Best Dog Beds for Australian Kelpies: Cooling & Outdoor-Ready

Key Takeaways

• Australian Kelpies are athletic, short-coated, and highly active, so the best bed is usually durable, supportive, and easy to clean, not simply “soft”. The Australian Kelpie breed standard describes an “almost inexhaustible energy” and a short, weather-resistant coat, which influences both joint support and temperature management needs. 
• For Australian conditions, many Kelpies do best with a two-bed approach: an orthopaedic indoor bed for recovery and joint protection, plus a raised outdoor-ready bed for airflow and hygiene.
• Cooling is about airflow and moisture control as much as temperature. Raised mesh beds and breathable covers can reduce heat build-up. Gel cooling mats can help, but they must be used safely—particularly with dogs that chew.
• In warm or humid parts of Australia, bed hygiene is health management. RSPCA guidance emphasises bedding should be cleaned regularly, and hot washing can help manage allergens and parasites. 
• For adult Kelpies (commonly around 13–19 kg), owners should prioritise supportive foam that doesn’t “bottom out” and covers that can be properly washed and fully dried, especially if the bed will be used in verandah, laundry, or outdoor areas.

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Introduction

Australian Kelpies are admired for their intelligence, stamina, and resilience. They are also a breed with very practical preferences: they want to be close to the household, they want to be comfortable enough to recover from hard exercise, and they want a resting place that does not trap heat—particularly in Australian summers.

A dog bed for a Kelpie is not a decorative purchase. It is part of daily recovery, skin and coat health, parasite management, and long-term joint comfort. Kelpies often spend their day alternating between bursts of activity and “switching off” quickly when they finally rest. A poor bed can lead to avoidable problems: pressure points on elbows, poor sleep quality, overheating, odours that never fully leave the fabric, and a bed that is shredded within weeks.

This guide focuses on cooling and outdoor-ready dog beds for Australian Kelpies, with detailed advice for choosing materials, sizing, bed styles, and care routines. It is written for Australian dog owners who want practical decisions they can live with for years, not just a short-term fix.

Understanding the Australian Kelpie: Why Bedding Needs Are Different

A Kelpie’s bedding needs are shaped by three factors that are not always obvious when shopping online: their coat and body structure, their behavioural tendencies, and the conditions they live in.

Coat, pressure points, and comfort

The Australian Kelpie is described as having a short, weather-resistant coat with a close outer coat and undercoat. This coat is practical for working conditions but provides less “built-in cushioning” than heavy-coated breeds.

For bedding, this often translates to:

• Greater sensitivity to hard surfaces (tiles, concrete, decking)
• Higher risk of elbow calluses and pressure points, especially for dogs that sprawl on their side
• A preference for beds that are supportive and stable rather than overly plush

High activity and the need for recovery

Kelpies are regularly described as high-energy working dogs. The breed standard includes “almost inexhaustible energy” and “capability of untiring work.” 

Even pet Kelpies that do not herd livestock often live an “active dog” lifestyle: running, agility, beach walks, ball chasing, hiking, or long lead runs. These activities place repeated load through shoulders, hips, elbows, and wrists.

A quality bed can support recovery by:

• Reducing pressure on joints during rest
• Helping muscles relax (especially after exercise)
• Providing insulation from cold floors in winter (important for stiffness)

Heat, humidity, and Australian outdoor living

Many Kelpie households have a strong indoor–outdoor routine: dogs spend time on verandahs, in backyards, or in garages and laundries. In Australia, the combination of heat, UV exposure, dust, and humidity means a “normal” indoor bed can degrade quickly and become a hygiene problem.

The ideal Kelpie bed set-up tends to emphasise:

• Breathability (to prevent heat build-up)
• Quick drying (to prevent mould and odour)
• Durable covers and stitching (to cope with digging and turning)
• Easy cleaning (to manage dust, pollen, parasites, and outdoor dirt)

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Cooling vs Comfort: What “Cooling” Really Means for Kelpies

Cooling beds are often misunderstood. Many owners picture a “cold” surface. In reality, for most dogs in Australian homes, cooling success is a combination of airflow, moisture control, and not trapping body heat.

