Cats

Fish

Rabbits

Birds

Horses

The Best Cooling Products for Pets This Summer

Rachel
by Rachel
Published:  May 29th, 2026

Summer means sunshine, cookouts, and lots of time outdoors—but it also means keeping a close eye on our pets when temperatures climb. 


Dogs and cats can struggle in the heat just like we do, and having the right cooling gear can make a big difference in helping them stay comfortable.


From cooling mats to frozen toys and hydration helpers, here are some of the best cooling products for pets this summer.

Dog outside - image via Canva

Table of contents

Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

1. The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad

The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad - image via Amazon

If your dog or cat is constantly searching for cool spots on the floor, a cooling mat can quickly become their favorite place to relax.


The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad uses pressure-activated cooling gel that starts working when your pet lies down—no water, electricity, or refrigeration required.


This mat is especially useful for warm afternoons indoors, road trips, or adding extra comfort to crates and beds. 


Why we like it: It cools automatically and doesn’t require any prep work.


👉 Buy it now.

2. PetSafe Chilly Penguin

PetSafe Chilly Penguin - image via Amazon

Keeping pets mentally stimulated during hot weather can be tricky when outdoor playtime needs to be shorter.


The PetSafe Chilly Penguin solves that problem by combining treats and cooling relief in one toy.


Simply fill it with treats, wet food, or peanut butter, freeze it, and hand it over to your dog for a chilly challenge. The frozen center helps keep dogs cool while also reducing boredom.


Why we like it: It turns snack time into a cooling activity.


👉 Buy it now.

3. Pecute Cooling Dog House with Cooling Mat

Pecute Cooling Dog House with Cooling Mat - image via Amazon

For pets that spend time outdoors or in warmer rooms, extra shade and insulation can go a long way.


The Pecute Cooling Dog House includes an insulated design, a cooling mat, and six ice packs to help create a cooler resting space.


Its foldable setup also makes it easy to move around the house or bring along for travel.


Small dogs and cats that enjoy cozy spaces may especially appreciate having a cooler hideaway during peak summer heat.


Why we like it: It creates a dedicated cool zone for resting.


👉 Buy it now.

4. EXPAWLORER Dog Cooling Bandana

EXPAWLORER Dog Cooling Bandana - image via Amazon

Cooling accessories aren’t just practical—they can be cute too. The EXPAWLORER Cooling Bandanas are designed to provide instant cooling relief when soaked and worn around your dog’s neck.


These lightweight cooling wraps can help during walks, backyard playtime, or summer road trips. 


Since they come in a two-pack, you can rotate them between outings or keep a spare ready to go.


Why we like it: It’s lightweight, portable, and easy to use on the go.


👉 Buy it now.

5. PETLIBRO Cordless Cat Water Fountain

PETLIBRO Cordless Cat Water Fountain - image via Amazon

Hydration becomes even more important during hot weather, and many cats naturally don’t drink enough water.


The PETLIBRO Cordless Cat Water Fountain encourages hydration with moving water that can be more appealing than still bowls.


Its cordless design offers flexible placement, while the stainless steel tray is easy to clean. The large 3-liter capacity and app monitoring features can also give pet owners extra peace of mind.


Why we like it: It makes staying hydrated easier for picky drinkers.


👉 Buy it now.

General Tips for Keeping Pets Cool This Summer

  • Always provide fresh, cool water
  • Avoid walks and exercise during peak afternoon heat
  • Offer shaded resting areas outdoors
  • Watch for signs of overheating, including heavy panting or lethargy
Puppy drinking water - image via Canva

Final Thoughts

A little preparation goes a long way when temperatures rise.


With the right cooling gear and plenty of fresh water, your pets can enjoy summer safely and comfortably. 

