7 Best Cooling Dog Beds for Large
As summer approaches, our furry friends are often concerned about the heat, even though we love the sunny weather. Dogs cannot sweat it off like we can â and sleeping on a thick, heavy winter cushion can make them feel trapped. As a pet parent, you should provide your dog with a breathable, supportive environment, and cooling dog bed is crucial to preventing heat exhaustion and joint discomfort during these hot months.
Finding the perfect summer cooling dog bed can be a challenge, especially if you need a dog bed waterproof enough to handle pool splashes, outdoor mud, or heavy drooling. Whether you are looking for standard cooling beds for dogs to place in your living room or specialized cool dog beds for large dogs, we have got you covered.
Here are the top 7 options available right now to help you find the perfect fit for your pup. Weâve compiled the ultimate list of the best cooling dog beds for large dogs and small pups, from elevated outdoor cots to pressure-activated pads.
Top Dog Cool Beds of 2026: A Quick Comparison
Best for Key FeatureMaterial Type1. Budget & Travel Ice Silk Summer MatsInstant Cooling SurfaceIce Silk & Breathable Mesh2. Raised Elevated Outdoor CotMaximum AirflowKeeps Dogs Off Hot FloorsHeavy-Duty Iron & Oxford Mesh3. Orthopedic Gel Sofa BedLarge Breeds & Joint SupportHigh-Density Gel FoamRemovable Corduroy & Foam4. Luxury Sherpa LoungerIndoor ComfortPremium Cushion with Cooling InsertPremium Velvet & Sherpa5. Pressure-Activated Gel PadQuick CoolingNo Water or Electricity NeededNon-Toxic Cooling Gel6. Washable Canvas CushionHeavy Shedders100% Machine Washable CoverBreathable Canvas & Cotton7. Waterproof Travel Pet MatCamping & Beach TripsWaterproof & Easy to PackWaterproof Oxford Cloth
Detailed Reviews: 7 Top Summer Cooling Dog Beds for Your Pet
1. The Ultimate Breathable Ice Silk Summer Mat
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If you are looking for an affordable, lightweight, and highly effective cool bed for dogs, this breathable ice silk mat is a lifesaver. It uses advanced cooling technology fabric that feels instantly cool to the touch.
Why itâs a top summer choice:Â The top layer is made of self-cooling ice silk fabric, while the back features a high-density breathable mesh that allows body heat to escape rapidly rather than getting trapped.
Pros:
Extremely lightweight, foldable, and travel-friendly.
Completely safe and chemical-free material.
Can be placed anywhere â on floors, kennels, or existing beds.
Cons:
It doesnât offer thick orthopedic padding on its own.
2. Heavy-Duty Raised Elevated Outdoor Dog Cot
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When it comes to pure airflow, nothing beats an elevated style. This is highly recommended as one of the best cool dog beds for large dogs who love spending time in the backyard or patio.
Why itâs a top summer choice:Â By lifting your pup several inches off the hot ground, this bed allows fresh air to circulate freely underneath them, providing 360-degree cooling through its heavy-duty, breathable mesh fabric.
Pros:
Sturdy iron frame that easily supports heavy dog breeds.
Keeps your dog away from hot patio stones, dirt, and bugs.
Extremely easy to hose down and clean within minutes.
Cons:
Requires a quick, simple assembly out of the box.
3. Orthopedic Cooling Gel Memory Foam Sofa Bed
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Senior dogs and heavy breeds often suffer from joint pain (arthritis), which can worsen in extreme summer heat. This premium sofa-style bed is arguably the best cooling dog bed for large dogs who need extra orthopedic care.
Why itâs a top summer choice:Â It features a base layer of medical-grade orthopedic foam infused with cooling gel particles. It molds perfectly to your dogâs body, relieving pressure points while pulling heat away from their skin.
Pros:
Three-sided bolstered corduroy rim serves as a perfect, secure headrest.
Non-slip bottom prevents the bed from sliding on hardwood or tile floors.
Removable, machine-washable zippered outer cover for easy hygiene.
Cons:
Takes a couple of hours to fully expand after unboxing.
4. Premium Villa Sherpa Lounger with Cooling Insert
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For pets that love the security of a traditional bolstered bed but still struggle with overheating, this luxury option is a fantastic summer cooling dog bed for indoor use.
