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TECH PETZ

Top 9 Cooling Dog Beds for Summer Comfort

When the mercury climbs and your pup starts seeking cool tile floors, a dedicated cooling bed is more than a treat. It’s a smart way to help regulate body temperature, improve rest, and protect joints. From pressure-activated gel mats to breathable cots and gel-infused memory foam, today’s options make hot weather far more comfortable for dogs of every size.

Below you’ll find a buyer’s guide that keeps things practical. We compared build quality, real cleaning needs, and how the beds actually cool. We also looked closely at designs suited for crates, outdoor porches, and living rooms, so you can match the right style to your dog’s habits and your space.

cooling dog beds

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Product

Type

Key Cooling Feature

Best Fit

Care

Buy

Amazon Basics Dog Bed with Cooling Gel Memory Foam

Orthopedic foam

Gel-infused memory foam helps pull heat away from the body

Dogs that prefer a classic mattress bed

Removable cover, spot or machine wash per label

Furhaven Cooling Gel Dog Bed for Small/Medium Dogs

Bolstered or mattress foam bed

Cooling gel memory foam in core

Small to medium dogs that like side support

Zippered cover, machine washable

WATANIYA PET Cooling Memory Foam Large Dog Bed

Orthopedic foam bed

Cooling gel memory foam with supportive base

Medium to large breeds

Removable cover; check care tag for washing

Hollypet Cooling Dog/Cat Pet Couch

Couch-style bed

Cool-to-the-touch fabric surface

Cats and toy/small dogs that enjoy bolsters

Generally spot clean

COZY KISS Orthopedic Foam Cooling Dog Bed with Sides

Bolstered orthopedic bed

Cooling fabric surface over supportive foam

Dogs that lean or nest

Removable cover; follow care instructions

Bedsure Thin Washable Cooling Mat for Medium Dogs

Thin cooling mat

Cool-touch textile helps disperse heat

Crates, floors, sofas, travel

Machine washable per label

Veehoo Cooling Elevated Waterproof Dog Bed

Elevated cot

Breathable mesh promotes airflow under and around the dog

Outdoor patios, yards, and garages

Hose off or wipe clean

Dogbed4less XL Orthopedic Gel Cooling Bed for Large Pets

Gel-infused memory foam

Gel-infused foam with internal liner options

Large and giant breeds needing joint support

Removable cover; internal liner protects foam

Foamio Washable Ice Fabric Cooling Donut Dog Bed

Donut bolster bed

Ice or cool-touch fabric helps reduce surface warmth

Small to mid-size pups that like to curl

Washable cover per instructions

Our Overall Picks

How We Chose the Best Cooling Dog Beds

Cooling Performance

We focused on cooling performance first. Whether that meant gel-infused memory foam that disperses heat or lifted mesh cots that boost airflow, we favored best sellers with designs that reliably keep a dog’s resting surface cooler than a standard bed. We also looked at how they perform after long naps, since some gels feel less cool as they saturate.

Support and Comfort

Support matters, too. Senior dogs, large breeds, and those with joint pain need true orthopedic foam, not just a thin poly fill. Beds that pair cooling materials with a dense, supportive core earned higher marks. For dogs that curl up or lean, bolsters can help them settle faster and sleep more deeply.

Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning is a real-world test. Removable, machine-washable covers or wipe-clean meshes are ideal when heat, drool, and summer dirt combine. Beds with internal waterproof liners also protect foam investment over time, especially for puppies or seniors.

Durability and Materials

Durability and materials come next. We preferred sturdy frames on cots, rip-resistant fabrics, and foam that resists permanent compression. Non-slip bottoms are a small but helpful touch indoors. Where possible, we prioritized non-toxic components and clear, honest care labels.

Value

Last, we considered value. Prices vary widely, but the best cooling beds deliver dependable comfort and longevity. If a product offered stronger support, easier cleaning, or replaceable parts, it rose to the top even if it cost a bit more.

best cooling beds for dogs

Our Top 9 Cooling Dog Beds

1. Amazon Basics Dog Bed with Cooling Gel Memory Foam

Pros

Cons

Cooling gel memory foam promotes a cooler sleep surface

Not designed for heavy chewers

Supportive feel for growing and adult dogs

May feel warm after very long naps until it dissipates heat

Zippered cover for easier cleaning

Limited bolster support depending on size/style

This mattress-style bed aims to keep things simple and comfortable. The cooling gel memory foam helps draw heat away from your dog’s body while offering better pressure relief than poly fill. That blend makes it a solid pick for all-season use, with extra comfort during summer months.

