When temperatures rise, dogs are at real risk of overheating. Unlike humans, dogs cannot cool themselves through sweating. They regulate body temperature mainly by panting. If panting is not enough, their body temperature can rise dangerously fast, leading to heat exhaustion or hyperthermia, both of which can become life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Certain dogs are especially vulnerable:

• Thick-coated breeds
• Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds like Pugs or Bulldogs
• Overweight dogs
• Highly active working or sporting dogs
• Dogs left in hot cars or without shade and ventilation

Preventing overheating is critical, and this is where cooling technology plays an important role. 

Read our article about how heat affects our dog's health.

Wet Cooling vs. Dry Cooling: What’s the Real Difference?

There are two main approaches to cooling vests and mats for dogs: wet cooling and dry cooling. While both aim to reduce body temperature, they work very differently.

1. Wet Cooling Technologies

Wet cooling products are typically:

• Dipped or immersed in water
• Placed on the dog while still wet
• Dependent on evaporation for cooling

Limitations of Wet Cooling

• Wet fur & discomfort – The vest remains wet against the coat, which many dogs find uncomfortable.
• Short cooling duration – Cooling effect depends on humidity and airflow and often lasts only a short time.
• Limited cooling performance – Usually provides only a small temperature reduction.
• Hygiene concerns – Wet materials are not anti-bacterial and can become contaminated.
• Frequent reactivation – Many wet systems need constant re-soaking.
• Limited lifespan – Typically fewer activation cycles.

Wet cooling increases significantly the weight of the vest, or the aparel worn by the dog, and makes it even more difficult for dogs already impaired by the heat.

2. The DRY Cooling System

The DRY Cooling System was developed to solve exactly these limitations.

How It Works

Water is inserted into the vest or mat and held securely between two layers of material.
This construction allows the system to:

• Keep the dog 100% dry
• Provide effective cooling without wet fur
• Prevent direct water contact with the coat

Key Benefits

• Up to 15°C / 27°F cooler than ambient temperature
• Remains cool up to four times longer than wet cooling
• Completely dry and comfortable
• Anti-bacterial for improved hygiene
• Machine washable
• Long lifespan with up to hundreds of activation cycles

Unlike wet cooling, the system does not depend solely on evaporation. The internal membrane structure stabilises the cooling effect and extends performance significantly, but it still does work better in an environment that isn't too humid.

Why Dry Cooling Matters for Your Dog

Overheating can develop quickly — especially during:

• Agility training
• Hunting or working activities
• Long walks
• Car travel
• Hot, humid days

Excessive panting, lethargy, and discomfort are early warning signs. Waiting too long can lead to serious consequences.

A dry cooling system offers:

• Reliable temperature reduction
• Extended cooling duration
• Higher comfort for the dog
• Better hygiene
• Long-term durability
  

Prevention Is Always Better Than Emergency Care

Heatstroke is most often caused by:

• Hot environments without shade
• Poor ventilation
• Closed cars
• Excessive activity in warm weather

Dogs should always have access to:

• Shade
• Fresh water
• Ventilation
• Active cooling support when needed

If overheating occurs, immediately remove the dog from the hot environment and seek veterinary guidance. Never administer human medication such as aspirin.