Abstract Neutron stars, due to their extreme densities and pressures, act as unique laboratories for the study of dense matter. Recent research has introduced the notion of dark matter particles being part of neutron stars' composition, thus providing a novel path for investigating this mysterious universe component. This research builds on previous studies and shifts the focus towards exploring the effects of dark matter mixed with hadrons on the thermal evolution of stars. It involves analyzing the cooling curves of these stars and matching them with observed data from thermally emitting compact objects. Through this comparative analysis, the model's precision will be evaluated, and the properties of dark matter particles will be further delineated. The goal of this study is to deepen our comprehension of neutron stars and the influence of dark matter on their thermal evolution.