With the help of our experts, we choose the 11 best cooling dog beds that are durable and effectively regulate temperature to keep canines comfortable and cool in warm weather.
Scorching heat and soaring temperatures. You definitely don’t want your dog to suffer from a heat stroke. That’s when Dog Cooling Beds come to the rescue.
Built to stay cooler for longer, dog cooling beds use the basic properties of absorbing your canine’s natural body heat and releasing it to room temperature.
It is suitable for dogs of any size or breed and is comforting just like any other bed or lounge.
Moreover, these are not only suitable for summers but comforting all year round.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
Best Overall
Premium Choice
Best Affordable
Best Value
The 11 Best Cooling Dog Beds Reviewed
1. K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III – The perfect cooling bed — Best Overall
The K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III is a water-based cooling dog bed that regulates the temperature and absorbs heat from your pet and releases it to room temperature.
It is also highly effective in regulating the temperature so as to provide a comfortable sleep for your pet in the summers.
It wicks out heat from your pet and releases it into the air with the help of its water-saturated cool core.
Due to this, it creates a cool and refreshing surface for your dog and maintains the temperature on the bed lower than the room temperature in a significant value.
To conclude, we think this is the overall best cooling dog beds.
Key Features:
- Water-saturated cool core cooling mat
- Tough nylon/vinyl exterior
- Can be used throughout the year by refilling once
- Can be used indoors as well as outdoors
The bed can be put into use by simply filling water into it. Moreover, it can be used year-round and only needs to be filled once.
While not in use you can store the bed either empty or full. Also, to help prevent bacterial growth you can add GSE (grapefruit seed extract) to the water as it acts as a natural non-toxic antibacterial.
The overall effectiveness of this bed in regulating temperature is good, the only drawback to this product is that tough chewers would be easily able to break a hole into it.
If your pet is not an aggressive chewer or if you are able to stop your pooch from biting the bed then you need not worry about this drawback.
Note: According to a Vetstreet survey[1] Labradors, Beagle, Golden Retriever, American Pit Bull Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier are among the top 5 breeds that are best known for chewing that they shouldn’t. For them, you need to get them the best chew resistant dog beds so that they are not able to damage the bed easily.
2. Petlinks Soothing Gel Memory Foam Cooling Pet Bed — Premium Choice
The Petlinks Soothing Gel Memory Foam Pet Bed is a premium dog cooling bed that is ready to use out of the box.
It has advanced gel memory foam that provides cooling comfort to your pooch. In addition to this, it also adapts to your pet’s body contours, supports joints and relieves stress on pressure points.
The unique round bolstered design of this pet bed is comfortable for your pooch especially if he likes to cuddle and sleep.
The soft plush makes the sleeping surface very cozy. This dog bed is also easy to clean due to its removable and machine washable plush cover.
Key Features:
- Advanced gel memory foam provides cooling comfort
- Evenly distributed memory gel for proper cushioning
- Machine washable plush cover
The bed is available in two different variants that are Soothing Escape and Supreme Soother.
The Soothing Escape bed is round-shaped, whereas, another variant is a bolster type pet bed. Both the variants are very comfortable for your pooch for a good night’s sleep.
The zipper cover provided is not very smooth to zip/unzip, so you may have to put a little effort while you want to remove or put on the zipper.
Apart from the cover, everything is perfect with this dog bed, so it will be the perfect choice that your pet deserves the best dog beds for home.
3. The Original Elevated Dog Cooling Bed by Coolaroo — Best Affordable
Are you looking for a simple yet effective cooling dog bed? Then the Original Elevated Pet Bed by Coolaroo will be the perfect choice for you. It is also the best cooling dog bed that is available at a very convenient price.
The elevated design of this bed increases the airflow from all sides and keeps your pet cool. Besides the elevated design, the HDPE fabric increases the breathability of this bed that helps to provide a cooling effect to your pooch.
Key Features:
- Premium HDPE fabric for increased breathability
- Powder-coated steel frame
- Easy to clean
The suspended and flexible fabric provides a comfortable sleeping surface and it also equally distributes the heat throughout the surface.
Moreover, it also helps your pet in reducing stress on all joints. The fabric is also resistant to fleas, mites, mold, and mildew so you don’t have to worry about any of these things for fido.
The frame of this dog bed is made from high-quality steel that makes it durable. It is also powder-coated so as to make it rust and corrosion-free so that you can even use it outdoors.
The lightweight construction also makes it convenient for you to take it from one place to another.
In order to make it ready to use, you have to the screws and the hex key provided along with it.