A removable cover helps with cleaning, which can be a deal maker in hot weather when dogs shed more and track in dust. It’s ideal for dogs that prefer to sprawl or stretch out rather than snuggle against bolsters. Pair it with a fan or air conditioning for standout cooling.

Why it Made Our List

Before we get to the highlights, know this: it checks the right boxes for cooling, support, and practical upkeep without extra fuss.

  • Cooling core: gel-infused memory foam that helps move heat away

  • Cover care: removable, zipper closure for washing

  • Everyday comfort: balanced support for a wide range of sizes

  • Easy placement on floors, under windows, or in low-traffic corners

Best for: Dogs that want a simple, cool mattress they can stretch out on, plus owners who want easy cleaning.

2. Furhaven Cooling Gel Dog Bed for Small/Medium Dogs

Pros

Cons

Cooling gel memory foam supports joints for small to medium pups

Not intended for larger or giant breeds

Cover is removable and machine washable

Some dogs may prefer thicker foam

Bolster or mattress styles available across Furhaven lines

Not chew-proof

Furhaven’s cooling gel memory foam bed is a favorite among small and medium dogs that enjoy cushiony surfaces with optional side support. The gel layer helps disperse heat, while the foam underneath provides pressure relief that’s friendlier to elbows and hips than thin padding.

Its zippered cover is straightforward to remove and wash, keeping the surface fresh with regular care. If your dog likes to rest their head or curl into corners, look for versions with bolsters. It’s a practical pick for apartment living or bedrooms where dogs nap near air vents for extra cooling.

Why it Made Our List

Furhaven pairs approachable pricing with cooling gel memory foam and easy-clean covers. That balance of comfort and maintenance works well for everyday use.

Best for: Small to medium dogs that like a plush, cool surface and a tidy bed that’s quick to launder.

memory foam cooling dog beds

3. WATANIYA PET Cooling Memory Foam Large Dog Bed

Pros

Cons

Cooling gel memory foam top layer adds relief in hot weather

Size and thickness vary by selection, so measure carefully

Supportive orthopedic base for medium to large dogs

Not designed for destructive chewers

Typically includes removable, washable cover

Large sizes can be bulky to move

This WATANIYA PET model focuses on a cooler top with gel memory foam and a supportive base that helps prevent bottoming out. It’s tailored for medium to large dogs that need both temperature relief and real structure under their joints.

Look for versions with internal protection and removable covers. That combination keeps the foam in better shape for the long haul. If your pup sleeps sprawled on their side or back, this mattress-style layout offers space to stretch while staying cooler than a standard poly-fill bed.

Why it Made Our List

A gel memory foam surface and supportive base bring cooling and comfort together for bigger dogs, which can be hard to find at this price tier.

Best for: Medium to large breeds that sleep hot and need a true foam bed under their weight.

4. Hollypet Cooling Dog/Cat Pet Couch

Pros

Cons

Cool-touch fabric for summer lounging

Best suited to cats and small dogs

Couch shape with bolstered sides for a secure feel

Usually spot-clean only

Compact footprint fits small spaces

Not orthopedic-level support

Hollypet’s small couch creates a cool, cozy perch for cats and toy breeds that like a nest-like feel. The cool-to-the-touch fabric helps reduce surface warmth, and the raised sides offer a snug spot to tuck against, encouraging calmer naps on warm afternoons.

Its compact size is a win for apartments, offices, or windowside lounging. While this is not an orthopedic platform, it’s a strong choice for pets that prioritize a secure, elevated edge and a fabric that feels cooler than typical plush.

Why it Made Our List

A summer-friendly couch with bolsters gives small pets a secure place to settle without overheating the way long-pile plush beds can.

