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A good dog bed gives your pup a place to settle, relax, and reset. But how to choose? There’s a wide range of styles available, from shaggy doughnut cuddlers to rugged outdoor cots. The perfect bed for your particular pooch will depend on their size, sleep style, personality, and destructive tendencies.
To help you find your dog a winner, we spoke with Jennifer Sperry, DVM and veterinary advisor to Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance. Read on for 17 of our favorites in every category, along with the types of dogs best suited to each style.
Best Puppy Bed: PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed (Verified Review)
When it comes to puppies, comfort is king. Dr. Sperry recommends soft beds with bolstered edges to provide comfort and support. Regarded as the ultimate orthopedic dog bed, the PetFusion features a thick foam base made of true memory foam (a rarity), which our Rover test pups found incredibly comfy. Three bolstered sides give your pup a sense of security and a place to rest their head.
Since puppies can get lost in a bed that’s too large, Dr. Sperry suggests going with a bed that’s just large enough to fit their body. Available in a wide range of sizes, the PetFusion suits puppies of all sizes, from smaller breeds like French Bulldogs to larger dogs like Pit Bulls and Huskies. The PetFusion bed also comes with a machine-washable, tear- and water-resistant cover—a boon for pups who are still in training.
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, large, x-large, jumbo
- Materials: cotton, polyester, true memory foam
- Washability: removable and machine-washable cover
- Foam base helps reduce joint pain and enhance mobility
- Includes a waterproof inner liner
Best Bed for Small Dogs: Casper Bolster Dog Bed (Verified Review)
Small dogs need support, too, and orthopedic beds are particularly ideal for smaller breeds prone to joint issues, like Shih Tzus with hip dysplasia or Chihuhahas with luxating patellas. The Casper Dog Bed offers two layers of orthopedic support with memory foam on the top and polyurethane on the bottom. Together, they help relieve pressure and support a small dog’s frame.
Our Rover tester chose a medium size for her two small pups to share—a Boston Terrier and a Pug—and liked how plush it was without being too tall for them to get in and out of.
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, medium, large
- Materials: durable nylon cover, orthopedic foam interior
- Washability: removable and machine-washable cover
- Foam bolsters offer support without being too high for small dogs
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Best Bed for Medium Dogs: Orvis ComfortFill-Eco Fur Wraparound Dog Bed
Medium-sized dogs tend to fall into two categories: medium-small (think Corgis and Beagles) and medium-large (think Australian Shepherds and Vizlas). This ComfortFill-Eco Fur Wraparound Dog Bed by Orvis accommodates both types. Its smallest size suits medium dogs up to 40 pounds, and its next size up fits pups up to 60 pounds.
For dogs who love to rest their head, the wraparound shape provides a cozy den with its 360-degree bolster. It’s soft, too, with a faux-fur sleep surface. Offering an eco-friendly choice, the cushioning is made from recycled plastic bottles. Designed so the recycled fill won’t clump in one place, the bed has a chamber liner to keep things evenly comfortable.
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, medium, large
- Materials: polyester cover, recycled polyester fill
- Washability: removable and machine-washable cover
- Two sizes for medium dogs
- Eco-friendly choice with cushioning made from recycled plastic
Best Bed for Large Dogs: Big Barker Elevated Orthopedic Bed (Verified Review)
Big dogs need a bed that provides support and lots of space—the Big Barker delivers both. This orthopedic bed comes in three giant sizes to accommodate the biggest of breeds. It’s also currently the only dog bed clinically proven to promote joint health—a must for larger breeds prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, like German Shepherds and Great Danes.
A Rover reviewer and her Husky tested the extra large and were impressed with the bed’s quality, comfort, and size—it’s huge! The microsuede surface also holds up well to digging and other Husky shenanigans.
- Sizes: large, x-large, xx-large
- Materials: soft microfiber cover, therapeutic foam interior
- Washability: machine-washable cover; foam can be spot-cleaned and air-dried
- Holds up to big dog weight
- Includes a 10-year warranty
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Best Orthopedic Dog Bed: Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed (Verified Review)
Orthopedic beds are popular among senior dogs and those recovering from an injury. Like human mattresses, these beds have memory foam or another material that molds to your dog’s body to relieve pressure points. This bone and joint support becomes especially important if your dog has arthritis or hip dysplasia, but active pups of all ages can benefit from a high-quality therapeutic mattress.
