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The Best Dog Beds You Can Find Online Right Now

Dog sleeping in his bed
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updated: October 15, 2024
edited by Sara Coleman

Let’s face it, our furry friends are some of our favorite “people” in our lives, and that means we only want the best for them. One of the most essential items to set your beloved pooch up in your home is choosing a proper dog bed. Dog beds not only provide a safe, warm place your dog can call their own, it can keep the dirt and germs often found on them from ending up on your own bed or furniture. Let’s take a closer look at my top picks for the best dog beds, and what you should consider before purchasing.

Our top picks for best dog beds

Best dog bed design: Snoozer Luxury Cozy Cave Dog Bed

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Snoozer Luxury Cozy Cave Dog Bed

Dog beds are not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why Snoozer offers the Luxury Cozy Cave Bed in a variety of styles, fillings, shapes, and sizes. No matter if your dog needs a round bed with a plush pillow, a square bed with a supportive orthopedic cushion, or a crate bed with a washable mattress, each will be topped off with its signature hand-sewn “Cozy Cave,” a warm and fuzzy built-in blanket that snuggly dogs cannot resist.

You will like the huge array of exterior fabric colors and styles to match your home, but no matter what you pick, your dog will appreciate crawling inside and snuggling inside the bed’s ultra-plush sherpa faux fur.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 25 inches (depth) x 8 inches (height), 35 inches (depth) x 8 inches (height), 45 inches (depth) x 8 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Microsuede/sherpa fabric, polyester fill with cedar
  • Type: Hooded/covered dog bed
  • Colors: Sapphire, Olive, Dark Chocolate, Buckskin, Anthracite, Hot Fudge, Camel, Black
  • Sizes: Small, Large, Extra Large
  • Pet weight: N/A
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: 93-126

Pros:

  • Dogs can choose to sleep on top or in “the cave”
  • Washable cover
  • Sherpa interior for added coziness

Cons:

  • Pricey

The bottom line:

Dogs that like to snuggle will love burrowing into this sherpa-lined, cozy cave bed.

Best budget dog bed: Arm & Hammer Oval Foam Lounger Bed

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Arm & Hammer Oval Foam Lounger Bed

5% offSave $2

Arm & Hammer’s Lounger Bed may only be available in a single size and color, but this cuddly and spacious blue bed is a steal for small to medium-sized dog owners. This dog bed sports a washable cover and an extremely soft cushion underneath, but this lounger’s innovative Arm & Hammer antimicrobial fabric eliminates odors, so you can go for longer without needing to toss it in the washing machine. Comfortable, fresh, and surprisingly affordable, an Arm & Hammer Lounger Dog Bed is a solid pick for giving little stinkers a cozy place to nap.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 23 inches (width) x 17 inches (depth) x 23 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Antimicrobial fabric, “ultra-soft micro luxe” plush, polyurethane foam
  • Type: Lounger dog bed
  • Colors: Blue Moon
  • Sizes: Medium
  • Pet weight: N/A
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: $35.86

Pros:

  • Budget-friendly option
  • Made to limit the growth of bacteria
  • Fights pet odor
  • Non-skid bottom

Cons:

  • Limited sizing and color options

The bottom line:

Small and medium dogs will love lounging in this plush bed, and you’ll love its antimicrobial fabric that allows you to wash this bed less.

Best dog bed for large dogs: FurHaven Sofa Dog Bed - Plush & Suede

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FurHaven Sofa Dog Bed - Plush & Suede

