By Sarah Chen · Reviewed by Dr. James Carter, DVM · Last reviewed: May 15, 2026
We tested 5 cooling toys that mix play with heat relief. Frozen lickmats, stuffed Kongs, water fetch, ice puzzles, and treat molds. Here is what works, what lasts, and the safety rule that saves lives.
Before you stuff any cooling toy, read the label. Xylitol is a sugar substitute in many sugar free peanut butters, gums, mints, and baked goods. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that as little as 0.1 grams per kilogram of body weight can drop a dog into hypoglycemia within 30 minutes. Higher doses cause liver failure and death.
Safe fillings include:
If you suspect xylitol ingestion, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888 426 4435) right away. Source: AVMA Xylitol Poisoning page.
Best overall cooling toy
Spread plain yogurt or pumpkin, freeze 2 hours, hand to dog. Done.
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Cons
Best freezer stuffer
Pack with mashed banana, plain yogurt, or wet food, freeze 4 hours. Lasts 30 to 60 minutes.
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Cons
Best lickmat alternative for chewers
Stuff with frozen mashed sweet potato, fits more food than a Kong of the same size.
Pros
Cons
Best water fetch toy
Toss in a kiddie pool or shallow lake. Combines hydration, swimming, and play in one toy.
Pros
Cons
Best ice puzzle base
Hide ice cubes or frozen blueberries under the caps. Adds 15 to 20 minutes of cool fun.
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Cons
| Feature | LickiMat | Kong | West Paw Toppl | Chuckit Amphibious | Nina Ottosson |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Lickmat | Frozen stuffer | Frozen stuffer | Water fetch | Puzzle base |
| Indoor or outdoor | Indoor | Indoor or crate | Indoor | Outdoor pool | Indoor |
| Cooling time | 10 to 20 min | 30 to 60 min | 20 to 40 min | Live play | 15 to 20 min |
| Chewer safe | Soft chewers | Strong chewers | Strong chewers | Soft chewers | Supervise only |
| Dishwasher | Yes, top rack | Top rack | Top rack | Hand wash | Hand wash |
| Price | $10 to $14 | $15 to $20 | $18 to $25 | $12 to $18 | $20 to $28 |
Plain yogurt (no xylitol or sweeteners), mashed banana, mashed sweet potato, pumpkin puree, wet dog food, low sodium chicken broth, or peanut butter that is xylitol free. Always read the label. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is fatal to dogs in tiny doses, per the AVMA xylitol poisoning page.
Only if it is xylitol free. Many sugar free peanut butters contain xylitol, which kills dogs at very small doses. Brands flagged for xylitol in the past include some natural and reduced sugar lines. Always check the ingredient list every time, even on a brand you have used before. The AVMA and FDA warn that xylitol can cause seizures and liver failure in dogs within 30 minutes.
A standard Kong stuffed with wet food and frozen 4 plus hours lasts 30 to 60 minutes for an average chewer. Heavy chewers may finish in 15 to 20 minutes. Pack tightly and freeze overnight for the longest session.
Yes, with size matched toys. Use the Kong Puppy or Toppl Small for dogs under 20 pounds. Freeze partial fillings, not solid blocks, so puppies can lick and chew through. Always supervise the first few uses.
Small ice cubes or crushed ice are safe for most dogs. The AKC notes that ice cubes do not cause bloat, that myth was debunked. Use crushed ice for small dogs or those with weak teeth. Skip ice for dogs with dental issues or those who gulp large chunks.
Skip them. Even non toxic gel can cause stomach upset if punctured. The ASPCA recommends avoiding any gel filled toy that a dog can bite open. Stick with solid rubber freezer toys like Kong or Toppl.
Rinse with warm water, scrub with a soft brush, then dishwasher top rack. Most LickiMat and West Paw products handle the dishwasher. Avoid the bottom rack, heat can warp soft rubber.
Frozen lickmats and stuffed Kongs are listed by the AKC as enrichment tools that can help with mild anxiety. The licking and chewing motion is calming. Use them at departure to build a positive crate or alone time routine.
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