Why dog owners shop for cooling mats and elevated beds in summer
When the weather turns warm, many dogs start avoiding their thick, plush beds and stretch out on tile or the porch instead. That is the problem cooling mats and elevated beds try to solve: a place to lie down that feels less like a blanket and more like a breezy cot or a cool surface.
This guide explains how each type works, how to size one by your dog's weight and length, what to look at in materials, safety and cleaning, and which PetLavo products fit. Every product below is described using only what its listing says. Where a listing does not give a detail, we say so instead of guessing.
How cooling mats work
A cooling mat is a thin, flat pad, usually made of a smooth, breathable fabric. The idea is simple: the surface feels cooler to the touch than regular bedding, so your dog has a comfortable spot to lie down on a warm day. Most mats are lightweight and easy to move from room to room, or into the car.
A few general points worth knowing:
- A mat is a comfort item. It is not a substitute for shade, fresh water, or an air-conditioned room.
- How a mat feels depends on your room temperature and how long your dog lies on it. Expect a pleasant, cooler-feeling surface, not an ice pack.
- Thin mats offer little cushioning. Dogs that like a soft, thick bed may prefer to use the mat on top of a firmer surface, or may prefer a raised cot instead.
How elevated beds work
An elevated bed (often called a cot) lifts your dog off the floor on a frame, with a stretched fabric or mesh top. Because air can move underneath, the surface does not trap warmth the way a thick cushion can. Elevated beds also keep your dog off damp grass or hot patios, and the mesh or fabric top is usually easy to wipe clean.
Some come with a canopy for shade outdoors, and some fold up with a carry bag, which makes them handy for camping, the backyard, or a day at the park.
How to size by dog weight and length
Always start with two measurements: your dog's length lying down (nose to base of tail, stretched out) and your dog's weight. Then compare both to the listing, because a bed can fit your dog's length and still not be rated for their weight.
As a general rule of thumb:
- Under 25 lbs: a smaller mat or a compact cot is usually enough.
- 25 to 50 lbs: look for a medium or large size with room to stretch out.
- 50 to 80 lbs: choose a large or XL cot with a sturdy frame and check the weight rating carefully.
- Over 80 lbs: look for XL or XXL sizes and a clearly stated weight capacity. If the listing does not state one, ask before buying.
If your dog is between sizes, size up. Dogs usually like to stretch out, and a bed that is too small gets ignored.
What to check before you buy
Size and weight rating. Compare the listed dimensions to your dog lying down. Only a few listings below state a weight limit, so check each page.
Materials. For mesh and fabric tops, look for breathable material and a sturdy frame. For mats, look for a smooth, soft surface that is gentle on skin.
Safety. Check that the frame feels stable, that there are no sharp edges, and that your dog will not chew the fabric. Supervise a new bed at first, and stop using any bed that becomes damaged.
Cleaning. Washable covers and wipe-clean surfaces make summer life much easier. Shake out or rinse the bed often, let it dry fully, and follow the care instructions on the listing.
Our picks for warm weather
Cooling mats
Pet Cooling Mat for Dogs & Cats (from $29.99) is a lightweight ice-silk mat for dogs and cats, described as a cooler, more comfortable place to relax at home or on the go. You can choose your color and size. It is a good fit for travel and for a dog that likes to move around the house.
Cooling Pad for Dogs & Cats, Blue Ice Silk Mat (from $17.99) is a soft, breathable ice-silk mat for dogs and cats, available in three sizes. It is the lowest-priced option here, so it works well if you want to try a mat before spending more.
Elevated beds and cots
Elevated Dog Bed for Indoor & Outdoor Use ($106.99) lifts your dog more than 8 inches off the ground so air can circulate underneath, and it is meant for both wet and hot conditions.
Elevated Oxford Fabric Pet Bed for Small to Large Dogs ($65.79) has a 19-inch elevated design with breathable Oxford fabric, and the listing says it fits small to large dogs. It is one of the more affordable raised options.
Elevated Dog Cot with Removable UV Protection Canopy, 30", Gray ($134.99) lifts your pet more than 7 inches off the ground, comes with a removable canopy for shade, and supports up to 44 lbs, so it is for smaller dogs.
Elevated Dog Cot for Large Dogs with Teslin Mesh ($172.99) is a portable raised cot with breathable Teslin mesh and a waterproof, oil-resistant surface that the listing says is easy to wipe clean. It is made for large dogs.
Elevated Dog Bed with Removable Canopy & Storage Bag, 36" x 29.5" ($183.99) lifts your dog 7.9 inches off the ground and has a three-sided canopy, mesh sides, a cooling pad and a storage bag. It is a good all-in-one option for backyard or camping use.
Elevated Dog Bed with Steel Frame ($210.99) has breathable mesh fabric on a steel frame and suits dogs under 23.5 inches long and 66 lbs, according to the listing. Check your dog's length first, since the listing gives a length limit as well as a weight limit.
Who these are not for
- Dogs that chew bedding. Mats and mesh tops can be damaged by heavy chewers. Skip them, or supervise closely.
- Dogs that love deep, soft nests. A thin mat or a firm mesh cot is a different feel from a plush bed. Some dogs never take to it.
- Dogs over the weight rating. If your dog is above a listed weight limit, such as the 44 lb limit on the 30 inch cot, choose a larger size.
- Anyone hoping for a fix for heat on its own. A mat or cot adds comfort. It does not replace shade, water, and a cool room. If you have concerns about your dog in hot weather, talk to your veterinarian.
Frequently asked questions
Do cooling mats need to be plugged in or refrigerated?
The ice-silk mats listed here are described as soft, breathable mats, and their listings do not mention plugs or gel. Check the product page for care instructions before use.
What is the difference between a cooling mat and an elevated bed?
A mat is a thin pad with a surface that feels cooler to the touch. An elevated bed lifts your dog off the floor so air can move underneath. Many owners use both, with a mat placed on a cot or on the floor.
How do I pick the right size?
Measure your dog's length lying down and check the weight rating in the listing. If your dog is between sizes, choose the larger one so they can stretch out.
How do I clean an elevated bed or cooling mat?
Wipe-clean mesh and fabric surfaces are easy to rinse or wipe down, and the listings for the Teslin mesh cot describe a surface that wipes clean. Always follow the care notes on the individual product page and let everything dry fully before use.