High temperatures can be a challenge for our furbabies. They don’t have the liberty of wearing less clothing, and they don’t sweat as we do. So, as pet parents, we need to help our pups stay cool.
Cooling dog beds offer an excellent way to keep your dog cool and comfortable when the temperatures rise. But all beds are not the same. It’s important to find a product that’s safe, durable, and suitable for your pooch.
After evaluating more than 30 cooling dog beds, we chose the “Frisco Cooling Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed” as our favorite because this product features cooling gel-infused foam and orthopedic foam fill to provide cooling and support. The outer material is a machine washable polyester with cooling properties.
But I understand that you might have different needs, whether you’re searching for a bed for a cooling bed for your dog crate, or an elevated bed for your backyard. That is why I prepared a shortlist of our top cooling dog beds that address different needs.
Below, we’re doing to discuss the importance of a cooling bed in the summertime, types of dog cooling beds and how they work, and 12 rules of thumb to help you find the best cooling dog bed for your furbaby. Then we’ll review 10 products on the market and give you our top picks.
In addition, we’ll answer common questions from dog parents, and provide you with 6 veterinary tips on how to keep your dog cool in the summertime.
Let’s dive in.
The Importance of Cooling Bed in the Summertime
Dogs don’t have the luxury of removing their fur coat when the temperatures start to rise. And their cooling mechanisms are different from humans. Although pups have some sweat glands, they’re only in the footpads and not very efficient. So, pooches rely on other means to cool off, including:
- Panting – heat rises from the chest and exits by evaporation of moisture from the throat, tongue, and mouth
- Vasodilation – surface blood vessels, especially in the ears and face to allow more warm blood to get near the air and cool down before returning to the heart
- Natural insulation – the fur coat may appear to be a problem, but in reality, it traps air and creates a layer of insulation to keep your furbaby cool in the summer and warm in the winter
Even with these cooling mechanisms in place, many dogs can have difficulty in sweltering weather. Large breed pooches and brachycephalic breeds in particular can struggle with high temperatures and may be at risk for anything from heat stress and heat exhaustion to heatstroke. But other pups are not immune.
The Risk of Overheating in Dogs
Heatstroke occurs when a dog starts to overheat and can’t cool himself adequately. It may occur due to overexertion in the heat, lack of access to cool water, or being trapped in a hot vehicle. Without rapid intervention and treatment, the body temperature will rise and cause a life-threatening condition. Signs of heat stress and heat stroke include:
- Red gums
- Excessive, frantic panting
- Thick drool that appears ropey
- The body feels warm to the touch
- Incoordination
- Rapid heart rate
- Muscle tremors or seizures
- Unconsciousness
If you suspect that your pooch is suffering from heatstroke, immediately remove him to a cooler, shaded environment and call your veterinarian. Until you get him to the hospital you can run cool water on your pal’s body either from a garden hose or in the bathtub. If this isn’t practical, cover him with a cool, soaked towel. Also, offer cool water for him to drink.
The Benefits of a Cooling Dog Bed
You’re probably wondering why you should invest in a cooling bed when your furbaby loves to stretch out on the cool tile floor. But trust me, there’s a big difference. Let’s look at several reasons why cooling beds or mats are a better option for your pooch
- Cooling mats are usually more effective at lowering your pal’s body temperature than the floor.
- They can help prevent dehydration from panting.
- Mats and beds tend to be more comfortable than a hard floor, so your pooch will sleep better.
- They can provide more support for older dogs to help minimize pain and swelling from arthritis.
- You can manage your dog by placing the bed in an out-of-the-way spot.
- Having a bed or mat for your pup helps keep the floors cleaner. It can also help keep shedding in a localized area rather than spreading all over the house.
- Cooling mats are portable, so you can use them at the beach, in the park, or on the back patio.
Types of Cooling Dog Beds Explained
Our pooches come in different sizes and shapes, and so do cooling beds. There are a variety of options available ranging from mats to cots to mattresses. Let’s take a look at the different options based on the type of cooling mechanism:
Cooling Gel
Some beds rely on a cooling gel that is activated by pressure and weight. Specific chemicals in the coolant undergo a phase change when your pup lays down or moves around on the pad. This allows his excess body heat to transfer to the bed so that he can cool down.