For dogs who need or prefer a firmer bed, the Furhaven is a solid choice. It has a dense foam base that helps support joints and a flat surface for dogs who have a hard time getting in and out of beds that are super soft or have high sides—ideal for Golden Retrievers and other large breeds prone to hip dysplasia.
The Furhaven is also available in a Goliath version for extra-large dogs, which we tested ourselves. We particularly liked the faux fur lining, which offered comfortable plushness to the firm base. The machine-washable cover is also easy to clean, making it convenient for pet parents with super shedders.
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, medium, large, jumbo, jumbo plus (plus the Goliath that comes with a bolstered side)
- Materials: orthopedic foam, polyester cover
- Washability: removable and machine-washable cover
- Flat design for easy access (and sprawling)
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Best Calming Dog Bed: Best Friends By Sheri, The Original Calming Donut Cuddler (Verified Review)
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Oscar likes nothing better than to smoosh his face into plush faux fur.
Calming dog beds have become increasingly popular with pet parents of nervous pups. “Calming beds usually use plush materials and bolstered edges to create a sense of privacy and security, which may help anxious dogs feel more relaxed,” Dr. Sperry explains. These beds are said to alleviate stress by mimicking the act of snuggling up against a warm mother and littermates.
The Original Calming Bed from Best Friends By Sheri cocoons dogs in a protective circular shape. High, fluffy sides add a sense of security and make a nice headrest. This bed keeps dogs warm and comfortable, thanks to its soft shag and special layer of insulation.
Anxious Oscar, the pictured test pup, migrates between three of these beds around his house, and 85-pound tester Ruby, the Bernese Mountain Dog, has learned to burrow in hers whenever things get stressful. An added plus? The entire bed is machine washable and dryer-safe. However, this material isn’t a good choice for super chewers. You’ll also want to consider sizing up, as our reviewer found that it runs a little on the smaller size.
Key Features:
- Sizes: x-small, small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large
- Materials: cozy shag fabric, plush fiberfill interior
- Washability: the entire bed is machine-washable
- High walls for neck support
- Water-resistant nylon bottom
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Best Indestructible Dog Bed: K9 Ballistics Armored Dog Cot
Some dogs are tougher on their beds than others, never fully growing out of their puppy antics. Relentless chewers, diggers, shredders, and scratchers need a heavy-duty bed that can handle their rambunctiousness. Durable canvas and military-grade fabric tend to hold up well against digging, while cot-style beds have the most success with chewers since their rigid metal frames prevent dogs from getting at the fabric edges.
Of course, no bed is ever truly 100% indestructible—but this K9 Ballistics Armored Cot comes pretty close. With its aluminum frame and ripstop ballistic fabric, it’s a good match for teething puppies or chew-happy adults (calling all Labs). It’s not a cheap bed—but it might be worth it if you never have to replace it. The company also offers a 120-day warranty if you’re concerned about it lasting in your house.
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large
- Materials: strong, rip-stop fabric, aluminum frame
- Washability: spot-clean only
- Virtually indestructible
- Resists dirt, moisture, and hair
- Elevated design allows for air circulation
Best Waterproof Dog Bed: Dogbed4less Waterproof Foam Dog Bed (Verified Review)
Waterproof dog beds can save the day in many situations, protecting against accidents, drool, and spills. This Dogbed4less memory foam bed has a waterproof lining and two machine-washable covers, so you’ll always have a backup on hand.
Our Rover reviewers found the microsuede cover and the thick gel-infused memory foam to be the ultra-comfy combination. We wouldn’t recommend this bed for outdoor use, however, but it’s an excellent choice for inside snuggles.
- Sizes: small, medium, large, x-large
- Materials: microsuede cover, gel memory foam insert
- Washability: machine-washable cover
- Two washable covers
- Four inches of memory foam insert
Best Outdoor Dog Bed: Carhartt Duck Canvas Pet Bed (Verified Review)
If your dog spends a lot of time outside, it’s worth investing in a comfortable outdoor bed. While elevated cot-style beds are a popular choice for outside, a bed with more padding can provide a cozy landing pad for the workshop, barn, patio, or wherever you hang out together.