It is nice that the FurHaven Sofa Dog Bed is available in multiple sizes, but this highly customizable dog bed is best suited for dogs weighing in at 100 pounds or more. No one knows your extra-large dog better than you, so the ability to choose between a plush nesting pillow, firmer medical support foam, form-fitting memory foam, joint-relieving convoluted orthopedic foam, and cooling foam makes it easier to get the best bed to suit their needs. No matter which filling you select, giant dogs will appreciate the soft suede fabric, wide surface area for stretching out, and ample headrest lining three sides of this stylish sofa bed.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 30 inches (width) x 20 inches (depth) x 3 inches (height); 36 inches (width) x 27 inches (depth) x 3 inches (height); 40 inches (width) x 32 inches (depth) x 4 inches (height); 53 inches (width) x 40 inches (depth) x 5 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Polyester/synthetic fabric, medical-grade orthopedic foam
  • Type: Bolster dog bed
  • Colors: Deep Pool, Almondine, Gray, Espresso
  • Sizes: Medium, Large, Jumbo, Jumbo Plus
  • Pet weight: Up to 35 pounds, up to 55 pounds, up to 95 pounds, up to 125 pounds
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: $24-160

Pros:

  • Designed with large dogs in mind
  • Highly customizable
  • Machine washable

Cons:

  • Heavier weight might be harder to move
  • More expensive option

The bottom line:

Whether your dog is 25 pounds or 125 pounds, they’ll experience maximum comfort with this bed’s medical-grade orthopedic foam.

Best dog bed for small dogs: Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler

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Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler

Sure, The Original Shag Fur Donut Cuddler is available in five different sizes, but this extra-fluffy bed feels explicitly designed for sweet little lap dogs to curl up in for even sweeter dreams. The Donut provides a nest-like dog bed of fuzzy faux fur that retains warmth and its design promotes digging and burrowing behaviors, so little dogs can get it out of their system before curling into a ball for a nap. While Yorkies, Chihuahuas, and other toy breeds will enjoy its plush cushion and comforting fur texture, their owners will like this dog bed’s eye-catching modern design, wild colors, and washable cover.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 17 inches (width) x 17 inches (length) x 7 inches (height); 23 inches (width) x 23 inches (length) x 7 inches (height); 30 inches (width) x 30 inches (length) x 9 inches (height); 36 inches (width) x 36 inches (length) x 10 inches (height); 45 inches (width) x 45 inches (length) x 10 inches (height), 54 inches (width) x 54 inches (length) x 11 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Nylon/faux fur/synthetic fabric, plush/fiberfill
  • Type: Cuddler dog bed
  • Colors: Cotton Candy, Frost, Taupe, Dark Chocolate, Lavender, Dusty Rose, Baby Blue, Grey, Sage
  • Sizes: Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large
  • Pet weight: Up to 15 pounds, up to 25 pounds, up to 45 pounds, up to 100 pounds, up to 150 pounds, up to 210 pounds
  • Washable: Entire bed is washable
  • Price: $29.99-139.99

Pros:

  • Encourages a calm, cuddly environment
  • Entire bed is machine washable
  • Budget-friendly to more expensive options available

Cons:

  • Made of material that can easily rip

The bottom line:

Anxious cuddlers will enjoy the safe, snuggly feel of this donut bed’s high bolsters and faux fur.

Best dog bed for older dogs: FurHaven Luxe Lounger Dog Bed

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FurHaven Luxe Lounger Dog Bed

They’ve chased their fair share of squirrels in their days, but since their legs don’t jump like they used to and they get tired more easily, getting a FurHaven Luxe Lounger Dog Bed isn’t spoiling them, it’s simply providing exactly what they need. Not only is the Luxe Lounger low to the ground so older dogs can easily step on, this bed is available in orthopedic, memory, and cooling foam options so you can give your senior dog the best bed for their needs.

It’s also nice to see that these beds are available in four eye-catching styles and six sizes so older dogs of every kind can effortlessly plop down for an easy rest. A low-lying and relaxing lightweight bed like the Luxe Lounger makes all the difference for keeping older dogs more comfortable and happier throughout their twilight years.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 21 inches (width) x 14 inches (depth) x 4 inches (height); 30 inches (width) x 20 inches (depth) x 5 inches (height); 36 inches (width) x 24 inches (depth) x 5.5 inches (height); 45 inches (width) x 30 inches (depth) x 6 inches (height); 36 inches (width) x 51 inches (depth) x 8 inches (height); 42 inches (width) x 58 inches (depth) x 9 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Polyester/synthetic fabric, CertiPUR-US® certified orthopedic/memory/cooling foam
  • Type: Lounger dog bed
  • Colors: Gray
  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Jumbo, Jumbo Plus, Giant
  • Pet weight: Up to 23 pounds, up to 38 pounds, up to 75 pounds, up to 150 pounds, up to 180 pounds
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: $34.99-180.99

