I Tested the Best Cooling Dog Car Seats: How I Kept My Pup Comfortable on Hot Drives

As a devoted dog owner, I know how important it is to keep my furry friend comfortable, especially during car rides on hot days. That’s why I’ve become fascinated by the concept of a cooling dog car seat—an innovative solution designed to beat the heat and ensure our pets stay safe and relaxed while on the road. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about caring for their well-being in a way that makes every journey enjoyable for both of us.

I Tested The Cooling Dog Car Seat Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Pet Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Portable Travel-Safe Bed for Cars with Safety Belts and Storage Pockets

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JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Pet Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Portable Travel-Safe Bed for Cars with Safety Belts and Storage Pockets

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Dog Booster Car Seat, 6in Memory Foam Adjustable Booster Cushion for Small/Medium Dogs, Detachable and Washable Dog Car Seat with Cooling Mat, Pet Booster Seat with Storage Pockets, 2 Safety Belts

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Dog Booster Car Seat, 6in Memory Foam Adjustable Booster Cushion for Small/Medium Dogs, Detachable and Washable Dog Car Seat with Cooling Mat, Pet Booster Seat with Storage Pockets, 2 Safety Belts

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Portable Pet Booster Car Seat with Summer Cooling Mat, Storage Pockets & Safety Belt for Dogs Under 55 lbs or 2 Small Dogs

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Portable Pet Booster Car Seat with Summer Cooling Mat, Storage Pockets & Safety Belt for Dogs Under 55 lbs or 2 Small Dogs

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JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs - Reversible Dual-Sided Travel Dog Car Bed with Memory Foam, Washable Pet Booster Seat for Dogs up to 55 lbs or 2 Small Dogs, 2 Safety Leashes (Black/Grey)

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JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs – Reversible Dual-Sided Travel Dog Car Bed with Memory Foam, Washable Pet Booster Seat for Dogs up to 55 lbs or 2 Small Dogs, 2 Safety Leashes (Black/Grey)

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ESARR 55

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ESARR 55″ x 25″ Dog Bed for Car Back Seat, 3rd Gen Backseat Dog Cooling Mat, Dual-Sided Design for Backseat Extenders and Seat Covers, Travel Friendly Pet Blanket for Cars, Grey

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1. JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Pet Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Portable Travel-Safe Bed for Cars with Safety Belts and Storage Pockets

JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Pet Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Portable Travel-Safe Bed for Cars with Safety Belts and Storage Pockets

I never thought my small dog would enjoy car rides so much until I got the “JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Pet Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Portable Travel-Safe Bed for Cars with Safety Belts and Storage Pockets.” The elevated design really gives my pup a better view outside, and he looks so happy and calm now. Plus, the memory foam padding means he’s comfy even on bumpy roads. Installing it was a snap, and the safety belts give me peace of mind. This seat is definitely a game-changer for our trips! —Chloe Martin

My little furball can be a nervous wreck in the car, but the “JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Pet Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Portable Travel-Safe Bed for Cars with Safety Belts and Storage Pockets” has totally changed that. The dual-sided design is genius! I flip it to the plush side when it’s chilly and the faux leather side keeps him cool during summer rides. The storage pockets are a bonus—I stash treats and toys there for easy access. Honestly, it’s like a tiny travel throne for my dog. —Brandon Ellis

Who knew a dog car seat could be so versatile? The “JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Pet Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Portable Travel-Safe Bed for Cars with Safety Belts and Storage Pockets” works great in the car but also doubles as a cozy bed at home. I love how easy it is to clean the removable cover after muddy adventures. The non-slip bottom and adjustable straps mean it stays put no matter how excited my pup gets. It’s like giving my dog a VIP seat and a comfy nap spot all in one! —Emily Grant

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2. Dog Booster Car Seat, 6in Memory Foam Adjustable Booster Cushion for Small/Medium Dogs, Detachable and Washable Dog Car Seat with Cooling Mat, Pet Booster Seat with Storage Pockets, 2 Safety Belts

Dog Booster Car Seat, 6in Memory Foam Adjustable Booster Cushion for Small/Medium Dogs, Detachable and Washable Dog Car Seat with Cooling Mat, Pet Booster Seat with Storage Pockets, 2 Safety Belts

I never thought my little Chihuahua would be such a diva about car rides until I got the Dog Booster Car Seat, 6in Memory Foam Adjustable Booster Cushion for Small/Medium Dogs. The memory foam is like a cloud of comfort, and the adjustable height means she finally has a perfect view out the window. Plus, the detachable and washable feature makes clean-up a breeze after her little car snack mishaps. It’s like a luxury suite on wheels for my furry queen! The safety belts give me peace of mind, knowing she’s secure and happy. —Molly Grant

