Key Takeaways
- Cooling works best when it matches how dogs lose heat: airflow (convection), contact with cooler surfaces (conduction), and evaporation. Dogs mainly cool themselves through panting and evaporation, supported by vasodilation and contact with cooler surfaces, but their cooling can fail quickly in heat and humidity.
- The “best” summer bed is usually not the softest one. In Australian summer conditions, prioritise breathable covers, low heat retention fillings, and airflow under/around the body.
- Raised (elevated) beds are consistently effective for many dogs because they reduce heat build-up and allow air circulation underneath—particularly useful on hot decking, tiles, or outdoor shaded areas.
- Gel cooling mats can work, but they are not low-risk for all households. If your dog chews, punctures, or ingests parts of a gel mat, gastrointestinal problems (including obstruction) are possible. Supervision and regular inspection are essential.
- Evaporative cooling products work best in dry heat, not humid heat. In high humidity, evaporation slows and cooling performance drops—important for many coastal Australian locations.
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds need extra caution. RSPCA notes many brachycephalic dogs have increased risk of heat-related illness, which can be life-threatening.
- A cooling bed is not a heatstroke prevention plan. RSPCA Australia describes heatstroke as a life-threatening emergency. Know the signs and act quickly with safe cooling and urgent veterinary care.
Recommended by PetCareShed: Smart Choices for Every Dog Owner
Introduction
Australian summers place unique pressure on dogs’ comfort and safety. Many parts of Australia experience extended hot spells, and heatwaves can arrive suddenly and persist for days. Even in coastal cities where sea breezes moderate temperatures, humidity can make heat feel heavier and limit how effectively dogs cool themselves.
Dog beds are often chosen for softness, aesthetics, and winter warmth. In summer, those same choices can backfire. Thick foam, plush “teddy” fabrics, and tightly upholstered bolsters can trap heat, reduce airflow, and encourage dogs to abandon the bed for the bathroom tiles, the hallway, or the coolest patch of floor they can find.
This guide explains which cooling options actually work in Australian conditions, why they work, and how to choose a summer bed that is comfortable without compromising safety. It also covers common pitfalls—such as chew risks, cleaning challenges, and humidity limitations—so that the bed you choose is practical for real homes with real dogs.
Important: Any dog can overheat. If you suspect heat stress or heatstroke, treat it as urgent. RSPCA Australia advises applying tepid/cool water and seeking veterinary help immediately.
Understanding Summer Heat Risk for Dogs in Australia
Heat risk is not limited to “extreme” days. Dogs can struggle on mild-to-warm days, particularly when they are excited, exercising, travelling, or unable to access shade and airflow. Some dogs—older dogs, overweight dogs, thick-coated dogs, and brachycephalic breeds—have narrower safety margins and may overheat sooner.
RSPCA Australia describes heatstroke as a life-threatening emergency and lists signs such as relentless panting, drooling, vomiting/diarrhoea, weakness, collapse, and seizures. These signs can appear quickly, particularly if a dog is confined in a hot environment.
Why Australian summer is different
Australian homes and lifestyles often involve:
- Hot outdoor surfaces (pavers, concrete, decking, sand) that radiate heat into the dog’s body when they lie down.
- Variable humidity—dry heat inland versus humid heat along many coastal corridors.
- Heatwaves and warm nights, which can reduce recovery time because the home may not cool down overnight.
- Indoor temperature challenges in older homes, rental properties, and high-rise apartments with limited cross-ventilation.
Veterinary advice commonly suggests most dogs are more comfortable below the mid-to-high 20s °C indoors, with heat stress risk rising above ~30°C; sources frequently recommend bringing pets into cooler, ventilated indoor areas and using air conditioning or fans during hotter weather.
High-risk dogs: brachycephalic breeds and heat
Brachycephalic dogs (short-nosed breeds) often have reduced airway efficiency and may struggle to cool themselves with panting. RSPCA Australia notes many brachycephalic dogs have an increased risk of heat-related illness, which can have life-threatening consequences.
For these dogs, a “cool bed” should be treated as one layer of a broader plan: climate control, careful exercise scheduling, shade and hydration, and close monitoring.
