The Best Cooling Dog Beds

Written by Austin S.
Updated: November 17, 2022
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Most dogs enjoy lying in their cozy beds, especially when the outside temperature rises and there is nothing to do but lounge around in the heat. Although dogs may be the most popular animals in our society, their body temperature is not as well regulated as ours. Keeping cool requires them to pant. Therefore, even if it isn’t 100 degrees outside, you can make your pet’s life more comfortable by shopping for a cooling dog bed. 

It is also possible to provide pain relief to dogs with cooling beds. Pets with arthritis or those recovering from surgery often enjoy cooling beds because they soothe their aching joints. A variety of cooling dog beds are available for every pet’s needs, from affordable cooling mats to lightweight elevated beds that are perfect for outdoor use. No matter what size your dog is, here are the best cooling dog beds for your pup.

  1. The Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat For Dogs
    • Pressure-activated
    • Features a patented, non-toxic gel that will absorb your dog's heat for up to 3 hours
    • It "recharges" after 20 minutes of disuse
    • You can put it in the freezer for an hour before use if it's particularly hot out
    • The surface is heavy-duty, waterproof plastic and features double-stitched edges
    Check Amazon
  2. Sealy Lux Premium Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed
    • This premium dog bed features 4 layers
    • The first layer is a cooling gel that draws heat away from your dog's body
    • The second layer is a special memory foam that conforms to your dog's body to support aching joints
    • The third layer, Bio-Green Orthopedic foam, distributes your dog's weight evenly over time to prevent it from sagging in the future
    • The final, Charcoal HD Foam Base, absorbs pet odors
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  3. Arf Pets Dog Cooling Mat 35” x 55” Pad, Extra Large
    • Large enough to accommodate large breeds like Great Danes weighing up to 120
    • Features a non-toxic, solid gel that absorbs your dog's body heat to keep it cool for up to 3 hours
    • After 20 minutes of disuse, it's ready to use again
    • Sturdy nylon cover
    • Can be wiped down with a damp cloth
    Check Amazon
  4. Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed
    • Elevated cots are an alternative to cooling beds and pads filled with gel and/or memory foam
    • The Coolaroo features Greenguard-certified breathable high-density polyethylene
    • It's made of 100% recyclable fabric
    • It works by allowing air to circulate through the bed and dissipate any heat radiating from your dog
    • Flea, mite, mold, and mildew resistant
    Check Amazon
  5. Chillz Dog Cooling Mat, Pressure Activated Cooling Mat for Dogs
    • Budget-friendly
    • Available in a variety of sizes
    • Pressure-activated
    • The sizes run small
    • XL fits dogs weighing 80 pounds or less
    Check Amazon

Top Picks: The Best Cooling Dog Beds Today

#1. Best Overall: The Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat For Dogs

It is hard to beat The Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat For Dogs when it comes to cooling your dog off. No assembly is required with this pressure-activated mat: simply open it and use it right away! Although we recommend covering the cooling mat with a protective cover to make it more comfortable for your dog. With the Green Pet mat, your dog’s heat can be absorbed for up to three hours through its patented non-toxic gel. In addition, it will cool back down after 20 minutes of inactivity.  

Because it is less than an inch thick, you can place it anywhere. This pad features a heavy-duty, waterproof plastic surface that is double-stitched. It can be cleaned either in the washing machine or by using soap and water and a cloth. However, it is important to note that the manufacturer recommends not leaving this mat in direct sunlight when it is not in use to prevent it from degrading.

​​There are five sizes available for the Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat. It is recommended that small dogs get a size larger, like a medium. As the mat warms, your pet will have more space to stretch out and switch sections. However, a large dog weighing more than 120 pounds may not be able to fit in the extra-large size. This mat will still allow them to cool off while lying down, but they may not be able to fit their entire body on it at once.

Pros and Cons of the Coolaroo The Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat

ProsCons
There is no real setup required with the mat since it is immediately ready for use out of the box.If the mat is not being used, it must be kept out of direct sunlight.
The mat is available in five different sizes.
After 30 minutes without use, the mat automatically cools down again.
Best Overall
The Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat For Dogs
  • Pressure-activated
  • Features a patented, non-toxic gel that will absorb your dog's heat for up to 3 hours
  • It "recharges" after 20 minutes of disuse
  • You can put it in the freezer for an hour before use if it's particularly hot out
  • The surface is heavy-duty, waterproof plastic and features double-stitched edges
Check Amazon

2. Best Splurge: Sealy Lux Premium Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed

Among the best cooling dog beds you can splurge on, we recommend the Sealy Lux Premium Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed. You will have to spend almost $200 for the extra-large, but it’s well worth it if you have the budget.