These beds are useful because:
- you don’t have to plug them in or refrigerate them.
- The gel will recharge itself when it’s not being used.
- It’s easy to roll the mat up for transport.
However, it’s best not to use these mats in direct sunlight because they may absorb heat from the rays and overheat. And they don’t offer much orthopedic support for older pups. If you’re considering a cooling gel option, look for one with non-toxic gel’ and if your pooch likes to chew, you may want to go with a different type of cooling bed.
Elevated Cot
An elevated cot that’s made of a mesh material allows air to freely move around your furbaby’s body. With improved ventilation, extra heat dissipates more easily into the environment. This allows your pal to regulate his body temperature more efficiently.
There are many benefits to cots:
- They’re easy to set up and keep clean.
- With durable, lightweight construction, these beds are portable.
- They provide excellent orthopedic support.
But some people don’t find cots aesthetically appealing, and they tend to be more expensive than other options.
Water-filled Beds
Much like the human counterpart, water-filled beds for pups provide efficient cooling. The liquid interior is able to absorb and distribute large amounts of heat. This mechanism helps dogs stay cool by regulating their environment.
Water-filled mats are affordable and generally safe. Of course, if you have a chewer, water beds could create quite a mess! And there’s a risk that the mat could spring a leak. Like cooling mats, they also shouldn’t be placed in direct sunlight or you may heat the water and negate its cooling properties.
Ice-Pack Cooling Beds
Some beds offer ice packs that you have to freeze and insert into the mat. These pads offer efficient cooling, but freshly frozen ice packs may be too hard and uncomfortable for some dogs. As with water-filled beds, these mats can leak or be chewed open. When the ice packs thaw, you’ll also have to wait for them to refreeze before the bed is useful.
12 of Thumb When Buying a Cooling Bed for Your Pooch
Shopping for the right cooling bed for your pooch is similar to buying a mattress for yourself or another family member. You want to find the best option for your pup’s needs. If this is your first time, you might find the experience confusing and difficult. Here are some rules of thumb to consider in your decision-making process:
- Filling and Comfort: When choosing a bed for your pooch, have the intended purpose in mind. If you want a place where your pup can relax and take a light snooze during the day, you can go with a cot or mat that doesn’t provide as much support but is convenient and cools well. But when it comes to a good night’s sleep, your furbaby will benefit from more fill. Compare it with how your body feels after a night on the couch versus your bed.
When picking a nighttime mattress, choose a cooling bed that has more fill and offers the support your pup needs. Mattresses may use wood chips like cedar, polyester fiber, or memory foam as filling. Depending on your pooch, there are pluses and minuses for each type of material. Memory foam provides the best support, but it tends to be the most expensive, and it can retain heat rather than dissipate it. However, bed makers often provide a layer of cooling gel to overcome that problem.
- Your Dog’s Body Size: Make sure that the bed is designed to accommodate your pooch’s body. Check the measurements to ensure that he can fit comfortably on the mattress. If you have a miniature or small breed, you don’t need a giant bed. On the other hand, large and giant breed dogs need adequate support and space to stretch out.
- Cooling Feature: Each cooling feature has benefits and drawbacks.
- Elevated cots that rely on the design for cooling are easy to use and low maintenance, but they’re not as effective as other options.
- Although water or ice-filled mats and beds are highly efficient for cooling, they’re also high maintenance and have the potential of leaking.
- Cooling gel is probably the most effective mechanism, but it also tends to be the most expensive.
- Orthopedic Features: If you have an aging pooch that has or may develop arthritis, you’ll want to consider the bed’s orthopedic features. Closely related to fill and comfort, these qualities involve the amount and type of padding or cushion the bed provides. Look for products that use orthopedic fill or memory foam to support and soothe your pup’s joints.
- Material That’s Durable and Dog-Friendly: A cooling bed is a considerable investment, so you want to purchase something that will last. Look for high-strength fabric and, in the case of a cot, a sturdy frame.