Because Every Dog Deserves the Best — from PetCareShed
How Dogs Cool Down (and What That Means for Dog Beds)
Choosing a summer bed becomes simpler when you understand how dogs lose heat.
Dogs primarily cool themselves through panting, which drives evaporation of moisture from the tongue and upper airways. They also use vasodilation (increasing blood flow near the skin), and they lose heat through conduction when lying on cooler surfaces.
A bed can help—or hinder—these mechanisms.
The four main heat transfer pathways
1) Conduction (contact cooling)
- Heat moves from the dog’s body into a cooler surface.
- A bed helps if its surface stays cooler than the dog and does not quickly become heat-soaked.
2) Convection (airflow cooling)
- Moving air carries heat away from the body.
- A bed helps if it allows air to circulate around the dog, especially under the belly and along the sides.
3) Evaporation (moisture-based cooling)
- Moisture turning into vapour takes heat with it.
- Beds can support this indirectly by keeping the dog’s coat dry and allowing airflow. Evaporative cooling products (like wettable cooling mats) use this mechanism directly.
4) Radiation (heat emitted into the environment)
- Works best when the surrounding air and surfaces are cooler.
- Thick plush beds can reduce radiative heat loss by trapping warm air.
Practical implication: why “plush” often overheats
Many traditional beds use:
- Dense foam layers
- Polyester-fill bolsters
- Fleece or faux-fur covers
These materials tend to trap warm air and slow heat loss. They may feel comforting in winter, but in summer they can lead to restless sleep, bed avoidance, and dogs seeking tiles, wet areas, or dug-out ground outside.
What Makes a Dog Bed “Cooling” in Real-World Australian Conditions?
“Cooling” is a popular label, but performance varies. A bed that feels cool to your hand in an air-conditioned showroom may not work on a 32°C evening in a warm home. The goal is not a magic temperature drop—it is reduced heat build-up and faster heat escape.
A cooling summer bed typically relies on one (or more) of the following design principles:
- Breathable, low-pile cover fabrics (promote airflow, reduce insulation)
- Air space under the body (raised beds, mesh platforms)
- Low heat-retention fillings (or thinner profiles)
- Thermal conductivity at the surface (cool-touch fabrics, certain gels, water-based designs)
- Moisture management (wicking or evaporative layers)
A simple “cooling credibility” checklist
Before buying, assess the bed with these questions:
- Does it allow air movement under or around the dog?
- Is the cover low pile and breathable, or thick and insulating?
- Does the bed have a washable cover, given summer sweating, drool, and outdoor debris?
- If it uses gel or special inserts, is it protected from chewing and easy to inspect?
- Will it still work when the room is warm and humid, not just when the room is cool?
Cooling Dog Bed Types That Actually Work (Pros, Cons, and Best Use Cases)
This section breaks down the main cooling options available to Australian households, including the realities owners often discover after purchase.
Elevated (Raised) Mesh Dog Beds
Elevated beds (sometimes called cooling cots) are among the most consistently effective summer options. Their key advantage is straightforward: they lift the dog off heat-radiating surfaces and allow airflow underneath, improving convective cooling. Sources describing raised beds highlight improved air circulation and cooling benefits, particularly in warm climates.
Why they work in Australia
- On hot decking or concrete, elevation reduces heat transfer from the ground.
- In shaded outdoor areas, airflow under the bed helps the dog cool more effectively.
- Indoors, they can reduce “heat soak” compared with thick foam beds.
Best for
- Dogs that run warm and prefer firmer surfaces
- Households with warm floors and limited air conditioning
- Outdoor supervised rest areas under shade
Potential drawbacks
- Some older dogs may prefer more cushioning, especially with arthritis.
- Very small dogs may find tall frames less accessible.
- In strong direct sun, the surface can still heat up; shade remains essential.
Practical summer tip
Place the elevated bed where it can benefit from natural airflow (near a safe cross-breeze, or where a fan’s airflow passes over and under the sleeping surface). This supports convection without needing the bed to “create” cold.
