Best Dog Beds: Top 10 Picks for a Good Night’s Sleep

Introduction

Dogs love to run, sniff, play, and find new things. But they also need time to rest and sleep well at night. A good sleeping place is significant for dogs, just like it is for people.

Jennifer Macindoe, BVMS MRCVS, says that a perfect dog bed provides a nice resting spot, helps support the joints, keeps the body at the right temperature, and gives the dog a safe feeling. Whether you are getting a new puppy, or helping your old friend feel better at night, getting a high quality dog bed that is right for the pup is a brilliant idea.

There is not just one “best dog bed” out there. The needs of a Great Dane will not be the same as those of a French bulldog. A dog bed that works well for a big and active Golden Retriever will probably not be right for a small, older Chihuahua. The right dog bed for your pet will depend on various factors. That is why we have made this guide. It will help you look through all the different dog beds, get good tips, and find the perfect dog bed for your furry friend’s needs.

Are you ready to look at the many dog beds made just for your pet and what they need? Let’s get started!

Our Top Picks for Best Rated Dog Beds: At a Quick Glance

• Best orthopedic dog bed:Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed, $39.99 – $89.99
• Best calming dog bed:Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Dog Bed, $15.99 – $122.63
• Best dog beds for large dogs:Big Barker Beds Headrest Dog Bed, $220.80 – $399.95
• Best dog beds for puppies:PELZIN Washable Burrow Puppy Beds, $29.99 – $49.99
• Best bed for old dogs:EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Dog Bed, $37.99 – $89.99
• Best dog bed for chewers:BALAPET Chew Proof Dog Bed, $55.99 – $79.99
• Best elevated dog bed:COOLAROO Cooling Elevated Dog Bed, $19.29 – $54.99
• Best waterproof dog bed:NUPIDA Waterproof Deluxe Plush Dog Beds, $21.99 – $62.99
• Best cooling dog bed:Arf Pets Dog Cooling Mat, $12.11 – $59.99
• Best outdoor dog bed:K&H Pet Products Outdoor Elevated Dog Cot, $31.09- $51.77

How to Choose the Best Dog Beds for Your Furry Friend?

There are many kinds of dog beds out there. It’s easy to feel lost when looking at all the choices. Picking the best bed for dogs isn’t just about picking a color or brand. Let’s look at some essential things you must consider when choosing the best beds for dogs.

Assessing Your Dog’s Specific Needs

1. Size, Weight, and Fit

Ensuring the canine bed is the right size and weight for your pet is very important. A bed that is too big can make a small dog feel unsafe. A bed that is too small can squeeze the limbs of a large dog. Wendy Rose Gould says that your dog needs to be able to stretch out fully in his bed, with plenty of room. A good way is to measure your dog’s length, from nose to the base of his tail while he is sleeping, and then add 8 to 10 inches. This will help your doggo feel good and stay comfortable.

2. Age and Health Conditions

• Puppiesare growing and more prone to accidents. They need puppy beds that feel soft, are easy to wash in a machine, and have a waterproof cover.
• Older dogsand dogs who have arthritis or hip dysplasia need more help when they rest. Simon Veterinary Surgical says dog beds with orthopedic or memory foam are better for these dogs. These give better support and help take pressure off their joints by spreading the weight out. Their dog beds should also have low sides. This lets them get in and out more easily.
• A dog recovering from surgeryor a hurt body part will do better on a bed with firm support. A bed with a waterproof lining is also good. This protects the bed from accidents or spilled fluids.

3. Sleeping Style

Every dog has its own way of sleeping. PetMD lists six common dog positions: side sleepers, leaners, lion posers, sprawlers, curlers, and belly-up-ers. Curlers and leaners like donut-shaped or backed beds. These beds can give them neck support and help them feel safe. Sprawling dogs like flat or soft beds so they have room to stretch out. Observing your friend’s sleeping habits can guide your choices.

4. Behavioral considerations

Dr. Ellen Russell, DVM, says that dogs who chew or scratch a lot need a bed made of extra-durable material. A good choice can be something substantial like ballistic nylon or a bed with a raised aluminum frame. If your pup gets anxious, a bed with calming features, like a soft feel or a covered “cave” style, can help them feel safe and relaxed.

Product Features & Standards to Look For

1. Comfort and Support

A dog will spend much time in bed during his life. So, the bed must be a good and comfortable place to rest. We suggest picking a bed that has cushions. This will help dogs feel more relaxed and safe. When it comes to cushions, good memory foam or orthopedic foam is very important. Simon Veterinary Surgical says that the proper hardness helps support the spine and hips. It can ease joint pain and help your dog sleep better.

2. Material Quality and Safety Certifications

• Inner Filling:CertiPUR-US® certification is an important sign of quality and safety. This label tells you the foam is made without unsafe chemicals or heavy metals that can hurt people or pets. It also keeps VOC emissions low.
• External Fabric:The cover should be non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and strong. Cotton, microfiber, and nylon are all good options.

3. Durability

You need a bed that will last for dogs that are very active and like to chew or scratch. Dr. Ellen Russell says beds with ripstop fabric, chew-resistant stuff, strong seams, or aluminum frames can take rough play.

4. Ease of assembly and disassembly

Some beds need little to no setup, and some even come vacuum-packed. Others, like raised beds, need you to put them together. Consider how simple it is to build the bed. See if the bed can be removed easily to move or store it.

5. Washability and Easy Maintenance

Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract says that if you do not clean the bed surface well, your pet can get ulcers and skin infections from urine or poop leaks. That is why it is vital to pick bedding that is easy to wash and take care of.