- But there’s more to consider. The fabric also needs to suit your dog’s needs. If you have a heavy shedder, choose fabrics that will be easy to clean. For pups that like to gnaw, select items that are durable and resistant to chewing. Depending on your intended use and your furbaby, you may also want materials that are water-resistant, hypoallergenic, or antibacterial.
- Air Flow and Material Breathability: One helpful component for effective temperature regulation is air circulation. Elevated cots rely heavily on airflow for thermoregulation. But breathable fabric also helps to dissipate heat and provide airflow around your pup. Look for mesh materials and natural fibers that tend to be more breathable than synthetic fabrics.
- Indoor or Outdoor Use: Again, this feature will depend on your intended use. But if you want the flexibility to bring your pal’s mat outside on a hot day, choose a product that’s acceptable for outdoor use. Mats that are easy to fold or roll up and have a waterproof, durable bottom will work best outside.
- Waterproof Lining: A waterproof lining is particularly important for outdoor use. It helps provide a barrier of protection between your pup and the environment. Wet dogs have a harder time regulating their body temperature.
- Ease of Cleaning: Beds or mats that are easy to clean are desirable. There are many quality products that have a removable cover that you can toss in the washing machine. Otherwise, choose beds that you can easily brush or wipe down to clean away hair and dirt.
- Eco-friendliness: When looking at beds, check for eco-friendly companies that don’t use harsh chemicals and use sustainable practices. Products that include recycled materials also help to protect our environment.
- Warranty: Check for a product warranty. You want to know that the manufacturer will stand by its product and that you’re buying something that’s designed to last. Check to see the conditions and length of the warranty when determining if you’re making a sound investment.
- Made in the USA: US-based companies have a reputation for following good manufacturing practices and meeting quality standards. Look for the country of origin to know whether the bed comes from a reliable source.
Our 2024 Top 10 Cooling Dog Beds
After reviewing more than 30 cooling dog beds using the criteria mentioned above, we chose our 10 best beds that we think are essential to your fur baby getting the proper rest that he needs.
Frisco Cooling Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed w/Removable Cover
- Material: cooling polyester
- Durability: Moderate
- Cooling Feature: cooling gel
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Waterproof Lining: No
- Warranty: Yes
- Made in the USA: No
- Best for: Our Top Pick Overall
With two layers of foam, this orthopedic pet bed offers cooling comfort and support for your pooch. The top layer features cooling gel memory foam that’s breathable to help your pooch stay chill. There’s a second layer of convoluted orthopedic foam that distributes your pal’s weight to take pressure off the joints.
The outer cover is made of cooling polyester that’s removable for quick and easy cleaning. With three sizes, you can find one that’s suitable for your pup:
- Large – 36” x 27” x 3”
- X-Large – 40” x 30” x 3”
- XX-Large – 48” x 36” x 4”
What We Like
- It’s ready to use out of the box
- It’s plush and firm for good support
- It’s fairly light and easy to move from room to room
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s comfortable
- It helps dogs cool down
What We Don’t Like
- The material pills easily and may not stand up over time
- It can trap odors
Dogbed4less Premium Gel-Infused Memory Foam Pet Mat
- Material: velour fleece upper, SBR rubber bottom
- Durability: moderate
- Cooling Feature: cooling gel memory foam
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Waterproof Lining: Yes
- Warranty: Yes
- Made in the USA: Yes
- Best for: affordable price
With cooling gel-infused memory foam, this pet bed offers support for your furbaby. The top of the mat has a velour fleece cover that provides a comfortable resting surface. The underside features skid-proof, waterproof rubber.
This material is made to resist stains, dirt, and wrinkling. It’s machine washable, or you can use a hose and mild detergent to rinse it clean. Allow the product to air dry after washing. You can place this mat on furniture or in a large crate.
