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Heelers (aka Australian Cattle Dogs) are very tolerant of both cold and hot weather. Even though they are short-haired dogs, they have a double coat. The undercoat acts as insulation protecting them from extreme temperatures. However, even the very hearty Heeler has its limits. The temperatures recently have broken many records around the world, and many animals are suffering. For these extreme temperatures, you need to do more for your Heeler. This article answers the question of how can I keep my heeler cool in the heat.
The optimal temperature range for a heeler is between 53 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the temperatures start exceeding 73 degrees, which happens very frequently these days, you must take precautions to protect your Heeler.
It is especially critical to pay close attention to your dog if she spends most or all her time outside. Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are the most serious conditions to watch out for. Some of the symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke include the following:
- Whining
- Excessive panting
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting, and/or diarrhea
- Disorientation
- Change of color in gums
- Fever of over 102 degrees
This is only a partial list of symptoms. If your dog has these symptoms get her to a vet as soon as possible as she may have heatstroke which can be fatal.
Table of Contents
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
You really need to be proactive in preventing your dog from getting negatively affected by heat.
If you have an air conditioner inside your house, bring your dog inside where she will be much more comfortable. Once you bring your heeler into the house you will probably be wondering, how can I keep this active, energetic dog entertained inside the house?
This would be a good time to keep her interested by playing some games with her to keep her mentally stimulated. You can play various versions of hiding the treat and having her find it. Dogs love anything with treats involved.
You could also try some of those puzzle games you have been wanting to try but haven’t gotten to it yet. Puzzle games are great for dogs as these also will keep your dog mentally stimulated.
Also, you can teach her a new trick or command that she doesn’t yet know. This will be a great activity for her and for you. Any mental stimulation you can provide for her is almost as good as the physical exercise she requires.
If you don’t have air conditioning there are still steps you can take to protect your dog from extreme heat.
Be sure she has access to plenty of fresh, cool water. Keep the water cool by putting a couple of ice cubes in it. Also, place her water bowl in a shady area. Be sure to move her water bowl if the shady area becomes sunny.
What Can You Do If You Have to Work All Day
If you have no air conditioning and have to go to work all day there are still some solutions to help your dog not suffer in the heat.
Consider taking her to doggie daycare on very hot days on which you are unable to be there for her. These facilities are virtually guaranteed to be air-conditioned. Also, she will be able to burn off some of her excess energy playing with other dogs at the daycare facility.
If you happen to be in an area in which there are no doggie daycare facilities near you or you are unable to afford doggie daycare, consider paying a neighborhood child that you know is trustworthy to take care of keeping your dog cool. Be sure the child is very responsible and can be trusted.
Other Conditions to Watch For
There are some other negative effects that can be caused by heat that you should also watch out for. For example, the pads on her feet can get burned due to the exceedingly hot temperatures on streets, driveways, or any other paved areas. Try to keep her from walking on those surfaces or put some protective booties on her feet.
Another painful condition that could affect her is sunburn. This can be serious if she is severely sunburned as she can become ill, or even develop skin cancer. Even though your dog has fur covering her skin, she is still susceptible to sunburn.
The areas that can be affected especially badly are her lips, ears, nose bridge, belly, chest, and inner thighs. Some dogs also may have areas on their noses that may be pink or lighter colored. This is another area that will be very sensitive to sunburn.
You can purchase sunscreen for dogs that will protect them from sunburn. Just be sure before applying it that you test it out on a small area of her skin to ensure that she is not allergic to the sunscreen.
Some Dog-Cooling Products For Your Dog
There are some products for sale that help you in to provide the comfort and care your dog needs to protect her from extreme heat.
| Product View | Product Name | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Furhaven Pet Bed for Dogs and Cats – Berber and Suede | 4.7/5 |
 | K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot Elevated Pet Bed | 4.4/5 |
| Furhaven Pet Bed for Dogs and Cats – Plush and Southwest Kilim Decor Sofa-Style Cooling Gel Foam Dog Bed | 4.5 |
| The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat, Medium | 4.3 |
 | Kurgo Core Cooling Dog Vest | 4.2/5 |
 | GF Pet Elastofit Ice Dog Vest | 4.6 |
Product Details
FurHaven Berber & Suede Blanket Top Cooling Gel Cat & Dog Bed
This very cozy dog bed has an oversized blanket designed to provide the ultimate comfort for your dog. Pets love to burrow into the coziness of this bed. The sleep surface of the bed along with the interior of the blanket is lined with plush Berber fabric. The exterior of the bed is wrapped in soft easy-care suede. Both fabrics are very gentle on noses and paws to increase the snuggling comfort.