Carhartt is no stranger to durable outdoor gear, and their dog bed is no different. Designed with working dogs in mind, this bed has a canvas made from the same water-repellent cotton duck that Carhartt uses for their jackets and bibs. Inside, a fiber-filled cushion provides a firm but soft foundation that stays steadily in place.
We tested this one ourselves and found that while it does have a higher price point, the bed’s quality lives up to its brand’s premium name.
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, medium, large
- Materials: cotton duck canvas, polyester fiber-filled cushion
- Washability: removable and machine-washable cover
- Zipper is concealed to ward off chewers
- Skid-proof base to prevent slipping
Best Dog Sleeping Bag: Ruffwear Highlands Dog Sleeping Bag (Verified Review)
Enzo is snug as a bug inside his Ruffwear Highlands Sleeping Bag.
For a more portable outdoor option, dog sleeping bags are great for backpacking, road trips, and other outdoor adventures. They’re lightweight but still offer protection, keeping your dog warm and dry on chilly nights.
The oval-shaped Ruffwear Highlands Dog Sleeping Bag has synthetic down insulation, nylon lining, and a water-repellant polyester shell. While testing it out, we found it to be a versatile choice for outdoor excursions, from camping to cabin stays. It only comes in medium and large sizes, though, which might not work for smaller dogs.
Key Features:
- Sizes: medium, large
- Materials: synthetic insulation, nylon lining, polyester shell
- Washability: machine washable in cold water and on a gentle cycle
- Includes a sleeve for a sleeping pad
- Half-length zipper for easy access
Best Cooling Dog Bed: Arf Pets Self-Cooling Gel Mat (Verified Review)
“Northern dog breeds and others with thick coats can get uncomfortable in warm temperatures,” says Dr. Sperry. “And any dog is susceptible to heat stroke when they can’t escape a hot environment.”
If you have a thick-coated breed, a flat-faced dog, an overweight pup, or live in a muggy climate, a cooling pad may be able to bring down their body heat on warmer days. Cooling mats achieve this in two ways: with a self-cooling gel or an ice-filled mat. You can also find orthopedic cooling beds that are thicker and more suited for older or arthritic dogs.
The cooling mat that works for you will depend on your dog’s needs and environment, of course—but the Arf Pets gel mat has wide appeal. First, it’s convenient: the cooling effect self-activates with your pet’s weight, so no electricity, ice, water, or refrigeration is required. Admittedly, this mat doesn’t get as cold as some other beds out there, so if your goal is providing an icy chill, this may not be for you.
We tested this bed on two Rover kitties, who appreciated the moderate coolness. We liked that it’s easy to clean with a simple wipe-down and is one of the more portable gel mats on the market.
Key Features:
- Sizes: one size (23” x 35″) for dogs up to 80 pounds
- Materials: nylon cushion and gel interior
- Washability: hand-wash, air dry
- Cooling effect lasts for three hours (self-charges in 15 minutes)
Best Elevated Dog Bed: The Original Elevated Pet Bed by Coolaroo (Verified Review)
A raised bed may also help regulate your dog’s body heat. As Dr. Sperry explains, elevated dog beds provide ventilation in hot environments while keeping dogs off the floor in cooler temps. They’re also easy to clean (often a simple hosing will do), so they make a good outdoor bed. And because the fabric edges are virtually impossible to get to, these beds tend to hold up better to heavy chewers.
Highly rated, this Coolaroo bed offers breathable fabric and an elevation of seven inches off the ground. Its steel frame is also lightweight, making it easy to move outside when the weather is nice. And if you forget to bring it back in, no sweat. We found the UV-resistant material held up well to the outdoor elements, and its portability made it easy to pack away nicely when not in use.
- Sizes: small, medium, large, x-large
- Materials: high-density polyethylene, alloy steel
- Washability: hose off with water
- Powder-coated steel frame holds up to inclement weather
- Resistant to pests like fleas, mites, mildew, and mold
Best Heated Dog Bed: K&H Thermo-Snuggly Heated Bed (Verified Review)
Rover test pup Roo recommends the bed-on-couch approach for extra coziness.
Conversely, colder days call for the snuggly warmth of a heated bed, especially for small or short-haired dogs. “Heated beds benefit small dogs, older animals sensitive to cold, pets with arthritis, and those with a thin coat,” says Dr. Sperry.
