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Christine Caplan
- Outdoor dog beds come in a variety of styles, including basic cots, elevated beds with bolsters and covers, and simple mats.
- We tested six of the most popular outdoor pet beds with two hounds to see how they performed over the course of a month.
Keeping dogs cool and comfortable during the summer is a priority for all pet owners. I live in the Pacific Northwest, and while I'm near the coast and a lake, I don't always have time to take my two hounds for a cool dip during the summer months. Both of my dogs like water, so a good dog pool can help. But as many people know, some dogs are not fans of water.
That's why outdoor dog beds can be a lifesaver in the summer months. Elevated beds, also called cots, allow for airflow and some even provide extra shade for dogs. A shady spot out of the sun can save a dog from heatstroke. Other outdoor beds provide simple comfort and can be laid directly on the ground under a tree or on a deck.
With that in mind, all six of these beds are great options for camping, hiking, or even just hanging outside with family during a long, hot weekend. I tested them with my 32-pound standard dachshund and my 37-pound beagle. All of the beds held up and didn't sag or wear.
Here are six outdoor dog beds that we recommend after testing: