Quick answer

To keep your dog cool in a crate during summer, prioritize airflow, shade, and temperature-appropriate bedding. Position the crate in the coolest part of your home, remove heavy bedding or switch to a breathable mat, and ensure plenty of water. For crate-specific cooling, use a mat with breathable materials and avoid direct sun.

Why crate cooling matters more than you think

Dogs don't sweat efficiently; they rely on panting and limited sweat glands in their paws to regulate heat. In a crate, poor ventilation can trap warm air, making it harder for your dog to cool down. Even indoors, a crate placed near a window with direct sun can become a heat trap. Understanding your dog's limited cooling ability helps you make better setup choices.

Assess your crate's ventilation and location

Start by evaluating where your crate sits. Avoid direct sunlight, radiators, and closed-off rooms. A spot with cross-breeze from windows or fans works well. If your crate has solid sides, consider a wire crate or one with mesh panels for better airflow. The Revol Dog Crate, for example, has multiple access points including a garage-style side door that can be opened for extra ventilation when supervised.

Revol Dog Crate

Revol Dog Crate

Choose the right bedding for hot weather

Heavy, insulating bedding like thick memory foam or plush covers can trap heat. For summer, opt for breathable, lightweight materials such as cotton or mesh mats. If your dog uses an orthopedic pad year-round, consider a cooling mat on top or a washable, breathable cover. The Snooz Revol Pad features CertiPUR-US® memory foam and a washable outer layer, but its foam core may retain heat; for summer, you might use it only during cooler parts of the day or add a cooling mat over it.

Use fans and cooling aids safely

A small fan aimed near—but not directly at—the crate can improve air circulation. Avoid pointing fans directly at your dog for long periods, as this can cause discomfort. Frozen water bottles wrapped in a towel or cooling mats designed for pets can provide temporary relief. Always supervise your dog with any cooling aid to prevent chewing.

Adjust exercise and crate time

During heatwaves, shift walks and outdoor play to early morning or late evening. Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat. If your dog is crated during the day, consider a crate with good airflow and maybe a frozen treat to keep them occupied. Never leave your dog in a crate in a car or direct sun.

Step-by-step summer crate cooling

  1. 1. Relocate the crate to a cooler spot: Move the crate away from windows, direct sun, and heat-generating appliances. Aim for a room with cross-ventilation or air conditioning. Check the crate location at the hottest part of the day—if you feel warm, your dog likely does too.
  2. 2. Maximize airflow: Open windows, use fans to circulate air, and if your crate has a side door (like the Revol Dog Crate), open it when you can supervise. Ensure no cords or hazards are within reach. Place a thermometer near the crate to monitor temperature; aim for below 80°F (26°C) if possible.
  3. 3. Swap to breathable bedding: Replace heavy, insulating bedding with a lightweight, breathable mat or a cooling pad. If using a memory foam pad like the Snooz Revol Pad, consider a breathable cover or use it only during cooler times. Check your dog's belly and paws—if they feel hot, the bedding may be too warm.
  4. 4. Provide constant access to water: Use a spill-proof https://diggsshop.com/products/crate-bowl-70254crate bowl or water bottle attached to the crate. Refresh water frequently to keep it cool. Monitor water intake; if your dog drinks excessively or not at all, consult your vet.
  5. 5. Offer safe cooling aids: Place a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel or a pet-safe cooling mat in the crate. Always supervise to prevent chewing. Remove cooling aids if your dog tries to destroy them—ingesting gel or plastic can be dangerous.
  6. 6. Adjust daily routines: Walk your dog during cooler hours, avoid midday heat, and never leave them crated in a car. If your dog is crated while you're away, consider a fan or air conditioner set to a safe temperature. If your dog shows signs of heatstroke (heavy panting, drooling, weakness), move them to a cool area and call your vet immediately.

Product facts

  • Snooz Revol Pad: Snooz Revol Pad is an orthopedic dog crate pad with premium CertiPUR-US® memory foam and a washable outer layer. The memory foam provides comfort but may retain heat; for summer, consider using a breathable cover or a cooling mat on top.
  • Revol Dog Crate: Revol Dog Crate is collapsible and available in multiple sizes and finishes, with multiple access points including a garage-style side door. The side door can be opened for extra ventilation when supervised, helping improve airflow in hot weather.