The cooling gel top of the bed removes the heat and contours to your pet’s body, which assists in cushioning pressure points and relieving joint pain providing your pet with more restful sleep. This light-weighted bed is easy to transport to any location for your dog’s continued comfort.
The removable dog bed cover is machine washable for easy care. Please refer to the hang tag or label for more specific care instructions.
CUSTOMER ASSURANCE: The product comes with a 90-day limited coverage against material defects and may also qualify for our 60-day Worry-Free Program; restrictions apply: purchases from unauthorized 3rd-party resellers may not be covered by Furhaven.
THIS BED IS NOT SUITABLE FOR TEETHING OR DESTRUCTIVE CHEWING BEHAVIOR.
Specifications
| Item Number | 362086 |
| Weight | 3.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | 36 x 27 x 3 inches |
| Cover Material | Polyester, Synthetic Fabric |
| Bed Feature | Orthopedic, Removable Cover |
| Fill Material | Plush / Fiberfill |
| Bed Type | Bolster |
| Lifestage | Adult |
| Breed Size | Large Breeds |
| Assembly Required | No |
Product Details
| Product Dimensions | 36 x 27 x 3 inches; 3.45 pounds |
| Item model number | 80405081 |
| Date First Available | 12/13/2021 |
| Manufacturer | Furhaven Pet Products, Inc. |
| ASIN | B09NMNRFHW |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Best Sellers Rank | #2 in Dog Bed Covers #2 in Dog Sofas & Chairs #2 in Cat Sofas |
Size
| Size | Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medium | 30 inches | 20 inches | 3 inches |
| Large | 36 inches | 27 inches | 3 inches |
| Jumbo | 44 inches | 35 inches | 4 inches |
Cleaning Instructions
| Wash Instructions: -Cover care: Remove from the core before washing (see seam label for fabric care instructions). -Foam care: Spot clean with mild soap; rinse. Blot, then air dry. Do not wring. Not for unsupervised use by animals with chewing behaviors. |
Pros
- The cooling gel gives your pet a restful sleep
- Machine washable
- Provides great comfort for senior dogs
Cons
- A review complained of not enough support
K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot Elevated Pet Bed
The K&H Pet Cot keeps your dog elevated off the ground allowing air to flow around your pets to keep them cool. The breathable mesh center helps keep pets cool. This dog bed is easily assembled requiring no tools! It can also be easily disassembled and taken with you anywhere. The elevated dog bed is great for camping, hiking, and all outdoor as well as indoor locations.
The bed is made with water-resistant, heavy denier fabric and a breathable mesh center which repels moisture. The slip-resistant rubber feet protect your floor surfaces. The bed is also durable and holds up to 200 pounds.
What’s Included
(4) corners (4) legs, (4) sidebars, (4) rubber feet, (1) cover
Customer Ratings by Feature
| Easy to assemble | 4.8 |
| Comfort | 4.6 |
| Easy to Clean | 4.6 |
| Durability | 4.5 |
Specifications – Chewy
| Item Number | 100521 |
| Weight | 5.06 pounds |
| Dimensions | 30 x 42 x 7 inches |
| Bed Feature | Outdoor, Water-resistant, Machine-washable, Cooling |
| Cover Material | Nylon, Synthetic Fabric |
| Bed Type | Elevated |
| Lifestage | Adult |
| Breed Size | Large Breeds |
| Assembly Required | Yes |
| Tools Included | No Tools Required |
Product Details – Amazon
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Product Dimensions | 30 x 42 x 7 inches; 3 Pounds |
| Item model number | 100212977 |
| Date First Available | March 1, 2016 |
| Manufacturer | Central Garden & Pet |
| ASIN | B01CHMG9DK |
| Best Sellers Rank: | #16,072 in Pet Supplies #273 in Dog Beds |
Cleaning Instructions
| For everyday cleaning, wipe clean with a damp cloth. For periodic cleaning, remove the cover and machine wash it on a gentle cycle with cold water. Line dry only. |
Size
| Size | Overall Length | Overall Width | Overall Height | Sleeping Surface Length | Sleeping Surface Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 22 inches | 17 inches | 7 inches | 22 inches | 17 inches |
| Medium | 32 inches | 25 inches | 7 inches | 32 inches | 25 inches |
| Large | 42 inches | 30 inches | 7 inches | 42 inches | 30 inches |
| X-Large | 50 inches | 32 inches | 9 inches | 50 inches | 32 inches |
Pros
- Elevation of the bed allows airflow for coolness
- Durable construction
- Easily assembled
Cons
- Some reviewers said dogs did not like them
Furhaven Pet Bed for Dogs and Cats – Plush and Southwest Kilim Decor Sofa-Style Cooling Gel Foam Dog Bed
This classic bolstered sofa design bed provides ultimate comfort while making your dog feel secure. The bed provides high-loft orthopedic cushion support along with a cozy burrowing space for dogs and cats.