WOW
Rachel
Rachel

More by Rachel

Why Do Dog Anal Glands Get Impacted? (And How Supplements Can Help)
Why Do Dog Anal Glands Get Impacted? (And How Supplements Can Help)
View Article
Next
Related articles
Best Dog Cooling Products

Dog cooling products help our pets stay cool in the scorching heat – from cooling pads to ventilated beds and ice bandanas, you’ll have no problem finding a perfect cooling accessory for your four-legged bestie.

6 Best Pet Releaf Products For Your Pets

Pet Releaf products are amazing–they activate our pets’ Endocannabinoid Systems and lets our pets’ brains get full body relief wherever they need it. That’s important. That’s vital. They deserve and demand our attention. Here are the six best Pet Releaf Products you’ll want to know about for your pets. These could all dramatically improve your pet’s life.

Best Remembrance Products for Grieving Pet Owners

Saying goodbye to your pet is one of the hardest things you’ll ever have to do in your life. Losing a cherished friend is devastating, and it can be very difficult to cope with, but memorializing the love and the experiences you had with your pet can bring you some comfort, at least. Many pet owners find that creating a memorial spot in their home or on their property can help with the grieving process – displaying your pet’s photographs, their favorite items, paw print, or other meaningful mementos helps you physically preserve memories and keep them in sight, always. There are also other remembrance products that can be used to commemorate your pet, from customized remembrance jewelry to symbolic figurines that remind you of your pet – grief is a very personal thing, and comfort can be found in the littlest of details. We’ve handpicked the most thoughtful remembrance products you can use to memorialize your pet or gift to a loved one that is grieving for their pet – either way, they are a beautiful way to immortalize the beautiful bond between a pet and their owner(s).

Can Parrots Overheat? Keeping Your Pet Bird Cool in the Summer

With the summer temperatures steadily soaring, all pet owners need to be extra attentive about the weather and always make sure their little friends are not overheating. Parrots, like all birds, are sensitive to changes in temperature. While they are naturally adapted to warm climates, excessive heat can pose serious health risks. Understanding how to keep your pet parrot cool during the hot summer months is crucial for their well-being.How To Keep Your Pet Bird Cool in the SummerIt is important to know that parrots regulate their body temperature through their respiratory system. They do not sweat like humans; instead, they pant to release heat. Overheating, or hyperthermia, occurs when a parrot's body temperature rises above the normal range, which can lead to serious health issues such as heatstroke. Signs of overheating in parrots include rapid panting, holding their wings away from their body, lethargy, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.Ensuring that your parrot’s living environment is cool and comfortable is the first step in preventing overheating. Here are some tips to achieve this without much effort:Place the parrot’s cage in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Avoid areas that can get excessively warm, such as near windows or kitchens.Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a cool temperature. However, make sure the airflow is indirect to avoid creating a draft, which can be harmful to parrots. Always provide fresh cool water for your parrot. Consider adding ice cubes to the water bowl to keep it cooler for longer periods.

Readers’ Picks: The Best Pet Products on Amazon, According to You

We went through your shopping carts to come up with a list of the most popular pet-related items bought on Amazon in 2017.

The Best Toys to Keep Your Dog Entertained for Hours

Keeping your dog entertained can sometimes feel like a full-time job, but having the right toys on hand can make all the difference. From puzzle toys to treat dispensers, these options can keep your furry friend busy, happy, and mentally stimulated for hours.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Hairless Dog Breeds That Lack a Fur Coat

Did you know there are dogs who don’t sport fur coats? That’s right, there are several hairless dog breeds, just like there are hairless cat breeds, and these dogs are full of love and personality just like their coated counterparts. Here’s a look at four hairless canine breeds that make wonderful companions.

Obstinate Dog? Here's How To Get His Cooperation.