A Kelpie may not need an icy bed to be comfortable. They often need a bed that:

• Does not hold heat like thick plush fibre fill
• Allows air to circulate (especially under the body)
• Remains dry and clean, because dampness and heat together increase odour and skin irritation

The practical cooling hierarchy (most reliable first)

1. Shade + airflow + hydration (environmental cooling)
2. Raised bed (mesh/cot style) to improve airflow
3. Breathable, low-pile cover fabrics that do not trap heat
4. Cooling layers (gel mats or gel-infused foam), used safely

When cooling can compromise comfort

Some cooling products are thin. A thin cooling mat on hard tiles may feel cool, but it can be poor for joint support, particularly for:

• older Kelpies
• dogs with stiffness after exercise
• dogs recovering from injury

For these dogs, cooling is best achieved by pairing:

• an orthopaedic base (support) with
• a cooling top layer (temperature management)

Outdoor-Ready Beds: Materials That Handle Australian Conditions

Outdoor-ready does not mean “indestructible”. It means the bed can cope with common Australian realities: heat, UV, dust, damp, and occasional rain. It also means the bed can be cleaned properly.

What “outdoor-ready” should include

• Materials that resist UV damage and cracking
• Surfaces that resist mould and mildew when used under cover
• Frames that resist rust, especially in coastal areas
• Design that avoids water pooling and allows fast drying

Common material choices (and what they mean)

• Raised mesh (often HDPE/PVC-coated mesh): good airflow, easy to wipe, quick drying.
• Outdoor canvas-style covers: often tougher and more breathable than plush fabric, but quality varies.
• Waterproof covers: useful for damp dogs and accidents, but truly waterproof outer covers can trap condensation unless well designed.

A practical note on “waterproof” claims

In outdoor settings, the biggest issue is not just rain. It is dampness that doesn’t dry—from dew, humid nights, wet coats, and splash-back. If a bed cover is fully waterproof and non-breathable, moisture can become trapped and odour may build.

For many Kelpie households, the most workable option is:

• a durable, breathable outer cover, plus
• a water-resistant inner liner protecting the foam

The Main Types of Dog Beds (And How They Suit Kelpies)

Choosing a bed type is about matching the dog’s needs and the household reality. Many owners benefit from choosing a primary bed for night sleep and a secondary option for daytime cooling.

Orthopaedic foam beds (support-focused)

Best for: adult and senior Kelpies, dogs who sleep indoors, dogs with stiffness, dogs who spend time on hard floors.

A true orthopaedic bed is designed to support joints and distribute pressure. In practical terms, it should not compress so much that hips and shoulders press onto the floor.

What to look for (Kelpie-specific):

• a supportive foam base that holds shape
• sufficient thickness for a medium dog
• washable cover and preferably a liner
• breathable fabric to reduce heat retention

Watch-outs:

• low-density foam marketed as “orthopaedic” but compresses quickly
• thick plush covers that trap heat in summer

Raised (cot-style) beds (cooling and outdoor-ready)

Best for: verandahs, shaded outdoor areas, warm climates, dogs that overheat, homes with flea/dust issues.

Raised beds encourage airflow under the dog and keep them off hot or damp surfaces. This style is commonly chosen in warmer environments because it manages heat and hygiene well.

What to look for:

• stable frame (does not wobble)
• strong mesh that resists sagging
• grippy feet for tiles or decking
• sizing that allows the dog to fully stretch

Watch-outs:

• older dogs with mobility issues may need a lower height
• very active Kelpies may treat it like agility equipment; stability matters

Bolster beds (security and head support)

Best for: Kelpies that like to lean, curl, or rest their head elevated.

Bolsters can support the neck and provide a “boundary” that some dogs find calming. They suit Kelpies that like to watch the household from a resting position.

