Now that summer is here and it’s getting hot outside, we have to pay special attention to our four-legged friends—you know, the ones who can’t escape their thick fur regardless of the humidity outside.

Luckily there are plenty of new and improved cooling beds for dogs that help give them relief during the hottest of days. A cooling bed is usually filled with either gel or water and works best when kept out of direct sunlight. Most dogs will take a few days to get used to the pad.

Really effective cooling pads are often made of nylon fabric because it holds up to wear and tear while staying breathable.

This solid-gel mat from Arf Pets is self-charging, which makes it easy to use. It’s also weight-activated so it responds to your pup’s body heat for up to three hours. Nontoxic, lightweight and durable – it’s no wonder this is the go-to cooling pad for many pet owners.

Another popular, Green Pet Shop’s self-cooling pet pad, this pad is also weight- or pressure-activated with coolness that lasts up to four hours.

This highly portable pad makes it the perfect accessory to take along for that family trip to the beach, or even long car trips. They’ll love you for it.

This pad keeps canines cool by using actual H2O. The K & H Cool Bed has a “cool core” inside the bed absorbs your dog’s body temperature and then converts it to room temperature, creating a cooler surface for your dog to enjoy.

Dogs love these pads, but humans beware, because they use water, they’re a bit heavier than their gel counterparts and not as transportable.

This affordable cooling bed made by Coleman stays five to ten degrees cooler than room temperature. Perfect for using alone or in a pet carrier, this bed is also tough enough to deal with those unruly dog nails.

The Chillz Cooling Pad comes in three different sizes, so you’re bound to find a size that suits your dog. Made from comfy (yet durable) material, this cooling bed is not just for hot dogs – it’s also perfect for older animals, or those dealing with joint pain or recovering from surgery.


The Kingstar Pet Chilly Gel Mat is a relatively inexpensive option gets extra chilly for your four-legged friend if you pop it in the freezer for 15 minutes. It’s easy to fold and take along on adventures, and your dog will appreciate a refreshing space of their own to relax.

This cooling pad is made by the American Kennel Club and can be used inside or outside. It’s also perfect for traveling since it’s easy to fold, water resistant and dirt repellent. For the best (most cooling!) results for your dog, try to avoid keeping it in direct sunlight.

Finally, the Whalek Pressure Activated Cooling Mat is a favorite among dog owners. This cooling pet bed fits on dog beds, car seats, couches and more. It “cools down” in response to the pressure of your dog’s body, and only takes about a half an hour to recharge after use.