If you’re tired of dog hair on your sofa and bed, it might be time to find your pup a spot to snooze dedicated to him or her alone. But dogs, like humans, can be picky about where they sleep, so you’ll have to do your homework before shopping for the best dog bed for your furry friend.
Options range from simple and sturdy to plush and cozy, and—much like when shopping for dog houses—your choice should reflect your pup’s preferences. Check out some of the following top dog beds as you begin your search.
- BEST OVERALL: PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: MidWest Homes for Pets Deluxe Super Plush Pet Beds
- UPGRADE PICK: Casper Dog Bed
- EASIEST TO CLEAN: The Original Elevated Pet Bed by Coolaroo
- BEST FOR OLDER DOGS: The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed
- BEST COZY PLUSH: Best Friends by Sheri Calming Shag Donut Cuddler
- BEST CAVE-STYLE: Snoozer Cozy Cave Pet Bed in Poly Cotton
- BEST COUCH-STYLE: Furhaven Pet – Orthopedic Sofa-Style Couch
- BEST MAT-STYLE: Hero Dog Dog Bed Mat
- BEST FOR TRAVEL: Furhaven Pet – Packable Travel Bed
- BEST ODOR-RESISTANT: Sealy Lux Quad Layer Orthopedic Dog Bed
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Dog Bed
With a variety of options on the market, choosing the most comfortable dog bed for your pup can be tricky. Before making a purchase, you’ll want to consider the size, age, breed, and habits of your dog as well as some cleaning and care considerations.
Bed Size
Just like their users, dog beds come in a range of sizes; a dachshund will need a different size bed than a Doberman. One trick for taking your pup’s measurements is to do it while he or she is sleeping. Measure from the tail to the nose and then add 8 to 12 inches to make sure there is ample space to stretch out. Options will generally range from extra small, suitable for dogs under 10 pounds, up to XX-large, which is appropriate for larger dogs over 100 pounds.
Also, consider how your canine companion likes to snooze. Common sleeping types include curlers, which are dogs that like to curl up in a ball; sprawlers, ones who like to spread out in all directions; leaners, pups who like to lean their heads against something; and burrowers, who like to dig into the blankets to get cozy.
Outer Material and Stuffing
Common materials for dog beds include faux fur, suede, nylon, polyester, microfiber, cotton, and canvas.
- Faux fur and suede, which are often made with nylon or polyester, offer added comfort for dogs who are naturally anxious. A plush dog bed will typically feature these comforting materials.
- Consider ripstop nylon or even ballistic nylon, which is virtually tearproof, if your dog likes to chew on material.
- Cotton can be comfortable but is probably the least durable and will also absorb odors.
The inside of the dog bed is important too, so consider your options carefully when choosing from among all the most comfortable dog beds for your pup. Below are the most common fillings.
- Memory foam is the most common filling and especially helpful for dogs with orthopedic problems. Ideal in a senior dog bed, the contouring foam provides additional support. (If you have a dog with joint or pain issues, a layer of heat-reflective Mylar can provide soothing warmth.)
- Polyester filling is soft and hypoallergenic, and these cozy dog beds will be appropriate for most dogs without special needs.
- Cotton batting is commonly used for this type of filling, but it won’t hold up over time and will eventually become lumpy.
- Cedar smells good and repels insects but is not recommended for dogs who might chew on their beds.
Bed Type
From round to rectangular and raised to flat, you’ll discover plenty of variety in styles of dog beds. To make a decision, first consider what seems to be your dog’s natural preferences.
- Pillow-style options are the simplest and are available in either round or rectangular shapes in a variety of materials.
- A bolster or sofa-style bed may be a better choice if your pup likes to elevate his or her head while sleeping or relaxing. This type of bed features a bolster or pillow roll along three to four sides.
- Nest or donut dog beds are typically round or oval with lots of cushioning and raised sides to make for a cozy setting.
- Cave-style dog beds that allow your pup to crawl inside are ideal for dogs who enjoy burrowing under the covers to feel more secure.
- On the opposite end, raised cot beds offer open and airy sleeping and are a good choice for pups with a lot of fur who tend to overheat; they generally feature mesh material instead of soft padding.
Climate
It is also important to consider your pup’s comfort level in terms of climate control when choosing a dog bed. For dogs who like to feel cozy, a faux-fur donut bed or cave-style bed will provide the desired warmth. Dogs with joint issues or even those with minimal fur may benefit from additional heat via electric versions, which either heat the entire dog bed or provide a heated mat.
For canines who overheat and pant easily, a cooling dog bed is ideal. A cot bed will provide raised style and mesh fabric to allow air to flow through easily. Memory-foam options have a natural cooling quality that will also help your dog maintain a comfortable temperature. Sometimes memory-foam dog beds are even infused with a cooling gel for added efficiency. Additional options range from electric cooling dog beds that run on batteries/an adapter or pads that you can fill with cool water.
Waterproofing
For dogs who drool a lot or have frequent accidents—like senior dogs or puppies—look for beds with a waterproof lining. You can find liners that wrap around the entire mattress to prevent moisture from being absorbed into the filling or liners that go underneath the base to keep accidents from reaching the floor.
Another option for keeping a dog bed dry is a raised cot. The mesh fabric won’t absorb liquids, and it is also easy to clean. This and many other waterproof options are also good choices for outdoor snoozing, as they generally include a removable and machine washable cover.
Ease of Cleaning
It’s important for a dog bed to be comfortable for your pup but also easy to maintain for you. As they walk around both indoors and out, dogs tend to collect dirt, debris, and sometimes even pests, which they then transfer into their beds, resulting in a soiled and sometimes stinky surface. Cot beds and mats are the easiest to wipe down, though covers that you can remove and machine wash can really help you keep your dog bed clean and odor-free.
Look for dog beds made from materials like polyester and polyethylene. Well-made zippers that are sturdy enough to resist stains and stand up to repeated washings are also key. Some dog beds don’t have removable coverings and have to be put in the washing machine as a whole; the downside to these types of beds is that the stuffing may not always dry properly.
Design
There’s no reason a comfortable dog bed can’t also look nice in your living space. Luckily, there are plenty of options that offer a range of patterns and colors to blend in with any decor. In general, dog beds that are easy to clean will wear well and look best, and dark colors will hide stains.
For a modern decor, choose a simple pillow design, geometric patterns, or faux fur, or consider a raised wooden dog bed that will offer an added design feature. In traditional spaces, opt for faux-leather accents or plaid or tweed microfiber.
A simple dog bed with slim piping will look clean and suit any room style. For preppier pups, add their monogram to the design.
Our Top Picks
The best dog beds will suit both your and your pup’s preferences. Our top picks have features that are sure to make you both comfortable.
Photo: amazon.com
This dog bed features a bolster design, which is ideal for pups who prefer a supportive spot to rest their heads. The polyester and cotton twill cover is resistant to both tearing and water, and, as a second line of defense, it also features a waterproof inner liner to protect the memory foam filling.
This top-rated memory-foam dog bed is made with recycled materials and features CertiPUR-US foam, known to be free of toxins and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). A nonskid bottom keeps it in place. It is available in four sizes to suit different breeds and even accommodates dogs weighing over 150 pounds.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 25 by 20 by 5.5 inches, 36 by 28 by 9 inches, 44 by 34 by 10 inches, 50 by 40 by 13 inches
- Material: Polyester, cotton, memory foam filling
- Type: Bolster
Pros
- CertiPur-US memory foam
- Removable cover
- Waterproof
- Nonskid bottom
Cons
- Not as cozy for dogs that like to burrow
- No cooling features
Get the PetFusion dog bed at Amazon, PetFusion, Mattress Firm, or Chewy.
Photo: amazon.com
The thick, tufted cushion of this dog bed features a nonskid bottom surface to prevent sliding and shifting. The plush polyester outer shell is soft, and the neutral gray ombre design will fit in with most home decor.
Well suited as a crate liner or travel bed, this lightweight bed is available in sizes ranging from 24 to 46 inches long. Though the cover can’t be removed, the entire dog bed is machine washable and safe for the dryer. This bed is not recommended for dogs who have a habit of excessive chewing.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 18.9 by 2.37 by 11.62 inches, 21.66 by 3 by 13 inches, 23.9 by 18 by 3 inches, 29.5 by 2.76 by 20.7 inches, 36.54 by 2.88 by 22.72 inches, 40.56 by 3.75 by 10.24 inches, 46.46 by 4.53 by 30.5 inches
- Material: Polyester, polyfiber filling
- Type: Pillow
Pros
- Affordable
- Good for travel
- Machine washable
Cons
- Not suitable for chewers
- Minimal cushioning
Get the MidWest Homes for Pets dog bed at Amazon, PetSmart, or Chewy.
Photo: amazon.com
Well-known mattress maker Casper wants your dog to sleep as well as you do. This upgrade pick prioritizes comfort by combining contouring memory foam with a layer of support foam. For dogs that love to dig and scratch, the bed comes with excess material on top to mimic the sensation of pawing at the dirt. The microfiber material is designed to resist rips even from especially playful pups.
The cover is removable and machine washable for easy cleaning. Sewn-in pockets hide metal zippers to avoid floor scratches. It is available in small, medium, and large to suit different breeds.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 26 by 19 by 6 inches, 33 by 25 by 6 inches, 45 by 35 by 7 inches
- Material: Nylon, polyester, and Olefin cover, visco elastic memory foam and polyurethane support foam filling
- Type: Bolster
Pros
- Pressure-relieving and supportive
- Machine washable cover
- Good for diggers
- Durable
Cons
- Expensive
- Assembly required
Get the Casper dog bed at Amazon, Casper, or Chewy.
Photo: amazon.com
The lightweight powder-coated steel frame on this Coolaroo dog bed offers a raised design, and breathable high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fabric allows for increased airflow to keep your pup from overheating. The surface material is lead- and phthalate-free and also resistant to fleas, mites, mold, and mildew. The bed doesn’t easily collect dirt and odors, but you can easily clean it when it does—even outdoors with a hose.
This dog bed is waterproof and intended for both indoor or outdoor use. The large version measures 31.5 by 51 by 8 inches and can comfortably hold dogs from 51 to 75 pounds. It is available in two other sizes for smaller pets.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 22 by 34 by 8 inches, 30 by 30 by 8 inches, and 31.5 by 51 by 8 inches
- Material: High-density polyethylene fabric
- Type: Elevated
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Cooling
- Mildew and mold resistant
- Can be used outdoors
Cons
- No cushioning
- Assembly required
Get the Coolaroo pet bed at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Chewy.
Photo: amazon.com
Just like their owners, dogs experience more aches and pains as they age, so it’s important they have a comfortable place to rest. The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog bed is made for dogs with joint issues, arthritis, and other painful conditions. It’s great for senior dogs that are immobile or recovering from surgery as it prevents elbow calluses and pressure sores.
The bed is available in multiple sizes to suit different breeds. Removable covers are easy to wash, quick-drying, and include a waterproof mattress cover to protect against accidents. Replacement covers are available for purchase separately.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 28 by 19 by 2 inches, 34 by 22 by 3 inches, 40 by 25 by 4 inches, 40 by 25 by 6 inches, 46 by 28 by 4 inches, 46 by 28 by 6 inches, 54 by 36 by 4 inches, 54 by 36 by 6 inches, 64 by 44 by 4 inches
- Material: Polyester, memory-foam filling
- Type: Pillow
Pros
- Offers support for join conditions and arthritis
- Prevents calluses and pressure sores
- Waterproof
- Machine washable
Cons
Get The Dog’s Bed dog bed on Amazon or at The Dog’s Bed.
