Your dog can sleep for up to 18 hours a day. While they will lay down anywhere, a comfortable dog bed is always good for them to have.
Choosing the best dog bed for your pup can be confusing and it is hard to know what you should be looking for.
We’ll try and make the decision easier for you with some advice and recommendations for different types of dog beds.
How to Choose the Best Dog Bed
Just like dogs, dog beds come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Choosing the right bed for your dog’s needs is important so that your dog is comfortable while sleeping. Here are a few things to consider:
- Size. A lot of the dog beds we recommend come in a range of sizes so you can choose the right one for your dog. Too big and your dog may get cold, too small and they will be uncomfortable. It will need to be long enough to fit their length so they can stretch out if they want. Make sure to measure your dog so you end up with the right one for them.
- Durability. No one likes to buy a product and then find that it falls apart quickly. You want something that will last a long time. The beds we recommend are durable and most will have the manufacturer’s warranty to back it up. You will need to take your dog’s temperament into consideration though. If your dog is a chewer then a soft bed with plush insides may be destroyed in rapid time and is probably not a good idea.
- Cleaning. A dog bed that is easy to clean and maintain will make your life easier. Many dog beds come with a removable cover that you can put through the washing machine for an easy clean. Others can simply be washed off with a hose out the back. Keep this in mind when deciding. No need to create extra work for yourself, right?
- Your dog’s needs. When choosing a good dog bed you should think about your dog and their needs. Do they have health issues, like arthritis, where they may need extra orthopedic support? Do they like to snuggle up when sleeping? Think about a cozy soft bed. Do they sleep outside? Look for something waterproof. Make sure your dog is getting what they need, not just what looks good.
- Location. Think about where your dog’s bed is going to be and what material it should be made from. If it is going on a bare floor, like tiles or wood, then you may need a non-slip dog bed or otherwise a non-slip mat to put it on so it doesn’t slide around every time your dog moves.
Remember, you know your dog better than anyone, so you are the best person to choose the right bed for them. Here are some of the best dog beds we have found.
Recommended Reading: What Does Your Dog’s Sleep Position Mean?
Best Orthopedic Dog Bed
If your dog is aging or has arthritis or joint problems then you should be looking at dog beds that have more support in them.
When looking for extra support for your dog’s bed it is often a good idea to avoid cheaply made beds using low-grade foam and fillers that will collapse over time.
Ones that use memory foam rather than cheap filler will provide better support for long-term use.
Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large Dogs
For orthopedic support, you really can’t go past the Big Barker, particularly for larger dogs.
The Big Barker is designed for bigger dogs and comes in 3 sizes from large to XXL. It is made with a high-density orthopedic foam that is 7-inches thick, making it supportive enough for larger and heavier dogs.
The multiple internal layers provide full support while allowing some give so it can mold perfectly to your dog’s body. This gives your dog comfort along with the great support.
This is ideal for aging dogs who have issues with joint pain, but great for any dog of significant size.
The cover is 100% microfiber that feels like suede velvet, making it exceptionally soft, warm and cozy for your dog. It is also easy to clean due to the removable machine-washable cover that is shrink proof.
Hairs can be wiped off easily for a quick clean. It is also bacteria resistant, hypoallergenic and toxin free, with no nasty fillers or chemicals used in the manufacturing.
This bed is also the same on both sides, so if the cover gets a bit worn and ratty on one side, you can flip it over and use the other side.
The Big Barker comes with a whopping 10-year guarantee from the manufacturer, which means that they promise the foam will retain 90% of original shape for 10 years or you get your money back.
This makes it a value purchase that will last most of your dog’s life.
This is one of the most expensive dog beds we recommend, but we believe that it is great value due to its durability, the support it provides your dog, and that fantastic manufacturer guarantee.
Best Outdoor Dog Bed
The best outdoor dog bed will need to have a few features that are important for use outside. If the bed is going to be exposed to the elements then durability is very important.
Look for a waterproof dog bed that dries quickly. The bed should be raised off the ground to prevent moisture and cold seeping through the bed to your dog.
Look for quality materials that will hold up well when exposed to outdoor elements, like sunlight, rain, and snow. Here are our picks for outdoor dog beds.
Best Waterproof Dog Bed
Your outdoor dog bed should be waterproof to protect it from the weather and elements and to make it easier for you to keep clean.
With an outdoor bed for your dog look for waterproof material. If it says it is water-resistant that is not enough protection for outdoor use.
Better World Pets Waterproof Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed
We like this Better World Pets waterproof dog bed for a number of reasons. The high-density memory foam is shredded for flexibility.
This provides enough support without being too firm, which makes it soft and comfortable for your dog. It molds to your dog’s body providing cushioning to help relieve aches and pains.