Cooling Mats (Gel, Water-Filled, or Multi-Layer)
Cooling mats are popular because they are lightweight, portable, and easy to place on top of existing bedding, tiles, or crate floors.
Gel-based cooling mats
Gel mats are often marketed as “self-cooling” through pressure-activated gel that absorbs body heat. They can feel cool initially and provide short-term relief for many dogs.
However, safety and durability must be taken seriously. Animal PoisonLine discusses the risk that if the mat is punctured or chewed, ingestion of gel and cover materials may cause illness, including gastrointestinal obstruction.
Best for
- Calm adult dogs who do not chew bedding
- Short supervised sessions (e.g., after a walk)
- Use inside a crate only if chewing risk is low and the dog is monitored
Not ideal for
- Puppies in the chewing phase
- Dogs with anxiety-related chewing
- Dogs that dig, nest, or “attack” bedding
Owner checks that matter
- Inspect seams and corners weekly
- Look for puncture marks from nails
- Replace immediately if leaking or torn
Water-filled cooling mats
Water-filled mats can provide effective conduction cooling because water has high heat capacity. They tend to cool more evenly over time than gel, but they require careful filling, leak checks, and cleaning. For some households, the maintenance is worth it; for others, it becomes inconvenient.
Considerations
- A leak can damage flooring or crate trays.
- The mat can feel heavy when filled.
- Hygiene is important—stagnant water and warm temperatures do not mix.
“Cooling fabric” mats (non-gel)
Some mats rely on breathable, cool-touch fabrics that reduce heat build-up. They are generally lower risk and easier to wash than gel, though the cooling effect is subtler.
Orthopaedic Summer Beds (Support + Cooling Design)
A common misconception is that an orthopaedic bed must be thick, plush, and warm. In reality, orthopaedic support and summer cooling can coexist if the design avoids heavy insulation.
Orthopaedic beds aim to distribute pressure more evenly, reducing stress on joints and pressure points. This is often valuable for senior dogs and large breeds, and it can improve rest quality.
What makes an orthopaedic bed suitable for summer
- A breathable cover (cotton-blend, canvas, mesh-knit) rather than faux-fur
- A removable, washable cover, since summer sweat and oils can build up
- A supportive but not overly heat-retentive foam (and not excessively thick for your climate)
- Optional pairing with a cooling mat topper for peak-heat days
When to choose orthopaedic-first
If your dog has arthritis, hip dysplasia, recovering from surgery, or struggles to stand after rest, prioritise supportive structure first and then add cooling strategies around it (ventilation, fans, cool room placement).
Evaporative Cooling Mats and Covers (Wet-to-Activate)
Evaporative cooling products work by soaking a fabric layer, then allowing water to evaporate and draw heat away. This is the same basic mechanism as panting-induced evaporation.
Evaporative products can be effective, but their performance depends heavily on humidity. Sources describing evaporative cooling explain that effectiveness drops as humidity rises because evaporation slows.
Works best in
- Dry heat (many inland Australian regions)
- Breezy shaded verandas
- Well-ventilated rooms
Less effective in
- Humid coastal conditions where the air is already moisture-saturated
Hygiene note
Any product that stays damp can harbour odour and microbes if not dried properly. Frequent washing and thorough drying are essential.
“Cool-to-the-touch” Fabrics and Phase-Change Materials (PCMs)
Some cooling beds and covers incorporate textiles designed to feel cool at first contact. Others use phase-change materials (PCMs), which absorb and release heat as they transition between solid and liquid states. PCM explanations describe how they can buffer temperature changes by absorbing excess heat during melting and releasing it during solidifying.
The practical reality
- PCM and cool-touch fabrics can reduce the initial sensation of heat and may help manage temperature swings.
- They are not the same as air conditioning; they have a limited capacity and work best when the room can cool down at least somewhat overnight.
- For many Australian homes, PCMs are most useful as a comfort enhancer, not a stand-alone heat solution.
Best for
- Dogs who dislike the “wet” feeling of evaporative products
- Indoor use where the environment is moderately controlled
Choosing the Best Summer Dog Bed for Your Dog (A Step-by-Step Method)
Because dogs vary widely in coat type, health status, and sleeping habits, the best summer bed should be chosen systematically.