The large mattress measures 42” x 28” x 1.2”
What We Like
- It’s soft
- It’s easy to clean
- It’s affordable – a good bed for the price
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s comfortable
- It doesn’t slide around on the floor
What We Don’t Like
- It doesn’t stand up well to repeated cycles in the washing machine
- It has a strong chemical odor
Furhaven Pet – Ultra Plush Orthopedic Ergonomic Contour Dog Bed
- Material: quilted faux fur
- Durability: moderate
- Cooling Feature: cooling gel memory foam
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Waterproof Lining: No
- Warranty: Yes
- Made in the USA: Yes
- Best for: Traditional cooling bed
With a traditional couch design, this dual-layer bed offers cooling technology and orthopedic support. The top foam layer is infused with microgel beads to help wick heat from your furbaby to let him stay cool. Underneath there’s a thick layer of medical-grade support foam to distribute your pup’s weight evenly and reduce stress on sore joints and muscles.
The outer cover is removable and machine washable. Fluffy bolsters, which are filled with recycled materials, provide a cozy headrest for your pooch.
The measurements of this jumbo bed are 44” x 35” x 8” with a 32” x 29” sleep surface inside the bolsters.
What We Like
- The sleeping surface feels soft
- The cover is easy to remove and wash
- It has durable materials
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s comfortable
- There’s enough room to stretch out
What We Don’t Like
- The material rips easily
- The padding isn’t thick enough
Arf Pets Dog Self Cooling Mat for Crates & Beds
- Material: non-toxic, latex-free nylon
- Durability: Moderate
- Cooling Feature: cooling gel
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Machine Washable: No
- Waterproof Lining: Yes
- Warranty: No
- Made in the USA: No
- Best for: Cooling bed for crate
The Arf Pets self-cooling mat has a pressure-activated gel that offers up to three hours of cooling comfort for your pooch. When the chemical stops cooling, just set it aside to recharge within 20-30 minutes of non-use.
With a latex-free outer covering, this product is waterproof and durable. You can take the lightweight mat anywhere. Simply fold it and transport it or store it for future use. Lay it on the couch or in your furbaby’s kennel for hours of comfortable rest.
The mat measures 27” X 43” and is suitable for medium-sized dogs.
What We Like
- It’s easy to transport
- It’s moderately durable
- It cools quickly
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s comfortable
- It keeps pups cool in the heat
What We Don’t Like
- The fabric is too slippery for some dogs and floors
- It’s not chew-resistant
Sealy Lux Quad Layer Orthopedic Dog Bed with Cooling Gel
- Material: Nylon and cotton
- Durability: Moderate
- Cooling Feature: cooling gel
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Waterproof Lining: Yes
- Warranty: Yes
- Made in the USA: No
- Best for: bed with orthopedic features
Featuring quad element foam, the Sealy Lux Dog Bed is designed to offer both comfort and support. The top layer cooling energy gel integrated with the foam. This feature helps to transfer heat away from your furbaby.
Beneath the cooling foam, memory foam, and orthopedic foam are included to adapt to your pup’s movements and distribute his weight for comfort and support. The bottom foam layer includes Pro-Charcoal to absorb odors. With a removable, machine-washable cover that’s skid-proof, you’ll be able to keep this bed fresh and clean.
The X-Large bed measures 48” x 38” X 8” and is suitable for large dogs.
What We Like
- It’s easy to assemble
- It’s thick and offers great support
- It’s easy to keep clean
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s comfortable
- It soothes aching joints
What We Don’t Like
- The canvas material is noisy if you have a dog that moves around a lot
- The zipper tends to separate
Chillz Cooling Mat For Dogs
- Material: nylon
- Durability: Low
- Cooling Feature: cooling gel
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Machine Washable: No
- Waterproof Lining: Yes
- Warranty: No
- Made in the USA: No
- Best for: Cooling Pad
The non-toxic, pressure-activated cooling gel in this mat works to keep your furbaby comfortable in the heat for up to three hours. When the material starts to warm, just set it aside for about 20 minutes to automatically recharge. No batteries or refrigeration is necessary.
This product features a waterproof outer shell that’s also puncture resistant. It’s lightweight and easy to move. You can use this indoors or outdoors, but keep it out of direct sunlight for better cooling.
