Summer Dog Care: Are cooling dog beds toxic?

When summer heat strikes, you naturally want to keep your dog as comfortable as possible. (He doesn't sweat as much as humans do, after all!) You can help your dog chill out by providing a cooling dog bed where your dog can hang out in complete comfort. But how do these beds work? Are cooling dog beds toxic? We'll answer these questions so you can keep your pup safe.

How Cooling Dog Beds Work

Water is a fantastic conductor of heat as it quickly transfers heat from one place to another. It's this concept that's put to work in a cooling dog bed. These products might remind you of a thin waterbed — you fill the comfy pad with a couple of gallons of water (the exact amount depends on the size of the bed, but it's usually 1 to 5 gallons) and then place it in a cool, shady part of the house or porch.

A significant difference exists between the temperature of the water and your dog’s body. Some quick math shows how this works. Let's say your dog’s temperature is a canine-normal 101°F. The water in the cooling bed is at room temperature, about 72°F. There’s a whopping 29°F difference in temperature between the water in the bed and your dog’s body. The end result? When your dog naps on the water-filled cooling bed, it feels refreshing and cool to him. His body heat is whisked away into the bed. It’s that simple — no electricity, no refrigeration.

Some brands of cooling dog beds contain a type of cooling gel rather than water. Regardless of the type you choose, be sure to keep the cooling dog bed out of direct sun. The heat-transferring properties of water will work the opposite way, too. If left in the sun, the water in the bed will heat up instead of cooling your dog down. Also, don't use a cooling bed outdoors if the air temperature is above 100°F. At that point, there is no difference in temperature between the water and your dog’s body, and a cooling bed won't cool down your pup.

Choose a Bed with Non-Toxic Materials

No matter what cooling pet bed you purchase, it's important to choose one that uses non-toxic materials. Dogs are dogs, and some may chew on the bed. It's important to check for any warning labels or safety certifications that may be present on the product, as some gel-filled beds could present a toxin hazard if they leak. Instead, opt for a cooling bed that uses water, like a K&H cooling bed, where you simply fill the cushion with water.

Every K&H cooling bed features a nylon exterior with a waterproof interior housing to keep the water from leaking out. (Tip: Keep your dog's nails trimmed to keep the bed safe from punctures.)

A few K&H cooling beds to consider:

• K&H Cool Bed III Cooling Dog Bed: This cooling dog bed is perfect for any pet needing to cool down. It works well indoors and outside and comes in multiple sizes.

• K&H Coolin' Comfort Bed - An orthopedic option with an extra-comfy foam core. The coolness can help dogs with ailments like hip dysplasia or even just as relief from excessive panting on those hot summer days.

• K&H Coolin' Pet Pad - For a lightweight version, one you could quickly move around the house or even throw in the back of the car, the simple Coolin' Pet Pad is a great choice.

• K&H Coolin' Pet Cot - this elevated bed combines elevation with water cooling for double the effect!

Beat the Heat with a Non-Toxic Cooling Dog Bed

So, are cooling dog beds toxic? Some could be if they use internal cooling gels. Be sure you check the product label before purchasing your dog's cooling bed. Or, choose a safe, non-toxic option like a K&H cooling dog bed. By providing your dog with a non-toxic cooling dog bed, you're giving him an ideal place to relax and chill. And you'll relax better knowing he's staying cool and safe!

This is the second article in our Summer Dog Care series. Be sure to check out Are Cooling Dog Beds/Mats Safe? if you missed the first one. And be watching our Instagram for the next in the series, Essential Summer Gear and Tips to Prevent Heatstroke.