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As content little companions, Shih Tzus love to be inside, cuddling with their humans. In fact, they were originally bred to be lap dogs for Chinese emperors. And while they’re just as happy to be curled up next to you on the couch as they would be in a palace, giving them their own cozy bed can make them feel like the royalty they are.
According to Michelle Reindal, CPDT-KA, professional dog trainer and owner of The Paid Pup, the best dog beds for Shih Tzus will provide plenty of side and neck support to facilitate easy breathing. “When it’s time for Shih Tzus to sleep, we need to consider that they’re a brachycephalic breed with a shorter nose, flat face, and compressed breathing passages,” she says.
With Reindal’s advice in mind, we’ve researched and rounded up our favorite dog beds for Shih Tzus so you can find the best fit for your royal pup.
Best Overall: PetFusion PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed (Verified Review)
When searching for the best bed for your Shih Tzu, Reindal recommends avoiding large, flat beds with no security. “Finding a bed that allows a Shih Tzu obstruction-free breathing is imperative—this means a bed with side support for the neck,” she says.
The PetFusion Ultimate is a top pick for small, flat-faced dogs. The bolstered sides offer spine and neck support, helping Shih Tzus find a comfortable position while keeping their airways open. It’s also low enough to the ground for their smaller frames to get in and out of.
Made with real memory foam, this bed is said to be one of the best orthopedic options on the pet market—a key consideration as Shih Tzus are prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia. Our Rover test pups found this bed to be just as comfortable as it is supportive.
Key Features:
- Small size (25″ x 20″ x 5.5″)
- Bolstered sides for head and neck support
- Features 2.5″ true memory foam
- Removable, washable, and water-resistant cover
To Consider:
- Not sturdy enough for power chewers
Best Deep Dish: Best Friends by Sheri Deep Dish Donut Cuddler
Giving your Shih Tzu a designated space to rest when you’re away can help them feel secure in your absence. This deep-dish cuddler by Best Friends by Sheri has fuzzy bolstered sides that give a sense of protection. The back bolster measures 12 inches while the front is shorter at 9 inches, providing an appropriately sized headrest for your Shih Tzu to prop their chin and keep their breathing passages open.
Faux fur makes this bed extra cozy, and a water-resistant bottom keeps things dry. The entire bed is also machine-washable for easy cleanup.
Key Features:
- Small size (17″L x 19″W x 8.5″)
- Deep bed with bolstered sides for security
- Front bolster is lower for better breathability
- Water-resistant bottom
- Machine-washable
To Consider:
- Reviewers say the bed runs small, so it’s best to size up if you have a bigger Shih Tzu
Best Donut-Style: Furhaven Round Calming Donut Dog Bed
If you have a Shih Tzu who likes to burrow or runs cold when they sleep, a plush bed with a few key features can help keep them warm. “Look for a secure donut-shaped bed that still leaves enough room to stretch out,” says Reindal.
This Furhaven donut bed offers a snuggly nest with faux fur lining and an attached velvet blanket. Raised sides give structured support, and the circular perimeter provides ample sprawl space. The fiber base makes for a sturdy bed, while the non-skid bottom keeps it in place during rambunctious Shih Tzu antics. Plus, the whole thing is machine-washable!
Key Features:
- Small size (24″ x 24″ x 7″)
- Round donut shape and attached blanket for burrowing
- Raised sides give structure
- Non-slip bottom prevents bed from moving
To Consider:
- Some dogs may need help learning how to burrow under the cover
- Might be too hot during warmer months
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Best Cooling Bed: Furhaven Orthopedic Cooling Bed
Conversely, a cooling bed can help your Shih Tzu regulate their body temperature if you live in a warmer climate. With their long, thick coat, flat face, and short nose, Shih Tzus generally don’t do well in the heat and humidity. That’s when a bed with cooling properties can help keep them comfortable.
Also by Furhaven, this dog bed offers an orthopedic pad and a gel cooling mat in one. The plush lining offers comfort while the gel-top cover wicks away heat from your Shih Tzu’s body. Shaped similarly to the PetFusion bed above, it also has a low entry point and bolstered sides for head, neck, and back support.
Key Features:
- Small size (20″ x 15″ x 7″)
- Gel top offers cooling properties
- Foam base contours to Shih Tzu’s body
- Bolstered sides and low entry
To Consider:
- Some pet parents note that the sides are more cushy than supportive
Best Elevated Bed: K&H Pet Products Bolster Dog Cot
An elevated dog bed is another option for dogs who overheat easily, providing optimal airflow to keep your Shih Tzu cool and comfortable. Your pup might also appreciate the higher vantage point, allowing them to see more of what’s happening around them in their household (while perched atop their throne).
Elevated beds aren’t always the most comfortable, though. That’s what makes this cot-style bed by K&H Pet Products unique. The cushioned bolstered sides provide coziness and support, while the mesh center helps prevent hot spots. It’s waterproof and fairly lightweight, making it easy to haul outside for yard and patio use. You can even add a sun-blocking canopy top for extra outdoor protection.
Key Features:
- Small size (22″ x 17″ x 7″)
- Elevated cot-style provides good ventilation
- Mesh center for breathability
- Cushioned bolstered sides
- Waterproof and lightweight
To Consider:
- Not the most supportive for joints
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Best Crate Bed: MidWest Homes for Pets Bolster Crate Bed
Shih Tzus have smaller bladders and have been known to be challenging to house train. Getting them used to a dog crate early on can help prevent accidents in the house when you’re not around. Adding a comfy bed can help make their crate a safe place where they can relax.
This crate bed by MidWest offers super soft fleece padding and a bolstered perimeter that your Shih Tzu can use to rest their head and keep their airways open. Available in several small sizes, this bed is machine-washable and lightweight for easy portability.
Key Features:
- Several small sizes: 18″, 22″, 24″, 30″
- Corner straps secure bed to crate
- Soft fleece exterior and padded sides
- Machine washable for easy cleaning
- Can also be used as a standalone bed
To Consider:
- Doesn’t offer a ton of support for older or arthritic Shih Tzus
How We Chose
The products featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms, and an interview with a professional dog trainer. We prioritized beds with strong orthopedic support to facilitate temperature regulation and easy breathing—plus washable exteriors and tough stitching. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated Shih Tzus, who are never stingy with their feedback.
Further Reading:
- The Best Toys for Shih Tzus, from Puppies to Seniors
- The Top Harnesses for Shih Tzus
- The Best Small Dog Beds for Pint-Sized Pups and Little Breeds