Watch-outs:

• bolsters can trap heat in hot conditions
• bolsters can be a chewing target if the dog is bored

Cooling gel mats and gel-infused beds (temperature-focused)

Best for: supervised use, non-chewers, extra cooling during heatwaves, dogs that refuse thick bedding.

Cooling gels can be effective, but safety matters. As a general rule, gel products are not the first choice for a Kelpie that chews bedding or digs.

Practical safety guidance:

• supervise early use
• remove if the dog bites or tears it
• if punctured and ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly

Crate mats (containment and routine)

Best for: crate-trained Kelpies, travel, car crates, structured household routines.

Crate mats should fit the crate base properly to avoid bunching. For Kelpies, durability and washability matter because crate mats can be heavily used.

How to Choose the Right Size Bed for an Australian Kelpie

Sizing is not only about weight. It is about the dog’s length, sleeping style, and whether the bed has bolsters.

The practical measuring method

• Measure your dog from nose to base of tail.
• Measure across the widest point (usually shoulders).
• Add 10–25 cm to length and width to allow relaxed stretching.

Manufacturers commonly recommend adding a margin and sizing up when in doubt. For example, raised bed sizing guidance often uses a dog’s length plus extra allowance to select a bed size. (Sizing methods vary by manufacturer, so always compare your dog’s measurements to the specific product dimensions.)

Typical Kelpie sizing realities

Many adult Kelpies sit in the “medium” weight range, but they are often long enough to benefit from a bed size many owners would call “large”. A bed that is too small encourages curled sleeping, which can be fine, but it should be a choice—not a constraint.

A sizing guide table (Kelpie-oriented)

Kelpie profile	Common sleeping style	Suggested internal bed length	Notes
Young adult, high activity	Sprawl + quick naps	Dog length + 15–25 cm	Prioritise durable cover and stable base
Adult, moderate activity	Mix of curl and sprawl	Dog length + 10–20 cm	Consider removable cooling layer in summer
Senior or stiff after exercise	Side sleeping, slower rise	Dog length + 20–25 cm	Thicker orthopaedic base helps prevent “bottoming out”
Anxious or “leaner”	Curl + head on edge	Dog length + 10–20 cm	Bolster can help; ensure breathable fabric

What to Look For in a Kelpie Bed: A Detailed Buyer’s Checklist

Owners often shop based on a single feature: “cooling”, “orthopaedic”, or “chew-proof”. For Kelpies, it is usually the combination that matters.

Support and foam construction

A bed that looks thick is not necessarily supportive. The simplest real-world test is whether the dog’s hips sink so far that the floor can be felt.

Better support usually comes from:

• higher-density foam base
• multi-layer design (firm base + pressure-relief top)
• adequate thickness for a medium dog

Signs the bed may be under-supportive:

• the dog frequently relocates to hard floors
• the bed shows permanent hollows quickly
• the dog is stiff rising from the bed (though this can also indicate underlying joint issues)

Cooling performance in real homes

Cooling features that tend to work consistently:

• raised airflow (cot beds)
• breathable covers
• lower pile fabrics that do not trap warmth

Cooling features that can work but require care:

• gel mats and gel-infused layers (supervision for chewers)

Durability and “Kelpie-proofing”

Kelpies can be enthusiastic diggers and “nest builders”. This does not mean the dog is misbehaving; it is normal comfort behaviour.

Durability markers:

• strong stitching and reinforced seams
• tough outer fabrics (canvas-style or upholstery-grade)
• hidden zippers or protected closures
• removable covers so you can clean without destroying the bed

Washability and drying time

In Australia, drying time is as important as washing. A bed that cannot dry properly becomes a long-term odour source.

Prefer:

• removable cover that fits standard washing machines
• materials that air dry quickly or tolerate tumble drying
• inner liners that protect foam

Non-slip base and household safety

Kelpies can launch themselves onto beds at speed. On tiles or polished floors, a sliding bed can create a fall risk.