(photo credit: By-_-BY / shutterstock.com)I love my feisty dogs. Two Schnoodles that are completely bonded, and while confident, spirited, and totally outgoing, both are happy to immediately fall in line when instructions are given. Then there’s my Miniature Schnauzer, who moves to the beat of a different drum. She’s quick to push back when she disagrees with me, ignores my calls at the dog park, and can deliver a blistering stink-eye when she knows she’s about to lose her way – like when she realizes we’re going for a walk versus a car ride.Now, some of this may be breed-specific. Many dogs have, in fact, been bred to be independent thinkers – particularly those raised for hunting and herding. Understandably, scent- or sight-hounds inherently zero in on their surroundings when tracking prey and, as a result, tend to fob off human interference.But according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), while dogs can be stubborn and focused, they aren’t intentionally disobedient. It’s more likely that your pet simply doesn’t understand what you want from him. With that in mind, how do you work around this breakdown in communication to get your pet to respond to instructions? Responsiveness is particularly important if your pet gets loose and needs to be called back because a willful pooch can put themselves in harm’s way if they venture into traffic and refuse to listen.It’s not just down to training the five basic commands (sit, stay, down, come, leave-it) but effectively training your pooch.How Do You Make Training Effective?

London Tube Encourages Travel with Pets... Cat Charity, No So Much

It’s a cat fight in London where transit authorities are encouraging travellers to include pets in their outings, while a Cat Protection charity is pushing back. Would you take public transit with your pet?

New Research Sheds More Light on Kidney Disease in Cats

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common in pet cats, and recent research from the University of Nottingham has uncovered something unique about cats—something that might help explain why cats are prone to this condition. With a better understanding of the early signs and causes of this disease, experts might be able to improve diagnostics and treatment options.

3 Reasons Why Your Dog Might Be Scratching More Than Usual

If your dog’s been scratching, biting, or licking themselves more than usual, you’re probably feeling worried. While occasional itching is normal, persistent scratching could signal something that deserves attention. Here are three common reasons your furry friend might be itching more than usual.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Getting a Pet Bird

Though they make wonderful pets, birds have specific needs, and because there are so many different bird species you can keep as pets, it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you. Plus, many birds can live 10 years or more, so they’re a long-term commitment. Before you dive in and become a bird parent, ask yourself plenty of questions, like the following.

Treating Dog Cancer. Is Chemo A Good Choice?

Unlike human-grade chemo, the options for your dog may be just the ticket to improving his life.

