As the weather gets warmer, keeping dogs cool becomes more of a challenge. Overheating can cause lethargy, panting, and other symptoms that make dogs uncomfortable. For dogs that live in hot climates or have thick coats, the heat can be dangerous if left unchecked. Using cooling dog beds is an excellent way to beat the heat and keep dogs relaxed and happy all summer long.
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What are cooling beds?
Cooling dog beds are mattress-like beds for dogs that have some method of staying chill. Rather than absorbing warmth like a regular dog bed, cooling beds use special materials and designs to maintain a cool surface for dogs to lay on. There are a few main types of cooling dog beds:
- Gel memory foam beds have a layer of gel that absorbs and dissipates body heat.
- Water beds circulate cool water inside to pull heat away from the surface.
- Elevated cots allow for airflow underneath the sleeping surface.
- Cooling mat pads can be used alone or added on top of an existing dog bed.
High quality cooling beds use advanced fabrics and materials like gel memory foam to actively cool off hot dogs. The result is a bed that feels cool to the touch and keeps dogs from getting overheated.
Benefits of cooling beds
There are several important benefits that make cooling beds a smart choice for dog owners:
- Prevents overheating & heat stroke – Dogs can’t cool themselves by sweating like humans. A cooling bed prevents body heat from building up to dangerous levels.
- Allows restful sleep – Dogs have a hard time sleeping when they’re overheated. Cooling beds let dogs sleep deeply without discomfort.
- Soothes joint pain & skin conditions – Extended heat exposure can worsen inflammatory conditions. Cooling beds reduce inflammation.
- Provides comfort outdoors – Cooling beds can be used outdoors and in kennels to give dogs a chill place to relax in the shade.
These benefits make cooling dog beds ideal for senior dogs, brachycephalic breeds, dogs with thick coats, and any pooch that enjoys air conditioning and gets hot in the summer.
Main factors to consider
With different types and brands to choose from, it helps to know what to look for in a quality cooling dog bed:
Effectiveness at cooling
The number one factor is how well the bed actually cools. High-end gel foam and water beds lower surface temperature the best. Elevated cots allow air circulation but don’t provide a cool surface to lay on.
Quality materials
Cooling dog beds should be well-made with durable exterior covers that are easy to clean. Interior foam or water chambers should be designed not to leak or deteriorate.
Size and weight capacity
Choose a cooling bed big enough for your dog to stretch out on. Make sure to check the weight capacity as well.
Energy efficiency
For electric water beds and cots, lower energy use makes operation more affordable.
Style and extras
Consider convenience features like different shapes, removable covers, and dual summer/winter sides. Make sure the style matches your home.
Price
Cooling beds range from $50 for basic models up to $200+ for beds with the best cooling technology. Consider it an investment in your dog’s comfort.
The 7 best cooling dog beds
With a wide selection of cooling dog beds now available, here are 7 top options that provide an inviting chill zone for hot, weary dogs.
1. K&H Cool Bed III
This popular cooling bed from K&H utilizes gel memory foam to absorb and dissipate body heat. The exterior is a durable 600 denier fabric that resists tearing and biting. It comes in three sizes for dogs up to 150 pounds.
Key features:
- Medical-grade gel foam core
- Durable exterior cover
- Available in small, medium, large
- Weighs just a few pounds for easy transport
For an advanced gel memory foam cooling bed, the K&H Cool Bed III is a top choice with excellent owner reviews.
2. Floppy Dawg Just Chillin’ Elevated Cot
This cot-style bed from Floppy Dawg provides cooling airflow underneath the sleeping surface. The steel frame holds up to 150 pounds while the mesh center allows water and dirt to fall through.
Key features:
- Elevated steel frame cot
- Mesh center for drainage
- Can fold up for storage and travel
- Accommodates dogs up to 150 pounds
For an open, airy elevated cooling bed, the Floppy Dawg Just Chillin’ Cot is a great choice indoors and out.
3. Petsure Comfort Cooling Bed
The Petsure Comfort Cooling Bed uses a multi-layered foam design to actively draw heat away from dogs’ bodies. The result is exceptional cooling comfort at an affordable price.
Key features:
- Unique multi-layer foam core
- Pressure relieving support
- Non-slip bottom
- Comes with bonus cooling mat
For cost-conscious buyers, the Petsure Comfort Cooling Bed offers excellent cooling power without the premium price tag.
4. Cool Bed 3 Elevated Pet Bed
This elevated cooling bed from Cool Bed uses a breathable mesh center to allow air circulation. The powder coated steel frame assembles easily and can hold up to 150 pounds.
Key features:
- Elevated platform for airflow
- Mesh center for drainage
- Steel frame with non-slip feet
- Available in three sizes
For an affordable elevated cooling cot, the Cool Bed 3 Elevated Pet Bed is a great option for indoor and outdoor use.
5. Arf Pets Self Cooling Gel Mat
This flexible self-cooling mat from Arf Pets can be used alone or added to an existing bed for instant cooling power. Weighing just 2 pounds, it is ultra-portable for travel and outdoor use.
Key features:
- Flexible cooling mat
- Gel technology provides chilling comfort
- Great for travel and outdoor use
- Waterproof and bite-proof exterior
For a lightweight cooling option, the Arf Pets Self Cooling Gel Mat is easy to use in any situation.
6. Dogbed4less Cooling Gel Memory Foam Bed
This cooling memory foam dog bed from Dogbed4less uses a 4-inch gel infused memory foam core to prevent overheating. The exterior denim cover is easily removable and machine washable.
Key features:
- Gel infused memory foam
- orthogonal support system
- Removable washable outer cover
- Non-slip bottom
For superior cooling with orthopedic support, the Dogbed4less Cooling Gel Memory Foam Bed is an excellent choice.
7. Chillz Cooling Gel Pet Bed
The Chillz Cooling Gel Pet Bed uses a 5-inch thick gel infused memory foam core to absorb and dissipate heat. The removable cover is waterproof and resistant to odors and bacteria.
Key features:
- Gel infused memory foam
- Waterproof removable cover
- Available in small, medium, large
- Non-toxic cooling gel
For a thick cooling bed with advanced foam technology, the Chillz Cooling Gel Pet Bed is an excellent option.
Quick comparison table
Here is a quick overview of the key specs for these 7 top cooling dog beds:
| Cooling Dog Bed | Type | Sizes Available | Weight Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| K&H Cool Bed III | Gel memory foam | Small, medium, large | Up to 150 lbs |
| Floppy Dawg Elevated Cot | Elevated cot | Standard | Up to 150 lbs |
| Petsure Comfort Cooling Bed | Multi-layer foam | Small, medium, large | Not specified |
| Cool Bed 3 Elevated Pet Bed | Elevated cot | Small, medium, large | Up to 150 lbs |
| Arf Pets Self Cooling Gel Mat | Gel mat | Standard | Not specified |
| Dogbed4less Cooling Gel Foam Bed | Gel memory foam | Small, medium, large, XL | Up to 160 lbs |
| Chillz Cooling Gel Pet Bed | Gel memory foam | Small, medium, large | Not specified |
Conclusion
A high quality cooling dog bed is a smart investment to improve your dog’s comfort and safety during hot summer weather. Choose from different types like gel memory foam, elevated cots, or cooling mats depending on your needs.
Key things to look for are effective cooling power, durable construction, proper sizing, and convenient features like washable covers. The 7 beds reviewed above are all excellent options to consider.
Give your dog the gift of cool relaxation this summer and help protect them from overheating. With a top-rated cooling dog bed, your pup will stay chill and comfortable regardless of how high the thermometer climbs.