Best Dog Cooling Vest Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide
If you are interested in getting the best dog cooling vest available, but you’ve been out of luck so far, we have just the right solution for you. After researching the options offered by the manufacturers, we concluded that the RUFFWEAR – Swamp Cooler Evaporative Dog Cooling Vest is the model you should purchase. It is ideal for hot summer days when your dog needs protection from the harmful UVs and could use a bit of cooling, as this model is equipped with special technologies to ensure exactly that. Made with three different layers, each one with a different purpose, it is the type of vest that will help your dog feel dry and comfortable even when performing strenuous physical activities. Due to the easy to release buckles, you will experience no troubles with putting the vest on or taking it off. Should this model be out of stock, the second recommendation we have for you is the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest.
Comparison table
You will get everything you need in a cooling vest if you decide to pick this one. It keeps your dog cool on hot days, it has a nice design, and it is harness compatible so that you can still walk your dog on a leash without a problem. Finding the right size can be a bit of a challenge, depending on the breed and size of your dog. This cooling vest for dogs is ideal for summer days when you want to go hiking with your dog, as it keeps the dog dry and comfortable at all times while providing excellent cooling and protection from the sun and the UV rays. Because it is made from soft, lightweight materials, this dog cooling vest is ideal for any breed and will keep your dog feeling comfortable even when the temperatures outside are high. Its gray color is reflective and anti-UV. Be aware of the fact that this vest is quite heavy when wet, and not so easy to put on your dog. This vest offers excellent advantages to any dog wearing it, as it uses special technologies to ensure that your pet remains cool and comfortable all day long, even during hot days. It is light and easy to wear, so your dog will love it. The mesh material this vest is made of ensures proper breathability, which means that your dog will be able to sweat and cool off, while the vest does its job, too. Heat reflection is also among the advantages provided by this vest. The buckle straps are a bit loose, which might cause some issues with getting the vest to fit perfectly to your dog. Your dog will always be dry and comfortable while using this vest because it allows him or her to sweat naturally, and it can also be soaked in water and provide extra cooling. For active dogs, it is an excellent choice and ideal on hot days.
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2nd Best
Also To Consider
10 Best Dog Cooling Vests (Updated Reviews) in 2023
If you are on the market for a dog cooling vest, you may have noticed already that there are plenty of models now available, which can make your choice harder than ever. That is why we offer you this list of critically-acclaimed products that have already proven their qualities.
- 1. RUFFWEAR – Swamp Cooler Evaporative Dog Cooling Vest
- 2. SGODA Dog Cooling Vest
- 3. smartelf Dog Cooling Vest
- 4. Dogzstuff Dog Cooling Vest
- 5. FOREYY Dog Cooling Harness
- 6. juxzh Truelove Dog Cooling Vest
- 7. Rantow Dog Cooling Vest
- 8. LotFancy Dog Cooling Vest
- 9. Petilleur Dog Cooling Vest
- 10. SHITONGDA Dog Cooling Vest
- Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. RUFFWEAR – Swamp Cooler Evaporative Dog Cooling Vest
During summer days, you may want to take your dog hiking or camping, and that means that your pet will spend quite some time in the sun. Dogs of all breeds, but, in particular, those with heavy coats can feel quite the impact of hot weather, which is why a cooling vest like this one is an excellent choice.
What makes this model from RUFFWEAR stand out? Mainly, it is its complex structure made from three different layers of material. On the outside, the layer present does a great job reflecting the rays of the sun, thus ensuring that heating is kept to a minimum.
In the middle, there is a layer that retains moisture, making sure that the water is released slowly to guarantee a cooling effect. The excellent coverage the vest provides also serves well in protecting your dog from the unpleasant effects of UV rays.
This cooling vest appears to have numerous benefits, which include the low-light visibility that can help keep your dog safe when you walk with him or her in the evenings or early mornings.
Also, its leash portal creates an extra convenience, allowing you to put on a leash or a harness on your dog, without any hassle.
Equipped with side-release buckles, the vest is a real breeze when you need to put it on your dog or take it out.
Its complex structure allows the vest to remain wet and cool your dog while he or she plays happily in the sun, and it also keeps the animal dry and comfortable all the time.