How much Food Does Your Dog Need? Dog Feeding Requirements 101

Figuring out exactly how much to feed your dog is one of the most important yet confusing responsibilities of pet care. While most people rely on the generic charts found on the back of a food bag, these guidelines are just that – guidelines that serve as a starting point before accounting for the unique needs of your dog. Factors like their age, breed, size, and daily activity levels all play a massive role in determining the “right” portion size.This guide moves beyond the standard “one-size-fits-all” approach to help you calculate precisely what your dog needs to support their health and quality of life. Whether you feed a high-quality kibble, a raw diet, or a carefully balanced homemade meal, truly understanding your dog’s caloric requirements will help you ensure they stay fit, full of energy, and by your side for years to come.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.Why the Back of the Bag is Only a Starting Point When you bring home a new bag of dog food, the first thing most dog parents will do is flip it over to consult the feeding table. After all, it’s all spelled out there clearly in black and white. But is it really that simple? While these charts provide a strong baseline, they rely on broad generalizations that may not fully apply to the dog sitting in front of you. After all, like people, every dog is an individual. Relying solely on these numbers without any alternations can lead to subtle underfeeding or, more commonly, overfeeding, causing your dog to put on excess pounds. Feeding charts are typically designed for the “average” adult dog, meaning average size, average weight, and average activity levels. However, the definition of average is incredibly subjective. The chart doesn’t know whether your dog has a high-energy personality that burns calories just by existing, or spends most of the day napping, embracing a couch-potato lifestyle. However, most manufacturers lean toward slightly higher portions to ensure that no dog is undernourished, which can inadvertently contribute to overfeeding and obesity. The Real Impact of Those “Few Extra Calories” In the world of dog health, even a small amount of extra food every day can have a compounding effect. Because dogs are significantly smaller than humans (well, most are), an extra handful of kibble or an unmeasured scoop of raw food represents a much larger percentage of their total daily intake than it would for us. Carrying extra weight puts unnecessary strain on a dog’s skeletal system and joints, which is particularly dangerous for large breeds or seniors with existing mobility issues. But why is this REALLY important? Studies have shown that dogs kept at a lean, ideal body condition can live approximately two years longer than those who are overweight. Identifying the Signs of Underfeeding While overfeeding is a more common concern in many households, underfeeding CAN happen, especially if your dog has entered a high-growth phase or has recently increased their activity level significantly due to a new lifestyle or even seasonal changes. It is important to watch for any physical or behavioral signs that their current portion size isn’t meeting their needs. Signs of possible underfeeding include: Visible hip bones Prominent spineDull, dry coat Flaky skin or “dandruff”Neverending appetite Increased anxiety or food-related aggression Sudden lack of interest in exercise or playIncreased begging or stealing foodWhile these signs may mean that your dog isn’t getting a high enough total calorie intake, they could also be a sign of a more targeted nutritional deficiency (like iron or specific vitamins), or a medical condition causing malabsorption. You should speak with your veterinarian to rule out any potential underlying issues. Identify the Signs of Overfeeding On the other hand (or paw), there is also the concern that you may be feeding your pup too much. While it is often done out of love, overfeeding is one of the most common health challenges facing dogs today. Because weight gain can be gradual, it’s easy to miss the subtle signs of concern. Recognizing these warning signs early allows you to make minor adjustments before they escalate into more serious health issues. Signs of possible overfeeding include: Loss of a visible waistline New or soft deposits of fat over the hips, base of the tail, or the neck Difficulty feeling the ribs Excessive pantingDecreased mobility Digestive problems like consistently soft stools or chronic flatulenceGeneral lack of energy It’s important to remember that a sudden weight gain or a change in body shape can also be linked to hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. If you reduce the amount you feed your dog and do not see a change in their body condition over time, you should reach out to your vet. The Four Pillars of Dog Caloric Requirements To find the right amount of food for your dog, you must look at your pup as an individual rather than just a member of a species. There are four primary factors that influence how much energy your dog burns and, consequently, how much they need to eat to maintain a healthy balance. Life Stage and Age Your dog’s nutritional needs shift dramatically as they move through different phases of life. Their metabolism is highest during times of growth, slowly tapering off as they reach maturity and eventually move into their golden years. For this reason, puppies require significantly more calories per pound of body weight than adult dogs to fuel the development of bones, muscles, and organs. As dogs age, their metabolism slows, and they often become less active, meaning their calorie needs can drop by as much as 20% to 30%. Breed and GeneticsWe all have that one friend who can eat everything and anything without gaining a pound. Similarly, there is a genetic aspect to how individual dogs process the food they eat. Two dogs of the exact same weight can have wildly different caloric requirements based solely on their genetic makeup and breed. Working breeds, such as Border Collies or Belgian Malinois, often have a “higher idle,” causing them to burn more calories even when they are resting compared to more sedentary breeds, like Basset Hounds. Dogs with thick, double coats may burn more energy in the summer to stay cool, while dogs with thinner coats may burn more trying to stay warm in the winter.

