, soak and wring out the vest with water.
Coming in 6 sizes ranging from XXS to XL and 2 colors, the jet stream vest is fit for any dog and stands at a solid $39.95 (~€33.78).
Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Cooling Vest
The more expensive, but longer lasting and slightly more effective cooling vest from Ruffwear is also extremely popular.
This option holds almost all the same features explained above; however, it holds more water and is in turn heavier/less comfortable for the average dog. However, this long-lasting ability makes it perfect for long hikes rather than short/medium brisk walks that the Jetstream may be more fit for.
Another great option from Ruffwear so it really is up to the owner which to pick. The Swamp Cooler also comes in 6 sizes and stands at $59.95 (~€50.70).
Novel Brands K9 Chill Dog Cooling Collar
This cooling collar is one of the cheapest, most simple ways to combat the heat this summer. The uniquely designed material retains cool moisture for hours, leaving your doggy fully refreshed in the summer heat. Simply dampen the collar with water, put it on them, and you are ready to go. It also includes a hole for the leash, making this a stellar option for hikes and walks during the heat. Standing at only $9 (~€7.61) this is a great affordable option for an active pup.
All for Paws Chill Out Ice Bandana
Similar to the collar above, this bandana spans a little further, making it perfect for dogs who are more comfortable wearing accessories. The cold sensing fabric resists the heat for hours at a time. For best use, moisten the bandana with water, place it in the fridge for 10 minutes, attach it to your dog, and you will see massive cooling effects in no time. This bandana stands at a price of $18.97 (~€16.04).
Dog Water Fountains
With water being an obvious way to keep your dog both cool and hydrated, pet-friendly dog water fountains have become a newly popular way to care for your dog in the summer. With a few different routes the concept of dog water fountains could go, we left our favorite options down below.
Trio Gato Dog Drinking Water Fountain Step-On
As the most popular option, the Trio Gato Fountain provides unlimited clean water straight from your water source in a way that not only hydrates and cools your dog, but also entertains him for hours on end. The self-step-on feature pushes curious dogs to learn and play as they drink up. It comes with its own hose and dual hose splitter so that you can utilize this product along with your normal hose if needed. It is extremely durable and water pressure is adjustable depending on what your dog enjoys. With all of these fun features, it is on the pricey side with a cost of $67.99 (~€67.50).
Quirky Pawcet Drinking Fountain for Dogs
The Quirky Pawcet is a cheaper option for a similar result of the above. It is plastic and much less durable. You also must connect it to a hose that you already own for use. Though it is clearly the inferior step-on fountain of the two, it is a fun way to experiment with your dog and many claim that it provides as much joy and learning as the more expensive choice. This product stands at a price of $24.99 (~€21.13).
Paddle Pools/Sprinkler Pads
Swimming and splashing are definitely strong ways we can use water to our advantage this summer. Products such as paddle pools and sprinkler pads take playing outside in the heat to a whole new level. It's fun for the dog to splash and its fun for you to watch. Keep reading for some of our favorites in this category.
Cool Pup Splash About Dog Pool
this portable, durable, and refreshing dog pool has all the features that make a splash pool fun. Simply unfold the pool and it will inflate as you fill it with water. With raving reviews, dogs and humans love this product. It's also super easy to fold up and store for the winter months. The Cool Pup pool comes in medium and large, with a price of $37.77 (~€31.94) and $92.78 (~€78.46) respectively.
FrontPet Foldable Pet Pool
Similar to the above, this pet pool is also durable and portable. This just presents another option. It folds up extremely small, making storage even easier. Also, this route has an even smaller option if you’ve got a little pup. With Small, Large, and Extra Large, the prices run $29.99 (~€25.36), $42.99 (~€35.35), and $47.99 (~€40.58) respectively.
Rubbermaid Stock Tank
Though not specifically designed for dogs, many pet owners have purchased this as a paddle pool and have found it to be perfect for this use as it is one of the most durable options you could get. It has stepped sidewalls along with reinforced ribbing allowing it to be fully weatherproof and dog proof. Any feature for choosing this option is the fact that it is completely versatile and can be used for things such as dog baths, storage, gardening, and more. Though this product comes in many sizes, this 50-gallon option is $89.99 (~€76.10)
One Dog One Bone Paw Pool
On the more expensive end, there has been much popularity for the ODOB Paw Pool. It is unique because it is created from Truck Bed Liner Material. It is durable and flexible for ease of draining. It is chew and UV resistant, built to stay cool in the summer heat. Furthermore, the fun paw shape and nice selection of colors makes the pool easy on the eyes. Though they have these nice features, it is still drastically more expensive than the other options, standing at $186.93 (~€158.08).
Dog Splash Sprinkler Pad
This splash pool is undeniably one of the most fun options on this list. Made of slip-free PVC, the Dog Splash Pad is durable and safe, claiming it is 30% thicker than its competitors. At 67 inches it is spacious enough for 2-3 dogs (or even kids). Simply plug it into any garden hose, adjust for water pressure, and play. Deflating it is as easy as unhooking the plug. The company suggests clipping your dog’s nails before use, just in case. This sprinkler pad has a price of $79.80 (~€67.48).
Cooling Toys
Playing is an essential part of the summer fun, so if you think your pup won’t be entertained by the cooling products listed above, this is the section for you. There are limited options of toys that double as coolers, but they do a good job keeping a pup stimulated and cool. Our top choices are below.
CHUCKIT! Hydrofreeze Dog Toy
This toy, designed to hold water and be frozen, is an innovative way to play fetch with your best friend, while cooling him down in the process. The ball comes with a specified sleeve in order to hold the water in place until frozen. The orange color also helps for visibility during playtime. This toy is relatively cheap at $8.99 (~€7.60).
Multipet Chilly Bone Dog Chew Toy
The Chilly Bone Toy is perfect for teething puppies or adult dogs who love chewing in the summer heat. The toy promotes healthy teeth and gums and is extremely durable. To use, wet the bone, insert it into the given plastic bag, and throw it into your freezer. Once it's frozen your dog can enjoy hours of cool fun. This Multipet toy costs $3.85 (~€3.26).
PetSafe Chilly Penguin Freezable Treat Holding Toy
This toy not only helps cool down Fido in the summer heat, but also keeps him stimulated by allowing him to earn his treat in a fun way. You can place items such as broth, peanut butter, yogurt, etc. before freezing, allowing for the treat itself to be frozen along with the toy and giving your dog a yummy popsicle treat. You can also place the toy in the freezer alone and place a treat within the toy afterwards. Either way this mentally stimulating toy keeps your dog engaged and makes sure he stays cool this season. This penguin costs $7.95 as of right now (~€6.72).