Heated dog beds come in two main types. Self-warming models radiate your dog’s own body heat back to them, while electric beds like K&H’s Thermo-Snuggly Heated Dog Bed offer more heat and greater temperature control.
We chose this heated bed as the best out of the bunch because of its ultra-softness and energy efficiency. It only warms up to its full heat when your dog rests on it; otherwise, it defaults to eco-mode. This bed does run small, though, with the largest side barely fitting 45-pound Rover test pup Roo.
Key Features:
- Sizes: medium, large
- Materials: polyester
- Washability: removable and machine-washable cover and pillow
- Indoor use with 110/120-volt current
- Five-inch booster sides
Best Cave-Style Dog Bed: Snoozer Luxury Cozy Cave Pet Bed (Verified Review)
Cave beds are an obvious choice for dogs who like to burrow or sleep beneath a pile of blankets (looking at you, Dachshunds). These beds usually have high, fluffy sides or cozy covers that speak to this canine instinct. “Cave beds provide a sense of privacy and security and are an excellent choice for anxious dogs and those who need their space,” says Dr. Sperry. She adds that they’re also very warm, making them a good fit for dogs with thin coats or minimal body fat, like Whippets, Greyhounds, and Chihuahuas.
The nest-like Snoozer has lots of cozy appeal. Its hooded design and soft sherpa interior welcome anxious dogs or puppies to crawl inside. They can stay warm and tucked away—while still being able to watch and interact with housemates. This durable bed is also stitched with a unique sewing technique to prevent fraying.
In our review, we were pleased to find the Snoozer cave bed has larger sizes for bigger breeds, even fitting Big Boy, our 70-pound Staffordshire Terrier test pup.
- Sizes: small, large, x-large
- Materials: microsuede exterior, plush fiberfill interior
- Washability: removable and machine-washable cover
- Polyester fill includes cedar: a pest-repellant and deodorizer
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Best Crate Bed: MidWest Quiet Time Dog Crate Mat
A dog’s crate should be their own private haven. Adding a bed or padded mat is a great way to make things more inviting. If you’re in the throes of house training, look for robust, machine-washable crate beds. Cozy and plush materials, however, are great for dogs who are already crate-trained and aren’t prone to chewing.
Offering some middle ground, this option by MidWest provides a simple but comfortable crate bed that fits most standard crates. The polyester is soft but long-lasting and won’t pill like fleece beds. Most dogs will find the padding sufficient, but large breeds might need a tad more cushion.
Key Features:
- Sizes: 18-inch, 22-inch, 24-inch, 30-inch, 36-inch, 42-inch, 48-inch
- Materials: tufted polyester
- Washability: machine-washable
- Makes a nice stand-alone bed for travel
Best Value: BarkBox Memory Foam Platform Dog Bed
A lot of dog beds cost a pretty penny, but BarkBox’s affordable dog bed balances value with quality. It’s made with memory and gel foam for a supportive base. And the water-resistant cover is machine-washable for easy cleanup.
It’s worth noting that this mattress does take some time to expand once out of its package (up to 72 hours!). But once it filled out, our Rover office pups found it soft and sturdy. (And their pet parents appreciated the cheap price.)
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large
- Materials: 100% polyester cover, memory and gel foam interior
- Washability: machine-washable cover
- High-quality comfort with a therapeutic cooling gel memory foam
- Water-resistant and machine-washable cover
Best Eco-Friendly Bed: Molly Mutt Duvet Cover
Looking for a more sustainable option? The Molly Mutt Duvet offers a unique spin on traditional dog beds. Instead of throwing away outdated clothes or old blankets, you can stuff them into this 100% cotton cover to offer your pup a comfy spot to land. You can use the brand’s stuff sack to keep the filling intact while you wash the cover. This bed could be a winner for anxious dogs too, since it will have the familiar scent of their human.
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, medium/large, huge
- Materials: 100% cotton
- Washability: machine-washable
- Available in a range of prints and colors
- Repurpose your old stuff
- The familiar scent of your old clothes and linens is comforting to dogs
How We Chose
The beds featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews across several retail platforms, and an interview with veterinarian Jennifer Sperry. We prioritized dog beds from reputable manufacturers as well as models with the best materials and construction. We also considered the various needs of different pet parents, taking into account cost, comfort, size, ease of cleaning, and common canine health concerns. And, we’re always guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated dogs, who are never stingy with their feedback.