Pros:

  • Customize the support and size for your dog
  • Low-lying and easy to walk into
  • Made of durable materials

Cons:

  • Limited color options

The bottom line:

This low-lying lounger is easy for older dogs to get into and its CertiPUR-US® certified foam provides great support for joints.

Best orthopedic dog bed: Frisco Plush Orthopedic Pillow Top Dog Bed

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Frisco Plush Orthopedic Pillow Top Dog Bed

While the average orthopedic dog bed may seem like little more than a rectangle of memory foam for cradling your dog and taking pressure off their joints, Frisco thought outside of the box when they added a plush pillow top cover to their orthopedic dog bed. Dogs in cooler climates will appreciate this orthopedic bed’s fluffy and comforting blanket-like surface, while the orthopedic foam underneath provides the support they need for a more restful sleep. Since extra-large breeds tend to be more prone to joint-related aches and pains, it feels good to spoil them with an orthopedic bed that is just as easy on their bones and cartilage as it is furry and comfortable to sleep on.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 36 inches (width) x 27 inches (depth) x 8 inches (height); 40 inches (width) x 30 inches (depth) x 8.5 inches (height); 48 inches (width) x 36 inches (depth) x 8.5 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Polyester/synthetic fabric, orthopedic foam/plush/fiberfill
  • Type: Orthopedic dog bed
  • Colors: Grey, Beige
  • Sizes: Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large
  • Pet weight: N/A
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: $48.85-107.51

Pros:

  • Provides a variety of core fill options
  • Find the right fit and support for orthopedic needs
  • Lightweight and washable

Cons:

  • Material may be too warm for warmer climates

The bottom line:

Dogs who like to sprawl out can comfortably do so on this orthopedic pillow top bed.

Best dog bed for chewers: Orvis ToughChew ComfortFill-Eco Platform Dog Bed

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Orvis ToughChew ComfortFill-Eco Platform Dog Bed

All dogs deserve a genuinely soft and comfortable bed to rest on, even the ones who chew more like a crocodile than a golden retriever, which is why the Orvis ToughChew Dog Bed is a must-have for destructive pups. It is a shame that most ‘indestructible” dog beds feel more like burlap than a cozy bed, but this cover’s extremely soft microvelvet top layer is surprisingly soft, and its sturdy nylon core prevents dedicated chewers from finding that one exposed seam that allows them to ruin lesser beds.

Dog owners may also like the range of sizes and colors available, but the money back guarantee offered if a dog somehow bites through this rock-solid bed’s cover makes this model well-worth a try for hardcore chewers.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 28 inches (width) x 18 inches (depth); 36 inches (width) x 24 inches (depth); 43 inches (width) x 29 inches (depth); 53 inches (width) x 35 inches (depth)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Ripstop nylon base layer and microvelvet top layer, 840-denier nylon liner, recycled polyester
  • Type: Platform dog bed
  • Colors: Charcoal Chew, Charcoal, Grey Tweed
  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
  • Pet weight: Up to 40 pounds, up to 60 pounds, up to 90 pounds, up to 120 pounds
  • Washable: Entire bed
  • Price: $159-279

Pros:

  • Money-back guarantee
  • Meant for the most destructive dogs
  • Recycled polyester fill for higher loft
  • Great for crates

Cons:

  • Might not be supportive enough for senior dogs or ones with orthopedic needs

The bottom line:

Chewers can take a break and sprawl out on this chew-proof springy bed that won’t clump or flatten over time.