Recommendation: If you have an older pet then get him the best dog beds for senior dogs to give them a comfortable sleep.
4. AmazonBasics Elevated Cooling Pet Bed — Best Value
The AmazonBasics’ elevated cooling pet bed provides an elevation of more than 7 inches off the ground. The clearance on the bottom sides increases ventilation that allows air to flow freely from all directions.
It also provides proper airflow even underneath the pet which makes it very convenient for summers.
In addition to the elevated design, the breathable mesh fabric offers added breathability to help keep pets cool. This mesh fabric is not only breathable but also durable which makes it long-lasting.
The frame is made up of durable iron that provides secure placement of its mesh PVC fabric. Moreover, it has gentle curves at the corners with four stable feet for safe use.
Key Features:
- Breathable Mesh Fabric
- Washable and easy to clean
- Simple assembly using screws and hex tool
- Available in X-Small to Large size
This cooling dog bed is also very easy to use because it assembles quickly and easily with the help of screws and hex tools included with it. Moreover, it is also a completely washable dog bed and can be easily cleaned by simply using tap water.
It can be also used indoor as well as outdoors whether it be a living room or in the yard. It has a lightweight and portable design that provides a handy take-along option when traveling or camping with your pooch.
It needs to be assembled using the screws before you use it. However, the task becomes easier with the help of the user manual provided with it.
5. K&H PET PRODUCTS Original Pet Cot
The K&H Pet Products’ original pet cot is a cooling dog bed that is made from the finest materials for durable construction.
The frame is made up of a combination of plastic and metal that makes it sturdy and durable. Moreover, the strong design makes it support weight over 150 pounds.
The cot is made of 600-denier fabric that makes it the best waterproof dog bed which is strong and durable. In addition to this, the fabric cover is removable and washable which makes cleaning easy.
Key Features:
- Waterproof 600-denier fabric
- Tool-free assembly
- Non-skid rubber feet
- Removable and washable cover
The frame of this bed is designed with plastic over metal legs that make it sturdy, durable as well as lightweight.
The four feet have non-skid rubber caps that prevent it from sliding on the floor. The rubber feet also won’t scratch on the tiles. It is also easy to use as you do not need any tools to assemble it.
The bed is available in Small to X-Large sizes to choose from, make sure that you choose the appropriate size as the smaller size can be clingy for heavier dogs.
6. The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat
The self-cooling pad from The Green Pet Shop has a panted pressure-activated gel that soothes your pooch from hot weather on contact for at least for up to 3 hours.
The cooling gel recharges within 15-20 minutes of non-use. Due to this, it does not require water, electricity or refrigeration as the special formula gel automatically does the task.
This cooling feature avoids overheating and dehydration for hot dogs that struggle in the summer weather.
Key Features:
- Pressure activated self-cooling mat
- Automatically recharges within 15-20 minutes of non-use
- Prevents overheating due to its automatic cooling feature
The mat shaped bed makes it convenient to be used in many places, but it is advised that if you are using it outdoors than keep the bed under the shade to keep your pooch more protected. It is also lightweight and folds effortlessly so it is also ideal for travel.
The bed does not have an elevated design so it may not be very convenient to be used on a wet floor if you are planning to use it outdoors.
Apart from this, it is a good choice for canines irrespective of their size as it is available from Small to X-Large size.
If you are looking for the dog beds that are domestically made then check out our list of the Best Dog Beds Made in USA for more options.
7. Sterling Premium Comfort Pet Bed
The Sterling Premium Comfort Pet Bed for dogs has a cooling gel memory foam that keeps your pooch cool and provides him with a comfortable sleep. It is made with high-quality fabric that is very durable.
The cooling gel memory foam also has therapeutic capabilities that help in relieving joint pain, pressure points, and reducing heat retention.
The cushion is sewn-in channels that are evenly distributed and the center cushion and side walls are made with soft plush fabric which ultimately provides a comfortable sleeping surface for your fido.
Key Features:
- Cooling gel memory foam
- Evenly distributed cushioning
- No assembling or disassembling required
- The external cover is machine washable
It is delivered to you ready to use out of the box, so no assembling is required. Moreover, the regular maintenance of this is also easy as the external cover is machine washable.
So whenever you need to clean it, simply throw it in the washing machine and your job is done.
Every great product comes with a drawback, and so is the case with this product. As the bed is made taking into consideration the comfort of your pooch, the external cover is made soft and smooth.
Due to this, if you have a very aggressive chewer, then he might be able to poke his teeth into it. If your pet is not a tough chewer or if you can stop your pooch from chewing, then you need not worry about this drawback.
