Best Settle Mats For Dogs: A Handy Guide to Help Your Dog Relax Anywhere
Dogs have a knack for finding their own cosy spots around the house. Take our dogs, for instance. We’ve got this runner in front of our kitchen sink—not for them initially, but to keep the floor dry. Yet, every time someone comes knocking at the door, that’s their spot to hunker down. They picked it themselves!
A settle mat is pretty much about creating a purposeful spot like that, only with a bit more intention. By carefully selecting the best settle mats for dogs, you’re helping with defining clear spaces for dogs at home, whether they’re learning commands like ‘place’ or they just need their own little corner for some chill time.
Now, you might think any mat could do the trick—and you’d be right! But mats that don’t slip, are easy on the cleaning front, and look good in your space just make life that much easier.
Out of all the options, there’s just three main types of settle mats: ones for training, those ideal for travel, and budget-friendly picks. Whether you’re getting started with basic obedience or need something for on-the-go comfort, there’s something that’ll work for both you and your dog.
Settle Mat Options Dogs Tend to Take To
The Perfect Training Companion: Amazon Basics Raised Dog Bed
Getting your dog to nail the ‘place’ command can seem like a Herculean task, but the Amazon Basics Raised Dog Bed steps in to make the process a whole lot simpler.
I know, it’s a bed. Not a settle mat. Here me out though.
The whole idea behind this is to switch things around and make it easier to train the dog to get all four paws in “place” on the “mat”, because it’s raised. It’s a clear boundary.
Pups catch on fast when training’s consistent and positive. Start by rewarding your dog for putting two paws on the bed, then three, and finally all four. Before you know it, you’ll have them trotting over on command.
Moreover, the bed’s breathable mesh fabric means it stays cool and comfy, a big win especially in hotter months.
You could even put it to double duty, serving as an all-year training mat, and a cooling mat/bed in the garden during summer. This is actually a great budget alternative to dog cooling mats in the warmer months.
Then there’s the clean-up; it’s super easy because, let’s face it, dogs aren’t the tidiest creatures. A bit of a rinse and you’re done! Plus, it comes in multiple sizes and delivers great value without the wallet-dent of some high-end brands.
For outings and short stops, a portable mat like this helps keep routines consistent away from home.
See a suitable option on Amazon
Travel in Comfort: A Woof Life Portable Travel Dog Bed
Going out of town with your dog can mean rest stops. In a cafe, a bar/restaurant, or just settling down in a park for light refreshments from the snack bar. That’s much easier when you can toss a travel bed on the ground and get your dog to rest on it.
That’s the concept of the portable travel dog bed, and the “A Woof Life” brand seems to have it nailed. The bed rolls up, has straps, and can be clipped onto your hiking backpack.
Comfort isn’t compromised in favour of portability. This bed is packed with padding and has a smart non-slip base, ensuring it doesn’t go skating across a wooden or tiled floor in a cafe. The water-resistant fabric is another win, especially when you hit those unexpected drizzles. Like, when you need to sit out in a beer garden because the dog-friendly part applies to there and not in the premises where people are eating.
Keeping things familiar is crucial for dogs. A familiar mat can turn even the noisiest cafe corner into a known refuge. It helps dogs settle down quicker because they’re already comfy with the feel and scent of their mat.
Having a familiar mat on hand makes it easier for dogs to settle in busy or unfamiliar places.
Budget-Friendly and Versatile: The OZE SPORTS Yoga Mat Solution
Not everyone’s looking to shell out big bucks for a dog-specific mat, and that’s where the OZE SPORTS Yoga Mat comes in as a sneaky good alternative. This option’s great for anyone wanting a non-slip, easy-to-clean spot that doesn’t break the bank.
It’s thicker than you might think, offering enough padding to keep your dog comfy. Plus, the whole non-toxic, phthalate-free materials spiel means you can feel good about your dog plopping down on it.
With moisture resistance baked into the design, it’s one less thing to stress about if your dog decides to drink like a camel, slobbering onto the mat, before settling in for a nap. It’s super portable, too—roll it up, tuck it under your arm or stash it by the back door for indoor-outdoor convenience. It comes with a handy carry strap too.
