What is the best dog bed for hot summer?

With summer just around the corner, many pet owners are starting to think about how they can help their dogs stay comfortable and cool during the hot summer months. One of the best things you can do for your dog in summer is invest in a cooling and comfortable dog bed. But with so many different types and styles of dog beds on the market, how do you know which is truly the best option for keeping your pup cool?

In this article, we’ll discuss the key factors to consider when shopping for the best cooling dog bed for summer. We’ll provide tips on materials, breathability, elevation, shade options, and other important features that make a real difference in preventing your dog from overheating on those sweltering summer days and nights. Read on for everything you need to know to pick the ideal dog bed for hot weather so your best furry friend can beat the heat!

Why Does Your Dog Need a Cooling Bed in Summer?

There are several key reasons why dogs need specially designed cooling beds during the summer:

– Dogs can’t sweat – Dogs rely on panting to regulate their body temperature. They have no effective way to cool down by sweating like humans do. This puts them at higher risk of overheating.

– Dogs have fur coats – A dog’s fur coat may be perfectly cozy in cooler months but it can lead to them rapidly overheating once temperatures rise.

– Senior dogs are at risk – Older dogs have a harder time regulating their body temperature and are more susceptible to heat stroke.

– Brachycephalic dogs struggle – Breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and boxers are prone to breathing issues that make it even harder for them to stay cool.

– Hot surfaces – On sunny summer days, surfaces like the ground and even tile or wooden floors can get hot enough to burn paws or contribute to heat exhaustion.

Having a cooling bed gives dogs a designated safe space to beat the heat and prevents conditions like dehydration, excessive panting, heat stroke, and breathing distress.

Key Features to Look for in a Cooling Dog Bed

When shopping for the ideal cooling dog bed for your pup, there are certain features and criteria to keep in mind:

Breathable Materials

The most important factor in a cooling dog bed is breathable, airy materials that allow for airflow. Avoid beds made with vinyl, plastic, rubber, or other non-breathable fabrics that could trap heat. The most breathable filling options include:

– Mesh – Mesh materials allow for maximum airflow from all sides.

– Cotton – Cotton coverings and fillings are lightweight and breathable.

– Elevated – Elevated dog beds promote airflow underneath.

Moisture Wicking

Beds that wick moisture away from the surface help keep dogs cool by preventing dampness and dissipating heat from their bodies. Microfiber covers often have moisture wicking properties.

Gel Memory Foam

Gel memory foam dog beds are excellent at distributing body heat and not trapping warmth from your dog’s body. They have cooling properties while still providing comfort and support.

Reflective Surfaces

Reflective beds are designed to reflect heat and sunlight away from the bed’s surface rather than absorbing warmth. Silver reflective coatings help create a cool sleeping spot.

Chew Resistant

Many cooling beds have lightweight mesh panels that, while breathable, are also fragile and prone to chewing or clawing damage. Seek out beds with reinforced panels or avoid destructive chewers.

Waterproof Liners

Since dogs tend to drool more when hot, waterproof inner liners that resist moisture and can be easily wiped down are a useful feature in warm weather dog beds. This prevents odor and mildew.

Elevated Design

Elevated dog beds lift your dog’s body several inches off the floor, promoting air circulation from below and keeping them cooler than ground contact would. They also prevent contact with hot outdoor surfaces.

Canopy Shades

For outdoor use, look for dog beds that come with a canopy roof or umbrella to provide shade without trapping heat in an enclosed space. Breathable fabric is still best.

Detachable Covers

Having a removable, washable cover makes it easy to keep your dog’s bed fresh and clean. This is especially useful with seasonal beds that just get used in summer.

Ideal Materials for Cooling Dog Beds

When it comes to the most cooling materials to look for in a dog bed for summer, consider these top options:

Mesh

Mesh panels or fabric provide the most airflow for dogs. Mesh beds keep air circulating while still giving comfort and support.