The technology used in this dog bed is the same as that used in Sealy’s most popular mattresses for human use. Four layers make up the bed. Cooling energy gel in the first layer regulates your dog’s body temperature and keeps the bed cool and comfortable for him. Second, there is Pet Rest Memory Foam that conforms to your dog’s body, providing him with the support he needs to avoid sore joints and stiff movements after a long nap. As a result of the Bio Green Orthopedic foam beneath, his weight is evenly distributed on the bed, preventing it from sagging over time. Lastly, the Pro Charcoal HD Foam Base absorbs any pet odors, keeping the bed and your home smelling fresh. The cover can even be removed for easy washing and the mattress is encased in plastic. 

The bed is available in a variety of sizes, from small to extra large. There is a large amount of space in the beds for their sizes. The L size is perfect for large dogs (those under 100 lbs) who need extra room to spread out. The XL is perfect for large dogs who weigh more than 100 lbs. In terms of size, the XL is pretty wide enough to comfortably fit giant dogs with plenty of space. This cooling bed has only two major drawbacks. First of all, this bed is definitely on the expensive side. It’s definitely a splurge, and it’ll put a strain on most wallets. Secondly, the bed’s memory foam actually holds more heat than mesh beds do.  However, the overall comfort and cooling properties of this bed are what will make it a good investment over the long haul. 

Pros and Cons of the Sealy Lux Premium Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed

ProsCons
The cover and mattress are machine washable and plastic-encased.With the extra large size retailing for $200, the bed is on the pricey side.
All dogs will enjoy resting in orthopedic memory foam.There is greater retention of heat in the bed than in mesh beds.
The bed is available in a wide range of sizes to fit any dog.
There are four different layers in the bed that work together to keep your pup comfortable while regulating his temperature.
Best Splurge
Sealy Lux Premium Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed
  • This premium dog bed features 4 layers
  • The first layer is a cooling gel that draws heat away from your dog's body
  • The second layer is a special memory foam that conforms to your dog's body to support aching joints
  • The third layer, Bio-Green Orthopedic foam, distributes your dog's weight evenly over time to prevent it from sagging in the future
  • The final, Charcoal HD Foam Base, absorbs pet odors
Check Chewy Check Amazon

3. Best for Large Dogs: Arf Pets Dog Cooling Mat 35” x 55” Pad, Extra Large

We recommend the Arf Pets Dog Cooling Mat 35″ x 55″ Pad, Extra Large if your giant breed needs to beat the heat. Unlike our best overall pick, even the oversized Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat cannot accommodate the entire body of certain dogs, including great danes and bernese mountain dogs. 

Arf Pets’ model measures 35 x 55 inches, which is pretty big, as you might imagine. Additionally, it can accommodate dogs weighing more than 120 pounds. Your pet will stay cool for up to three hours with the Arf Pets’ Self-Cooling Dog Mat made from a solid, non-toxic gel. In addition, it can be “recharged” after 20 minutes of non-use. As far as the nylon cover is concerned, it is quite sturdy and appears to be able to withstand moderate wear and tear. If you trim your dog’s nails regularly, they will not rip (though no dog bed is totally impervious to nails).  

It’s easy to store this cooling mat since it’s foldable. It is also handy to bring along on camping trips or sleepovers to keep your dog cool. It is, however, quite heavy (15 pounds), so moving it from one spot to another will take some muscle power. 

Pros and Cons of the Arf Pets Dog Cooling Mat 35” x 55” Pad, Extra Large

ProsCons
There is enough room for even the largest breeds of dogs in it.Since it weighs 15 pounds, moving it around is difficult.
The mat is made from non-toxic gel so your dog can stay cool for up to three hours. 
There is no need to worry about scratches on the nylon cover because it is durable.
Best for Large Dogs
Arf Pets Dog Cooling Mat 35” x 55” Pad, Extra Large
  • Large enough to accommodate large breeds like Great Danes weighing up to 120
  • Features a non-toxic, solid gel that absorbs your dog's body heat to keep it cool for up to 3 hours
  • After 20 minutes of disuse, it's ready to use again
  • Sturdy nylon cover
  • Can be wiped down with a damp cloth
Check Amazon

4. Best Elevated Cooling Dog Bed: Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed

You can easily bring the Coolaroo Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed wherever you go because it is portable and easy to transport. The majority of our picks are cooling beds and pads filled with gel and memory foam, but it’s not the only choice you have if your dog needs to cool down. Another type of dog bed that can help your dog relax on a hot summer day is an elevated cot. 