More options at: Best Dog Beds for Chewers: 7 Tough Options, Reviewed by Experts

Best washable dog bed: Casper Bolster Dog Bed

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Casper Bolster Dog Bed

10% offSave $14

Accidents happen to the best dogs but the Casper Dog Bed’s durable, chew-resistant cover is washable and its heat-bonded fibers resist fur getting into the fabric. Although it does require a little assembly, the Casper Dog Bed’s boxy exterior and squishy memory foam interior is well-worth taking a few minutes to build a comfortable little nest for your dog. This dog bed’s ultra-rugged nylon cover isn’t just scratch-resistant, its material was designed to mimic the feel of loose dirt underfoot giving dogs who have that adorable urge to dig a little on their bed before a nap a good reason to paw at the Casper Dog Bed.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 25 inches (width) x 19 inches (depth) x 6 inches (height), 33 inches (width) x 25 inches (depth) x 6 inches (height), 45 inches (width) x 35 inches (depth) x 7 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Nylon/polyester/olefin cover, Visco elastic memory foam and polyurethane support foam
  • Type: Bolster dog bed
  • Colors: Sand, Blue, Grey
  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large
  • Pet weight: Up to 30 pounds, up to 60 pounds, up to 90 pounds
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: $139-249

Pros:

  • 30-day risk free trial
  • All zippers are sewn in to avoid scratching floor
  • High quality mattress
  • Retains its shape over time

Cons:

  • Limited sizing and color options
  • Only the cover is washable
  • On the more expensive side

The bottom line:

Cleaning is easy with Casper’s bolster style bed that comes with a durable, fur-resistant cover that’s machine washable.

Best elevated dog bed: K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot

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K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot

Especially durable, easy to clean, and available in a range of sizes and styles, the K&H Original Pet Cot is a must-have elevated bed for keeping your dog cool inside or outside. These affordable elevated dog beds are surprisingly well designed, with non-slip rubberized feet to protect your floors, a surprisingly sturdy mesh cover that allows cooling air to flow right under and through the bed for an all-around cooler sleep, and is extremely simple to assemble and take apart as needed.

While the Original Pet Cot was made for dogs of all sizes, large breeds will enjoy this ultra-rugged, yet cozy elevated bed that gives larger dogs plenty of room to lounge.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 17 inches (width) x 22 inches (depth) x 7 inches (height); 25 inches (width) x 32 inches (depth) x 7 inches (height); 30 inches (width) x 42 inches (depth) x 7 inches (height); 32 inches (width) x 50 inches (depth) x 9 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Breathable mesh and heavy denier, water-resistant cover, aluminum frame, rubber feet
  • Type: Elevated dog bed
  • Colors: Green, Taupe, Red, Chocolate, Charcoal, Blue, Grey, Camo
  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
  • Pet weight: Up to 150 pounds
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: $39-83

Pros:

  • Great for keeping pets cool in warmer months
  • Holds dogs up to 200 pounds
  • Simple assembly
  • Collapses down for easy travel and storage

Cons:

  • No additional support, such as memory foam

The bottom line:

With a breathable mesh center, dogs who like to snooze outside will enjoy this pet cot.

Best cooling dog bed: Sealy Lux Dog Bed

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Sealy Lux Dog Bed

The dog days of summer don’t have to be nearly as hot for your dog if they’re napping on the layer of cooling gel coating the Sealy Lux Dog Bed’s layers of squishy memory foam, orthopedic foam, and HD foam. With its joint-cushioning and body-cooling design, small to extra large breeds living in warm places should take advantage of this durable orthopedic bed.