Photo: amazon.com
Along with head and neck support, the donut-shaped design of this dog bed provides an extra sense of security, which can be helpful for anxious dogs. Vegan polyester fabric lines the bottom of the bed to resist both dirt and water and protect your floors, while the faux fur provides a soft and naturally warm sleeping surface. The entire bed is suitable for both the washer and dryer.
The faux-fur design is available in taupe and frost and pairs well with modern decor. The small version measures 17 inches around, making it work for dogs up to 25 pounds (though it comes in larger sizes as well). This dog bed is not recommended for pups who engage in excessive chewing.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 17, 23, 30, 36, and 45 inches round
- Material: Vegan polyester, “AirLoft” polyfiber filling
- Type: Donut
Pros
- Soft and cozy
- Machine washable
- Stylish
Cons
- Not suitable for chewers
- May not have enough support for some dogs
Get the Best Friends by Sheri dog bed at Amazon, Chewy, or Petco.
Photo: amazon.com
Does your furry friend like to burrow? Then he or she might like this cave-style bed. The Sherpa lining helps pets stay cool in summer and warm in winter. A concealed, thin plastic rod keeps the hood of the bed raised for your pup to easily enter and exit, but it can be removed come wash time—the polyester and cotton exterior is entirely removable and machine washable.
If the filling wears over time, it can be replaced. This dog bed is also available with foam filling for extra orthopedic support and comes in three sizes and 40 different fabrics to suit any style preference.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 25, 35, and 45 inches round with a sidewall of 4 inches and hood height of 8 inches
- Material: Sherpa, polyester, and cotton with a cedar and polyester filling
- Type: Cave-style
Pros
- Sherpa lining
- 40 fabric options
- Replaceable filling
Cons
- Cave style is not suitable for all dogs
Get the Snoozer pet bed at Amazon, Snoozer, Chewy, or PetSmart.
Photo: amazon.com
The egg-crate orthopedic foam in this dog bed helps cushion pressure points and distribute body weight, while the bolsters provide support for your pup’s head and neck. CertiPUR-US-certified foam ensures that the filling was produced without harmful chemicals, and the microvelvet cover with a faux-fur sleeping surface is removable and machine washable. For dogs who don’t need the orthopedic support, this bed is also available with cooling gel foam or memory foam.
A great dog bed for larger, older dogs, the large option of this bed measures 36 inches long by 27 inches wide by 6.5 inches high—with 3 inches of foam—and is appropriate for dogs up to 55 pounds. If your dog has issues with excessive chewing, you may want to opt for a different choice.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 20 by 15 by 5.5 inches, 30 by 20 by 6.25 inches, 36 by 27 by 6.5 inches, 44 by 35 by 8 inches, 53 by 42 by 9.5 inches
- Material: Microvelvet, orthopedic foam filling
- Type: Sofa style
Pros
- Orthopedic support
- Machine-washable cover
- CertiPUR-US-certified foam
Cons
Get the Furhaven Pet pet bed at Amazon, Chewy, or Furhaven.
Photo: amazon.com
Mat-style dog beds can pad a dog crate, protect a couch surface, or cover the back seat of a car. This option’s exterior is fleece, and it is stuffed with polypropylene fibers for added softness, which also makes it a strong choice when on the go with older dogs and arthritic dogs with painful joint issues. A rubber bottom helps keep it in place on slippery surfaces.
This dog bed is both washer- and dryer-friendly. This version is 42 inches long by 28 inches wide and appropriate for dogs under 55 pounds, but other sizes are also available.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 21 by 14 inches, 27.5 by 19.7 inches, 36 by 22 inches, 42 by 28 inches, 47 by 33 inches, 55 by 39 inches
- Material: Fleece, polypropylene fiber filling
- Type: Mat style
Pros
- Good for travel
- Anti-slip bottom
- Can be machine washed and dried
Cons
- May not be enough cushioning for everyday use
Get the Hero dog bed on Amazon or at Hero Dog.