Look for:

• non-slip base material
• heavier beds that stay put, or rubberised feet on raised beds

Cooling and Outdoor Set-Ups That Work in Australian Homes

A Kelpie’s ideal resting set-up often depends on where the dog spends the hottest hours of the day.

Scenario 1: Indoor sleeper, hot summers

A practical arrangement:

• main orthopaedic bed in a well-ventilated room
• optional cooling mat placed on top during heatwaves (removed when not needed)
• access to a cooler floor area (tile) so the dog can self-regulate

What owners often miss: even a cooling product cannot compensate for a room with poor airflow. Fans, shade, and a cooler sleeping location are fundamental.

Scenario 2: Verandah/daytime outdoor rest

A practical arrangement:

• raised bed in full shade, preferably with airflow and not against a heat-reflecting wall
• washable top layer or thin pad used only in cooler months

A raised bed is particularly helpful on concrete and decking because it reduces heat transfer from the surface.

Scenario 3: Coastal humidity and mould risk

A practical arrangement:

• avoid thick fibre-fill beds outdoors
• prioritise raised beds or quick-dry materials
• rotate covers and allow full drying between uses

In these conditions, the “best” bed is often the one you can clean and dry reliably.

Cleaning and Hygiene: Keeping a Kelpie Bed Healthy in Australia

Dog bedding is a major reservoir for hair, dander, dust, and parasites. Regular cleaning is not only about smell; it reduces skin irritation risks and supports general household hygiene.

RSPCA guidance includes using washable bedding and cleaning it regularly as part of basic dog care. 

A practical cleaning schedule

For most Kelpie households:

• Weekly: wash covers and blankets used as bedding
• Weekly: vacuum the bed surface and the surrounding floor area
• Monthly (or as needed): wipe down liners, wash inserts if designed for it

During periods of heavy pollen, high humidity, or parasite pressure, increase frequency.

Washing tips that reduce odour and irritation

• Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent if your dog has sensitive skin.
• Ensure thorough rinsing.
• Dry completely before re-use. In humid areas, sun drying can be particularly helpful.

Outdoor bed maintenance

For raised outdoor beds:

• wipe or hose down regularly
• check fabric tension and frame integrity
• keep the bed in shade and under cover when possible

When to replace a bed

Replace bedding if:

• foam remains compressed and no longer supports the dog
• there is persistent odour that does not resolve after washing and drying
• mould is visible or musty smell persists inside foam
• seams split and filling is exposed (risk of ingestion)

Senior Kelpies and Orthopaedic Considerations

Not every Kelpie is a senior, but many owners notice stiffness earlier than expected due to the breed’s athletic lifestyle. A bed choice can complement veterinary care by supporting rest and reducing pressure points.

Signs your Kelpie may benefit from a more supportive bed

• reluctance to jump up or down
• stiffness after sleep
• slower rising from rest
• preference for thicker rugs or couches over their bed

These signs should be discussed with a veterinarian, particularly if they appear suddenly, but upgrading bedding is often a sensible supportive step.

Cooling for seniors: balancing temperature and support

Older dogs can be heat sensitive, but they also need joint cushioning. The most practical solution is often:

• supportive orthopaedic base
• removable cooling layer for summer
• breathable cover rather than thick fleece

Puppies and Young Kelpies: Training, Chewing, and Safe Bedding

Young Kelpies often chew, dig, and “test” bedding. This can be normal exploration and a sign of under-stimulation, but it also creates a safety and durability challenge.

Safer bedding choices for chewers

• raised beds with strong mesh (supervised, and with stable frames)
• tough, tightly woven covers
• minimal loose fill that can be pulled out and swallowed

Crate bedding for Kelpies

Crate mats should fit the crate base properly and should be easy to wash. Avoid thick, stuffed beds in crates for strong chewers until you are confident the dog will not shred and ingest materials.

Recommended Related Products from PetCareShed

The following product categories are commonly relevant for Kelpie households seeking cooling and outdoor-ready sleep options. Selection should be matched to your dog’s size, chewing tendencies, and whether the bed will live indoors, outdoors, or both.