8. Paws & Pals Elevated Cooling Dog Bed
The Paws & Pals Elevated Dog Bed has a unique design that increases the airflow around the pet and regulates temperature to prevent overheating in dogs.
It is suitable for indoor as well as outdoor use because of its lightweight and durable construction.
The mesh fabric of this bed increases the breathability so as to keep your pet cool. It is also waterproof, so any accidental spillage won’t make it wet.
Moreover, it is also easy to wash as you can simply wipe it down with a cleanser or soap to clean it. The fabric part can be also removed and washed separately.
Key Features:
- Available in medium and large size
- Easy to wash and maintain
- Waterproof mesh fabric
- Easy assembly with the screws and hex tool
To make this dog bed ready to use you can easily assemble it using the hex key and the bolts. It also takes up very little space when the frame is disabled, this makes it easy to store when not in use.
9. Veehoo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed
Do you still make your dog sleep on the floor during summers? If so, then provide him with a proper cooling bed from Veehoo for their comfortable sleep. The elevated design allows airflow around the pet and keeps him cool.
It has mesh fabric in the center that increases breathability and ultimately regulates the temperature of your pet.
The fabric material is also waterproof so you don’t have to worry about any accidental scratches. The Textilene material used in it makes the fabric strong and durable.
Key Features:
- Textilene fiber for high strength and durability
- Mesh fiber in the center for breathability
- No screws and wrenches required for assembly
- Powder-coated steel frame
It has a steel frame that makes it durable and the powder coating prevents it from rusting. This dog bed is also very easy to use as you won’t require any tool to assemble it.
Moreover, its lightweight and portable design make it convenient for using indoor as well as outdoors.
It also has non-skid rubber feet that prevent it from sliding on the ground. But if you have an aggressive chewer then he might be able to chew off the rubber feet, which is the only drawback of this product.
In addition to this, its strong stability, high load-bearing capacity, and overall features make it a perfect choice for your pet.
10. Petsure Cooling Raised Dog Cot
The Petsure’s elevated cooling dog bed lifts your dog comfortably from the ground and provides adequate airflow around your pet to keep him cool.
The elevated design also prevents your pet from wet or muddy grass floors to keep him clean and cool especially on rainy or hot days.
The mesh fabric is made up of Teslin material that is highly durable and also has high breathability. The high breathability of the mesh allows air to flow right through the fabric which gives your pooch the feeling of breeze in the summer.
Key Features:
- Skid-resistant feet
- Easy to assemble with the help of screws and hex key
- Easy to clean with tap water and mild soap or handwash
- Ultrasonic welding in frames that is smooth and lasts longer
This dog bed is available in Small, Medium, and Large. This also makes it preferably one of the perfect dog beds for large dogs to comfortably accommodate large breed dogs.
In order to make it ready to use, you need to assemble mesh, legs, extension rods, and cross support extension rods with screws using a hex key.
The assembling can be difficult for those who are doing it for the first time, but once you practice it then it will become easy to assemble.
11. BarkBox Memory Foam Dog Bed
If you are looking for a versatile dog bed that is also good at temperature control then the BakBox Memory Foam Dog Bed would be the perfect choice for you.
In addition to providing a cool place for your pooch, it is also highly comfortable due to its cushioning.
The therapeutic gel memory foam inside this bed comforts your pet by relieving joint pain, body aches, hip dysplasia, and arthritis.
The upper layer of the bed has temperature regulating gel memory foam whereas the bottom layer has orthopedic memory foam.
Key Features:
- Therapeutic gel memory foam
- Water-resistant and machine washable
- Available in Small to X-Large size
- Winter cover also available
The bed has a zippered cover that can be easily removed for convenient cleaning. It is also water-resistant that prevents the foam from getting wet due to accidental spillage.
It is even machine washable, this makes it easy for you to clean it and keep your dog’s bed looking and smelling clean and fresh.
It is available in multiple sizes and the X-Large size makes it one of the most comfortable dog beds for labs and other large breed dogs.
Moreover, winter cover can be additionally purchased for this bed, which makes it convenient to be used throughout the year whether it is summer or winter.
The major drawback of this dog bed is that it arrives as a vacuum-packed box and it takes up to 72 hours to inflate in order to use it.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Cooling Bed?
Choosing the best dog cooling bed can be a little difficult especially if you are purchasing it for the first time. So in order to get the perfect and most suitable cooling bed for your pooch refer to the following factors that we have mentioned below:
Size
First and foremost the main factor that you need to consider before purchasing a cooling dog bed or as a matter of fact any dog is its size. Make sure that you choose the size which is big enough to easily and comfortably accommodate your pooch.
