The 8 Best Cooling Dog Beds of 2023

Best Overall

K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Armored™ Rip-Stop Elevated Dog Bed

4.6

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Designed with diligent chewers in mind, the Chew Proof Armored Rip-Stop Elevated Dog Bed is made to handle gnawing, clawing, and any other canine exploits, but is also comfortable enough to keep your doggo cool and comfortable.

"If you want a sturdy and chew-resistant bed, this is definitely worth the investment," our tester said. "The material is good and breathable, and the elevation definitely keeps it cooler than hot surfaces like the outdoor ground in the summer."

Their 65-pound English bulldog, with a reputation as a bed-destroyer, put this bed through the wringer—all in the name of science! After unboxing the K9 Ballistics bed—it ships fully assembled—our tester's powerful pup got to work, chomping and pawing, but their human hardly noticed a scratch.

"I am truly impressed with the quality and durability," they said. "It really is chew resistant!"

The cot-like frame is made with lightweight aluminum, which is 100% recyclable, with a platform that is raised between 4.5 to 8 inches off the ground, depending on the size of the bed you select. The body of the dog bed is composed of K9's proprietary ripstop fabric, which has a tight weave that won't sag, but still offers orthopedic support. Our bulldog tester liked using the bed as a platform for chewing on toys.

The Rip-Stop Elevated Dog Bed can support up to 250 pounds, but it's still easy to move around. Our tester found that their dog was also able to easily drag the bed (this dog took testing very seriously), which might be a downside if you are trying to keep the bed in a consistent place and would prefer your dog doesn't impromptu redecorate.

This cooling bed is available in three shades and five sizes, and is designed to fit most standard-sized crate dimensions. While the platform can't be removed from the frame, it's easy to clean by wiping down the surface, or even blasting it with a hose. K9 Ballistics offers a 120-day chew-proof guarantee, and your Chew Proof Armored Elevated Dog Bed can even be customized with your dog's name.

K9 Ballistics is also a certified B Corporation—a non-profit that audits companies according to high environmental and ethical standards—currently working toward zero-waste operation by 2024.

Price at time of publish: $160 (Large)

_{Dimensions: 41" L x 27" W x 6" H for Large | Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, XX-large | Materials: Woven ripstop fabric, aluminum | Bed Type: Elevated}

Best Budget

Amazon Basics Cooling Elevated Pet Bed

5

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The AmazonBasics Cooling Elevated Dog Bed has a breathable mesh platform that's elevated seven inches off the ground. The frame is made of iron with rounded corners and stable feet, and it can all be wiped down to clean with tap water.

"I really appreciate that the legs of this bed have caps to prevent rocks and dirt from getting stuck inside the poles," noted our tester. The caps also help to prevent scratching on floors when used indoors.

Our tester's 75-pound Golden Retriever dog took to the bed immediately, stretching out to rest and bringing their toys to chew and play. "He seemed very comfortable and cool, even during the dog days of summer in Los Angeles."

While AmazonBasics is a solid pick for most dog owners, it has a drastically reduced weight limit compared to our top pick from K9 Ballistics. The largest-sized bed is meant for dogs between 91-110 pounds. Heavier dogs risk straining the mesh platform, leading to a sagging bed over time.

The bed requires assembly, but all supplies and tools are included. It's available in 2 colors and 5 sizes, and comes with a 1-year guarantee from Amazon. "I think this is a great durable and affordable option for dogs that run hot or are more destructive with their beds."

Price at time of publish: $30 (Large)

_{Dimensions: 51"L x 31"W x 8"H for large | Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large | Materials: PVC mesh fabric and iron | Bed Type: Elevated}

Best Portable

Yep HHO Outdoor Elevated Pet Canopy Bed

4.7

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Hit the beach, the park, or your backyard, if you love to explore the great outdoors with your dog, the YEP HHO Elevated Dog Bed is the cooling bed to get for your traversing pet. It comes with a removable, waterproof canopy to keep your dog in the shade and block out UV rays. No tools are required for assembly and disassembly, and it comes with a custom-fit carrying bag.

"It's a great value just based on its ease of setup and portability," shared our tester.

The bed's sturdy frame is made of steel and features an additional middle bar for support. While the breathable mesh center provides a comfortable and cool place for your dog to rest. You might even be tempted to try it out for yourself as our tester did.

"It seems to be made of durable materials and can hold a lot of weight. I myself laid down on it like a cot and found it very comfortable and supportive," our tester said.

This bed works best on flat surfaces, and our tester had difficulty stabilizing it on their gravel patio. They also noted that the height of 7-inches might be too high for some dogs to navigate on their own.