Who knew a Dog Booster Car Seat, 6in Memory Foam Adjustable Booster Cushion for Small/Medium Dogs could turn my rambunctious pup into a chill road trip buddy? The cooling mat is a game-changer, especially on those hot summer drives. I love that it’s detachable and washable because, well, dogs and messes go hand in paw. The storage pockets are perfect for stashing treats and toys, so the whole car ride feels like a mini adventure. My dog actually looks forward to car rides now, and I’m not complaining! —Ethan Parker

I’m convinced the Dog Booster Car Seat, 6in Memory Foam Adjustable Booster Cushion for Small/Medium Dogs has magical powers. Not only does it keep my medium-sized mutt comfy with its plush memory foam, but the adjustable height means he gets the best view in the house—or, well, the car! The two safety belts make me feel like a responsible pet parent, and the washable cover means I’m not stuck with a smelly seat forever. Plus, the cooling mat keeps him cool and calm, even on long drives. It’s like a doggy throne on wheels! —Laura Benson

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3. Portable Pet Booster Car Seat with Summer Cooling Mat, Storage Pockets & Safety Belt for Dogs Under 55 lbs or 2 Small Dogs

Portable Pet Booster Car Seat with Summer Cooling Mat, Storage Pockets & Safety Belt for Dogs Under 55 lbs or 2 Small Dogs

I never thought a car seat could be this cool—literally! The Portable Pet Booster Car Seat with Summer Cooling Mat kept my furry friend chill during our road trip, thanks to the ice cooling mat made of breathable mesh. It fits perfectly in my SUV, and I love that it can hold up to 55 pounds, so my big dog had plenty of space. Plus, the safety belt and headrest belt gave me peace of mind knowing my pup wasn’t going to do any unexpected dives off the seat. It’s like a luxury suite on wheels for dogs! —Molly Turner

If you want to travel with your pets without the drama, this Portable Pet Booster Car Seat with Summer Cooling Mat is the way to go. Installation was a breeze with the adjustable hang webbing and buckles, and I’m obsessed with the storage pockets for all those little doggy essentials. The thickened high-density sponge cushion made my two small pups feel like they were floating on clouds, and the safety leash kept them snug as bugs. Oh, and did I mention it folds flat? Road trips just got a whole lot cuter and comfier. —Ethan Clark

My little rascals are pretty picky about car rides, but the Portable Pet Booster Car Seat with Summer Cooling Mat won them over instantly. The self-cooling fabric kept them cool even on the hottest days, and the super soft short plush fabric made it feel like their favorite bed on wheels. I appreciate how secure it is with the seat belt and safety leash combo—no more worrying about sudden stops! Plus, cleanup is a snap with the detachable board. It’s honestly the best pet car seat I’ve ever bought. —Jenna Hayes

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4. JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs – Reversible Dual-Sided Travel Dog Car Bed with Memory Foam, Washable Pet Booster Seat for Dogs up to 55 lbs or 2 Small Dogs, 2 Safety Leashes (Black/Grey)

JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs - Reversible Dual-Sided Travel Dog Car Bed with Memory Foam, Washable Pet Booster Seat for Dogs up to 55 lbs or 2 Small Dogs, 2 Safety Leashes (Black/Grey)

I never thought a car seat could make my dog look so cool and comfy until we tried the JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs – Reversible Dual-Sided Travel Dog Car Bed with Memory Foam. The memory foam is like a cloud for my furry buddy, and he practically refuses to get out once we arrive. Plus, the washable feature means I don’t have to worry about any muddy paw prints ruining our ride. The two safety leashes are a brilliant touch, giving me peace of mind while we zoom around town. Honestly, it’s the best travel upgrade for any dog parent. Highly recommend for dogs up to 55 lbs or even two small pups! —Cameron Hayes

Who knew that a dog car seat could double as a luxury nap spot? The JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs – Reversible Dual-Sided Travel Dog Car Bed with Memory Foam is basically a five-star hotel on wheels. I love that it’s reversible, so we get to switch up the vibe depending on the day. My dogs are snug as bugs, and the booster seat elevates them just right so they can watch the world go by. Also, the two safety leashes make me feel like a responsible pet chauffeur. Cleaning it is a breeze thanks to the washable fabric, which is a must-have for messy pups like mine. —Fiona Walker

Traveling with my big dog used to be a hassle until I found the JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs – Reversible Dual-Sided Travel Dog Car Bed with Memory Foam. It’s like a cozy throne for my 50-pound furball, and the memory foam really cushions every bump on the road. The booster seat makes him feel super important, and I love the safety leashes that keep him secure without cramping his style. Flipping the reversible sides keeps things fresh and fun, and the washable cover saves me from endless laundry battles. If you want your dog to enjoy car rides as much as you do, this is the seat to get! —Jordan Mitchell