Similarly, if you want to purchase the dog bed for your puppy or any small dog breed then it would not be feasible to spend much on an Extra-Large or Large size, as your small pet can easily accommodate a small/medium-sized bed.
Cooling Methods
Different cooling methods are used for temperature regulation in dog cooling beds. One of the simplest methods used in any cooling bed is its design.
The beds which have elevated designs require the least maintenance but at the same time, it is also less effective than cooling gel technology and water/ice-cooled beds.
Another cooling method used in some of the dog beds is water/ice-based. Water/ice-based cooling is more effective as compared to the elevated cooling dog beds but at the same time, it requires more maintenance than any other method.
One of the most effective cooling methods used is cooling gel technology. It is not only the most effective way of regulating temperature for your pet’s comfortable sleep but it also requires the least maintenance.
However, as the cooling gel technology uses phase change materials that are expensive, so the overall price of beds with this cooling method is higher.
Comfort
You cannot neglect this factor when it comes to sleep; neither for you nor for your pet. So always see to it that the bed which you are choosing for your pet is comfortable for them.
The factor on which the comfort of the bed is mostly depended upon is it’s cushioning. Most of the elevated cooling beds do not provide high cushioning, but then again its clinging fabric makes it comfortable.
On the other hand, the most comfortable dog beds considering its cushioning are cooling gel and water/ice based dog beds.
In addition to this, make sure that the frame of the dog bed has chamfered/filleted corners and edges. Any sharp corners or edges will not only be comfortable for your pet but it can also be dangerous/injurious.
Durability
Dog beds are something that you won’t be buying very often. So before purchasing one, there are a few factors that you should consider so as to get a durable and long-lasting dog bed.
The durability of any dog bed is depended upon the strength of the material used to make its fabric and the frame. The build quality also affects the durability of the dog bed.
In the cooling dog beds that are listed here, we have considered adding only the strongest and the toughest ones which are made from high strength materials so that you can get the best product.
Assembly and Disassembly
Few dog beds need to be assembled before you can use them. In this case, it is important that the bed needs to be easy to assemble and disassemble.
There are also dog beds available which can be used right out of the box as they require no assembly.
For the dog beds that require assembly, there are two types; one is tool-free assembly and one in which you need screws and hex keys for assembling/disassembling.
The tool-free assembly is very convenient to make the dog bed ready to use. Whereas you have to put additional effort into the dog beds which need to be assembled with screws and tools.
However, the assembly is more secure and stable in the case of screw assembled dog beds.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The last thing that you need to see before purchasing a dog bed is how much maintenance it’ll need and how easy it is to clean. If the dog bed which you are choosing has a removable cover or if the fabric is washable, then your cleaning task becomes easier.
Why Do You Need a Cooling Dog Bed
Your pooch might lie down on the tile when he is feeling warm, but you need to give him a proper bed that will help him with the warm weather. Giving your pet a proper cooling dog bed will help him in many ways:
- A cooling dog bed will lower your dog’s body temperature more effectively than letting him lie on the tile
- The cooling dog can be used anywhere; on the beaches, while camping outdoors, indoors, etc.
- You can even use it to provide a proper and convenient place for your pet where your pooch can pass his free time in summers
- Although the cooling dog beds are not much soft enough like standard dog beds, the cushioning is way more than simply letting your pet sleep on the tiles
How Do Cooling Dog Beds Work?
Cooling dog beds have a simple mechanism using which it is able to regulate the temperature. The work by maintaining proper airflow around your pet and releasing heat to room temperature.
Different methods are used depending upon the different types of cooling dog beds, but the basic approach is similar.
Types of Dog Cooling Beds
Based on the mechanism of cooling used, the cooling dog beds as distinguished in three different types:
Elevation
The simplest form of a cooing dog bed is the elevated design.
These elevated cooling dog beds are designed in such a way that it provides proper ventilation around the bed as well as the dog that dissipate the heat easily in the atmosphere and helps in regulating the temperature.
In the raised dog bed, the heat is evenly distributed on the sleeping surface which also provides a comfortable sleep to your pet.
Water or Ice filled
The water or ice-filled cooling beds have a similar mechanism as an evaporative cooler.
The water/ice cooling dog beds work on the fact that water will absorb a relatively large amount of heat in order to evaporate. And this absorption of heat from the atmosphere makes the surroundings cool.
In simpler words, the ice or water-filled in the bed helps it in absorbing the heat which further helps in regulating the surrounding temperature and keeping your pet cool.