Dogs don’t care about brands or price tags . A yoga mat can feel like a perfect place, especially if it’s soft and stays put. Whether it’s for training sessions or a temporary fix, it gets the job done beautifully.
It’s a simple, low-cost way to test whether your dog settles better on a defined surface.
See an example of one on Amazon.
Mini Buyer’s Guide: A Smart Path to Finding Your Dog’s Ideal Settle Mat
Finding the right settle mat isn’t about buying the “best” one — it’s about choosing something your dog is comfortable using, in the spaces you actually need it.
Consider Size & Available Space
Make sure your dog can fully stretch out on the mat without hanging off the edges. This matters most for larger breeds or dogs that like to sprawl, especially if the mat will be used indoors or in fixed spots.
Choose the Right Material
Non-slip bases help prevent sliding on hard floors, while tougher fabrics hold up better during the early training phase. If chewing is likely, avoid anything overly padded or plush until your dog understands the mat’s purpose.
Prioritise Easy Cleaning
Settle mats get used daily, so easy cleaning matters. Machine-washable or wipe-clean materials save time, especially if the mat will be used outdoors, in the car, or during training sessions away from home.
Match the Mat to Its Purpose
Some mats work best as portable training tools, while others are better suited to home use. Think about whether you need something lightweight for travel or something more cushioned for regular indoor settling.
Let Your Dog’s Preference Guide You
Ultimately, the best settle mat is the one your dog chooses to relax on. Starting with simple or lower-cost options can help you learn what they prefer before investing in anything more specialised.
Finding the Perfect Fit for a Settle Mat Your Dog will Use
Finding the right settle mat for your dog isn’t just about picking the fanciest option. It’s more about giving them a place where they feel relaxed and content. Start with one mat for training, get your dog used to the idea, and then, if you need alternatives like for travel or daily snoozing so you can move their bed out of your living space, look for any type of mat that has the qualities your dog favours as a settle mat.
Remember, it’s not the price tag that matters most, but how well the settle mat fits into your dog’s life. The ideal mat provides that comforting spot to unwind, whether it’s an elevated training bed, a roll-up for outings, or even a yoga mat surprise.
Feel free to try different styles until you hit the jackpot for your canine buddy. After all, what matters is giving your dog a place where they can chill out and enjoy the world going by. From raised beds to travel mats and beyond, you’ll find the perfect fit for both of you to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use a settle mat in a crate?
Yes, as long as it fits the crate size and has a non-slip base. Some mats may need a thinner profile to avoid crowding the space.
How do I stop the mat from slipping on hard floors?
Look for mats with non-slip bases, or place anti-slip tape or a rug underlay beneath it. Even budget mats like yoga mats can be stabilised this way.
Can a settle mat work for training?
Definitely. Raised or defined mats create clear boundaries, helping dogs learn commands like “place” or “stay.” Rewarding them when they go to the mat reinforces positive behaviour.
This is a fresh way to look at it, Robert! I like how you explained the idea of a “settle mat”. It’s such a simple concept but makes such a big difference in helping dogs relax. The three mat options you shared are so practical, especially for different situations like training or travel.
Have you noticed whether certain textures or materials seem to calm dogs more effectively? It’s fascinating how something as basic as a comfortable spot can create such a sense of security.
Thanks Sharon. That’s a really good point about textures! From what I’ve noticed with our two, it seems to depend on the setting more than anything. The thick-pile rug in the living room is their usual “sit and stay” spot, while the thinner kitchen runner tends to be the go-to—though I suspect that’s more because it’s near the treat cupboard than for comfort! Outdoors, though, padding definitely wins. They won’t settle on a damp towel in the summer heat, but give them a plush, padded bed in the shade and they’re on it chilling in a heartbeat.
Love this! 🐶 It’s so true. Dogs always seem to pick their own favourite spots around the house. My pup does the same with the hallway rug! I like the idea of a settle mat being a more intentional version of that, something comfy, practical, and stylish that actually fits into the home. Great breakdown of the different types too; makes it easy to choose what works best.
Thanks Stephen. Appreciated.