The 8 Best Cooling Dog Beds of 2024

Designed with diligent chewers in mind, the Chew Proof Armored Rip-Stop Elevated Dog Bed from K9 Ballistics 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.

The cot-like frame is made with lightweight aluminum, which is 100 percent 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—meaning it’s been audited by a nonprofit that evaluates companies according to high environmental and ethical standards.

_{Bed Type: Elevated | Dimensions: 41 x 27 x 6 inches (large) | Sizes: Small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large | Materials: Woven ripstop fabric, aluminum}

The AmazonBasics Cooling Elevated Dog Bed has a breathable mesh platform that’s elevated 7 inches off the ground. The frame is made of iron with rounded corners and stable feet, and it can all be wiped clean with 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 took to the bed immediately, stretching out to rest and bringing toys to chew and play. “He seemed very comfortable and cool, even during the dog days of summer in Los Angeles.”

While this 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 and 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 two colors and five sizes and comes with a one-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,” said our tester.

_{Bed Type: Elevated | Dimensions: 51 x 31 x 8 inches (large) | Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, x-large | Materials: PVC mesh fabric, iron}

If you love to explore the great outdoors with your dog, the Just Chillin’ Dog Bed Cot from Floppy Dawg is the cooling bed to get. It’s a great accessory for a day at the beach, a picnic in the park, or a party in the backyard.

The cot-style bed has a breathable mesh base that’s 7 inches off the ground, allowing for air to circulate underneath your dog. It comes with a removable canopy for optional protection from the elements—blocking out UV rays and keeping your dog in the shade.

The bed’s sturdy frame is made of alloy steel so it is lightweight, and the oxford fabric is durable and easy to wipe clean. It comes together quickly, but it doesn’t come with a carrying case.

The bed is available in three colors—gray, red, or blue—and two sizes, medium or large. As with most cot-style beds, The Chillin’ Dog Bed Cot is better suited for flat surfaces, like a grass-covered yard, but it can also be stabilized on sand.

_{Bed Type: Elevated | Dimensions: 36 x 30 x 43 inches (large) | Sizes: Medium, large | Materials: Alloy steel, oxford fabric}

If you’re looking for a solid dog sofa bed, 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, 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 is available in a variety of colors and sizes.

_{Bed Type: Bolstered sofa | Dimensions: 36 x 27 x 6.5 inches (large) | Sizes: Small, medium, large, jumbo, jumbo plus | Materials: Polyester, synthetic fabric, gel foam, orthopedic foam, foam}

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,” said 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,” our tester noted. There is no water, refrigeration, or electricity needed, and the cooling experience lasts up to three 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.

_{Bed Type: Pad | Dimensions: 35 x 23.6 x 0.02 inches (large) | Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, x-large | Materials: Plastic, non-toxic gel}

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,” said our 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 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 extra-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,” said our tester.

_{Bed Type: Elevated | Dimensions: 30 x 42 x 7 inches (large) | Sizes: Small, medium,, large, x-large | Materials: Metal, mesh}

The VeeHoo Cooling Elevated Bed has a ventilated mesh center that’s kept seven inches from the ground (9 inches for the extra-large) by four steel legs with anti-slip rubber feet. The space underneath and the fabric allow for ventilation, which increases 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 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,” our tester said but 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.

_{Bed Type: Elevated | Dimensions: 22 x 17 x 7 inches (small) | Sizes: Small, medium, large, x-large | Materials: Mesh, powder-coated steel}

If you have a large and/or long doggo and want to keep them cool in your home, the Kuranda Standard PVC Dog Bed is the one to get. The elevated design can hold up to 100 pounds and offers orthopedic support by evenly distributing weight to remove pressure points on hips and joints.

“I recommend owners measure their dogs while they’re lying down in addition to considering their weight,” advised our tester. Their 50-pound dog fit comfortably on the large size, but the tester feels the extra-large would have been more appealing to their furry companion who loves to spread out while relaxing.

Throughout the testing period, their dog enjoyed digging, snacking, and playing on the cot-like bed, and our tester only noticed a few marks on the fabric. “I’m impressed by the quality of this dog bed. It’s extremely durable and well-fabricated,” they said.

Kuranda, the manufacturer, uses a patented woven fabric blend to stand up against chewing and offers a one-year chew-proof guarantee, The walnut frame version of this bed that we tested is recommended for indoor use only and can be wiped clean.

There is also an almond frame model that can be used indoors and outdoors. If your dog prefers a cozier spot to rest, a plush pad designed to fit the bed can be purchased separately.

_{Bed Type: Elevated | Dimensions: 40 x 25 x 7 inches (large) | Sizes: Toy, small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large | Materials: PVC (or aluminum) frame, stainless steel fasteners, mesh, nylon (or vinyl) surface}