Coolaroo has become synonymous with affordable elevated dog beds. These Australian-designed beds offer cooling airflow at a fraction of the price of premium competitors. But does the lower price mean lower quality?
This review covers everything you need to know about Coolaroo dog beds - the good, the bad, and whether they're right for your dog.
Quick Picks: Coolaroo Dog Bed Options
| Bed | Best For | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coolaroo Original Elevated | Best Overall Value | $ | View Bed |
| Coolaroo Steel Frame | Extra Durability | $$ | View Bed |
| Coolaroo Pro | Heavy Dogs | $$ | View Bed |
| Coolaroo Replacement Cover | Extending Bed Life | $ | View Cover |
About Coolaroo
Coolaroo is an Australian company originally known for shade solutions. They applied their breathable fabric technology to pet beds, creating affordable elevated beds that provide excellent airflow.
Key brand features:
- Breathable HDPE fabric
- Affordable pricing
- Wide retail availability
- Multiple sizes and colors
- Replacement covers available
- Good for basic cooling needs
Coolaroo Bed Options Explained
Coolaroo Original Elevated Pet Bed
The standard Coolaroo that made the brand popular.
What we love:
- Very affordable
- Breathable HDPE fabric stays cool
- Elevated design for airflow
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to clean (hose off)
- Multiple sizes available
- Indoor/outdoor use
What could be better:
- Fabric can sag over time
- Frame not as sturdy as premium brands
- Not chew-proof
- Fabric may tear with rough use
- Some assembly quality issues reported
Sizing:
- Small: 21.5" x 15"
- Medium: 31.5" x 22"
- Large: 43.5" x 31.5"
- XL: 51.5" x 31.5"
Price: $
Best for: Budget cooling, first elevated bed, lighter dogs, basic needs
Coolaroo Steel Frame Elevated Bed
Upgraded version with sturdier steel frame.
What we love:
- Stronger steel frame
- More durable than original
- Same breathable fabric
- Better for heavier dogs
- Still affordable
- Longer lifespan
What could be better:
- Heavier than PVC version
- Still not chew-proof
- Fabric same quality as original
- Higher price than original
Price: $$
Best for: Heavier dogs, longer durability, upgraded cooling bed
Coolaroo Pro Elevated Bed
The premium Coolaroo option for larger, heavier dogs.
What we love:
- Strongest Coolaroo frame
- Higher weight capacity
- More durable fabric
- Better for big dogs
- Improved construction
- Best Coolaroo durability
What could be better:
- Approaching price of premium brands
- Still not as durable as K9 Ballistics/Kuranda
- Limited advantage over steel frame
Price: $$
Best for: Large/heavy dogs wanting Coolaroo brand, maximum Coolaroo durability
Coolaroo Replacement Covers
Extend the life of your Coolaroo bed with new fabric.
What we love:
- Affordable way to refresh bed
- Easy to install
- Multiple colors available
- Extends bed lifespan
- Better than buying new bed
What could be better:
- Only fits Coolaroo frames
- Same fabric quality as original
- May need replacing again
Price: $
Best for: Extending existing Coolaroo bed life, refreshing worn fabric
Coolaroo: Honest Assessment
What Coolaroo Does Well
Affordability - You won't find a cheaper elevated bed from a reputable brand. The value for basic cooling needs is excellent.
Cooling - The breathable HDPE fabric and elevated design provide genuine airflow. Dogs who run hot appreciate Coolaroo beds.
Availability - Sold everywhere: Amazon, Chewy, Walmart, pet stores. Easy to find and purchase.
Easy cleaning - Hose it off and it dries quickly. Great for dirty dogs.
Portability - Lightweight for transport to camping, beach, etc.
Where Coolaroo Falls Short
Durability - The most common complaint. Fabric can sag, tear, or pull from the frame with heavy use or heavier dogs.
Not chew-proof - Dogs can easily destroy Coolaroo beds. Not for destructive dogs.
Frame quality - Reports of frames bending or breaking, especially with larger dogs.
Assembly issues - Some users report difficulty with assembly or loose-fitting parts.
Weight limits - Actual weight capacity may be lower than advertised in real-world use.
Realistic Expectations
Coolaroo beds are good for the price but shouldn't be compared to premium elevated beds. Think of them as:
- Entry-level elevated beds
- Temporary or secondary beds
- Budget-friendly cooling solution
- Disposable for destructive dogs (cheaper to replace)
How Coolaroo Compares to Competitors
Coolaroo vs K9 Ballistics
| Feature | Coolaroo | K9 Ballistics | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $ | $$ | Coolaroo |
| Durability | Fair | Excellent | K9 Ballistics |
| Chew-Proof | No | Yes | |
| Frame Quality | Basic | Premium | |
| Warranty | Limited | Chew-proof guarantee | |
| Best For | Budget | Durability |
Verdict: K9 Ballistics costs more but lasts significantly longer and survives destructive dogs. Coolaroo for budget needs only. See our K9 Ballistics review.