Parents of pups will certainly appreciate the range of classy color options available, as well as how this cooling bed’s charcoal-infused base stays odor-free.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 20 inches (length) x 25 inches (width) x 5.5 inches (height); 28 inches (length) x 36 inches (width) x 7 inches (height); 32 inches (length) x 42 inches (width) x 8 inches (height), 48 inches (length) x 38 inches (width) x 8 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Polyester and cotton, cooling gel, orthopedic foam, memory foam, and HD foam filling
  • Type: Cooling dog bed
  • Colors: Military Green, Modern Grey, Brown, Navy
  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
  • Pet weight: N/A
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: $83.65-177.28

Pros:

  • Memory foam for orthopedic support
  • Core prevents shifting when your dog moves
  • Cooling gel dissipates heat
  • Waterproof liner

Cons:

  • Limited color options
  • Higher-end of budget for dog beds

The bottom line:

Dogs in warmer climates will stay cool and comfortable on this triple-foam bed that also has cooling gel.

Best dog crate bed: Gorilla Ballistic Tough Orthopedic Crate Pad

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Gorilla Ballistic Tough Orthopedic Crate Pad

Crate training can be a stressful time for a dog, and unfortunately some take out their frustrations on their crate beds. Between the zipper’s ability to withstand a bite force of 268 pounds, machine washable, stain-, mold-, and mildew-resistant cover, and its signature 125-day chew-proof warranty, Gorilla Ballistic Tough Orthopedic Crate Beds were designed for even the strongest of chewers.

You may not expect a crate bed this rugged to be so comfortable, but once you’ve used its integrated tie-downs to fasten this pad to its crate, even the most stubborn dogs will eventually come to appreciate the Gorilla Crate Pad’s form-fitting plush foam mattress. Although these are fairly expensive crate pads, this extremely durable model was designed for long-term use, and buyers can customize its design with multiple fabric and thread options.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 24 inches (width) x 18 inches (depth); 30 inches (width) x 19 inches (depth); 36 inches (width) x 23 inches (depth); 42 inches (width) x 28 inches (depth); 48 inches (width) x 30 inches (depth); 54 inches (width) x 36 inches (depth)
  • Materials (cover/fill): “Gorilla Ballistic fabric” cover, CertiPUR-US® certified foam, water-resistant liner
  • Type: Orthopedic dog crate pad
  • Colors: Black or gray fabric, with choice of pink, silver, orange, blue, or multicolor thread
  • Sizes: Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large
  • Pet weight: N/A
  • Washable: Washable cover
  • Price: $93-198

Pros:

  • Made to withstand the toughest chewers and third-party tested
  • Customized sizes available
  • Hypoallergenic and odor-resistant

Cons:

  • Mattress is not washable

The bottom line:

With its 125-day chew-proof warranty and military-grade fabric, this orthopedic crate pad is a must-try for heavy chewers.

Best value dog bed: Best Friends by Sheri Ultra Calming Orthopedic Pouf Luxury Donut Dog Bed

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Best Friends by Sheri Ultra Calming Orthopedic Pouf Luxury Donut Dog Bed

This orthopedic dog bed is overstuffed with shredded foam that conforms to your dog’s body to provide support. Available in three sizes and two colors, the luxury donut’s bolsters provide head and neck support while the faux fur offers a comforting place to rest.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 23 inches (length) x 23 inches (width) x 9 inches (height); 30 inches (length) x 30 inches (width) x 11 inches (height); 36 inches (length) x 36 inches (width) x 11 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Faux fur cover, shredded foam and polyfill, faux suede base
  • Type: Orthopedic cuddler bed
  • Colors: Tan, Gray
  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large
  • Pet weight: Up to 25 pounds, up to 40 pounds, up to 75 pounds
  • Washable: Machine washable cover
  • Price: $42.99-79.99

Pros:

  • Provides orthopedic support
  • Machine washable cover
  • Neutral colors blend well with home decor
  • Budget-friendly price

Cons:

  • Only available in three sizes
  • Not ideal for dogs who like to sprawl out

The bottom line:

With its cozy faux fur and supportive foam, this orthopedic donut bed with a washable cover is a great pick for dog owners on a budget.