Removable covers and pads can be taken off and washed in a machine. This makes daily cleaning quick and easy. Waterproof pads are suitable for stopping messes from spills or accidents. This is key for cleaning up after accidental excretion, muddy paws, and fleas and maintaining daily hygiene.

6. Versatility

Mattresses with extra features help make beds more comfy and useful. For example, beds with wheelchair access help dogs with joint problems get in and out without trouble. A temperature-control feature can be good for pets, especially when the weather is cold or their joints feel stiff. A non-slip bottom helps the bed stay in one place on wood or tile floors. A bed with anti-odor lining and a special antibacterial coating allows your dog to stay healthy and keeps the bed clean.

7. Bed Shapes and Styles

Pet expert Mel Plaut lists six usual kinds of dog bed shapes and styles:

• Donut (or Snuggle, Cuddle, or Bagel Bed):Round or oval. It has a pillow in the middle and a raised edge around it. The raised edge provides comfort and helps your fur baby feel safe. It is best for small dogs and those who like to curl up when they rest.
• Pillow Bed:Square or rectangular. It has a puffy pillow edge that goes all around. Dogs who want their head or neck supported will like this one.
• Elevated (or Cots bed):Lifted above the ground. The design lets air move around easily, which keeps your furry friends cool in hot weather or outside use.
• Sofa Bed:Like a bolster bed, but has an opening on one side so your dog can get in and out easily. It suits dogs who want to lie back or relax while resting.
• Lounger (or Mattress Bed):Shaped as a big rectangle with no raised edges.
• Cage Pad:Thin and soft. It fits nicely in a cage and does not take up much space. Cage pads work well for crate training or when traveling with your dog.

Practicality and Lifestyle Considerations

1. Portability and Travel Convenience

For families that like to travel often, an outdoor bed that is light and easy to fold is important. Many of these travel beds for pets have handles, a base that keeps water out, and a design that does not take up much space. This helps make trips smooth for you and your pets.

2. Home Decor and Aesthetics Blend

A Forbes article found that while a dog bed’s function is crucial, more people now consider how it will fit in with the room’s style. Many brands offer fresh designs, colors, patterns, styles, and fabrics to match your living space.

3. Price vs. Value

A dog bed that costs more often uses better stuff. A great dog bed will last for years and can also help your doggo’s health. But you should not think that a higher price always means a better dog bed. You can find good ones at all price points. The most important thing is to look for a dog bed that fits what you want to spend and what your dog needs to sleep well. This way, you and your pet will both be happy.

4. Warranty and Return Policy

Reliable brands trust in the durability of their products and show this with good policies. A product warranty, worry-free trial, and clear return rules help people feel good about buying. Pet expert Sophia Carlisle says some high-quality brands have satisfaction guarantees and multi-year warranties. You should look for mattresses with at least a one-year warranty and read about their return options.

Discover the 10 Best Dog Beds for Your Fur Baby in 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust SnapFYI Recommended?

At SnapFYI, we believe in transparency, accuracy, and research-driven recommendations. While we are not veterinarians or pet product testers, our product selections are made through thorough research. Every claim is grounded in scientific evidence, expert advice, or real-world user experience.

Our recommendations are based on aggregating insights from thousands of genuine user reviews across Amazon, Chewy, Reddit, eBay, and more. We analyze third-party data, product specifications, and expert commentary from trusted sources like PetMD, AKC, and licensed veterinarians. Every claim is supported by transparent sourcing. Our goal is to offer reliable, unbiased advice that helps you find the best solutions for your pets. Trust SnapFYI, because every pet should get the best care!

How to Use and Help Your Pup Adjust to a New Bed?

First, after you take the bed out of the box, let it open up entirely and air out. This may take one to two days. Clean the cover to help remove any smell from making it. Place the mattress where your dog already likes to be so it feels known to them. This can help them feel calm and safe. You can also put a blanket or toy with your dog’s scent. This will help them get used to the new mat.

The Humane Society says, “You can give treats or use praise to help your dog feel good about using the space.” When you do this, your doggo learns that this is a nice spot to be in. Watch how your dog acts during the first few days. Do not force them to use the new spot. Most dogs will naturally adjust to the comfortable new bed.

Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Fluffy’s Bed

The American Kennel Club recommends cleaning your dog bed often. Regular washing and care can help your dog bed last longer and prevent bad smells, bacteria, and things that can cause allergies from building up.

• Be sure to wash any removable dog bed covers every 1–2 weeks. Use a mild soap that is safe for pets.
• It is good to vacuum the dog mat once a week. This helps keep pet hair and dander from building up.
• You can put a water-resistant liner under the soft part of the bed. This helps stop water or pee from getting into the memory foam.
• Clean or sanitize any waterproof liners or foam inserts when needed.
• You should replace the inside foam about once a year or when the bed starts to sag.
• Always read the maker’s cleaning instructions for the dog mattress. This helps you keep from hurting the material or the padding.

Tips for Odor and Allergen Control

Even the best dog beds can harbor smells and allergens if improperly maintained. Here’s how to minimize them effectively:

• Veterinarian Dr. Hyunmin Kim recommends using a mattress made of hypoallergenic and antimicrobial materials, such as 100% cotton, hemp, or tightly woven microfiber fabrics.
• Wash removable covers regularly using unscented, pet-safe detergents to reduce dander and saliva residue.
• Air out the mat outdoors weekly in the sun. The American Journal of Veterinary Researchstates that UV rays can effectively eliminate bacteria.
• Apply baking soda between washes. Sprinkle on the bed, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.
• Consider odor-resistant beds with activated charcoal or gel layers for longer-lasting freshness.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best dog beds isn’t just about comfort—it’s an investment in your pet’s long-term health and happiness. Match their needs with the right features, and they’ll thank you with better sleep and more tail wags.