The bed’s main sleep surface is lined with soft, plush faux fur while the supportive bolsters are covered with boho-inspired woven upholstery fabric. Both materials are gentle on noses and paws for enhanced burrowing comfort.
The gel-infused memory foam provides a cooling effect and improves your pet’s body alignment, while the bolster railings support the neck, back, hips, and joints. This helps ease discomfort and allows restful sleep.
CUSTOMER ASSURANCE: The product comes with a 90-day limited coverage against material defects and may also qualify for our 60-day Worry-Free Program; restrictions apply: purchases from unauthorized 3rd-party resellers may not be covered by Furhaven.
THIS BED IS NOT SUITABLE FOR TEETHING OR DESTRUCTIVE CHEWING BEHAVIOR.
Customer Ratings by Feature
| Easy to Assemble | 4.8 |
| Softness | 4.4 |
| Sturdiness | 4.4 |
| Easy to Clean | 4.1 |
Size
| Size | Dimensions | Sleep Surface |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 20″ x 15″ x 5.5″ | 3″ Foam; Sleep Surface: Approx. 15″ x 12″ |
| Medium | 30″ x 20″ x 6″ | 3″ Foam; Sleep Surface: Approx. 23″ x 16.5″ |
| Large | 36″ x 27″ x 6.5″ | 3″ Foam; Sleep Surface: Approx. 28″ x 23″ |
| Jumbo | 40″ x 32″ x 8″ | 4″ Foam; Sleep Surface: Approx. 30″ x 27″ |
| Jumbo Plus | 53″ x 40″ x 9.5″ | 5″ Foam; Sleep Surface: Approx. 41″ x 34″ |
Cleaning Instructions
| The removable dog bed cover is completely machine washable for your convenience; for more specific washing instructions, please refer to the hang tag and/or seam label (if applicable) |
Pros
- Provides cool, restful sleep, especially for older dogs with arthritis
- Very easy to clean
- Helps dogs to cool off after a walk
Cons
- Some reviewers were disappointed in the quality
The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat
The Green Pet Shop self-cooling pad helps cool your dog down quickly. The pad is pressure-activated so as soon as your dog lies down on this mat the cooling process begins and lasts up to 4 hours.
The Patented “green” pad uses a non-toxic gel formula to absorb body heat and reduce body temperature without water, electricity, or refrigeration. After a short period of non-use, the Cool Pet Pad is automatically recharged.
It’s ideal for hot summer days to keep dogs from overheating or for senior pets or those with hip dysplasia. This convenient mat comes in sizes from small to extra-large and fits most standard-size crates and beds.