Best for: Cats and small dogs that prefer bolstered walls and a cooler textile under their fur.

gel cooling dog beds

5. COZY KISS Orthopedic Foam Cooling Dog Bed with Sides

Pros

Cons

Orthopedic foam base supports joints

Takes more floor space than a flat mat

Cooling fabric surface helps manage body heat

Not suitable for heavy chewers

Bolstered sides for head and neck support

Cover fit can vary by size choice

COZY KISS combines a supportive foam base with bolstered sides and a cool-touch surface fabric. Dogs that lean or like a pillow under their chin tend to settle quickly in this layout. The lower front edge on many models helps older pups step in with less effort.

Owners who prefer a washable cover will appreciate a zip-off design. The smooth, cool surface is friendlier in summer than fuzzy upholstery, and the overall structure provides better long-term comfort than poly-fill-only designs.

Why it Made Our List

A bolster bed with cooling fabric and real foam support bridges the gap between summer comfort and orthopedic needs.

  • Support focus: orthopedic foam base that resists flattening

  • Cooling fabric: smoother, cooler hand than plush pile

  • Bolstered layout: head and neck support for nesters

  • Versatile placement in living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices

Best for: Dogs that lean into bolsters, need stable support, and run warm on fuzzy fabrics.

6. Bedsure Thin Washable Cooling Mat for Medium Dogs

Pros

Cons

Cool-touch fabric helps reduce surface heat quickly

Thinner profile offers limited joint support

Lightweight and easy to move for travel or crate use

May slip on slick floors without a rug underneath

Machine-washable for quick cleanups

Not chew-resistant

Bedsure’s thin cooling mat is a simple, flexible way to add a cooler surface anywhere. Slip it into a crate, layer it on top of a favorite bed, or keep it beside your desk. The textile is cool to the touch, which dogs notice immediately on hot days.

Because it’s lightweight, it shines as a travel piece, beach-house accessory, or sofa protector. Rotating it with another mat keeps things fresh, and you can machine wash per the care label to stay ahead of summer grime.

Why it Made Our List

A low-cost, low-bulk solution that goes where your dog goes. It pairs especially well with fans or AC for faster heat relief.

Best for: Owners who need a portable cooling layer for crates, floors, and car trips.

elevated cooling dog bed

7. Veehoo Cooling Elevated Waterproof Dog Bed

Pros

Cons

Elevated mesh design promotes 360-degree airflow

Some dogs need time to adjust to raised beds

Sturdy frame with breathable, water-resistant mesh

Indoor feet can slide without a rug, depending on surface

Easy to hose off or wipe clean

No plush cushioning for dogs that want a soft bed feel

Veehoo’s cot-style bed lifts dogs off hot decks, patios, and garage floors, letting air circulate under and around the body. That passive cooling is extremely effective outdoors where concrete and wood radiate heat. The mesh is tough, supportive, and easy to keep clean.

For dogs with thick coats or those who overheat easily, airflow is often the fastest route to comfort. Pair this cot with shade and a water bowl and you have a reliable summer setup that’s tough enough for daily use outside.

Why it Made Our List

Airflow is the ultimate heat solution outdoors. Veehoo delivers that in a durable, easy-clean design many owners leave out all summer.

Best for: Outdoor lounging, camping, and porches, especially for double-coated breeds that need ventilation more than plush.

8. Dogbed4less XL Orthopedic Gel Cooling Bed for Large Pets

Pros

Cons

Gel-infused memory foam cushions big joints and disperses heat

Bulkier and heavier than thin mats

Often includes internal waterproof protection and removable cover

Not ideal for dogs that prefer cots or very firm platforms

Robust support for large and giant breeds

Takes up more room in smaller spaces

This bed is a go-to for large dogs that need orthopedic support with a cooler-feeling surface. Gel-infused memory foam helps spread heat away from pressure points, and an internal waterproof liner on many models protects the foam from spills or accidents. The outer cover is removable for washing.

If your dog sinks through soft beds or wakes stiff after long naps, this style addresses both comfort and joint care. It’s equally at home in living rooms and bedrooms, and it’s a sound long-term investment for big dogs that sleep hot.

Why it Made Our List

Few beds balance cooling, orthopedic support, and practical protection as well as Dogbed4less. It’s built for real daily use with big dogs.