There are two available sizes:
- Medium – 19.5” x 15.7”
- Large – 36” X 20”
What We Like
- It’s easy to clean
- It has a soft surface
- You can take it anywhere
What Dogs Love About It
- It keeps dogs cool
- It’s comfortable
What We Don’t Like
- It’s not chew-proof
- If your dog stays in one position, the gel tends to bunch up and get lumpy
K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III Indoor/Outdoor Cooling Dog Bed
- Material: nylon/vinyl
- Durability: High
- Cooling Feature: water
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Machine Washable: No
- Waterproof Lining: Yes
- Warranty: Yes
- Made in the USA: Yes
- Best for: Travel
Made with nylon and vinyl, this durable pet mat uses water to keep your pooch cool in the heat. Simply add water through the easy fill cap then use the valve to adjust the firmness for your pup’s comfort.
The waterproof lining makes this mat easy to clean with a cloth or hose. You can use the bed indoors or outdoors, but place it in a shady place away from direct sunlight for the best results.
For easy transport, the mat is lightweight and folds into thirds.
The large bed measures 32” x 44” and fits large-sized dogs.
What We Like
- It’s easy to clean
- You can use it anywhere
- It’s durable
What Dogs Love About It
- It helps dogs cool off
- It’s comfortable to lie on
What We Don’t Like
- The sponge interior can detach from the waterproof lining and ball up inside
- It’s awkward to fill and may require two people
Veehoo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed
- Material: Textilene Mesh and Powder-coated steel
- Durability: High
- Cooling Feature: air circulation
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Machine Washable: No
- Waterproof Lining: Yes
- Warranty: No
- Made in the USA: No
- Best for: Air Circulation
Heat-resistant and breathable Textilene mesh fabric help to keep your pal cool as air circulates around him. The elevated sleeping surface will keep your pup off the floor for a better thermoregulation.
With a lightweight, portable design, this cot is easy to move from room to room or to take on a trip. It features an easy-to-assemble steel frame for sturdiness and durable fabric. The footings have a non-slip bottom.
This large cot measures 42” x 30” x 7” and can accommodate up to 150 pounds.
What We Like
- It’s easy to clean
- It’s great for travel and camping
- It’s easy to set up and takedown
What Dogs Love About It
- It keeps dogs off the ground and away from ants
- It’s comfortable
What We Don’t Like
- The corners can be hard to attach
- It won’t stand up to avid chewers
Veehoo Bolster Elevated Dog Bed
- Material: Textilene Mesh, removable Oxford fabric bolster, and Powder-coated steel
- Durability: High
- Cooling Feature: air circulation
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Machine Washable: No
- Waterproof Lining: Yes
- Warranty: No
- Made in the USA: No
- Best for: chew-proof cooling bed for outdoors
This elevated cot features breathable, heat-resistant Textilene mesh. The durable material and steel frame offers a sturdy sleeping surface for your pooch. Easy to assemble and lightweight, you can bring this cot with you when you travel.
The material is waterproof and easy to clean. It comes with a removable 500D Oxford fabric bolster for added comfort.
The medium-sized cot measures 32” x 25” x 7” and can support up to 88 pounds.
What We Like
- It’s easy to assemble and very sturdy
- It’s resistant to claws/nails
- It’s easy to move
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s comfortable
- It keeps pups off the damp ground
What We Don’t Like
- The velcro for the bolsters doesn’t adhere well
- It can be hard to stretch the fabric to fit the frame
Best Choice Products Elevated Dog Bed with Canopy
- Material: nylon mesh
- Durability: moderate
- Cooling Feature: air circulation
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Machine Washable: No
- Waterproof Lining: No
- Warranty: Yes
- Made in the USA: Yes
- Best for: elevated bed with canopy
Featuring a breathable mesh fabric and removable canopy, this raised cot helps your pooch stay cool in the heat. It has four tempered steel legs and two central supports to allow air circulation around the body. Rubber footings help to keep the bed from slipping across the floor when your furbaby jumps on.