Step 1: Start with your dog’s heat profile
Consider:
- Breed and face shape: brachycephalic breeds require more caution.
- Coat and undercoat: double coats can trap heat, especially in humid areas.
- Age: older dogs may need orthopaedic support.
- Weight: overweight dogs retain heat more easily.
- Behaviour: chewers need safer, chew-resistant choices.
Step 2: Match bed style to preferred sleep position
Dogs cool differently depending on posture.
- Sprawlers (belly down, legs out): often benefit from elevated mesh beds and large flat cooling mats.
- Curlers: may accept cooling beds better if there are low bolsters, but bolsters should not trap heat.
- Leaning sleepers: may enjoy a side bolster, but choose breathable materials.
Step 3: Choose materials that reduce heat retention
Prefer:
- Low-pile woven covers (canvas, cotton-blend, tightly woven polyester)
- Breathable knit covers designed for airflow
- Removable, washable covers
Use caution with:
- Faux-fur, fleece, sherpa (insulating)
- Thick foam without ventilation channels
- Dark-coloured covers used in sunlit areas (heat absorption)
Step 4: Factor in your home’s climate and layout
An inland dry-heat home and a humid coastal apartment need different strategies.
- Dry heat: evaporative cooling products and raised beds can be especially effective.
- Humid heat: raised beds, airflow (fans), and cool-to-touch fabrics can be more reliable than evaporative cooling.
- Warm nights: choose beds that do not store heat; thin, breathable layers often outperform thick plush beds.
Step 5: Decide what you can realistically clean
Summer beds need more frequent cleaning. PetMD quotes a veterinarian suggesting washing a dog’s bed once a week or once every two weeks at minimum as a general guideline.
If your household includes allergies, high shedding, or skin issues, a fully removable cover and quick-dry materials become more than “nice to have”—they are essential.
Comparing Cooling Options: What Works Best for Common Australian Scenarios
Below is a practical comparison to help narrow your choices without relying on marketing claims.
| Scenario | Most effective bed type | Why it works | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hot indoor floors, limited AC | Elevated mesh bed | Airflow under body reduces heat build-up | May need extra cushioning for seniors |
| Humid coastal summer | Elevated bed or breathable orthopaedic bed | Less reliance on evaporation; supports convection | Evaporative mats may underperform |
| Dry inland heat | Elevated bed + evaporative mat/cover | Evaporation is efficient in low humidity | Needs washing and thorough drying |
| Senior dog with arthritis | Summer-friendly orthopaedic bed + cooling topper | Pressure relief plus adjustable cooling | Avoid thick plush covers in peak heat |
| Chewer / puppy | Chew-resistant raised bed + washable cover | Reduces ingestion hazards from gels/foam | Still supervise early use |
| Crate training in summer | Breathable crate mat or thin cooling fabric mat | Improves comfort without blocking airflow | Gel mats risky if chewing occurs |
Placement Matters as Much as the Bed
Even the best cooling bed performs poorly in a hot, still corner of the house.
Place the bed where cooling mechanisms can work
- Airflow: Position near safe cross-ventilation or use a fan to move air across the dog’s resting area.
- Shade: Keep beds out of direct sun, including “sun patches” that move across the floor.
- Floor type: Tiles often feel cool due to conduction; placing a breathable bed nearby can encourage use without overheating.
Avoid common placement mistakes
- Beds on enclosed verandas that trap heat
- Beds in garages and laundries that become heat sinks
- Outdoor beds with no overhead shade (heat radiates from above and below)
Summer Bedding Safety: Heatstroke, Hot Cars, and When a Bed Is Not Enough
Cooling beds are comfort tools. They are not substitutes for safe environmental management.
Never leave dogs in cars or closed vehicles
NSW government advice highlights how rapidly cars heat: even at 21°C outside, a car interior can reach 32°C in 10 minutes and 40°C in 30 minutes. RSPCA-related guidance similarly stresses there is no safe period for leaving a dog unattended in a car.
A cooling mat in a vehicle does not make this safe.