Ontario Dog Beats the Odds After Five Months in Sub-Zero Temps

As a dog parent, our worst nightmare is the sight of an open gate and an empty yard. Our minds instantly run to the worst-case scenario as we panic about our best friend's safety. For Collin, a resident of Stayner, a small town in Ontario, Canada, that nightmare became a reality on October 1, 2025, when his three-year-old Boxer-Rottweiler mix, Daisy, vanished. What followed was not just your typical tale of a lost dog. It was a five-month testament to a dog's resilience and to the incredible dedication of a community that refused to let her freeze. After sneaking out of the yard, Daisy was spotted by a local mechanic’s shop. While they tried to catch the loose dog, she was skittish and afraid, quickly taking off and disappearing from their sight. “Sightings poured in daily,” said Collin. “I lived vicariously through people posting sightings of her all over social media.”However, despite the many sightings, Daisy continued to elude rescuers and members of her local community. Days turned to weeks, and then months. Despite winter temperatures plummeting below -20F, the nervous pup managed to navigate harsh local storms and bitterly cold nights. Luckily, Daisy wasn’t fighting for survival alone. Local businesses like Hoffman’s Meat & European Deli and Rayne Nutrition stepped up, providing high-quality food to keep Daisy’s strength up, while Pet Valu Stayner provided essential supplies. Even the youngest members of the community pitched in. A young boy named Aidan helped shovel snow and sang to Daisy during feeding trips, focused on keeping the environment calm. Pawsitive Ground Search, a local organization dedicated to finding lost pets, brought their knowledge and expertise to the search. When a dog is lost for a long period, they often enter “ survival mode.” In this mental state, even the most loving pet can become anxious and skittish, failing to even recognize their own “people.” Collin experienced this firsthand when he came face-to-face with Daisy on the street, only for her to bolt away in fear. Sue, from Pawsitive Ground Search, introduced the importance of a “safe zone,” working tirelessly to keep Daisy’s frequent hiding spots and hangouts quiet and undisturbed. Changing a trap or making too much noise could cause a lost dog to vanish from sight for weeks. This highlights an important lesson for any dog parent: if a dog is in flight mode, chasing them is the worst thing you can do. The team and the many volunteers focused on consistency, delivering food twice daily to a barn where she had been seen seeking shelter. Finally, after 143 days in the wild, the breakthrough happened just after midnight on February 20. Using a live camera feed and a drop net, the team finally secured Daisy. Within seconds, the dog who had sparked hundreds of social media shares was headed home. Perhaps the most incredible part of the story is Daisy’s condition when she was finally trapped. After a vet checkup, Collin confirmed she is doing well and has settled back into her life of belly rubs and cuddles, as if she never left. Daisy’s story is a powerful reminder: never lose hope. If your pet ever goes missing, remember that the goal is to make them feel safe enough to stop running. Sometimes, providing a quiet place to eat is the most effective way to bring them back to the families who love them dearly. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Should You Let Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed?

A lot of dog owners love the idea of cuddling up with their furry friend at night. It’s cozy, comforting, and who doesn’t want to spend all their time with their dog? But is it actually a good idea? Let’s take a look. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Simple Ways to Maintain a Happy Multi-Cat Home

