How to choose the right dog bed
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
To choose the right dog bed, match the size to your dog’s full length plus extra room, consider their sleeping style (side-sleeper, sprawler, burrower) to decide between a flat mat, bolster bed, or cave bed, and prioritize a cover that’s removable and machine-washable. Materials like memory foam suit senior dogs, while cooling gel or raised mesh beds help heavy-coated breeds. Avoid cheap fill that can mat down within weeks and read owner feedback on zipper quality and foam density.
What size bed should I get for my dog?
Size is the most common mistake buyers make. Your dog should be able to stretch out fully without hanging off the edge. Measure them from nose to tail while they are lying down and add a few inches on every side. Most brands offer sizes from small (for a Chihuahua or cat) to giant (for a Great Dane or Saint Bernard), but the actual dimensions vary between manufacturers. Ignore the size label and go by the specific length and width numbers in the product description. A “large” bed from one company might be mid-sized for another. If you have a puppy, factor in their adult size. Buy a bed they’ll grow into, and put a rolled-up towel at the edge to give them a sense of security before they fill it out.
Does my dog need an orthopedic bed?
Not every dog needs orthopedic foam, but if you have a senior dog, a breed prone to hip dysplasia (German Shepherds, Labs, Goldens), or a dog that seems stiff when getting up, a high-density memory foam bed can make a real difference. These beds hold their shape for years rather than sagging into a flat pancake. For younger, healthy dogs, a basic cushioned bed or a bolster bed with polyfill may be perfectly fine. The trade-off: orthopedic beds are heavier, often feel stiffer at first, and cost more. They also tend to be less breathable than open-cell foam or “cooling gel” options. Look for foam with a density rating that experienced owners recommend. Avoid models described only as “egg crate” foam, which can compress permanently in a few months.
Bolster bed vs. mat bed: which shape is best?
This comes down to how your dog sleeps. Dogs that curl up and rest their head on something, like the rims of a dog bed or a pillow, prefer bolster beds (nest-style with raised edges). Dogs that stretch out on their side or belly-flop onto cool surfaces tend to prefer flat mat or cushion beds without any raised rim. Bolster beds can provide a sense of security and a place to rest a heavy head, but they are harder to clean (the bolsters often aren’t removable) and take up more space in the washing machine. Flat mats are easier to clean and pack flatter for travel, but they don’t offer the same cozy nesting feel. If you aren’t sure, start with a flat mat with a soft quilted cover. Many dogs learn to adjust, and you can always add a separate pillow later.
How easy is it to clean a dog bed?
Dog beds get filthy, dirt, drool, smells, and the occasional accident. The single most important feature for long-term sanity is a fully removable, machine-washable cover. Look for a zippered cover; zipper quality varies widely, so check owner reviews for complaints about zipper breakage after a few washes. Avoid beds where the liner or the entire bed is just spot-clean only. Those grow smelly and unsanitary fast. For the inner foam or filling, make sure it’s either sealed in a separate washable liner or made of a material that doesn’t absorb moisture (like polyurethane foam with a waterproof inner case). For heavy shedders, a bed with a smooth, slick cover (like polyester twill) is easier to brush fur off than a fuzzy fleece cover that traps hair. Fleece is cozy but a chore to keep clean.
Should I buy a waterproof dog bed?
Waterproof liners (or inner covers) are a lifesaver for puppies, senior dogs with incontinence, dogs that drool heavily, or any dog that drags in wet mud. A separate waterproof layer underneath the main foam prevents odor and bacteria from soaking into the foam core. Many “waterproof” beds use a thin vinyl or polyurethane laminate bonded to fabric. These can feel crinkly and less breathable. If your dog sleeps hot, look for a bed with a waterproof inner cover and a separate breathable outer cover, this lets you remove and wash only the outer layer without sacrificing protection. For dry, indoor dogs with no accidents, a waterproof layer isn’t essential and can make the bed sleep warmer. It’s a trade-off you can’t easily add later, so think honestly about your dog’s habits.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I replace my dog’s bed?
Typically every one to two years, but it depends on the quality. If the foam has a permanent indentation where your dog lies, if the cover is frayed or torn, or if you notice a persistent odor even after washing, it’s time for a new one. Orthopedic denser foams can last three years if kept clean.
My dog is a chewer, what kind of bed should I get?
Look for beds marketed as “heavy-duty” or “chew-proof” with a ballistic-grade nylon or Cordura cover. Avoid beds with exposed zippers or tags that invite destruction. No bed is 100% chew-proof for a determined dog, so supervise closely and consider a bed with a removable cover that’s less expensive to replace than the whole unit.
Should I buy a cooling dog bed for hot weather?
Cooling beds come in two types: gel-infused memory foam that dissipates heat, and raised mesh cots that allow airflow underneath. For a dog that overheats easily or has a thick coat, a raised cot is very effective and easy to clean, but not as cushioned. Gel foam beds are softer but need good air circulation around them and can still warm up in direct sunlight.
My dog is a senior with arthritis, what type of bed is best?
A high-density orthopedic memory foam bed with a thick, dense base is ideal. Look for beds that have at least 3 to 4 inches of foam and a supportive base, not a thin topper. Egg crate or low-density foam won’t provide enough relief. A bolster bed or one with a low entry point also helps an older dog avoid jumping too high.
Do I need a bed cover or just the bed?
A well-designed bed already has a removable cover included. If the cover isn’t removable, buy a separate washable cover for it. Many brands sell replacement covers separately, which is a smart investment. Having two covers lets you wash one while using the other.
Can I wash the whole dog bed in my washing machine?
That depends on the bed. Most covers are machine washable, but the foam inner core usually cannot go in the washer, it will soak up water and rupture its structure. Always check the care label. For smaller foam-filled beds, a front-loading machine may handle it, but top-loaders with an agitator can shred the foam.