Customer Rating by Feature
| Easy to clean | 4.8 |
| Durability | 4.6 |
| Comfort | 4.5 |
| Thickness | 4.2 |
Precautions
| This product is not meant for consumption. While the gel is non-toxic, we always recommend taking your pet to the veterinarian if they ingest any part of the Cool Pet Pad. In some cases, an allergic reaction can occur which can affect the health of your pet. If your pet is prone to chewing, DO NOT leave it unattended with the Cool Pet Pad. |
Specifications
| Item Number | 105747 |
| Dimensions | 35 x 23.6 x 0.02 inches |
| Lifestage | Adult |
| Breed Size | Large Breeds, Medium Breeds |
| Features | Cooling, Machine-washable |
| Material | Plastic |
| Recommended Pet Weight | 46-80 lbs |
Product Details
| Product Dimensions | 30 x 20 x 0.2 inches; 4.56 Pounds |
| Date First Available | March 26, 2020 |
| Manufacturer | The Green Pet Shop |
| ASIN | B07XPGKJKM |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Best Sellers Rank | #8 in Dog Bed Mats |
| Size | Dimensions | Pet Weight |
|---|---|---|
| X-Small | 11.8″ X 15.7″ | 0 – 8 pounds |
| Small | 15.7″ X 9.7″ | 9 – 20 pounds |
| Medium | 20″ X 30″ | 21 – 45 pounds |
| Large | 23.6″ X 35″ | 46 – 80 pounds |
| X-Large | 27.5″ X 43.3″ | >= 80 pounds |
Instructions for Cleaning and Care
| Cooling Pad Care: Use a soft cloth. Clean with mild soap, and wipe clean with water. Allow it to dry completely before use or storage. Store in a cool, dry, location. If planning to store for an extended period of time, sealing the product in the plastic bag provided, may increase its useful life. Cooling Pad Cover Care: Machine washable, tumble dry normal, low heat, NO bleach. |
Pros
- Quickly cools down your pet
- 5 sizes to choose from
- Very easy clean
- Very light-weight and easily transportable
Cons
- Some reviewers complained that coolness didn’t last long
Kurgo Core Cooling Dog Vest
This vest cools the back of your dog’s neck and chest. It has a light color and reflective material that deflects the heat from the sun to promote cooling.
The way it works is by first getting the vest wet using cool water and put the vest on your dog. Evaporation occurs when the water absorbs heat from a surface that turns into gas.
When it does get dry, simply get it wet again to keep your dog cool. This is an excellent choice for active dogs (such as heelers) that want to be active even when it’s hot. Your dog can have some activity while she is being cooled down by wearing this vest while it is wet.
Customer Rating by Feature
| Durability | 4.0 |
| Sturdiness | 3.7 |
| Value for Money | 3.7 |
Specifications – Chewy
| Item Number | 116048 |
| Lifestage | Puppy, Adult, Senior |
| Breed Size | Large Breeds |
| Material | Mesh, Polyester, Synthetic Fabric |
Product Details – Amazon
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Product Dimensions | 22.5 x 0.75 x 17.5 inches; 9.28 Ounces |
| Item model number | K01770 |
| Date First Available | February 10, 2017 |
| Manufacturer | Radio Systems Corporation |
| ASIN | B06WV8JMPQ |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Best Sellers Rank | #323 in Basic Dog Collars |
Cleaning Instructions
| Wipe clean. |
How to Measure Your Pet
| For the best fit, match the below dimensions to your pet’s measurements as closely as possible. If your pet falls somewhere between two sizes, we advise ordering the larger of the two. Body: Measure the base of the neck to the base of the tail. Add 2 inches for comfort. Neck: Measure around your dog’s neck leaving room for two fingers. Chest: Most important measurement; measure your dog’s chest around the widest part. Add 2 inches for comfort. |
Size
| Size | Neck | Chest |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 15 inches | 16 – 20 inches |
| Medium | 18 inches | 18 – 25 inches |
| Large | 22 inches | 23 – 34 inches |
| X-Large | 24 inches | 27 – 40 inches |
Pros
- The vest keeps your pet cool as long as it is kept wet
- Allows active dogs some activity
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not good for very high humidity
GF Pet Elastofit Ice Dog Vest
Many dogs, especially active breeds such as the Australian Cattle Dog, will want to run around and remain active even in extreme heat. Although activity in extreme weather is discouraged this vest will help to protect your dog. The vest will keep her cool, even when she is active, as long as it is wet. Just soak the vest in water to get it thoroughly wet, wring it out, and put it on your pup to give her hours of play even in the heat.
Be sure that you stay aware of your dog’s behavior in the heat in case she over-exerts herself. Also, you need to make sure to get the vest wet again when it is dry so your dog is still being cooled.