With GREENGUARD-certified high-density polyethylene, the Coolaroo is our first choice among elevated beds. It is made from 100% recyclable fabric. The product is also free of lead and phthalates. The fabric is also resistant to fleas, mites, mold, and mildew. So how is this bed so effective at keeping your dog cool? The fabric, which we mentioned is breathable, allows air to circulate through the bed, which helps disperse any heat. Even though its cooling effect isn’t as fast as gel or water, it still works quite well.

Besides being comfortable and cooling, this bed is also easy to assemble, clean, and transport. All it needs is a good hose down with water and a few hours in the sun to dry. A powder coating prevents the steel frames from rusting. A great feature of this bed is that it can be used both indoors and outdoors. The only thing to note about it is that if you want to use it outdoors, it is not covered. In order for your dog to stay cool while on the bed, you should place it under some shade (such as a tree or covered deck).

This bed does not come in extra-large sizes, which is its major downside. There is a maximum weight limit of 100 pounds for the largest cot. In other words, if you have a Leonberger or another giant breed at home, you cannot use this cooling bed. 

Pros and Cons of the Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed

ProsCons
There is no setup required and the bed is easy to transport.Large dog breeds cannot use this bed since it does not come in extra-large sizes.
By keeping your dog off the ground and allowing air to circulate, this bed helps keep him cool.
You can easily clean the bed by simply hosing it down with water.
Best Overall
Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed
  • Elevated cots are an alternative to cooling beds and pads filled with gel and/or memory foam
  • The Coolaroo features Greenguard-certified breathable high-density polyethylene
  • It's made of 100% recyclable fabric
  • It works by allowing air to circulate through the bed and dissipate any heat radiating from your dog
  • Flea, mite, mold, and mildew resistant
Check Amazon

5. Best Budget: Chillz Cooling Mat For Dogs

The Chillz Cooling Mat For Dogs comes in at a reasonable price, but it’s also very effective. The average pet parent spends quite a bit of money on their furbabies. Making sure they’re comfortable and happy is just one way we show them how much we care. In spite of this, not all pet parents can afford to spend hundreds of dollars on pet products. That’s why the importance of budget-friendly, high-quality products cannot be overstated.

The non-toxic gel in this pressure-activated cooling mat absorbs your pet’s body heat quickly, allowing him to cool off. Chew-proof features make this cooling mat a great choice for dogs that love to chew. This cooling mat also recharges on its own, which is another amazing feature.

In terms of durability, the plastic cover is not as sturdy as those on our list, but for the price of this mat, it is not a deal-breaker. It’s also a bit disappointing to note that the sizes are quite small. This size is perfect for small dogs and cats, including Chihuahuas. In the case of the XL size, only dogs under 80 pounds will fit. Our recommendation would be to go with the Arf Pets model if your pooch weighs more than 100 pounds.

Pros and Cons of the Chillz Cooling Mat For Dogs

ProsCons
This cooling bed is budget-friendly.The size options aren’t great, especially if you have a larger breed.
The cooling mat is chew-proof, making it a durable option for your pup.
The mat is both comfortable and non-toxic.
Best Budget
Chillz Dog Cooling Mat, Pressure Activated Cooling Mat for Dogs
  • Budget-friendly
  • Available in a variety of sizes
  • Pressure-activated
  • The sizes run small
  • XL fits dogs weighing 80 pounds or less
Check Amazon

How to Choose the Best Cooling Dog Bed

It is common for both dogs and cats to become fidgety if they become too warm while sleeping. Cooling mattresses can be very helpful in this situation! A pet bed is usually made of a material that keeps our pets warm and cozy. It is perfect for colder months when everyone needs a bit of extra warmth. The summer, however, is the perfect time to use cooling beds for your pets. In order to protect your pet from overheating or heatstroke, you should get him a cooling mattress. However, there are also many other benefits to cooling beds. 