• Orthopaedic foam dog bed (washable cover)
• Useful for indoor sleeping and recovery after exercise.
• Best when paired with breathable fabric and a water-resistant inner liner.
• Raised outdoor dog bed (mesh/cot style)
• Supports airflow in warm weather and is practical for verandahs and shaded outdoor spaces.
• Helpful for keeping dogs off hot concrete and reducing dampness contact.
• Cooling mat (gel or pressure-activated cooling pad)
• Most appropriate for supervised use, especially for non-chewers.
• Often works best as a removable layer placed on top of a supportive bed.
• Water-resistant dog bed liner or protector
• Helps protect foam from damp coats, spills, and accidents.
• Particularly relevant for dogs that move between outdoors and indoors.
• Grooming brush and deshedding tool (Kelpie-suitable)
• Regular grooming reduces hair build-up in bedding and supports hygiene.
• Non-slip dog mat
• Useful under beds on tiles or floorboards to reduce sliding and improve stability.

Common Mistakes When Buying a Kelpie Bed (And How to Avoid Them)

Mistake 1: Buying the softest bed and calling it “comfort”

For Kelpies, comfort is often stability and support. A bed that collapses can feel “cosy” briefly, but it may not protect joints and can trap heat.

Better approach: prioritise supportive foam or stable raised surfaces.

Mistake 2: Overheating with plush fabrics

Thick faux-fur and heavy fleece can be too warm in many Australian homes.

Better approach: choose breathable covers and add warmth seasonally with a removable blanket.

Mistake 3: Assuming outdoor use means “leave it anywhere”

Beds placed in sun or on damp ground degrade quickly and can become unsafe.

Better approach: place outdoor beds in shade, under cover, and off damp surfaces.

Mistake 4: Underestimating cleaning needs

A bed that cannot be washed and dried properly will eventually smell and may irritate skin.

Better approach: choose removable covers, practical fabrics, and a routine.

Mistake 5: Ignoring the dog’s sleeping style

Some Kelpies sprawl, others curl. Some lean, others move all night.

Better approach: measure your dog and observe their natural sleep posture for a week before choosing a final bed style.

A Practical “Best Bed” Framework for Kelpies (Not a One-Size Answer)

Rather than naming a single “best bed”, it is more accurate—and more useful—to choose the best combination based on your environment.

If your priority is cooling in summer

• raised mesh bed in shade
• breathable cover
• optional cooling mat (supervised)

If your priority is joint support and recovery

• orthopaedic foam bed with adequate thickness
• washable cover and liner
• non-slip base for stability

If your priority is outdoor durability

• raised bed with rust-resistant frame
• UV-resistant fabric
• easy hose-down maintenance

If your Kelpie is a chewer

• avoid gel mats and loose-fill beds unsupervised
• choose tough covers and minimal exposed seams
• consider raised beds and structured resting routines

FAQ: Best Dog Beds for Australian Kelpies (Cooling & Outdoor-Ready)

What type of bed is best for an Australian Kelpie?

Most Kelpies do well with two complementary options: an orthopaedic bed indoors for support and recovery, and a raised outdoor-ready bed for cooling airflow and hygiene in shaded outdoor areas. This approach matches the Kelpie’s high activity level and Australian climate realities.

Do Kelpies overheat easily?

Kelpies are generally more heat-tolerant than heavy-coated or flat-faced breeds, but they can still overheat, particularly after exercise, in humid weather, or when resting on heat-retaining surfaces. A bed that improves airflow (such as a raised mesh bed) and a cool resting area can make a meaningful difference.

Are cooling gel mats safe for Kelpies?

Cooling gel mats can be suitable if your Kelpie does not chew bedding and you supervise initial use. If the mat is punctured, remove it immediately. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly, as swallowing plastic or gel materials can cause gastrointestinal upset or obstruction.

Is a raised bed better than a padded bed for hot weather?