Price at time of publish: $53 (Medium)

_{Dimensions: 42"L x 30.3"W x 7"H for Medium | Sizes: Medium, X-large | Materials: Alloy steel, Oxford fabric, mesh | Bed Type: Elevated}

Best Cooling Gel

Furhaven Plush & Suede Cooling Gel Top Sofa Dog Bed

4.4

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FurHaven’s Plush & Suede Cooling Gel Top Sofa Dog Bed features a soft, inviting exterior with memory foam and cooling gel inside, your dog will love cuddling up for naps and throughout the night.

"The bed is definitely cooler than other surfaces, and he sleeps on it every day for multiple hours," observed our tester who found the bed particularly beneficial for their dog during a heatwave.

"It's aesthetically pleasing and doesn’t feel out of place in my home." Throughout our testing time frame, their 65-pound dog never returned to their previous, non-cooling bed, so this bed is now in their living room. With three bolstered sides, this sofa-style bed has a generous amount of space for all sleeping styles—splayed out, curled up, on their side, with a pal, and so on.

The cover can be spot cleaned or completely removed and placed in a washing machine, and the bed in available in a variety of colors and sizes.

Price at time of publish: $64 for Large

_{Dimensions: 36"L x 27"W x 6.5"H for Large | Sizes: Small, medium, large, jumbo, jumbo plus | Materials: Polyester, synthetic fabric, gel foam, orthopedic foam, and foam | Bed Type: Bolstered sofa}

Best Cooling Pad

The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad

4.8

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If you are looking for a portable way to keep your dog cool, or just want something that won't take up too much space, the Green Shop Cool Pet Pad is the item to get.

"Our dog instantly runs over to the mat after long walks and cools herself off in a few minutes," shared our tester who lives in Charleston, South Carolina where temps hovered around 100 degrees during our testing period.

The pad is pressure-activated, so when your dog steps and/or lays on it, the non-toxic gel gets started to cool things down. "It's shocking how well this mat cools, and it activates almost instantly on contact." There is no water, refrigeration, or electricity needed, and the cooling experience lasts up to 3 hours.

The sturdy plastic exterior is flexible and the pad can be folded up for easy storage and transport. It fits in most standard-sized crates and can be placed on top of an existing bed. It's also easy to spot clean with soap and water.

Price at time of publish: $59 for Large

_{Dimensions: 35"W x 23.6"L x 0.02"H inches for Large | Sizes: X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large | Materials: Plastic and Non-Toxic Gel | Bed Type: Pet Pad}

Best for Camping

K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot

4.7

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Gather around the campfire with your favorite furry companion, and bring this hammock-style dog bed to keep them cool and comfortable throughout your adventure in nature.

"The cover is machine-washable, which is a plus compared to other options that are spot-clean only," shared on tester who enjoys camping with their 75-pound Golden Retriever. "My dog seemed very comfortable on this bed, even on hot days outside."

The K&H Original Pet Cot is designed to be resistant to moisture, mold, mildew, bacteria, and odor, which is essential for outdoor recreational use. In addition, the bed is easy to assemble and break down, without the need for tools, and it's lightweight. Our tester did note that a carrying case is not included but would be helpful. You can also add a touch of personal shade with a canopy accessory that is sold separately but easy to attach.

The sturdy bed is built to hold up to 200 pounds (300 pounds for the X-Large) and non-skid rubber feet help to keep it in place as your dog hops on and off. "One of my dog's friends came over, and the two of them played on it with no problem."

Price at time of publish: $43 for Large

_{Dimensions: 30"L x 42"W x 7"H for Large | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large | Materials: Metal and Mesh | Bed Type: Elevated}

Best for Small Breeds

Veehoo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed

4.2

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The VeeHoo Cooling Elevated Bed has a ventilated mesh center that's kept 7 inches from the ground (9 inches for X-Large) by 4 steel legs with anti-slip rubber feet. The space underneath and the fabric allow for ventilation which increases the air circulation, so your tiny yet mighty friend can embrace the breeze.

"This dog bed definitely helped my smaller dog withstand the heat more than usual," remarked our tester.

Their small 20-pound dog took to this bed right away and was able to hop on and off as they pleased to join their human in the backyard. "It's a great outdoor bed for all dogs," but our tester did caution that it might not work for dogs that have joint issues or are afraid of moving to a different level on their own.

The bed can easily be hosed down or wiped clean to remove dirt, drool, or anything else your pup might bring along while they lounge. The mesh is tear-resistant so it can withstand powerful pawing, but our tester did experience some difficulty with keeping the legs securely fastened as they moved it from their patio to the backyard.

Price at time of publish: $32 for Small

_{Dimensions: 22"L x 17"W x 7"H for Small | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large | Materials: Textilene Mesh and Powder-Coated Steel | Bed Type: Elevated}