Now that it’s really getting hot out there, we have to pay special attention to our furry wee friends—you know, the ones who can’t escape their thick fur regardless of the humidity outside.
Luckily there are plenty of new and improved cooling beds for dogs that help give them relief during the hottest of days. A cooling bed is usually filled with either gel or water and works best when kept out of direct sunlight. Most dogs will take a few days to get used to the pad. If your dog isn’t crazy about the gel- or water-filled beds, opt for an elevated bed that improves airflow.
Our top choices for cooling pet beds emphasise great reviews, ease of use, and value.
Top Cooling Dog Beds
Please note that with any of these beds, it’s best to keep an eye out for damage and remove it as soon as (or if) your dog starts chewing on it. Gel pads are filled with nontoxic material, but even so, can cause loose stool and stomach upset when ingested, and more problems in rare cases.
Now, let’s dig in!
Arf Pets Dog Self Cooling Mat Pad
Really effective cooling pads are often made of nylon fabric because it holds up to wear and tear while staying breathable.
This solid-gel mat from Arf Pets is self-charging, which makes it easy to use. It’s also weight-activated so it responds to your pup’s body heat for up to three hours. Nontoxic, lightweight and durable – it’s no wonder this is the go-to cooling pad for many pet owners.
Green Pet Shop Self-Cooling Pet Pad
Another popular, self-cooling pet pad, this pad is also weight- or pressure-activated. It provides additional coolness that lasts up to four hours.
This pad is also super portable, making it the perfect accessory to take along for that family trip to the beach, or even long car trips. They’ll love you for it.
K & H Cool Bed III
This pad keeps canines cool by using actual H2O. The “Cool Core” inside the bed absorbs your dog’s body temperature (102º F) and then converts it to room temperature, creating a cooler surface for your dog to enjoy.
Dogs love these pads, but be warned – they’re a little heavier than their gel counterparts and won’t be quite as easy to lug around for day trips!
Hugs Pet Chilly Comfort Cooling Gel Mat
The Chillz Pads come in three different sizes, so you’re bound to find a size that suits your dog. Made from comfy (yet durable) material, this cooling bed is not just for hot dogs—it’s also perfect for older animals, as well as those dealing with joint pain or recovering from surgery.
Easyology Premium Pet Cold Gel Pad
Though this mat may look just like the other gel pads, the Easyology Premium pad has been designed to fit onto couches perfectly—which makes sense, considering that’s where pets love to hang out.
It’s also really easy to clean and extra thick, making it ideal for households with dogs that shed…a lot, or households with dogs who love to chew!
RSPCA Pet Cooling Mat
This non-toxic cooling mat is RSPCA-approved, pressure-activated, and great for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s also perfect for traveling since it’s easy to fold. For the best (most cooling!) results for your dog, try to avoid keeping it in direct sunlight.
With such a low price point, you really couldn’t ask for a better option.
More Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool
Just because it’s hot outside doesn’t mean you have to skip your walks. To help keep dogs cool during summer exercise:
- Move walks to the early morning or late evening hours.
- Walk along a shady route.
- Carry a doggy water bottle and collapsible bowl with you for water breaks.
- Avoid asphalt and hot pavement, since it can burn dogs’ paws.
Here’s how you can keep dogs cool at home:
- Make sure your dog has access to plenty of shade and water when they’re outside.
- If your dog normally stays outside for long periods of time, move them inside.
- Keep air circulating inside. Air conditioning is better than fans, but you can also open windows to create a nice cross breeze. Or place a bowl of ice right in front of a fan that oscillates.
- Be sure to have plenty of clean, fresh water available in a few different locations in your home.
- Whip up some frozen dog treats and doggy ice licks—couldn’t be easier, and dogs love ’em.
For more information on how to keep your dog safe in the heat check out this article’s tips for keeping your dog cool.
Stay cool out there!