Creating a harmonious multi-cat home is a careful balancing act that requires cat parents to have a deep understanding of the basics of cat biology and their territorial needs. While we often view our cats as social creatures, they are actually solitary hunters that we are asking to share their most important resources, like food, water, and a feeling of safety.For a dedicated cat parent (like yourself if you’re reading this), the goal isn’t just to stop conflicts from happening, but to create a home environment where every cat feels safe, secure, and like their needs are met. Achieving this requires us to think ahead and make adjustments proactively to prevent problems and keep everyone happy.By viewing your home through a cat’s point of view, you can identify and resolve any potential issues before they grow and manifest into long-term behavioral issues or even chronic health problems. Let’s talk about the steps you can take to intentionally design a space that allows every cat in your home to thrive!Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.Understanding the Social Structure of CatsTo create a peaceful home, we first have to bust the common myth that cats live in a “pack” with an alpha leader. Unlike dogs, your cat’s ancestors were solitary, opportunistic hunters. In the wild, they didn’t rely on a group to take down prey, which means they didn’t evolve the social behaviors that pack animals use to resolve conflict. When your cat feels like their space or resources are threatened, their first instinct isn’t to settle a dispute peacefully; it’s to avoid, hiss, or fight to protect what’s theirs.This isn’t to say that our cats don’t interact with one another. In our homes, they form what behaviorists call “social groups” or “factions.” Understanding how these groups interact is the secret to creating a low-stress household.If you have three or four cats, they may not all view themselves as one big happy family. You might notice two cats who frequently groom each other or sleep snuggled into the same bed, while a third cat is always on the outside looking in. Some cats are highly social and quickly bond with anyone they meet, while others are happier living a more solitary life, and that’s okay!Look for “allogrooming” (cats licking each other) and “allorubbing” (cats rubbing their bodies or tails together). These are hallmark signs of cats that belong to the same social group. A good rule of thumb is that cats who are comfortable in the same social group will willingly stay within one cat-length of each other without creating tension.At the same time, keep your eyes open for a cat who might share the same room as others, but never touches them. This peripheral cat isn’t necessarily “lonely,” but they are socially distanced by choice.One of the most important realizations for any cat parent is that “getting along” doesn’t just mean a lack of hissing and fur flying. Cats are masters of passive-aggressive behavior. Physical fights are risky for a predator that relies on its health to hunt, so they prefer to use subtle intimidation to control a space. Examples of this in practice include:The “Doorstop” Move: A cat sitting squarely in a doorway or at the top of the stairs isn’t always just napping; they may be “guarding” the path to a litter box or food bowl, controlling their resources.The Staredown: Prolonged, unblinking eye contact between cats is a high-intensity challenge. If you see one cat staring and the other looking away or grooming themselves nervously, you’re witnessing a social confrontation.Displacement: If one cat approaches a sleeping spot and the other immediately gets up and leaves, that’s a sign of a shift in social hierarchy that could be causing underlying stress.When we understand how our cats manage their environment and the others who share this space, we stop looking for “bad” behavior and start looking for ways to improve the environment to create peaceful coexistence. If one cat is constantly blocking the hallway, the solution isn’t to get frustrated, lecture your cat, or give them a time-out. Instead, consider how you can provide a second path, such as a vertical “highway,” so the other cats don’t feel trapped.By respecting their natural social boundaries, we can help them enjoy a life in your home without the constant pressure to compete for space. The “N+1 Rule” for ResourcesIf there is one universal law for a peaceful multi-cat home, it is the “N+1 Rule.” This simple rule states that you should provide one more of every essential resource than the number of cats in your home. It is the single most effective way to eliminate resource guarding and social tension.When a cat feels like their survival needs (like food or a clean place to go to the bathroom) are scarce, their stress levels spike. By creating abundance and strategically considering their location in your home, you can shift their mindset from competing with one another to peacefully coexisting.The Strategy of ScatteringIt isn’t simply enough to have three litter boxes or four food bowls; location is everything. If you put three litter boxes side-by-side in the laundry room, the cats view that as one single, large resource. This means that even though you invested in three boxes, you aren’t actually addressing the competition for access. A higher-ranking or more confident cat can easily gatekeep that one room, effectively cutting everyone else off.Instead, spread resources throughout your home across different floors or rooms. Not only does this ensure your cat doesn’t have to run a gauntlet past a housemate just to get a drink of water, but it’s also a great practice to make your home more accessible for those who may need to have their resources closer at hand, like senior cats who can’t “hold it” as long or may experience mobility challenges.Additionally, every resource station should have at least two ways out. Avoid placing litter boxes or food bowls in cramped corners or closets where a cat could feel trapped by an approaching housemate.

5 Smart Upgrades Every Pet Owner Will Want in 2026

Pet care is getting smarter and more convenient—and 2026 is shaping up to be the year pet owners fully embrace technology that genuinely improves daily life for both humans and animals. From smart feeding solutions to enhanced comfort and safer home monitoring, today’s innovations are designed to reduce stress and elevate daily routines. Here are five must-have pet upgrades every modern pet owner should have on their radar.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2026  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.