If compared with the elevation cooling dog beds; then the water/ice-cooled beds are more effective. But it also has its own cons. There are chances of spillage or leakage in these types of dog beds especially if you have a pet who is a hard chewer.
Moreover, in some of the water/ice filled dog beds you have to keep changing the water regularly. However, in some of them, the water needs not to be replaced, so those ones are more convenient.
Cooling Gel
The cooling gel which is used in the dog cooling beds uses a phase change material that gets activated by pressure and weight.
This cooling gel technology cools down by the dog’s weight or movement and due to the inherent ability of specified chemical(s) in the gel.
This helps in activating the cooling mechanism and the dog’s temperature gets transferred to room temperature.
FAQs About Dog Cooling Beds
Hyperthermia is a condition in which the body temperature rises up in a significant amount. It is caused when the canines are no longer able to self-regulate their body temperature to keep the temperature at the normal level.
It is different in contrary to the rising body temperature during fever, as it happens as a response to inflammation or to fight off the infection. Sometimes it is difficult to tell by the rising body temperature that the dog has fever or hyperthermia.
Hyperthermia in dogs can be caused due to several reasons like extremely hot weather and humidity, exercise, an inability to breathe, side effects of any drug, or some medical condition.
It can be easy to figure out whether your pet has hyperthermia simply by looking out the following symptoms:
A rise in body temperature
High pulse rate or heart rate
Panting
Sweaty feet
Trying to find a cool place to lie
Staggering around
Lethargy
Vomiting or diarrhea
Dark pink or red gum
There are many ways by which you can keep your pet cool in the summer. Make sure that you keep your dog in the air conditioner or at least under the shade during the hottest time of the day.
Moreover, take your dog for a walk in the early morning or after the sunset.
Due to the raised design of the elevated cooling dog beds, the airflow and circulation around your pet’s body increases. In addition to this, the mesh fabric used in these beds also increases breathability.
Due to this, the natural body temperature of canines get regulated and they are fresh cool, comfortable, and help them relax even in the hot summer.
Cooling dog beds can cost somewhere around $20 to more than $100 depending upon the type of bed that you choose.
The elevated cooling dog beds are available at the most affordable price, among these, you can get a high quality durable elevated cooling dog bed for under $50.
Whereas, the cooling gel technology dog beds are of higher price, and may cost you around $100.
If we consider the effectiveness, durability, and price of the product then the K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III is the best cooling dog bed overall.
However, if you are willing to spend a few more bucks, then the Petlinks Soothing Gel Memory Foam Pet Bed is also a better option.
Moreover, if you are looking for the best budget dog beds, then the elevated designs are comparatively cheaper, and one such product which is not only available at a low price but also durable and effective is The Original Elevated Pet Bed by Coolaroo.
Conclusion
We hope you were able to find the perfect cooling bed for your pooch. In addition to providing your canine, a cooling bed make sure that his body temperature remains regulated in the warm weather even while he is not sleeping.
Keep him hydrated throughout the day and keep his living room well ventilated.
References:
- Donovan, J. (2019, December 19). Your Guide to Dog Beds. WebMD. Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide-to-dog-beds
- Keep pets safe in the heat. (n.d.). The Humane Society of the United States. Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/keep-pets-safe-heat
Mark is the co-founder of DogLovesBest, a great pet parent, and a good person. He manages the content published on this website and sees to it that everything is working smoothly with a motive behind helping pet parents.
He likes spending his time with Max, a Labrador, and Jack, a Great Dane. They usually hang out at nearby dog parks during weekends.
Contents
- A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
- The 11 Best Cooling Dog Beds Reviewed
- 1. K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III – The perfect cooling bed — Best Overall
- 2. Petlinks Soothing Gel Memory Foam Cooling Pet Bed — Premium Choice
- 3. The Original Elevated Dog Cooling Bed by Coolaroo — Best Affordable
- 4. AmazonBasics Elevated Cooling Pet Bed — Best Value
- 5. K&H PET PRODUCTS Original Pet Cot
- 6. The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat
- 7. Sterling Premium Comfort Pet Bed
- 8. Paws & Pals Elevated Cooling Dog Bed
- 9. Veehoo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed
- 10. Petsure Cooling Raised Dog Cot
- 11. BarkBox Memory Foam Dog Bed
- Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Cooling Bed?
- Why Do You Need a Cooling Dog Bed
- How Do Cooling Dog Beds Work?
- Types of Dog Cooling Beds
- FAQs About Dog Cooling Beds
- Conclusion