Photo: amazon.com
Though it has a thin design at just 2 inches thick, this dog bed is stuffed with high-loft polyester batting to give your pup plenty of padding wherever you decide to use it. A reversible, two-color surface is available in three designs: aqua and gray, red and blue, and camouflage and orange. The lightweight polyester material is machine washable, although allowing it to air-dry is recommended over using the dryer.
The large size measures 39 inches long by 30 inches wide and is suitable for dogs up to 80 pounds. The carrying bag measures just 17 inches long by 8 inches wide for easy portability.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 32 by 26 by 2 inches, 39 by 30 by 2 inches
- Material: Polyester
- Type: Pillow
Pros
- Ideal for travel
- Machine washable
- Comes with a carrying bag
Cons
- Not suitable for daily use
- Not good for chewers
Get the FurHaven Pet dog bed on Amazon or Furhaven.
Photo: amazon.com
This high-end dog bed will remain smelling fresh thanks to its odor-resistant fill and an easy-to-clean removable and machine washable cover. Made with the company’s special Quad Element foam, the bed aims to provide comfort for your pup with four layers: cooling energy gel, PetRest memory foam, orthopedic foam, and charcoal HD foam. This combination of foam layers provides your pup with body-contouring comfort, while the cooling gel allows for a cooler surface in warmer months.
The large size measures 42 inches long by 32 inches wide by 8 inches thick and is appropriate for small to medium dogs; Sealy’s additional size options help you scale up or down as needed. A simple design with white piping will pair nicely with most home design aesthetics.
Product Specs
- Sizes available: 25 by 20 by 5.5 inches, 36 by 28 by 7 inches, 42 by 32 by 8 inches, 48 by 38 inches
- Material: Polyester, memory-foam filling
- Type: Bolster
Pros
- Odor-resistant
- Cooling
- Orthopedic foam
- Machine washable
Cons
Get the Sealy dog bed at Amazon, Sealy, or Overstock.
Our Verdict
For our best overall dog bed, we chose the PetFusion dog bed. We think dogs and their owners will love this pick for its comfortable and nontoxic CertiPur-US memory-foam filling and easy-to-clean removable cover. For shoppers that want an upgrade, we recommend the Casper dog bed. The well-known bed maker combines comfort and support with two different foams and excess material on top that allows dogs to feel like they’re digging and scratching in the dirt.
How We Chose the Best Dog Beds
During our research, we reviewed dozens of the best dog beds on the market to help shoppers find the most comfortable one for their pups. We looked at the best options for young and older dogs, noting special features that would add to the bed’s overall comfort and support such as the type of filling, cooling or heating qualities, and orthopedic benefits. We chose beds made from materials that offer comfort while also being able to stand up to wear and tear.
Since dogs tend to track in dirt and debris, and sometimes have accidents, we prioritized options that are easy to clean and have waterproof features. Our final list of top picks includes different types of dog beds that provide a range of choices to suit a variety of breeds and sleep preferences.
FAQs
If you’re wondering how to introduce your pup to a new dog bed or which size will work best, read the answers below to these and other common questions about dog beds.
Q: How do I introduce my dog to a new bed?
The best way to introduce your pup to a new dog bed is by placing his or her favorite toys on it as well as a blanket or shirt that smells like home.
Q: Which size dog bed do I need?
The size of your pup determines the size of the dog bed you will need. Measure your dog from the tail to the nose and then add 8 to 12 inches to ensure he or she has ample space to stretch out.
Q: Are dog beds safe for puppies?
Yes, puppies will nap most of the day, so a dog bed can offer them a cozy spot to snooze.
Q: Should I wash my dog bed?
Yes, it’s important to wash your dog bed regularly to remove any collected dirt and odors.