The UPF protection on this model is 50+, so you will have no issues with your dog being affected by other harmful effects of UVs.
When you must pick the right size for your dog, be aware that the sizing chart might not be beneficial, as different breeds and dog sizes may need various configurations.
2. SGODA Dog Cooling Vest
What makes this model stand out from the many other cooling vests available is the technology used to ensure that your dog remains cool and comfortable all the time. Explicitly designed to combat the heating effects on summer days, this vest is easy to use. All you have to do is to soak it in water, wring it a little and then make your dog wear it.
The water will dry slowly, as the structure of the vest ensures excellent retention. At the same time, the mesh material will allow the water to wick as it turns into vapors so that your dog doesn’t experience any discomfort. As your pet needs the most he or she can get from a cooling vest for dog, this choice is ideal.
What also recommends this model above others is the visual appearance, as the gray color will reflect sun rays, keeping heating to a minimum.
Using evaporation to provide proper cooling effects, this vest is ideal for hot days when dogs with heavy coats tend to experience a lot of discomfort.
The vest itself is lightweight, so you will not have to deal with a pet that stubbornly refuses to be made to wear it.
You will notice that there is a zipper that allows easy adjustments, something important, seeing how many dog owners struggle to find a good size for their pets.
Since it reflects heat, it is the ideal choice if you plan to travel to hot climate areas with your dog, or you live there, and you want your pet to receive proper protection.
The leash attachment point is an added plus, and you will find that your dog loves it just as much as you do.
There is a possibility to experience some hassle when the vest is wet, and you try to put it on your pet, as the dog must first get his or her front paws inside.
3. smartelf Dog Cooling Vest
A beautiful dog cooling vest harness that will catch your eye right from the get-go, this model is bound to make an impression. Due to its bright orange color, it makes your dog visible in the dark, which is essential when you travel to unknown areas, and you must keep an eye on your pet.
It is also easy to use, as there are only 3 steps involved. First, you soak the vest in cold water, then you wring it out, and the last step is putting it on your dog. The water retained by the special structure of the vest will release slowly, keeping the dog cool and comfortable.
At the same time, the vest is easy to put on, due to the side-release buckles that you will notice right away. Made from PVA and mesh fabric, it allows proper wicking, thus ensuring that your dog benefits from the cooling effects, but without getting wet.
The outer layer has reflective qualities, so it helps repel the harmful effects of UVs, and it also allows the water to evaporate.
On the inside, the vest has a lining that is impervious to water, so your dog will be dry, even if the middle layer is soaked in water.
You can adjust the vest to fit your dog with the help of the side straps that come with fast-release buckles that come in handy when you want to take off the vest.
Because the vest is lightweight and breathable, your dog will love it, too, and you will not have to struggle to help him or her into the harness.
Enhanced visibility makes it an excellent choice for dog owners who like to take their dogs on walks in the evenings.
While the side buckles are handy, they appear to be a bit loose, so you might not be able to tighten the straps as much as you would like.
4. Dogzstuff Dog Cooling Vest
If you’re looking for an affordable dog cooling vest that does everything more expensive models do, this model might be right up your alley. Made from a type of microfiber that absorbs water and retains it for long periods without a problem, it is the optimal solution for cooling off your dog on hot days.
That means that your dog won’t have to struggle to breathe normally and pant a lot just so that he or she can cool off. Fending off the heat can be a particularly tricky problem for some breeds, which is why dog parents are interested in finding something that works.
At the same time, the vest provides the dog with superior UPF protection, and you will notice that your dog is more active and happier when wearing it. While it is close in appearance to a coat, it is lightweight, so it won’t be an issue for your dog to wear it.
The unique microfiber the vest is made of will help retain water so that your dog can benefit from superior cooling effects for a long time on summer days.
You will love its beautiful appearance that will make your dog look stylish, even when the temperature outside is scorching hot.
Also, because it covers the back and chest of the animal, it manages to offer some excellent protection from UVs, something that will help keep your dog healthy and happy.
It is possible to adjust the size, due to the design of the vest, so you may notice that this model is more accommodating or various dog breeds and sizes than others.
Should you desire, you could use the vest as a lightweight jacket during other seasons, without wetting it.
