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Yes, cooling vests do work on double-coated dogs. While a double coat helps regulate body temperature by insulating against heat and cold, it can also trap heat, especially in hot or humid weather. Cooling vests provide an extra layer of relief by helping your dog release excess body heat through evaporative cooling or gel inserts. They’re ideal for keeping double-coated dogs cool during hot weather or extended time outdoors.
Table of Contents
Why Double-Coated Dogs Still Struggle In The Heat
Double-coated dogs like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and German Shepherds have two layers of fur:
- Undercoat: A soft, dense layer that traps warm or cool air close to the skin.
- Topcoat: Tougher guard hairs that protect against dirt, sun, and harmful UV rays.
This coat helps regulate body temperature in cooler weather. But in the summer, that same undercoat can trap heat, especially if it’s not brushed out regularly.
Even though the double coat offers some natural cooling, it’s not always enough in hot or humid conditions. That’s why extra cooling methods, like a vest, can help keep your dog safe and comfortable.
Important: Never shave a double-coated dog. Shaving disrupts their natural temperature regulation and removes the protection their topcoat provides. Learn more about safe summer grooming for Golden Retrievers.
How Cooling Vests Work
Cooling vests help dogs release excess body heat through two main methods: evaporative cooling and gel-based cooling. Here’s how each one works:
Evaporative Cooling Vests
These vests are made of breathable, water-absorbing fabric. You soak the vest in water, wring out the excess, and put it on your dog. As the water evaporates, it pulls heat away from your dog’s body, just like sweat does for humans.
- Best For: Dry or moderately warm climates
- Reactivation: Re-wet with a hose or water bottle as needed
Gel Insert Cooling Vests
These vests use removable gel packs that are pre-cooled in the fridge or freezer. The cold gel absorbs heat from your dog’s body, helping lower their core temperature.
- Best For: Hot, humid weather where evaporation doesn’t work well
- Reusable: Just refreeze the gel packs between uses
Tip: Some vests combine both methods, offering evaporative cooling with the added benefit of gel inserts for longer-lasting relief.
Are Cooling Vests Effective? (Backed by Research)
Yes, studies show that cooling vests can help reduce body temperature in dogs, especially during exercise in hot weather. Here’s what the research says:
Study #1: University of Florida
- What They Did: Tested 7 working dogs in extreme summer conditions using three setups: no vest, a protective vest, and a cooling vest.
- Result: Cooling vests helped some dogs return to normal body temperature faster after intense activity.
- Takeaway: Cooling vests can speed up recovery and help prevent overheating.
Study #2: Cardenal Herrera University of Spain
- What They Did: Observed 13 military dogs training in moderate heat while wearing: No vest, A gel-based (phase change material) cooling vest, an evaporative cooling vest.
- Result: Both types lowered core temperature, but the evaporative vest performed slightly better overall.
- Takeaway: Cooling vests are effective, and evaporative types may have a slight edge, depending on conditions.
What This Means for Double-Coated Dogs: These studies focused on working dogs, but the results apply to any active dog in warm weather. For double-coated breeds, cooling vests can help manage heat more effectively, especially when combined with shade, hydration, and rest.
Benefits Of Cooling Vests
Cooling vests provide extra cooling relief for double-coated dogs, helping:
- Release trapped heat in thick fur.
- Reduce the risk of overheating during activities.
- Increase comfort and energy levels.
- Work alongside the dog’s natural insulation.
- Offer lightweight, breathable, and adjustable fits.
- They’re great for walks, play, travel, or rest.
Note: Cooling vests aid comfort but don’t prevent overheating alone. Always provide shade, fresh water, and limit heat exposure. Learn more about overheating in dogs.
Limitations Of Cooling Vests
While cooling vests are helpful, they’re not perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- They cool for only 20–40 minutes before needing re-wetting or re-cooling.
- Evaporative vests stay damp, which can cause discomfort or fur matting.
- Thick coats can make finding a well-fitting vest challenging.
- They’re less effective in high humidity, where evaporation slows.
- Some dogs need time to adjust to wearing a vest.
Choosing The Right Cooling Vest For Thick-Coated Dogs
When picking a cooling vest, consider the following:
- Size and Fit: Choose a vest that fits snugly without restricting movement. Adjustable straps, buckles, or Velcro help it fit better around thick coats.
- Cooling Method: Evaporative vests work best in dry or moderately warm weather, while gel insert vests are better for hot, humid conditions. Some vests combine both for longer-lasting cooling.
- Material and Comfort: Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate your dog and can handle outdoor activities.
With these factors in mind, we’ll explore the top 3 options for double-coated dogs that meet these criteria.