Why itâs a top summer choice:Â This bed features a smart design with a plush corduroy outer rim for security, combined with a central sleeping area that can be paired with a cooling fabric insert to keep their core temperature low.
Pros:
Looks absolutely beautiful and luxurious in any modern living room.
Perfect for dogs that love to burrow or lean against a soft wall.
Highly durable stitch quality that resists light nesting and scratching.
Cons:
Might be too warm for outdoor use in direct midday sunlight.
5. Automatic Pressure-Activated Gel Cooling Pad
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This is one of the most popular cooling beds for dogs on the market because it requires absolutely no electricity, water, or refrigeration to stay icy cold.
Why itâs a top summer choice:Â This pad contains a non-toxic, pressure-activated gel that automatically starts absorbing your dogâs body heat the moment they lie down on it, lowering their temperature by up to 7â9 degrees instantly.
Pros:
Perfect for heavy panting dogs or double-coated breeds (like Huskies or Goldens).
Tough, wipe-clean surface makes maintenance and cleaning a breeze.
Highly portable for road trips and fits perfectly inside car crates.
Cons:
Not recommended for aggressive chewers who might puncture the outer shell.
6. Breathable Canvas Washable Summer Cushion
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Dogs tend to sweat, drool, and track dirt much more during the summer. If you want a mattress that stays fresh and acts as a semi-dog bed waterproof shield against light spills and drool, this canvas cushion is built for the job.
Why itâs a top summer choice:Â It is built using lightweight, high-woven canvas and cotton blends that do not retain sweat or body odors. The fabric naturally promotes ventilation to keep the sleeping surface crisp and dry.
Pros:
Highly scratch-resistant and bite-resistant fabric built to last.
The entire cover can be unzipped and tossed into the washing machine.
Quick-dry material prevents mold, mildew, and bacteria buildup.
Cons:
Offers firmer cushioning compared to ultra-plush memory foam beds.
7. Waterproof Foldable Outdoor Travel Pet Mat
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Are you planning a beach trip, a pool day, or a weekend camping getaway with your pup? This is the ultimate dog bed waterproof solution that ensures your dog has a clean, dry, and cool spot to rest wherever you go.
Why itâs a top summer choice: Made from premium waterproof Oxford cloth, this mat repels water, sand, and grass. It prevents the heat from the hot ground or beach sand from transferring to your dog, making it an essential cooling dog bed for travel.
Pros:
Folds tightly into a compact size with a convenient carrying handle.
Completely waterproof, mud-resistant, and sand-proof.
Great for outdoor use near swimming pools or lakes.
Cons:
Thin padding, designed primarily for outdoor portability rather than daily indoor sleep.
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Summer Dog Bed Buying Guide: What to Look For
Before hitting that buy button, keep these three key factors in mind to pick the perfect summer bed for your specific dog:
Material Ventilation:Â Look for materials like Ice Silk, Oxford Mesh, or canvas. Avoid heavy faux fur, thick fleece, or micro-suede during June, July, and August.
Your Dogâs Sleeping Style:Â If your dog loves to stretch out completely, an elevated cot or flat gel mat is ideal. If they prefer curling up or need a headrest, go for a bolstered orthopedic sofa bed.
Waterproof Capabilities: If your dog loves swimming or drools heavily during hot days, getting a dedicated dog bed waterproof option (like Oxford cloth) will save you from bad odors and mold buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do cooling beds for dogs actually work?
Ans:Â Yes! Pressure-activated gel mats and ice silk fabrics work by absorbing and dissipating your dogâs body heat. Elevated cots work differently by utilizing natural airflow to keep the dogâs underside cool. Both methods are scientifically proven to lower a dogâs core temperature.
Q2: How do I know if my dog is overheating in the summer?
Ans: Heavy panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, bright red gums, and seeking out cold tile floors are clear signs that your dog is too hot. Introducing a summer cooling dog bed can significantly reduce these symptoms.
Q3: What is the best cooling dog bed for large dogs who love the outdoors?
Ans:Â For large outdoor dogs, an elevated dog cot is the best choice. It supports heavy weights, keeps them off the hot pavement, and cannot be easily destroyed by scratching.