Often, yes. Raised beds typically provide more reliable cooling because they allow airflow under the dog and reduce heat transfer from hot ground or decking. Many owners still keep a padded orthopaedic bed indoors for joint support and use the raised bed for daytime rest.

What is the best bed material for outdoor use in Australia?

For outdoor or verandah use, look for:

• rust-resistant frames (important in coastal areas)
• UV-resistant, quick-dry mesh
• a design that is easy to wipe or hose down

Outdoor durability is strongly influenced by placement—shade and cover matter as much as materials.

How often should I wash my Kelpie’s bed?

As a practical baseline, wash removable covers weekly and vacuum around the sleeping area weekly. RSPCA guidance highlights the importance of regularly cleaning bedding as part of basic dog care. 

Increase washing frequency during humid periods, high-shedding times, or when managing flea issues.

My Kelpie prefers the tiles. Should I stop using a bed?

Not necessarily. Many Kelpies choose tiles because they are cooler. Instead of removing the bed, provide both options:

• a supportive bed in a ventilated spot
• access to a cool floor area

A breathable bed or raised bed can also reduce the tendency to avoid bedding due to warmth.

What size bed does an adult Kelpie need?

Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and add 10–25 cm to allow relaxed stretching. Many Kelpies benefit from a bed length that owners might label “large”, even if the dog’s weight suggests “medium”. Always compare measurements to the bed’s internal sleeping area, especially for bolster beds.

Are bolster beds good for Kelpies?

They can be, particularly for Kelpies that like to lean or rest their head elevated. For hot climates, choose bolsters with breathable fabric and consider offering an alternative flat or raised cooling option.

What bed is best for a Kelpie puppy?

For puppies, prioritise:

• washability
• durable fabric
• minimal loose fill

If the puppy chews, avoid gel mats and fluffy beds unsupervised. Crate mats should fit the crate base properly and be tough enough to withstand digging.

Can the wrong bed cause joint problems?

A bed will not “cause” hip dysplasia, but an under-supportive bed can worsen comfort by increasing pressure on joints and reducing sleep quality, especially in active or older dogs. A supportive bed is a sensible part of general care, alongside appropriate exercise, weight management, and veterinary advice.

What is the best bed for a Kelpie that lives mostly outdoors?

A raised outdoor bed in shade is usually the most practical base. Choose a stable frame, UV-resistant mesh, and a design that can be cleaned easily. If your Kelpie sleeps outdoors overnight, ensure the overall sleeping area is dry, sheltered, well ventilated, and appropriate for the season.

Do I need a waterproof bed for my Kelpie?

A fully waterproof outer cover is not always ideal because it can trap condensation. Many households do better with a water-resistant inner liner plus a durable, breathable outer cover that can be washed. This combination protects foam while still allowing better airflow.

My Kelpie destroys beds. What should I do?

Start with a safety-first approach:

• avoid loose-fill beds that can be ripped open
• choose tougher cover materials and reinforced seams
• consider a raised bed with strong mesh
• increase enrichment and structured rest routines

Persistent destructive behaviour can also be linked to boredom or anxiety; a veterinarian or qualified trainer can help assess underlying causes.

How do I keep an outdoor bed from getting mouldy?

• place it under cover, in shade
• keep it off damp ground
• choose quick-dry materials
• clean regularly and allow complete drying

In humid areas, rotating between two covers can help ensure one is always fully dry.

Should I buy one expensive bed or two simpler beds?

For many Kelpie households, two appropriate beds (supportive indoor + raised outdoor) provide better real-world outcomes than one “premium” bed that does not suit every condition. The best choice depends on your climate, where the dog rests, and whether the dog chews.

When should I talk to a veterinarian about bedding?

Seek veterinary advice if your Kelpie:

• shows sudden stiffness, limping, or reluctance to exercise
• struggles to rise after sleeping
• has ongoing skin irritation that may be linked to bedding
• has repeated overheating episodes

Bedding is supportive care, but persistent symptoms should be assessed medically.