Cooling beds provide your doggy with the perfect relaxation spot that is both cool and comfy. It is common for pets to lie down on the cold, hard kitchen floor to cool off when they get too hot. The downside is that this isn’t a comfortable spot for your dogs, especially older ones. This problem can be solved by using a cooling pet bed. In addition to cooling your pet, they will also be more comfortable and less likely to have sore joints. In light of what a cooling pet mattress is and why it’s so important for your pet, it’s important to note that not all cooling beds are the same.

There are five main factors to consider when deciding on the best outdoor dog bed for your pup:

  • Cooling technology  
  • Durability 
  • Size 
  • Transportability 
  • Non-toxic material 

Let’s take a look at all of these factors in more detail:

Cooling Technology

The type of cooling technology the dog bed uses is an important factor to consider. Some beds use cooling gel while others give your dog the ability to sit while air is circulated underneath them. It is difficult to determine the level of cooling in a pet bed, but the best beds maintain a temperature that is 15 to 20 degrees lower than outside temperatures. 

Durability 

Any new bed is subject to chewing, biting, or scratching by dogs. With this in mind, the importance of a durable cooling pet bed can’t be overstated. The best beds are made with high-quality, safe materials, so you won’t have to buy a new ones constantly. The result is a win-win for you and your dog. The place where the bed will be placed is also important to consider. As an example, if you’re going to use it outside, it needs to be weather-resistant.

Size

Different cooling pads and mats come in different sizes, so you need to choose the right one for your pet. You may not be able to cool your pet down properly if it is too large or small. Small, medium and large are the most common bed sizes. In some cases, you can even get double extra large or extra small. It is possible to find information about which breeds cooling pet beds can accommodate on their packaging. Make sure you consider this when purchasing to make sure it fits perfectly.

Transportability

It is important to keep your lifestyle in mind when choosing a cooling pet bed. Pets are usually at your side on vacation, whether you are at the beach or camping. It is therefore imperative that the cooling pet bed you choose fits into your lifestyle. Water-filled beds and beds with heat-absorbing gel are two popular types of beds. The weight of water-filled beds can make them difficult to move. It is possible to empty the beds before traveling, but they must be refilled each time they are used. Having to deal with this can be extremely inconvenient. Meanwhile, the gel-bed option is lighter, and easier to fold, store, and travel with. The best cooling bed for your pet is one that makes sense for the place where it will be used and for your pet.

Non-toxic Material

To keep your pet safe, you should choose a cooling pet bed made from non-toxic materials.

It is also possible for pets to chew on the fabric and accidentally ingest it, so beds that are free of harmful chemicals are crucial for their safety. Aside from this, it’s a good idea to stay away from beds made of plastic, latex, or rubber. Pets can become ill from these materials because they tend to trap moisture.

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About the Author

Growing up in rural New England on a small scale farm gave me a lifelong passion for animals. I love learning about new wild animal species, habitats, animal evolutions, dogs, cats, and more. I've always been surrounded by pets and believe the best dog and best cat products are important to keeping our animals happy and healthy. It's my mission to help you learn more about wild animals, and how to care for your pets better with carefully reviewed products.

The Best Cooling Dog Beds FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is the best cooling bed for dogs?

You want to make sure that your dog enjoys hot summer days without being dehydrated or experiencing heat exhaustion. He should be able to lie down comfortably on it without thinking twice. The material should also be durable so that his claws and teeth cannot easily damage it. A good cooling dog bed should also offer enough room for your pooch to stretch out. In the case of a small dog, this may mean purchasing a medium-sized model or even a large one. As a result of the extra space, they will be able to move around the bed, further cooling themselves without having to wait for it to recharge completely. These requirements are perfectly met by Green Pet Shop’s Dog Cooling Mat.

It is however important to choose a cooling bed that is covered if you plan on leaving it outdoors in the sun. This will provide shade for the bed and keep it from getting too hot. If you’re buying a water-filled model, this is an important factor to consider.

Are cooling beds good for dogs?

Yes, they are. Cooling beds allow dogs to regulate their internal temperature when they get too hot. It helps prevent them from overheating and getting heat stroke. It also helps them sleep better, especially during hot weather. In addition, cooling beds offer added support for aching joints, something your cold kitchen or bathroom tiles cannot. In addition, you can bring your pet’s cooling bed wherever needed, such as to the park, the beach, or even camping.

Do cooling mats really work?

Cooling mats are filled with heat-absorbing materials such as water, gel, or memory foam. As a result, they lower your dog’s internal temperature even when it is scorching hot outside, by absorbing heat from his body and redistributing it.

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