Best washable dog bed: Majestic Pet Anderson Check Sherpa Personalized Bagel Bed

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Majestic Pet Anderson Check Sherpa Personalized Bagel Bed

This sherpa-lined bed has a waterproof base to protect surfaces like carpet from pet accidents. For ease of cleaning, it’s also completely machine washable. It comes in four sizes and your pet’s name can be embroidered on the front.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 24 inches (length) x 19 inches (width) x 7 inches (height); 32 inches (length) x 23 inches (width) x 7 inches (height); 40 inches (length) x 29 inches (width) x 9 inches (height); 52 inches (length) x 35 inches (width) x 11 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Cotton cover, plush polyester fiberfill, 300/600 denier base
  • Type: Bolster bed
  • Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Gunmetal Blue, Pink, Tan
  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
  • Pet weight: N/A
  • Washable: Entire bed is machine washable
  • Price: $65-113

Pros:

  • Personalizable with pet’s name
  • Waterproof base
  • Completely machine washable

Cons:

  • Some reviewers say the center is overstuffed and is too high

The bottom line:

For a fully washable bed that comes in four sizes and multiple colors, this personalizable bed is one to get.

Best splurge dog bed: Saatva Dog Bed

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Saatva Dog Bed

If you’re looking to splurge, look no further than Saatva. The maker of handcrafted, luxury soft mattresses also makes a luxury dog bed. With its neutral palette that complements any decor, this bed offers your dog the support of microcoils and the comfort of a pillow top.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 18 inches (width) x 24 inches (length) x 4 inches (height); 25 inches (width) x 35 inches (length) x 4 inches (height); 24 inches (width) x 34 inches (length) x 4 inches (height)
  • Materials (cover/fill): Polyester and acrylic cover, pillow top comfort fibers, microcoils
  • Type: Pillow top bed
  • Colors: Natural, Taupe, Slate
  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large
  • Pet weight: Up to 45 pounds, up to 90 pounds, up to 120 pounds
  • Washable: Removable spot-clean cover
  • Price: $195-395

Pros:

  • Microcoils provide support and prevent the bed from flattening over time
  • Stain- and liquid-resistant cover
  • Pillow top’s comfort fibers are baffle quilted to prevent shifting
  • 45-day trial
  • Handcrafted in the United States

Cons:

  • Cover can’t be machine washed

The bottom line:

Provide your pup with the support of microcoils and the comfort of a pillow top with this handcrafted luxury dog bed by Saatva.

How I chose the best dog bed

There are hundreds of dog beds available on the market, so how did I choose the best options? I reviewed the features pet owners most often consider, including comfort, washability, sizing options, and price.

Features

To accommodate dogs with different sleep styles and varying comfort needs, I included different types of beds, including cuddlers, cots, loungers, and orthopedic/memory foam. Some beds have unique features like cooling gel, microcoils, chew-proof fabric, and fade-resistant fabric.

Washability

All beds on this list have some degree of washability. Most of my selections have a removable washable or spot-cleanable cover while a few of the beds can be hosed off or are 100% machine washable.

Size options

Since dogs come in a wide range of sizes from teacup to giant, I compiled a list of beds that offer multiple sizes. In addition to the standard small, medium, and large, some picks even offer extra small beds and extra extra large beds.

Price

To accommodate various shoppers, I picked dog beds that span the price spectrum, from $24 to just under $400.

What to look for in a dog bed

Just as every dog has their preference for fluffy, crinkly, rubbery, or squeaky toys, it is essential to pick out the right dog bed to ensure your best friend is resting as comfortably as possible.

What is your dog’s sleep style?

Comparing your dog’s sleeping style to the types of pet beds on the market is the best place to start. For example, dogs that curl up in a cute little ball when they sleep will be especially comfortable in a bowl-shaped wraparound-style bed or cuddler bed, while others who sprawl out on their sides will appreciate a bolster or couch-shaped bed that is mostly flat, but features a pillow-like feature to rest their head on. Dogs who like to lounge outside might enjoy cots because the elevated design and mesh centers keep them cool. Cots are also nice as an outdoor bed because they’re easy to hose off. Arthritic dogs who are trying to get comfortable while sleeping can benefit from the support that memory foam beds provide.

