AFP Chill Out Always Cool Dog Mat Review
Simple, affordable cooling comfort for Aussie dogs
Quick Overview:
- Type: Pressure-activated self-cooling gel mat
- Best For: Everyday summer comfort & short cool-down breaks
- Features: Auto-cooling gel technology, no water or power needed, recharges after rest, foldable PVC design
- Includes: 1 × Cooling mat (in multiple sizes)
Hot Days, No Freezer, No Fuss
When the air is thick with heat and your dog just can’t cool down, it’s hard to watch them pant and shuffle from shade to shade.
The All For Paws Always Cool Mat offers quick relief with its self-activating gel; no freezing, power, or setup required. It’s ready whenever your dog needs a cool surface to stretch out and relax.
See availability & delivery to your area.
Why It’s Worth Considering
- Instant cooling: Pressure-activated gel kicks in as soon as your dog lies down.
- Zero maintenance: Automatically recharges after a short rest.
- Portable comfort: Folds flat for travel, camping, and car trips.
- Safe materials: Non-toxic gel and sturdy PVC cover for peace of mind.
- Budget-friendly: Usually under $40 (half the price of premium brands).
“Offers a cool spot for hours, perfect for camping and travel.” — Verified Buyer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What People Love
- Hassle-free cooling: No freezer, no setup; just lay it down.
- Portable: Use indoors, outdoors, or on the road.
- Lightweight: Easy to store and carry on trips.
- Pet-safe: Made from non-toxic materials.
- Good value: Reliable performance for the price.
Common Complaints
- Shorter cooling cycle: Cools for up to three hours before warming.
- PVC surface: Can feel firm or slippery for some dogs.
- Durability: Occasional reports of seams splitting with heavy use.
- Performance drops in direct sun: Works best in shade.
Where to Use It
- On tiles or floorboards at home
- Inside the caravan or van for short rest stops
- Under a fan for enhanced cooling
- In crates or on beds for senior dogs
Best For / Not For
Best For:
- Dogs needing light, instant cooling indoors or on trips
- Homes without freezer space or air-conditioning
- Senior or short-coated dogs who overheat easily
- Owners seeking budget-friendly summer relief
Not For:
- Dogs with chewing habits or sharp nails
- Outdoor use in direct sunlight
- Owners expecting long cold retention like water-based mats
Curious how it performs for dogs like yours? See real owner photos, size charts, and current prices here.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Instant self-cooling gel, no prep needed | Cools for around 3 hours before recharging |
| Safe, non-toxic materials | Can feel firm or slippery for some dogs |
| Lightweight and foldable for travel | May wear with daily use or rough play |
| Great value for budget-conscious owners | Best results in shade — not direct sun |
| Easy to wipe clean — no laundry needed | Not ideal for persistent chewers |
Size Guide:
- Medium: 50 × 40 × 1 cm (1.5 kg)
- Large: 90 × 60 × 1 cm (2.9 kg)
Tip: For best results, place on a flat, shaded surface and wipe dry after use. Avoid leaving in direct sunlight for long periods.
My Take
After researching verified reviews and testing data, the All For Paws Chill Out Mat stands out as a budget-friendly, no-fuss option for daily cooling.
It’s not as long-lasting as water or ice-based mats, but for quick relief and low maintenance, it does the job beautifully; especially for indoor dogs or car rest stops on the road.
Looking for the best cooling mat for your dog? Check out my top picks and see how they stack up side-by-side.
Verdict at a Glance
| Category | Rating | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Performance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Instant relief; works best in shade |
| Safety & Materials | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Non-toxic gel; pet-safe surface |
| Durability | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | Sturdy but not chew-proof |
| Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | No setup; wipes clean in seconds |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Great everyday and travel pick |
Final Thoughts
The All For Paws Always Cool Dog Mat is one of the best budget cooling mats for Aussie dogs who need quick, everyday relief. It’s light, safe, and ready to use straight out of the box which is ideal for car rides, caravans, and lazy afternoons indoors.
If you’re after instant comfort without spending a fortune, this mat’s a smart choice.
(Stock often sells fast during heatwaves, grab yours early.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does it stay cool?
Up to 3 hours per session, depending on temperature. Recharges after a short rest.
Q2. Is it safe for chewers?
The gel is non-toxic, but supervise dogs that scratch or chew.
Q3. Can I use it outdoors?
Yes, just keep it in the shade for best results.
Q4. How do I clean it?
Wipe with a damp cloth and air dry.
Q5. What’s the difference between this and a water mat?
This gel mat is lighter and easier for travel but offers shorter cooling time.
Every Pawtal product review is independently researched to help Australian dog owners make practical, informed choices for home and travel.
About the Author
Written by Katherine English, Pet Travel Specialist and Founder of Pawtal.
Katherine researches and shares practical ways for Australians to travel safely with their dogs.
Pawtal was inspired by her dream to one day explore Australia with her anxious Golden Retriever, Murphy.