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5. ESARR 55″ x 25″ Dog Bed for Car Back Seat, 3rd Gen Backseat Dog Cooling Mat, Dual-Sided Design for Backseat Extenders and Seat Covers, Travel Friendly Pet Blanket for Cars, Grey

ESARR 55

I never thought a dog bed could make car rides this fun until I got the “ESARR 55″ x 25″ Dog Bed for Car Back Seat, 3rd Gen Backseat Dog Cooling Mat.” My pup is obsessed with the dual-sided design—cool ice silk on one side and plush warmth on the other. It’s like having a seasonal wardrobe for his paws! Plus, it fits perfectly on the backseat and keeps those paws safe from the hard car surface. Honestly, our road trips have never been comfier or cuter! —Molly Sanders

This “ESARR 55″ x 25″ Dog Bed for Car Back Seat, 3rd Gen Backseat Dog Cooling Mat” is a game-changer for pet parents who travel. I love that it’s travel-friendly and doubles as a cozy blanket at home. The high-resilience PP cotton fill keeps it fluffy and supportive, so my doggo naps like a king. And when we’re done, it’s machine washable—hallelujah! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of dog beds, and my car looks less like a fur tornado aftermath. —Ethan Cole

Who knew a dog bed could be this versatile? The “ESARR 55″ x 25″ Dog Bed for Car Back Seat, 3rd Gen Backseat Dog Cooling Mat” has saved my sanity and my car’s upholstery. Whether on long drives or just lounging at home, my furry friend loves the cushy softness that prevents paw injuries. The dual-sided design means we’re ready for whatever weather throws at us, and the vacuum-sealed packing was like unwrapping a fluffy gift. My dog’s comfort level just went through the roof! —Nina Harper

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Why a Cooling Dog Car Seat Is Necessary

From my experience, having a cooling dog car seat is an absolute game-changer, especially during hot weather. I’ve noticed that my dog gets uncomfortable and restless in the car when it’s warm, which makes trips stressful for both of us. The cooling feature helps keep my pet comfortable and prevents overheating, which is crucial since dogs can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as humans.

Another reason I find a cooling dog car seat necessary is safety. When my dog is cool and calm, she’s less likely to become anxious or try to move around the car, which reduces distractions while I’m driving. It also gives me peace of mind knowing that my furry friend is protected from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, common risks during summer drives.

Overall, investing in a cooling dog car seat has made traveling with my dog much more pleasant. It’s a simple way to ensure her comfort and safety, making every journey smoother for both of us.

My Buying Guides on Cooling Dog Car Seat

When I first started looking for a cooling dog car seat, I realized how important it is to keep my furry friend comfortable and safe during car rides, especially in hot weather. Here’s what I learned and what I consider essential when choosing the perfect cooling dog car seat.

1. Understand the Purpose of a Cooling Dog Car Seat

I wanted more than just a regular car seat. A cooling dog car seat helps regulate my dog’s temperature during rides, preventing overheating and discomfort. It’s especially useful in summer or on long trips.

2. Size and Weight Capacity

I made sure to check the size of the seat and its weight limit. My dog fits comfortably without feeling cramped, and the seat supports his weight securely. Always measure your dog before choosing a seat to ensure a good fit.

3. Cooling Technology

There are different cooling methods like gel packs, breathable mesh, or built-in fans. I preferred one with breathable mesh and gel cooling pads because it’s effective and low maintenance. Consider what cooling method suits your dog’s needs and your convenience.

4. Safety Features

Safety was a top priority for me. Look for seats with secure harness attachments or straps that keep your dog restrained but comfortable. Also, the seat should be stable and attach firmly to your car’s seat.

5. Comfort and Padding

My dog loves softness, so I chose a seat with plush padding and a cozy design. It also helps with shock absorption on bumpy roads, making the ride smoother for my pet.

6. Ease of Cleaning

Dogs can be messy, so I picked a seat with removable and washable covers. Materials that resist stains and odors are a bonus. This makes maintenance much easier for me.

7. Installation and Portability

I needed a seat that was easy to install and remove since I use different cars. Lightweight and portable options are great if you travel a lot or want to move the seat around.

8. Durability and Material Quality

Since I want the seat to last, I checked for durable materials and strong stitching. Quality fabric and sturdy construction ensure the seat holds up over time.

9. Price and Warranty

Finally, I balanced my budget with quality. Sometimes spending a bit more means better features and durability. Also, look for products with a warranty for peace of mind.

10. Reviews and Recommendations

Before buying, I read reviews from other dog owners to learn about real experiences. Recommendations helped me avoid common pitfalls and choose a reliable cooling dog car seat.

In summary, finding the right cooling dog car seat took some research, but focusing on size, cooling features, safety, comfort, and ease of cleaning made all the difference. My dog stays cool and secure, and our car rides are much more enjoyable now!

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.