Recognise heat stress early
RSPCA Australia lists common heatstroke signs including relentless panting, drooling, vomiting/diarrhoea, dizziness, weakness, collapse and seizures.[https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/how-can-i-protect-my-dog-from-heatstroke]
If you see these signs:
- Move your dog to a cooler area immediately
- Apply tepid/cool water and use airflow (fan) to aid cooling
- Seek veterinary care urgently
Cleaning and Hygiene in Summer (Because Heat Amplifies Smell and Skin Issues)
Summer increases sweat, drool, skin oils, pollen exposure, and the likelihood of damp coats after beach trips or backyard hosing. Hygiene is not only about smell—it can influence itchiness, hot spots, and secondary skin infections.
PetMD cites a veterinarian suggesting a useful general guideline: wash your dog’s bed weekly or at least every two weeks.
A realistic summer cleaning routine
- Every 2–3 days: shake out debris, vacuum hair and sand
- Weekly (ideal in summer): wash removable covers; wipe down waterproof liners
- Fortnightly: deeper clean or wash the full bed (if washable)
Hygiene tips that reduce heat-related skin irritation
- Choose covers that dry quickly after washing.
- Avoid heavy fragrances in detergents; residue can irritate sensitive skin.
- Ensure foam cores fully dry before re-covering to prevent damp odours.
Recommended Related Products from PetCareShed
The following product categories are commonly useful when setting up a practical summer rest area. Selection should be based on your dog’s behaviour (especially chewing), your local climate, and cleaning needs.
- Elevated mesh dog beds (cooling cots): helpful for airflow under the body, especially on warm floors and shaded outdoor areas.
- Breathable crate mats: suitable for crate use in summer when thick bedding would trap heat.
- Cooling mats (non-gel cooling fabric): a lower-risk option for dogs that dislike raised beds and for households wanting easy-wash solutions.
- Orthopaedic dog beds with breathable covers: appropriate for senior dogs needing support, ideally paired with good room ventilation.
- Stainless steel or heavy-base water bowls: stable hydration support to reduce spill risk in active households.
- Grooming brushes and deshedding tools: coat maintenance can help with comfort, particularly for double-coated breeds during warm weather.
Practical Summer Setups (Examples That Work in Australian Homes)
Many owners get the best results by treating summer comfort as a “system” rather than a single purchase.
Setup A: The “Airflow First” system (warm home, limited AC)
- Elevated mesh bed in the coolest room
- Fan positioned to move air across and under the bed
- Optional thin breathable mat on top if the mesh feels too firm
Why it works: airflow supports convection and helps evaporation from panting.
Setup B: The “Orthopaedic + Adjustable Cooling” system (senior dog)
- Summer-friendly orthopaedic bed with breathable washable cover
- Removable cooling topper used only on hot afternoons/evenings
- Bed placed away from sun patches; keep water nearby
Why it works: joint support stays consistent; cooling can be adjusted day-to-day.
Setup C: The “Dry Heat Evaporative Boost” system (inland)
- Raised bed in shaded outdoor area with breeze
- Wet-to-activate evaporative cover used during supervised rest
- Ensure the cover is washed regularly and dried between uses
Why it works: evaporation is efficient in dry heat, improving comfort without heavy equipment.
Common Mistakes When Buying “Cooling” Dog Beds
Even well-intentioned purchases can disappoint if these issues are overlooked.
- Choosing insulation over airflow: thick plush surfaces can trap heat.
- Relying on “cool to touch” alone: the sensation may fade quickly once the surface warms.
- Ignoring chewing risk: gel mats can be a problem if punctured or ingested.
- Buying the wrong size: undersized mats force dogs to curl, reducing their ability to sprawl and cool down.
- Poor placement: a great bed in a hot, still corner remains a hot bed.
FAQ: Best Dog Beds for Summer in Australia
Are cooling dog beds safe for all dogs?
Cooling beds are generally safe when matched to the dog’s behaviour and health. The main safety concerns involve chewing and ingestion risk (especially gel-based mats) and electric products if cords are accessible. If your dog is a chewer or a puppy, choose a chew-resistant option and supervise early use. Animal PoisonLine notes gel mat ingestion can cause gastrointestinal problems and potentially obstruction, so puncture resistance and monitoring matter.
