Scientifically, dogs can’t break a sweat. Here are the best cooling vests to help your dog relax.
A dog cooling vest is your ticket to a safe and healthy summer—whether your pet is doing outdoor activities or staying extra cool in their favorite nap spot at home. These summer outfits give your pet a refreshing cooling effect close to the body, easily penetrating thick coats and combating the summer heat. They come in various sizes, too, meaning that pets of all sizes can stay comfortable in the warm weather.Here’s what you need to know about available options and our top picks.
It’s not magic (although it sure seems like it!) Here’s the general science behind dog cooling vests:
Dogs can’t sweat. However, many vests work like human sweat does by using an evaporation-based cooling system with fabric that’s designed to retain water. Often, this fabric will be dense and absorbent, giving your pet a faster cooling experience. All you need to do is moisten the cooling vest before use and let the material work its magic.
Your vest might also be made of heat and light-reflecting material, or it might have areas where pet parents can slide a vest-shaped ice pack right in. There are plenty of convenient ways to cool your dog.
There are two primary reasons why your dog needs a cooling vest: Their physical safety and their overall comfort. Here are a few other reasons to think about:
Your dog’s temperature can dictate their physical health and safety. Heat stroke is a very real risk, especially in the summer, and can present with symptoms such as:
⚠️ We do want to note: You don’t need to be in a place with excessive heat for this to happen. Living in a warm climate can be enough, as your dog’s temperature is very sensitive. This is especially true if you have a brachycephalic breed, since they can’t expel warm air quickly enough to really cool off. Keeping your pup cool is KEY for their health, especially on hot days.
When it comes to cooling off and staying comfortable, consider your pet as well. After all,you can safely assume that your pet is pretty toasty, especially under all that fur. Using temperature regulating products and giving plenty of cold water and shade can help your dog keep their cool.
Here’s how to choose the best possible vest for your dog:
You’ll want your furry friend to have a comfortable fit in whatever cooling wrap you pickso be sure to measure before you order to ensure you get the right size. Generally, you’ll want to measure your dog’s length, width, neck, and chest area, getting every angle you can of your dog’s body and girth. The vest options we list here will offer dimensions so you can buy with confidence.
Many reputable vest options use lightweight materials (such as breathable neoprene) that give you the absorbant-yet-light quality in good cooling vests. Check the vest’s cooling duration
Dog vests can only cool for so long! The tag or description of the product outlines exactly how much time your dog’s body temperature can be regulated in a single use. Generally, you should look for an option that can cool for multiple hours.
Here are eight staff-selected awesome vests that we’re sure will keep your pet cool all summer long!
Why we like it: Accessible price, detailed size chart, strategic cooling of the neck and back, leash portal
What we don’t like: Tighter around the neck, may not suit larger breeds due to the snug fit
Why we like it: Extremely affordable, comes in a range of sizes, lightweight polyester construction, additional UV protection
What we don’t like: Currently shows delayed delivery at the time of this publication
Why we like it: Super light microfiber construction, UV protection, wide range of size options, refund or replacement guarantee
What we don’t like: Less water retention than others; better for short walks/adventures
Why we like it: Wide range of available sizes, offers evaporation tech too, extra UV protection, simple to use and secure
What we don’t like: Smaller sizes compared to other types, possible sizing inconsistencies
Why we like it: Chemical free, pet-safe mesh construction, evaporation tech included, extremely visible due to the hunter’s orange coloration
What we don’t like: Some owners report consistent snags due to the materials used
Why we like it: Unique collar addendum for extra cooling power, machine washable, created from chew-resistant neoprene and nylon
What we don’t like: Users report sizing variability despite accurate measurements
Why we like it: Pulls heat directly off the neck for fast and strategic cooling, high-visibility reflective material included, easy velcro closure
What we don’t like: Duration lasts about an hour, may not be suitable for long adventures
Why we like it: Wide range of sizing available, specifically suited for larger breeds, adjustable velcro closures, anti-microbial construction, elasto-fit tech
What we don’t like: Users report that it’s usually a bigger size than expected, meaning that the product might not be true-to-size
Yes, cooling vests can be incredibly effective. They generally rely on evaporation from water on them or indirect ice pack contact with your dog’s coat, making them near-foolproof.
The main disadvantage to cooling vests is the chafing that can occur if they are not sized correctly. Following the sizing charts for the item that you are purchasing can help you to limit this risk.
Yes, you will generally wet a cooling vest, especially if it uses evaporation technology. Be sure to follow the instructions on your vest of choice for the best results for your pup!
While you can, we don’t recommend this unless the instructions say you should. Putting it in the freezer can make it too cold or uncomfortable for your furry friend’s sensitive skin.
You can use a cooling vest for your pet if you are indoors. Just be sure to check in on your dog’s temperature to make sure they aren’t getting too cold in their current climate.