Coolaroo vs Kuranda
| Feature | Coolaroo | Kuranda | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $ | -$ | Coolaroo |
| Durability | Fair | Excellent | Kuranda |
| Chew-Proof | No | Yes | |
| Made In | Overseas | USA | |
| Shelter Use | No | Yes (designed for) | |
| Best For | Budget | Destroyers |
Verdict: Kuranda is the professional choice for durability and destructive dogs. Coolaroo for budget cooling. See our Kuranda review.
Coolaroo vs Amazon Basics Elevated
| Feature | Coolaroo | Amazon Basics | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $ | $ | Shop Coolaroo |
| Durability | Fair | Fair | Shop Amazon Basics |
| Fabric | HDPE | Similar | |
| Availability | Wide | Amazon | |
| Brand | Established | Generic |
Verdict: Similar quality and price. Coolaroo has more brand recognition and retail availability.
Who Should Buy Coolaroo?
Coolaroo is Ideal For:
Budget-conscious owners - Best value for basic elevated bed needs.
Dogs who run hot - Provides genuine cooling airflow.
Light to medium weight dogs - Durability adequate for dogs under 50 lbs typically.
Secondary/outdoor beds - Good for patios, camping, travel.
First elevated bed - Try the concept affordably before investing in premium.
Non-destructive dogs - Essential requirement - Coolaroo doesn't survive chewing.
Consider Alternatives If:
Your dog is destructive - Choose K9 Ballistics or Kuranda instead. See our indestructible beds guide.
You have a large/heavy dog - Frame may not hold up long-term.
You want long-term durability - Premium brands last much longer.
Your dog needs cushioning - Elevated beds are firm. See our orthopedic beds guide.
Making Coolaroo Beds Last Longer
Maximize your Coolaroo investment:
Weight matters - Choose appropriate size where your dog is comfortably under weight limit.
Keep it clean - Regular cleaning prevents fabric degradation.
Indoor use - Lasts longer than constant outdoor exposure (despite being outdoor-rated).
Check tension - Retension fabric if sagging begins.
Replacement covers - Replace fabric rather than entire bed when worn.
Protect from chewing - Remove if dog shows interest in chewing.
Proper assembly - Ensure frame is correctly assembled and tight.
Coolaroo Sizing Guide
| Size | Dimensions | Weight Limit* | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 21.5" x 15" | 25 lbs | Toy breeds | View Bed |
| Medium | 31.5" x 22" | 45 lbs | Small dogs | View Bed |
| Large | 43.5" x 31.5" | 75 lbs | Medium dogs | View Bed |
| XL | 51.5" x 31.5" | 100 lbs | Large dogs | View Bed |
*Real-world durability may be lower than stated limits. Size up for better longevity.
Adding Comfort to Coolaroo
Coolaroo beds are firm. To add cushioning:
Blankets - Simple and washable. Add or remove seasonally.
Cooling mats - Enhance cooling while adding comfort.
Thin pads - Don't block airflow significantly.
Avoid: Thick pads that negate the airflow benefit of elevated design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Coolaroo beds good quality?
+How long do Coolaroo beds last?
+Can dogs chew through Coolaroo beds?
+Are Coolaroo beds good for large dogs?
+Can you wash a Coolaroo dog bed?
+Do dogs like Coolaroo beds?
+Is Coolaroo or K9 Ballistics better?
+Where can I buy Coolaroo dog beds?
+Final Verdict
Coolaroo beds deliver exactly what they promise: affordable elevated cooling beds. They're the best value option for dogs who need airflow and owners who need budget-friendly solutions.
Best for: Budget cooling needs, non-destructive dogs, secondary beds, light/medium dogs.
Not for: Destructive dogs, heavy dogs, long-term durability needs.
Bottom line: If you need an inexpensive elevated bed and your dog isn't destructive, Coolaroo works well. If you need durability or have a destroyer, spend more on K9 Ballistics or Kuranda - you'll save money long-term.
The replacement covers are a smart feature - when fabric wears out, replace just the cover rather than the entire bed.
For more options, explore our elevated beds guide, cooling beds guide, indestructible beds guide, and cheap dog beds guide.
Looking for other brand reviews? See our reviews of K9 Ballistics, Kuranda, FurHaven, and Bedsure.
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