Do elevated dog beds really keep dogs cooler?
Elevated beds can be effective because they improve airflow underneath and reduce contact with heat-radiating surfaces. Sources discussing raised beds consistently highlight improved air circulation and cooling benefits.
Are gel cooling mats “better” than cooling fabric mats?
Not necessarily. Gel mats may feel cooler initially and can provide noticeable short-term cooling. Cooling fabric mats tend to be lower risk, easier to wash, and less likely to cause problems if damaged. If your dog chews or scratches bedding, a non-gel option is often the safer choice.
How do I know if my dog is too hot at night?
Signs include persistent panting, restlessness, seeking cool floor surfaces, drooling, and difficulty settling. If you see more serious signs (weakness, vomiting/diarrhoea, collapse), treat it as urgent. RSPCA Australia lists these as potential heatstroke signs and advises immediate cooling and veterinary care.
What indoor temperature is comfortable for dogs in summer?
Comfort varies by breed, coat, age, and health. Many veterinary sources suggest most dogs are comfortable in the mid-to-high 20s °C, with risk increasing above ~30°C and higher. Ensuring ventilation, shade, and access to fresh water is important.
Do evaporative cooling mats work in humid parts of Australia?
They may work, but performance is often reduced because evaporation slows in high humidity. Evaporative cooling guidance explains that higher humidity reduces cooling effect.[https://ruffwear.com/pages/evaporative-cooling-101] In humid coastal regions, airflow-focused solutions (raised beds, fans, breathable covers) are often more reliable.
Can I put a cooling mat in my dog’s crate?
Yes, but choose carefully. If your dog chews, a gel mat may be risky. For crate use, breathable crate mats or non-gel cooling fabric mats are generally safer and easier to wash. Always monitor your dog’s behaviour in the crate, particularly during the first week.
How often should I wash my dog’s bed in summer?
A practical guideline is weekly to fortnightly depending on shedding, allergies, and outdoor activity. PetMD cites a veterinarian recommending washing once a week or once every two weeks at minimum.[https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/evrdgguide-to-washing-dog-bed]
Should I clip or shave my dog’s coat to help them stay cool?
Coat management should be breed-appropriate. Some double-coated breeds rely on their coat for insulation from both heat and sun; shaving may not always help and can increase sunburn risk. Seek groomer or veterinary advice for your dog’s coat type. Regardless, regular brushing to remove loose undercoat can improve comfort.
My dog avoids every bed in summer—what should I do?
This is common. Many dogs prefer tiles or cool floorboards in hot weather. Options include:
- Switching to an elevated mesh bed
- Offering a large cooling mat near a preferred cool floor area
- Improving airflow with a fan
- Moving the bed away from sun patches
If your dog shows signs of heat stress, prioritise cooling the environment and consult a vet.
Are cooling beds enough to prevent heatstroke?
No. Heatstroke can develop rapidly, and cooling beds are not a substitute for safe temperature management. RSPCA Australia describes heatstroke as a life-threatening emergency and emphasises early recognition, cooling with tepid/cool water, and urgent veterinary treatment.
What is the safest “cooling” choice for a puppy?
For most puppies, a chew-resistant elevated bed or a thin breathable mat is safer than gel-based products. Puppies explore with their mouths and can puncture or ingest materials. Supervise use and keep bedding simple until chewing behaviour settles.
How can I set up an outdoor summer rest area safely?
Outdoor comfort requires more than a bed:
- Provide reliable shade that moves with the sun
- Provide fresh water in a stable, heavy-base bowl
- Choose a raised bed to reduce contact with hot ground surfaces
- Avoid leaving dogs outdoors unattended in extreme heat
Queensland and welfare sources commonly emphasise limiting outdoor activity during the hottest hours and ensuring shade and water.
What should I do if I suspect heatstroke?
Treat it as urgent. RSPCA Australia recommends cooling with tepid/cool water and seeking veterinary care immediately. Keep your dog in a cool area with airflow while arranging urgent transport.