Cotton

Cotton covers and cotton-stuffed beds are excellent in summer. Cotton is a breathable natural fabric that remains cooler than many synthetic options.

Cooling Gel Foam

Gel memory foam contains temperature regulating gels that draw heat away from dogs’ bodies. This makes it one of the best materials for cooling beds.

Latex Foam

Natural latex foam rubber is bouncy, breathable, and dissipates heat effectively. Latex dog beds sleep cooler than solid foam beds.

Metal or PVC Frame

Elevated dog beds are made with mesh fabric suspended on a steel, aluminum, or PVC frame. This raises dogs off hot surfaces.

When browsing dog beds targeted for hot weather, be sure to scan the descriptions for these key cooling materials to find the most breathable and heat resistant options.

The Best Cooling Dog Beds Reviews

To make your search easier, we reviewed dozens of the top-rated cooling dog beds on the market and rounded up the very best options to consider for keeping your dog cool this summer.

Floppy Dawg Just Chillin’ Elevated Dog Bed

– Made with breathable mesh center panel for airflow
– Raised 7 inches off the floor
– Steel frame with PVC feet
– Easy to clean and portable
– Supports up to 200 pounds

This elevated cooling dog bed from Floppy Dawg provides excellent airflow underneath your dog thanks to its mesh center that keeps them up and away from hot surfaces. The steel frame is powder coated for durability outdoors. It’s also lightweight, making it easy to move shade as needed. Reviewers say it’s easy to wipe clean after summer adventures.

Furhaven Cooling Gel Memory Foam Orthopedic Dog Bed

– Gel infused memory foam top layer
– Breathable mesh sides
– Bamboo cover wicks away warmth
– Foam base for joint support
– For dogs up to 75 pounds

This versatile cooling bed from Furhaven has a 4 inch gel memory foam layer over high-density support foam. The breathable mesh sides and moisture wicking bamboo cover work together to dissipate body heat and keep dogs cool. The foam provides orthopedic support and comfort for older dogs too. It comes in small, medium, large, and jumbo sizes.

K&H Pet Products Elevated Dog Bed

– Raised steel frame with mesh center
– Water and dirt resistant fabric
– 7 inch elevation for airflow
– 150 pound weight capacity
– Optional canopy shade available

The K&H elevated dog bed keeps air circulating from all directions thanks to its mesh center panel suspended over a rust-resistant steel frame. The 600 denier fabric is durable and weatherproof for outdoor use. A bonus is that you can add an optional canopy cover to provide shade and UV protection while keeping the breathability. It comes in small to extra large sizes.

MidWest Homes for Pets Cool’er Dog Bed

– Pressure activated gel layer
– Mesh sides and poly-cotton cover
– Can be used indoors or outdoors
– Water resistant base
– For dogs up to 90 pounds

With six inches of cushioning loft and a water resistant wrap-around base, the Cool’er bed from MidWest Homes is ideal for dogs who nap both inside and outdoors. The gel foam layer only reacts when a dog lies down, so it stays cool until body heat activates the cooling technology. Breathable mesh and cotton regulate temperature and resist mildew.

Petsbao Calming Dog Bed

– Air mesh fabric for breathability
– Elevated PVC frame
– Waterproof and chew resistant
– Removable and washable cover
– For small, medium and large breeds

This affordable elevated bed from Petsbao keeps your dog 7 inches up off the ground for better airflow on all sides. The mesh fabric and PVC frame are also waterproof and resistant to chewing damage. An optional canopy can be added for shade. It supports up to 110 pounds and comes in small, medium and large sizes.

Majestic Pet Rectangle Cooling Dog Bed

– Gel infused memory foam cushion
– Breathable poly-cotton cover
– Water resistant denier base
– Non-skid bottom for stability
– For medium to large dogs

This cooling gel foam bed from Majestic Pet offers four inches of memory foam cushioning over a high density support layer. The breathable cover wicks away moisture while the waterproof inner layer prevents soaking into the foam. It has a non-skid bottom for hard floors and is designed for dogs up to 70 pounds.