This can help to provide soothing relief for aging dogs. The 5-inch thickness provides support and comfort without flattening out like other beds do.
The memory foam is then completely encased in a soft, durable fabric. The cover has a waterproof lining to protect against the elements and an anti-slip bottom to keep it in place on any surface. It is easily removable for washing.
We also love that Better World Pets donate 10% of their profits to the Humane Society of the United States to help protect animals.
There is a no questions asked guarantee on this bed, so you can return the bed within 1 year for a full refund if you have any issues with it.
Best Elevated Dog Bed
An elevated dog bed is an ideal outdoor dog bed. Being off the ground helps to keep it clean and dry, and away from dirt, moisture, and bugs.
Air can circulate to help keep your dog cool during the warmer months. They are easy to clean and can be used inside or out.
Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed with Knitted Fabric
The Coolaroo is one of the best dog beds in several categories we have come across. The elevated off-the-ground design promotes and increases airflow on all sides of the bed. This helps to keep your dog cool. It is great for large dogs with almost 9 square foot of bed space.
The fabric is made out of a breathable high-density polyethylene fabric that helps eliminate hot spots and keep your dog cool.
It is 100% recyclable lead and phthalate-free which is Greenguard certified, for a safer, low emission environment for your dog.
The knitted mesh allows air to circulate, keeping your dog cool in warmer weather. The material is also flea, mite, mold and mildew resistant.
It is easy to wash and maintain, you can just hose it down outside, or remove the fabric and wash it in the machine.
The frame is a lightweight, strong powder-coated steel frame that is extremely durable for outdoor use. The portable design makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use and it is easy to put together yourself.
In our minds the Coolaroo is not only is the best elevated bed, it is the best for use outdoors, for large dogs, and the best washable dog bed.
We could easily put it in nearly every category, but we do like to give you some other options as it is not ideal for all dogs needs.
Best Extra Large Dog Bed
The best dog beds for large dogs have a lot of space for your dog and still provide enough support to keep them comfortable.
If your dog is very large or you are looking for an extra large dog bed that will fit a couple of smaller dogs then here is our best pick.
PetFusion Ultimate Pet Bed & Lounge
The PetFusion bed is more of a couch for your dog or dogs. It has a solid 4-inch memory foam base for comfort and support.
The recycled polyfill support bolsters give your dog plenty of options for lounging around. They are great for dogs that like sleeping with their head propped up on a pillow, or that like to snuggle in beside them.
The polyester and cotton fabric is water resistant, durable and comfortable. It also has a non-slip base to keep it in place on your floor.
The cover is removable for easily washing in your machine. You can buy replacement covers as well, so you can have a backup for cleaning or in the case of damage. It also has a 12-month manufacturers warranty.
This is a great bed for very large dogs that love to stretch out on the couch or bed. It has good support at the back and sides while still giving your dog plenty of space.
Best Indestructible Dog Bed
Does your dog just destroy everything you give him? Do you find yourself replacing your dog’s bed too often? If you need a bed that your dog can’t destroy then this is the best dog bed for you to give them.
The bed has a chew-proof high strength, lightweight aircraft grade aluminum frame that supports up to 250 lbs. This frame is virtually indestructible and will stand up to the toughest dog and their rough treatment.
It is elevated to keep your dog dry, cool, and comfortable. You can use it indoors and outdoors. It is easy to clean and guaranteed to stand up to repeated washing. Just a quick hose down is all it needs.
The fabric is a ballistic nylon that is waterproof, abrasion resistant and durable. Yet it has a smooth finish that won’t catch hair.
The patented design of the Kuranda Bed allows the fabric to slide inside the frame which hides the edges of the fabric so there is nothing for your dog to chew on. All fasteners are stainless steel for durability.
If for some reason this bed doesn’t hold up well, each bed is covered by the Kuranda 1 year warranty.
Best Luxury Dog Bed
This one really is pure luxury for your dog. If you love to lounge around outside by the pool I’m sure your dog loves it too.
This is just what he needs to live the life. FYI, probably not for everyone, not for every climate, or for every budget. We did say luxury.
The Refined Canine Outdoor Dog Bed
This is the best in luxury outdoor beds for your dog. It is made from waterproof poly rattan which will stand up to outdoor use. It will allow air to circulate through so your dog can stay cool on warm days.
It has a comfortable 6-inch cushion with a pillow top for easy lounging. The cushion is made from durable material that is ideal for outdoor use.
You can also wash it in the machine for easy maintenance. Having it raised off the ground will also help keep it clean and dry.
The curved canopy will protect your dog from the sun and heat, keeping him cool as he relaxes by the pool.
This is the ultimate in outdoor dog beds.
Recommended Reading: Are There Benefits to Your Dog Sleeping in Bed With You?
We hope this helps you in choosing the right bed for your dog. Only the best for your pup.