Does your dog need added support?

Other major considerations to keep in mind when shopping around include low-lying and especially supportive models for older dogs. Beds with a high-profile, like cots, can be difficult for arthritic dogs to get into, plus cots won’t provide adequate support for aching joints. For dogs who tend to run hot or cold, look for beds designed with cooling or warming materials. For fashionistas, it's also nice to consider dog beds offered in multiple colors and patterns to match your home’s style. While your lap is probably your pup’s top choice, it is important to provide a dog bed that caters to their comfort needs when you aren’t around to cuddle with.

What is your budget?

While most of us would prefer to spend our last dollar on our favorite furbabies, budget should likely be a consideration. Dog beds are similar to so many other categories of pet care — there are budget-friendly picks, splurge worthy ones, and everything in between. Decide on your budget before you start shopping and try to stick to it as much as possible.

Washability

Another consideration is if a bed is washable because at some point, it’s going to be dirty. Some beds have waterproof liners to keep the core clean, and removable covers, while others are completely machine washable. A bed that’s completely or partially washable might last longer because you’re able to keep it clean, whereas a bed that you can only spot clean — especially with pets who might have accidents — will end up needing to be replaced sooner. Cots can usually be hosed off outside but not all dogs enjoy them.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Do dogs prefer hard or soft beds?

That depends on your dog, as bigger and smaller breeds have different comfort needs. A golden retriever is more likely to appreciate a wide and flatter bed with a firmer feel for more orthopedic support as they stretch out on their sides. On the other hand, a Silky terrier would likely prefer a softer bed to curl up in a cozy bowl-like bed, surrounded by plush fabric for that feeling of security and comfort.

Every dog is different, but with a little consideration for their breed and individual personality, you can make the call for a softer and springier or firmer and more supportive bed for your dog.

How do I keep a dog from destroying their bed?

Your dog is going to dig, scratch, roll, thrash, and curl up on their bed every day, and while a little wear is inevitable, you’ll want it to last as long as possible. Keep an eye out for sturdier materials such as a metal frame and rugged tear-resistant materials like nylon when shopping for especially destructive dogs. For dogs who consider a durable bed to be a chewing challenge, try spraying their bed with a pet-friendly “no-chew” spray; its safe, yet unappealing taste will deter even the most dedicated chewers from destroying their beds. To help them burn off some of that energy, make sure they get enough exercise and have durable toys designed specifically for chewers. Consider getting a subscription box like the Bark Super Chewer or Bullymake.

How often should you replace dog beds?

Ideally, rarely to never, but there are some instances where a dog’s bed should be replaced. If your dog has a destructive streak and ends up destroying their bed, clean up the pieces and dispose of it immediately. Ingesting foam, cushioning, or fabric could cause a dangerous digestive blockage resulting in a pricy vet bill, so if you believe that your dog may take out their frustrations on the bed, it’s best to invest in a more rugged model to begin with.

Older dogs may eventually need a lower bed with memory foam cushioning to eliminate the need to jump up and cushion their joints while they relax. Although many dog beds feature a washable cover, if it becomes a little too worn over the years, it may be time to spring for a fresh and clean brand-new one. If the bed has flattened and isn’t providing much cushion and support, it’s definitely time to get a new bed. Depending on the quality, materials, and how much the bed is used, this could happen within 6 months to several years.

Do dogs really need beds?

Absolutely, and there are many reasons why. Trying to sleep on hard tile flooring may be rough on a dog’s joints and too cold in cooler climates. Other than your mattress and pillow, human furniture is unlikely to offer the support that dogs need for maximum comfort. For example, a nest-shaped dog bed provides plush support on all sides for the dog curled up inside, resulting in an all-around cozier sleep when compared to the partial support from sleeping on the couch. Whether a dog prefers a bed with a built-in blanket-like cover, a memory foam pillow, or a deep plush bowl to cuddle in, it’s important to cater to their comfort just as you picked out the best pillows and sheets for your own bed.

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