Frisco Cooling Elevated Steel-Framed Dog Bed

– Steel powder coated frame
– Mesh fabric center for airflow
– Plastic feet prevent floor damage
– Water and mildew resistant
– For dogs up to 150 pounds

This Frisco elevated dog bed is built on a sturdy but lightweight steel frame with plastic foot caps to protect floors. The breathable mesh fabric allows air to flow freely from all sides to prevent heat buildup. It can support dogs up to 150 pounds and is easy to clean by wiping down or hosing off.

Armarkat Cave-Shaped Cooling Dog Bed

– Curved shape with raised side walls
– Breathable mesh panels over polyfill
– Skid-free base and waterproof lining
– Machine washable cover
– For small to medium dogs

The unique cave-like shape of this Armarkat cooling bed allows breathable airflow through the mesh front. The curved walls provide a sense of security and protection. This design lifts dogs up off the floor surface while surrounding them in cozy softness. It has a skid-free bottom and removable, washable cover. Great for small to medium dog breeds who love dens.

Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool in Their Bed

In addition to choosing a well-designed cooling dog bed, there are some extra steps you can take to help your pup beat the summer heat:

– Place beds in shaded spots – Keep beds in naturally cooler areas of your home and yard. Avoid direct sunlight.

– Elevate outdoor beds – Raise outdoor beds up on a deck, patio, or grass to allow airflow underneath.

– Use cooling mats or pads – Supplement beds with additional cooling pads or mats that can be swapped out when hot.

– Provide ample water – Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, cool drinking water to prevent dehydration.

– Limit daytime exercise – Take walks in the cooler morning and evening hours to prevent overexertion.

– Brush frequently – Remove loose fur to prevent heat retention and mats that prevent circulation.

– Give cooling treats – Try frozen berries, cucumbers, or dog-safe popsicles for refreshing snacks.

– Watch for overheating – Monitor dogs closely for signs of heat exhaustion like heavy panting or excessive drooling.

With the right cooling bed and preventative measures, your dog can sail through the dog days of summer in comfort! Invest in their needs to make the season safe and bearable regardless of soaring temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best filling for a cooling dog bed?

The best cooling fills for dog beds include gel memory foam, latex foam, buckwheat hulls, and cedar chips. These materials don’t absorb and retain heat like solid foam or polyfill do.

Should I get my dog an elevated bed for summer?

Yes, elevated dog beds that lift your dog’s body off the ground can greatly improve airflow and cooling compared to beds placed directly on the floor. Just be sure the fabric itself is still breathable and not solid plastic or vinyl.

Can dogs overheat in beds? How can I prevent this?

Yes, dogs definitely overheat if their beds trap warmth instead of allowing airflow. To prevent overheating, choose beds with breathable, cooling properties and avoid leaving dogs in beds for too long on hot days. Monitor closely for any signs of heat exhaustion.

What temperature is too hot for a dog to sleep?

Once temperatures exceed 75°F, dogs can start to have difficulty effectively regulating their body heat while sleeping. Any temperature above 80°F calls for vigilance and cooling measures to prevent overheating.

Where is the coolest place for a dog bed in the house?

The coolest spots for placing your dog’s bed are near AC vents, in basements, under ceiling fans, and away from any direct sun exposure from windows or doors. Cool, shaded, well-ventilated areas are key.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog healthy, comfortable, and cool during the heat of summer is a top priority for any caring pet parent. Using a cooling dog bed designed for warm weather can truly make all the difference in preventing overheating, dehydration, and exhaustion. Look for breathable materials like mesh, cotton, or latex, elevated platforms for airflow, and special features like gel foam or reflective layers. With the recommendations above, you can find the perfect cooling bed to beat the heat and keep your pup chilling in comfort when sunny days arrive!