In windy weather, the vest might dry quickly, which is something to bear in mind when selecting such an item for your dog.
5. FOREYY Dog Cooling Harness
Your dog needs the best care, regardless of season, which is why a cooling vest sounds like such a great idea. The FOREYY Dog Cooling Harness has a unique construction that allows your dog to experience the cooling effects for a long time without a problem. The inner lining keeps the layer soaked in water away from the skin, so your dog feels cool, but not wet.
At the same time, the middle layer is ideal for long walks in the sun, as it does a great job of keeping wet and releasing the water slowly. Lastly, the outer shell allows the water to wick quickly once it evaporates so that you don’t end up with a dog wearing a vest from which water is dripping all the time.
You can surely appreciate that the material used is lightweight and, therefore, comfortable for your dog. Your pet won’t feel hindered in his or her movements at all.
The hook and loop design allows you to put the vest quickly on your dog while your pet won’t find the process uncomfortable in any way.
You will find the leash attachment handy, and that means that you are free to walk your dog on a leash without a problem, even when he or she wears the vest.
Because of the elaborate design of the fabrics used for the vest, you will notice that your dog will remain cool for a long time, without feeling wet or uncomfortable in any way.
Strong UVs won’t hurt your dog, either, because they are adequately reflected by the outer shell.
There are no harmful chemicals and other compounds to worry about, so your dog’s health remains optimal.
You might not be able to make this vest fit on just any dog breed and size, so you should take your time to compare various models.
6. juxzh Truelove Dog Cooling Vest
Created to ensure that your dog experiences the most comfort possible on hot summer days, this vest offers multiple benefits. For instance, you should not worry that your dog’s coat will become wet from the vest, as the internal layer that keeps water inside is isolated by an inner lining that remains dry all the time.
At the exterior, the vest has a mesh material that allows proper breathability while, at the same time, lets the water that evaporates come through. This is quite an innovative concept used by manufacturers today to provide dogs with proper cooling, and it is a great thing to see it in this model.
The reflective material used for the outer shell has numerous advantages. For instance, it reflects the sun rays so that it reduces the heating effect, and it is also handy in the evenings when you walk your dog.
It is easy to use since you only need to follow 3 simple steps that are soaking the vest in cold water, wringing it a bit dry, and then putting it on your dog.
The dog’s coat remains dry and comfortable because the inner lining doesn’t allow the water to go through at all.
Due to the double zipper present, the vest is easy to put on and take off, which makes it extra convenient for the owner, too.
There is an aluminum D-ring attached on the back of the vest so that you can quickly connect it to a leash.
Excellent coverage makes the vest a good pick for owners who want to make sure that their pets are protected against the harmful action of UVs.
Make sure that you have an extra water bottle for wetting the vest if you plan trips longer than a couple of hours in the sun.
7. Rantow Dog Cooling Vest
The first thing you may notice about this particular vest for dogs is how durable it looks. And it’s not just an appearance; this model is created to resist wear and tear, which means that you’ll make a pretty sound investment if you choose it.
Seeing how it is quite a cheap dog cooling vest, it is ideal for dog parents who usually shop on a budget. As for the cooling properties, you will be glad to learn that the design of this vest allows hours of perfect comfort for your dog. While the outer layer lets water evaporate, and it reflects heat, the middle layer stores water and releases it slowly.
Another thing you’ll surely like about this model is that it allows your dog excellent freedom of movement. You won’t have to deal with a pet that doesn’t want to wear the vest, and, at the same time, your furry friend will enjoy all the comfort possible.
Your dog will stay cool for hours when wearing this vest that comes equipped with excellent properties to ensure that it retains water and provides extra comfort.
It is lightweight and comfortable, and it lets your dog move freely, which is an excellent plus for such an item that could be bulky and not all that pleasant to wear for a dog.
Because of its long-lasting material, it is a good investment that you and your dog will enjoy for many years.
Strong sunlight will not be an issue as the vest provides excellent coverage, and it’s also reflective to reduce heating.
The buckle and sliders present on the vest let you adjust it so that it fits your dog as it should.
As it’s most often the case, some dogs might not feel comfortable wearing a vest at all, so it might take some time to make your dog wear it.
