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The right dog bed can make a world of difference. It’s not just about sleep quality, though that’s a factor since better sleep leads to better health for pups and people alike. Dogs are den animals, which means they crave a comfortable, safe spot to call their own. A good dog bed will be where your pup goes to settle, relax, and reset—a process that keeps them happy and healthy.
Because “a good bed” means something different to each dog, there’s a huge range of styles on the market. There are orthopedic beds for senior dogs, calming doughnut beds for anxious pups, and nearly indestructible beds for power chewers, to name just a few. We’ve rounded up our favorites in every category to help you find your dog a winner.
Best Orthopedic Dog Bed: PetFusion Ultimate 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 with enough cushion to distribute weight and relieve pressure points evenly. 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.
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. Available in a wide range of sizes, this bed is a top pick for all types of dogs, from smaller breeds like French Bulldogs to larger dogs like Pit Bulls and Huskies.
The PetFusion bed comes with a machine-washable, tear- and water-resistant cover. And if your pup likes to rest their head on something while they sleep, it offers nearly 360 degrees of bolstering support.
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 Orthopedic Dog Bed, Runner-Up: Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed (Verified Review)
For dogs who need or prefer a firmer orthopedic 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)
Best Calming Dog Bed: Best Friends By Sheri, The Original Calming Donut Cuddler (Verified Review)
Calming dog beds have become increasingly popular with pet parents of anxious pups. Comforting features like high, fluffy sides, plush cushions, and a circular shape contribute to a soothing experience. 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. Bolstered edges 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. And 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 Large Dog Bed: Big Barker Elevated Orthopedic Bed (Verified Review)
Big dogs need a bed that provides supportive cushion with lots of space, and the Big Barker delivers on both accounts. 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.
Key Features:
- 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 Small Dog Bed: 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 Puppy Bed: K9 Ballistics Tough Pillow Dog Bed
Puppies aren’t always the gentlest with their things. That’s why the best puppy beds are tough and made of sturdy material that can withstand a bit of chewing, digging, and other light roughhousing. They’re also waterproof, making cleaning up a breeze.
This pillow-shaped foam bed by K9 Ballistics covers all the puppy basics with its no-nonsense approach. The durable rip-stop cover is scratch-, chew-, and water-resistant. It’s also removable, so you can toss it (or the whole bed) in the wash after any accidents. And the best part? The cover comes with a 120-day warranty.
Key Features:
- Sizes: small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large
- Materials: polyester cover, shredded foam interior
- Washability: machine-washable cover and bed
- Non-skid bottom and densely woven fabric
- Includes 120-day limited damage warranty
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 Elevated Dog Bed: The Original Elevated Pet Bed by Coolaroo (Verified Review)
Elevated dog beds provide a few more inches off the ground, allowing for better airflow in warm 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.
Key Features:
- 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 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)
For a more portable outdoor option, dog sleeping bags are great for backpacking, road trips, and other outdoor adventures. These sleeping bags are 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.
Find on Amazon Find on REIKey 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)
Cooling pads can help bring your dog’s body heat down on warmer days. They 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 bed 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 Heated Dog Bed: K&H Thermo-Snuggly Heated Bed (Verified Review)
Conversely, colder days call for the snuggly warmth of a heated bed, especially for small or short-haired dogs. Arthritic and senior dogs may also find these beds soothing.
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. These beds usually have high, fluffy sides or cozy covers that speak to this canine instinct. Heat-seeking puppies are good candidates for a cave bed, as are breeds inclined to burrow (looking at you, Dachshunds). Anxious dogs can also benefit from the comfort of a secluded hideaway.
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.
Key Features:
- 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 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 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.
Shop on AmazonKey Features:
- 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 Budget-Friendly Dog Bed: Frisco Tufted Square Pillow Bed
Opting for a more affordable bed can be a smart move if you’re unsure which type your dog will like or if they’re going through a super destroyer stage. Luckily, there are plenty of budget-friendly dog beds on the pet market. And the best won’t sacrifice design or comfort for the price.
This popular Frisco dog bed, for instance, has both a stylish look and a comfy foam base. The pillow-like structure is super soft but isn’t as firm as a standard orthopedic bed—something to consider if you have a dog who needs significant support.
Key Features:
- Sizes: medium, large
- Materials: orthopedic fiberfill, polyester cover
- Washability: removable, machine-washable cover
- Handle on the side for easy transport
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 interviews with veterinary experts. 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. 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.