Best for: Large and giant breeds, seniors, and any dog that needs joint-friendly support plus a cooler surface.

orthopedic cooling dog bed

9. Foamio Washable Ice Fabric Cooling Donut Dog Bed

Pros

Cons

Donut shape calms snugglers while the fabric feels cool

Not an orthopedic mattress for heavy dogs

Washable cover for routine cleaning

Round shape can be less roomy for sprawlers

Non-slip bottom in many sizes

Less airflow than a cot outdoors

Foamio’s donut bed brings calming design cues together with ice or cool-touch fabric made for summer. Dogs that curl instinctively will appreciate the supportive ring they can press into, while the surface feels fresher than velvet-like plush during warm spells.

The washable cover helps maintain hygiene, and the low profile works well beside couches and beds. It’s a natural pick for smaller pups that want security without overheating.

Why it Made Our List

The donut layout is a proven calmer. Paired with a cool-touch surface, it becomes a summertime favorite for anxious or chilly-seeking pups.

Before listing what stands out, know that this bed blends familiar comfort with a smarter warm-weather textile.

  • Cool-touch surface: helps reduce the warm “nest” effect

  • Donut bolster: encourages a tucked, secure sleep posture

  • Easy care: removable, washable cover for routine laundry

  • Compact footprint that fits next to sofas and under side tables

Best for: Small to mid-size curlers that want a secure ring and a fabric that stays comfortable in summer.

Why Every Pet Needs a Cooling Dog Bed

Safer rest when heat and humidity spike

Dogs don’t cool like people do. A bed that helps draw warmth away or keeps airflow moving reduces panting and stress. In hot apartments or sunlit rooms, that can be the difference between a sluggish, uncomfortable afternoon and a solid, restorative nap.

Better comfort for seniors and big breeds

Older dogs and large breeds carry heat and weight differently. Cooling gel paired with supportive foam eases pressure on hips, elbows, and spine. That often translates into smoother movements after waking and less restlessness on warm nights.

Versatility across home, crate, and outdoors

Cooling cots, mats, and foam beds cover every scenario. You can keep a cot on the patio, a mat in the crate, and a foam bed in the living room. Rotating between them based on time of day and temperature helps keep your dog comfortable without changing their routine.

dog beds with cooling gel

3 Things to Know Before Buying a Cooling Dog Bed

Your dog’s sleeping style, age, and where the bed will live all matter. Pick the cooling mechanism around your home’s heat patterns. Then check support and cleaning, since both make a bigger difference in daily use than any single marketing claim.

  • Match cooling to location: airflow cots excel outside; gel foam and cool-touch fabrics suit indoor rooms.

  • Support level: thin mats are portable, but orthopedic foam is better for joints and big bodies.

  • Cleaning plan: removable covers and wipeable meshes save you time when summer messes show up.

Conclusion

The best cooling bed fits your dog’s body and habits as much as your space and climate. Start with cooling method, choose the right level of support, and make cleaning easy. You’ll get more use from a bed that’s comfortable year round than one that only feels good on day one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do cooling dog beds really work?

Yes. The right choice depends on conditions. Elevated cots increase airflow and keep dogs off heat-retaining floors. Gel-infused foam and cool-touch fabrics reduce surface warmth indoors. Many owners combine options, using a cot outside and a gel foam bed or cooling mat inside.

How do I decide between a cot and a foam bed?

Think about where your dog sleeps and their joints. Cots shine outdoors and for double-coated breeds that need air movement. Foam beds with gel are better for older dogs or those needing orthopedic support. If your dog sprawls, a mattress shape is ideal; if they lean, choose bolsters.

Are these beds safe if my dog chews?

Most cooling beds are not chew-proof. Elevated cots have tougher mesh, but persistent chewers can still damage them. Foam and gel cores should be protected by covers and monitored. If your dog chews, supervise, store the bed when not in use, or pick tougher framed options.

Can I use a cooling bed in a crate?

Yes, but measure first. Thin cooling mats fit most crates easily and wash well. Some orthopedic cooling beds also fit large crates, though they take more space. Ensure any bed allows the door to close and your dog can turn around comfortably.

How do I clean a cooling dog bed?

Follow the manufacturer’s care tag. Many foam beds include zippered, machine-washable covers. Cooling mats often go in the wash or can be wiped clean. Elevated cots typically hose off or wipe down. Regular cleaning preserves cooling performance and helps reduce odors in warm weather.

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