8. LotFancy Dog Cooling Vest
Your dog can benefit a lot from a cooling vest, and if you have a small breed dog, you will find this cheap model to be exactly what you want. It is capable of keeping your dog comfortable in hot weather, as it uses the principles of natural evaporation and reflection of heat. The way this vest is designed contributes significantly to this process.
One thing that many people like about this vest is its ease of use. All you need to do is to soak it in water, wring it a bit dry, and then dress up your dog in it. The effect of cooling will start right away, and when you notice that all the water has evaporated, you only have to wet the vest again.
Your dog won’t be hindered by it because it is made from lightweight materials, and it allows freedom of movement. Since there are no toxic compounds used, it is entirely safe for your dog.
You can put the vest on your dog and take it out without any hassle, due to the hook-and-loop design that lets you use it easily.
The natural cooling effect is provided by the simple, yet effective structure of the vest that retains water and evaporates it slowly for maximum results.
Heat reflection is another thing that this vest does well, and the reason why so many dog parents consider it a good choice.
As it’s lightweight, your dog will feel very comfortable with it, and there will be no bulky clothing to deal with.
Only non-toxic materials are used in the making of this vest so that you don’t have to worry about your dog’s wellbeing and overall health.
This vest runs small, which means that you might have to consider ordering a size up to make sure that it fits your dog.
9. Petilleur Dog Cooling Vest
Sometimes the most straightforward designs are the ones that work the most efficiently, as is the case for this cooling vest from Petilleur. You can rest assured that the quality of the vest is superior, as excellent materials are used. The PVA the vest is made of is washable, so pretty easy to maintain clean.
The ice cooling mesh makes sure that your dog will remain cool and comfortable in all weather conditions. Even more, because it allows great breathability, it adds more comfort, and it is also good at absorbing water to ensure that it works for hours.
Your dog will not experience any discomfort as the vest is lightweight. It might also please you that it comes in a beautiful color. For small to medium breeds of dogs, it is the ideal choice. The strap it comes equipped with makes the process of putting it on and taking it off pretty simple.
This reusable vest is a sound investment as it is easy to keep clean and also reusable, just by soaking it in cold water.
You will find the fabric quite lightweight, and that means that your dog won’t experience any hindrance while wearing it.
Because it is easy to put on your dog and then adjust it with the help of a strap, you may find it more comfortable than other models on the market.
Its beautiful color recommends it, and that might be the reason why many dog parents choose it for their pets, even with so many other similar products present on the market.
Your pet will feel comfortable while wearing the vest, and the cooling effect will be instant.
Be aware of the fact that the vest tends to become a bit stiff when it dries, so always remember to wet it properly before putting it on your dog.
10. SHITONGDA Dog Cooling Vest
A cooling vest will do its job best when it keeps your dog comfortable without preventing freedom of movement. Because it is made from soft, lightweight materials, this vest is ideal for those summer days when you want to take your dog camping or hiking. Due to the high protection from UVs, your dog will not suffer the usual unpleasant effects of overheating.
The cooling fabric is made from 3 layers, each one with a clear purpose. You will discover that the vest is quite easy to use since you only need to soak it in water, wring it a little, and then have your dog wear it. The evaporative cooling process will start right away, and that is how your dog can keep cool even when the weather is hot.
With the help of the buckle and strips, you will find the vest easy to adjust. Also, because of the reflective material used, you won’t risk losing your dog when walking him or her after sunset.
Your dog will be well protected from sunburn, overheating, and other unpleasant effects of hot weather when wearing this high-performance vest.
The water soaking the material of the vest won’t be in contact with the dog’s skin and coat, due to the excellent lining it comes with.
As the water evaporates, it will create a cooling effect, while the breathable mesh will allow the water to wick fast once it completed its purpose.
This is a reflective vest that will make your dog visible in poor lighting conditions so that you won’t ever lose him or her out of your sight.
With the help of the leash attachment point, you will find that this vest works easily with a leash, too.
You should know that this model doesn’t come in small sizes, so it is not, unfortunately, a choice you can pick for a small breed dog.
Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
If you want to take your dog hiking or camping, and you don’t want him or her to suffer the effects of heat, the best solution is to get a cooling dog vest. This item is necessary, especially if your pet doesn’t handle high temperatures well and has a heavy coat. To find out what features to look for in this type of clothing for your dog, see what our team discovered.
Excellent cooling properties
The primary purpose of such a vest is to ensure that your dog’s body remains cool even when the sun is up in the sky. For this, manufacturers thought about creating a special system that offers multiple benefits so that your dog feels comfortable all the time. See if the product you want to buy comes with such a system, as that’s the most important consideration.
Also, you can read some dog cooling vest reviews to see what other dog parents say. To explain the type of construction used, we will start by telling you that it must have 3 layers. The middle layer is the most important, as it is made from special materials that absorb and retain water.
On the inside, the vest must come with a lining that protects the dog’s coat from getting wet, so that your pet remains comfortable at all times. On the outside, the final layer should allow the water to evaporate and the vest to do its job. In a nutshell, this is how this type of clothing for dogs works, and why so many pet parents prefer it.
Last, but not least, a cooling vest should be capable of reflecting light. That helps with limiting the amount of heat the vest has to deal with, and thus ensures that you don’t have to wet the vest again too often.
A good fit
Never ignore the importance of a good fit. Your dog won’t take a liking to a vest that is too tight or too loose. You will notice that most manufacturers offer a sizing chart to help you identify the right size for your pet. Also, there are often more details provided, such as the recommendation to size up in case your dog’s measurements fall between sizes.
Is it easy to attach a leash?
Since this type of vest covers the chest and back of the animal, it is essential to learn whether the design allows you to attach a leash easily. Some models come with a special ring for attaching the leash or other design elements. Regardless of how lovely you may find the vest to be, just make sure that there is such an option present.
Your dog should love it
What any dog cooling vest review can tell you is that one of the most important aspects is how your dog reacts to it. Comfort can be an issue, and if they dislike wearing any type of clothing, dogs can be very stubborn and refuse to move. That is why your focus should be on the overall comfort of your dog. Proper sizing helps, but that’s not all.
For instance, you should consider getting a model that is easy to put on and take off. Make sure that the vest doesn’t chafe the dog’s skin in any way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s a dog cooling vest used for?
This type of vest has a unique purpose in mind, and that is to prevent the dog from becoming overheated in hot weather. While it may appear a bit counterintuitive to put clothes on a dog when it’s hot outside, the concept of such a vest explains everything.
Its goal is to keep the temperature of the dog’s body to a comfortable level. It does so by coming equipped with a special layer that absorbs water and keeps it inside for hours. The water evaporates slowly, and all this time, your dog doesn’t have to pant excessively to stay cool.
When you go hiking or camping in hot weather, and you want the family dog to tag along, you will find this type of clothing for pets to work like a charm. There’s no need to keep your dog feeling uncomfortable when there is such an easy solution at hand.
Q: How does a dog cooling vest work?
The system behind a cooling vest is simple and effective. All you have to do is to soak the vest in cold water, wring it a bit, and then put it on your dog. Do not worry that your dog might start feeling uncomfortable because the lining that is the closest to his or her coat remains dry due to the special fabric used for it.
The process of cooling happens in the middle layer, which absorbs water and retains it for as long as possible, releasing it slowly. As your dog’s body heats, the cold water cools it down, and it starts to evaporate.
Now it’s the turn of the outer layer to allow the water to release through the process of evaporation and to wick it fast. This way, the vest won’t be uncomfortable for the dog, and, when the water evaporates, you just need to wet it again if needed.
Q: Do I need to wash my dog cooling vest?
Typically, cooling vests can last for a long time if you give them the care and attention needed. The good news is that they don’t require too much maintenance. One of the issues dog parents face is whether they should wash these vests or not.
The following care regimen should be followed if you want to make sure that the vest you purchase will last for a long time. Dry it after each use, but don’t use a dryer for it. When it gets dirty, it is a good idea to wash it by hand with a bit of mild soap and plenty of warm water.
You should never use bleach and don’t rinse it in saltwater, in case you are on vacation, and that might appear like a good idea to you. Also, before storing it away, make sure that it is completely dry so that it doesn’t allow the growth of mold and mildew.
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