No tools are required to set up this bed. It’s easy to assemble and tear down. Take it with you in a handy travel bag when you go on vacation. The weather-resistant material lets you use this cot inside or outside.
The product measurements are 30” x 24” x 8”, (28” with the canopy) and it accommodates dogs weighing up to 66 pounds.
What We Like
- It’s easy to set up
- The materials are sturdy and durable
- It’s easy to clean
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s comfortable
- It comes with a shade
What We Don’t Like
- It doesn’t stand up well to UV light, and the legs aren’t rust-resistant
- It’s not easy to fold up and move around
Veterinary Tip: 6 Ways You Can Help Fido Stay Cool
As your pup’s parent, it’s up to you to help him manage the “dog days” of summer. You may not be able to get Fido to sweat more, but there you can take steps to control the environment and aid the cooling process:
- Never leave your pooch in a locked car. It only takes a few minutes on a sunny day for the cab temperature to start climbing.
- Always provide access to shade and cool, freshwater when your pal is outdoors.
- Keep your house at a comfortably cool temperature for your pooch.
- Exercise your pup in the morning or evening when the daytime temperatures are too high.
- Give your furbaby a frozen treat like a broth popsicle or doggy ice cream.
- Invest in a cooling mat or bed
Common Question From Dog Parents
Are Dog Cooling Mats Safe?
While cooling mats are generally safe for dogs, they can become hazardous if your pooch chews or eats one of these products. Always monitor your furbaby when you introduce a new bed to make sure they won’t rip it apart and ingest some of the materials.
Are Dog Cooling Mats Toxic?
Most cooling mats aren’t toxic, but if your pooch eats part of a bed it can become a life-threatening hazard.
What is the gel in cooling mats for dogs?
The gel in cooling mats is a pressure-activated chemical that works to absorb your furbaby’s excess body heat. It also automatically recharges or cools when there’s nothing laying on top of it.
How long do dog cooling mats last?
Water-filled beds should help your pet stay cool for about 5-7 hours. Most pressure-activated gels can cool for about 3-4 hours of continuous use.
Do Fans Keep Dogs Cool?
Because dogs don’t sweat the same way as humans, the breeze from a fan also has a different effect. Under normal conditions, it may not provide the same cooling for your pooch as you would experience, but you can increase the effect by wetting your pup’s fur with cool water.
Do you put dog cooling mats in the fridge?
Pressure-activated gel cooling mats do not require refrigeration. Check your manufacturer’s instructions to know whether refrigeration is required.
How do you keep a dog cool on a hot night?
You can help your pooch to stay cool by providing fresh, cool drinking water, providing damp towels to lie down on, and filling a hot water bottle with cool water.
What temperature should you not walk your dog?
Some dogs are very sensitive to heat and may be at risk for heat stress or heat stroke at temperatures above 70 degrees F. You should start taking extra precautions such as shortening walks and packing extra water when temperatures exceed 75 degrees F.
Should I leave a fan on for my dog at night?
There is no harm in leaving a fan on unless the ambient temperatures are freezing. The extra air circulation may aid your pal’s ability to thermoregulate.
What temperature is safe for dogs?
The answer to this question can vary by breed. However, in general, temperatures between 45 and 68 degrees F are safe for dogs.
Are Dog Cooling Mats Worth Your Money?
While cooling mats are an investment, if you live in a warm climate or have a pooch that likes to stretch out on the cool tile or wood floor, it can be worth it. These products generally don’t require electricity and can help keep your pooch comfortable and prevent dehydration from overheating.
The Final Woof
After reviewing the above products and comparing them to our twelve rules, we recommend the Frisco Cooling Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed w/Removable Cover as the best cooling dog bed.
This product features cooling gel-infused foam and orthopedic foam fill to provide cooling and support. The outer material is a machine washable polyester with cooling properties.
With a lightweight construction, it’s easy to move around the home. While it’s not ideal for outdoor use, it can help your pooch stay cool and comfortable indoors.
This product comes with a warranty and is available in sizes that can accommodate large dogs.
Therefore, we conclude the Frisco Cooling Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed w/Removable Cover is the best overall pick.