This lightweight anti-microbial fabric protects your dog from UV rays, without the bulk and discomfort of other cooling vests. Two adjustable Velcro closures and Elastofit technology ensure a fit that’s snug, yet comfortable.
Specifications
| Item Number | 251475 |
| Breed Size | Giant Breeds |
| Material | Vinyl / PVC, Plastic |
Cleaning and Care Instructions
| Wear damp. When removing the vest from the package, the vest may be damp. Please always wet before unfolding; wring & wear. When water evaporates, repeat the steps. Care Instructions: Hand wash the vest with soap and air dry. Do not iron. Do not bleach. Do not dry clean. Store dry while not in use. |
Size
| Size | Length | Girth | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| X-Small | 11 inches | 13-16 inches | 6-11 lbs |
| Small | 13 inches | 15-19 inches | 10-17 lbs |
| Medium | 15 inches | 17-22 inches | 15-22 lbs |
| Large | 18 inches | 20-25 inches | 20-40 lbs |
| X-Large | 21 inches | 23-28 inches | 35-55 lbs |
| XX-Large | 24 inches | 26-28 inches | 50-70 lbs |
| 3X-Large | 28 inches | 30-35 inches | 60-100 lbs |
| 4X-Large | 32 inches | 34-40 inches | 90-140 lbs |
Pros
- The vest allows your active dog to be active while remaining cool
- Easy cleaning and care instructions
- Not too expensive
Cons
- Several reviewers suggested ordering 1 size higher
My Selections
Although, all of the products I have reviewed have a vast majority of great reviews I will select my best overall choice in each of the two product types, cooling dogs beds and cooling dog vests. I will also select my choice for the best budget selection.
My top overall selection in the cooling bed category goes to the FurHaven Berber & Suede Blanket Top Cooling Gel Cat & Dog Bed. This bed had the highest number of reviews with an overall value of 4.7 out of 5.0. The majority of customers who purchased this bed seemed very pleased with it. This product provides the most comfort in addition to keeping your pet cool. The bed is especially good for senior dogs and those with painful conditions such as hip dysplasia. The bed contours to the shape of your dog’s body providing great comfort for achy joints.
My top selection in the cooling dog vest category goes to the GF Pet Elastofit Ice Dog Vest. While both of these vests work in a similar manner, the GF Pet Elastofit Ice Dog Vest appears to be a bit higher quality than the Kurgo Dog Cooling vest. They both require soaking them in cool water and wringing them out before dressing your dog in the vest, however, the GF Elastofit Dog Vest seems to take longer to dry which provides you and your dog a longer period of time before having to re-wet the vest and re-dress her in it.
The GF Pet Elastofit Ice Dog Vest is also my choice for the best budget value cooling product as the price of this vest is considerably less than any of the other products and it still has good quality.
Final Thoughts
I hope this review has helped you in your selection of cooling products for your dog. These products all come in a variety of sizes even though a different size may be displayed in the review. I hope you are able to find a product that best suits your budget and canine cooling needs.
Please feel free to make any comments about these or other pet cooling products that you already have and like or about what other products you would like to see reviewed.
Hi Barbara,
There is a lot of information in this article! I think the article is great because so many dogs are left outside or even in cars in extreme weather conditions. It is great to remind people to make sure their dogs are being taken inside and additional tools to help keep the cooler. The cooling gel blanket sounds like a great way to keep animals cooler in extreme heat.
Thanks for posting,
Chastity
Thanks, Chastitly!
I’m glad you enjoyed the article and the cooling products. I really appreciate your comments!
Barbara
Thanks for this thoughtful review on how to keep dogs comfortable during this hot summer of sizzling hot temperatures! The list of symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke is very helpful as most people typically are unaware of them.
The Furlhan Berber and Suede Blanket top Cooling Gel Cat and Dog Bed is a great product and certainly very popular. I love the orthopedic construction of the bed and its removable cover.
Regards, Ceci
Hi Ceci,
Thanks so much for your comment on this review. I think this is a problem especially now in these days of excessive heat around the world. I’m really happy that you liked the review and found it of value to you. Yes, the Furhaven Berber and Suede top Cooling Dog and Cat bed is a great comfort for pets who are suffering due to the heat. The orthopedic construction also makes it a great bed for senior pets and injured pets.
Thanks again for your comment,
Barbara