Top 3 Cooling Vests For Double-Coated Dogs
Here are three cooling vests that work well for double-coated breeds, offering a balance of fit, comfort, and effective cooling:
1. SGODA Dog Cooling Vest
A popular evaporative cooling vest designed with breathable 3-layer mesh fabric and adjustable straps. Its reflective piping and built-in D-ring make it practical for active, double-coated dogs.
Why It's Great:
Breathable materials and multiple adjustment points provide a secure, comfortable fit that works well for thick coats.
- Lightweight and breathable
- Easy to use; just soak, wring, and wear
- Wide size range for different dogs
- Doubles as a harness with D-ring leash attachment
- Reflective piping for visibility
- Cooling lasts about 30–40 minutes before needing a refresh
- Tends to run large; sizing can be tricky for thick coats
- Long fur can get caught in the back zipper
2. Kurgo Core Cooling Vest
This evaporative vest is one of the lightest on the market and features quick-release buckles and a small 2-way zipper for leash access, making it ideal for dogs who dislike zippers or Velcro.
Why It's Great:
Slim fit with breathable, heat-reflective fabric keeps double-coated dogs cool without adding bulk.
- Very lightweight and comfortable
- No Velcro or zippers rubbing against fur
- Provides UV protection
- Adjustable fit with quick-release buckles
- Lifetime warranty
- Runs small in the chest, sizing carefully needed
- Needs frequent re-wetting during long use
- Leash-hole lacks D-ring; harness required underneath
- Pricier than other options
3. Mora Pets Dog Cooling Vest With Ice Packs
Combining evaporative and gel insert cooling, this vest provides longer-lasting relief, especially in humid conditions. It includes adjustable straps and a D-ring for leash attachment.
Why It's Great:
The dual cooling system addresses limitations of evaporative-only vests, making it ideal for hot and humid climates.
- Uses both evaporative and gel-insert cooling
- Gel packs work well in humidity
- Doubles as a harness with built-in D-ring
- Easy on and off with no zippers or Velcro
- Adjustable quick-release buckles
- Affordable price
- Gel packs need freezer prep before use
- Rear leg straps can be uncomfortable for some dogs
- Runs large; sizing may require attention
FAQs
Got questions about cooling vests for dogs? Here are some quick answers:
1. Do Cooling Vests Help Double-Coated Dogs?
Yes. Cooling vests reduce trapped heat and help double-coated dogs stay cooler in warm weather.
2. How Long Do Cooling Vests Keep Dogs Cool?
Most cooling vests last about 20–40 minutes before needing to be re-wet or refreshed. Gel pack vests can last longer.
3. Can My Dog Wear A Cooling Vest Indoors?
Yes. Gel-based vests work well indoors since they don’t need water, while evaporative vests may feel damp inside.
Final Thoughts
Cooling vests can help double-coated dogs stay comfortable in hot weather by providing extra relief beyond what their natural coat offers. While they’re not a complete solution on their own, using a cooling vest alongside shade, water, and limited heat exposure can make a real difference.
For extra cooling support when your dog is relaxing indoors or outside, consider using a cooling bed as well. You can check out my guide on the best cooling beds for dogs to learn more.
Have you tried a cooling vest on your dog? Share your experience below!
Hi, I’m Jenny, the owner and content creator of First Time Dog Mom. As the proud owner of Ellie, my senior Golden Retriever, I share the insights and tips I’ve learned through my own experiences as a dog mom. With a lifelong love of animals, I hope to be a helpful resource for others navigating the joys and challenges of pet parenthood.
I actually do own a Golden Retriever, so he definitely has a thick and double-coated fur. Although he enjoys just lying in the sun, I think it feels good for his hips, I really need to get him out of the sun in time so as to not get sunburned. I have heard about cooling mats, but never about cooling vests, are they safe for a dog to use? As I have heard to not use a wet towel on a dog, as they can get into a shock, is this true? thanks!
Hi Lizzy,
Yes, cooling vests are safe to use. The idea is to soak them in cool water then wring the vest out. The damp vest is worn by your dog. The evaporation process starts by drawing heat away from your dog’s body and releasing it into the air. Your dog begins to cool down. You’ll notice that the vest eventually becomes dry, which means it is working. This is how an evaporative vest works. A gel-insert vest doesn’t need dampening (depending on the type), but instead uses pre-cooled gel packs to draw heat away from your dog’s body and dissipating it.
The risk of shock from a cooling vest is extremely rare, a dog that is overheated can go into shock from freezing cold water (either drinking it or being exposed to it). So that is something to be aware of, always follow the cooling vest’s instructions and guidelines to ensure proper safety and effectiveness for your dog.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Jenny.