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- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
There are a lot of charming small dog beds on the market, and with the proliferation of aesthetic online retailers in the pet space, finding an appealing one isn’t hard. But there’s more to picking a winner for your pup than combining a puffy base with a heart-stoppingly cute exterior.
So we asked the experts: What do small breed dogs really need in a good bed? And what types of beds appeal to them? Dr. Linda Simon and Dr. Alex Schechter weigh in as we review the top small dog beds on the market, plus how to choose for your pint-sized pup.
- Best Overall: Casper Bolster Dog Bed
- Best Orthopedic: PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster
- Best Calming: Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Bed
- Best for Puppies: Furhaven Round Hooded Donut Bed
- Best for Crates: MidWest Quiet Time Deluxe Fleece Bolster Crate Mat
- Best Elevated: K&H Bolster Dog Cot
- Best Cave Bed: Snoozer Pet Products Orthopedic Cozy Cave
- Best Outdoor: Coolaroo Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed
- Best Donut Bed: Majestic Pet Suede Bagel Bed
- Best Heated Bed: K&H Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Bolster Bed
- Best Cheap Bed: Frisco Rectangular Bolster Bed
Best Overall: Casper Bolster Dog Bed (Verified Review)
“Beds for small dogs should be sturdy and supportive, which is particularly important for older small breeds,” says veterinary surgeon Dr. Linda Simon. Orthopedic beds can be especially beneficial for small breeds prone to joint issues, like Dachshunds or Shih Tzus.
For small dogs, there’s a lot to like about the Casper Dog Bed. First, it offers orthopedic support with two layers of foam. A layer of Visco Elastic Memory Foam sits on the top to relieve pressure on your pup’s frame. The bottom layer is made with polyurethane foam to support your small dog’s body. This bed is built to last, and the structure is designed to hold its shape.
Our Rover tester liked the reasonable height of this bed, noting that most dogs won’t have a hard time getting in and out of it. The slightly raised bolsters give your dog a good place to rest their head, though they may not be high enough for pups who prefer more substantial sides.
The Casper’s cover is designed with extra material to accommodate dogs who like to dig and burrow (hello, Dachshunds). It’s also removable and machine-washable.
Features we like:
- Size small (25″ x 25″ x 4″) recommended for dogs up to 30 pounds
- Sewn-in pockets hide the metal zippers
- Designed and manufactured in the U.S.
Things to consider:
- Bolsters are fairly low (less ideal for donut sleepers)
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Best Orthopedic: PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Bed (Verified Review)
“For tiny dogs under 10 pounds, I recommend orthopedic dog beds,” says Dr. Alex Schechter, founder of Burrwood Veterinary. Orthopedic beds are made with supportive foam that contours to match a dog’s body shape, offering support and alleviating pressure on your pup’s joints and spine. “Memory foam and gel-infused foam beds are especially good choices,” Dr. Schechter adds.
While larger dogs tend to have more joint issues, some smaller breeds are prone to joint problems as well. A Dachshunds’s long spine and short legs put them at risk. And some small breeds, like Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, can develop hip dysplasia.
The PetFusion Ultimate is widely regarded as one of the best orthopedic beds on the market. The small size has a 2.5-inch true memory foam mattress (the larger sizes have thicker foam). The bed is surrounded on three sides with generously filled bolsters for head and neck support. Raised sides also foster a sense of security, which is important for most smaller dogs. We tested the PetFusion Ultimate with several Rover office dogs and found the bed both supportive and comfortable.
Features we like:
- Size small (25″ x 20″ x 5.5″) recommended for dogs up to 30 pounds
- The mattress is protected with a water-resistant inner liner
- Cover is removable and machine-washable
- Nonskid bottom
- Replacement covers are available for purchase
Things to consider:
- Burrowers may prefer donut-style beds
- Won’t stand up to power chewers
Best Calming: Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Bed (Verified Review)
Calming beds are designed with features that make your dog feel safe and secure, like ample plush filling, soft fur covers, and a round donut shape or bolstered sides. These types of beds recreate the comforting experience of curling up against a warm mother and littermates.
“Smaller dogs enjoy feeling cocooned and snug, so donut beds are a great investment,” says Dr. Simon. She adds that donut beds are especially helpful for flat-faced breeds like Pugs and Frenchies, as they allow dogs to stretch their neck as they rest, improving breathing and reducing snoring.
The Best Friends by Sheri is considered the original calming bed. We tested this one ourselves and can confirm that it’s as cozy as it looks. The round shape encourages nesting, and the soft shag exterior adds a touch of warmth and comfort. A raised outer rim creates a sense of security, essentially hugging your dog. Our testers also noted that the indented center of this bed is ideal for burrowing, a common behavior among certain small breeds.
Features we like:
- The smallest size (18″ x 18″) is recommended for dogs up to 15 pounds
- Size small (23” x 23”) is recommended for pups up to 25 pounds
- The round shape is ideal for dogs who like the curl up
- Available in attractive, neutral colors
- Water- and dirt-resistant nylon bottom
- Machine-washable and dryer-safe
Things to consider:
- This bed is comfy but won’t be as supportive on older joints as a bed with memory foam
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Best for Puppies: Furhaven Round Hooded Donut Bed
Puppies need a bed that’s comfortable and cozy—but durable against teething and roughhousing. Ideally, puppy beds will have warm, soft materials—with plenty of room for nesting and cuddling.
This Furhaven Donut Bed features a sleep surface lined with plush faux fur. For an extra level of cozy, a velvet blanket is attached. The raised sides and circular perimeter of this bed make it ideal for small pups seeking a safe spot to land. This bed is completely machine washable, which is ideal for the inevitable puppy accident. And the reasonable price is a practical bonus, considering how rough some puppies can be on their beds.
Features we like:
- Size small (24″ x 24″ x 7″) recommended for dogs up to 20 pounds (medium can support pets up to 45 pounds)
- Machine-washable (for best results, Furhaven recommends washing in a front-loading machine)
- The slip-resistant base holds it in place when puppies get boisterous
Things to consider:
- Not suited for puppies with super destructive chewing habits
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Best for Crates: MidWest Quiet Time Deluxe Fleece Bolster Crate Mat
A good crate bed can make all the difference in crate training. It can transform your dog’s crate into a peaceful safe haven, a place for them to retreat. The best way to cozy up your dog’s crate is with a touch of softness. “For small dogs, soft and plush fabrics like faux fur, fleece, and velvet are ideal,” says Dr. Schechter. “The padding should be on the thinner side so they can truly nestle in.”
Made with super soft fleece, the MidWest Quiet Time features a cozy bolstered perimeter. It’s available in eight sizes, so you should have no problem finding one that fits your crate.
Features we like:
- Includes elastic straps to secure the mat to the crate
- Machine-washable and dryer-friendly
- Can be used as a stand-alone bed
Things to consider:
- Won’t offer a ton of support for arthritic or senior dogs
Best Elevated: K&H Bolster Dog Cot
Elevated dog beds are ideal for dogs who overheat easily, like Pugs or French Bulldogs, as they allow for optimal air circulation. And some small dogs appreciate the higher vantage point, says Dr. Schechter. “The elevated position allows dogs to see what’s happening around them while remaining comfortable,” he explains. These beds also offer joint support, but they’re not always the coziest dog beds.
This K&H cot-style bed features comfy bolsters for additional coziness and support. The bolsters are protected with a waterproof 600 denier nylon cover and are completely removable for times when your pet prefers to sprawl.
Features we like:
- Collapses for easy storage and transport
- Breathable mesh allows for airflow
- Non-skid rubber feet
Things to consider:
- Thin pups and senior dogs might need a bed that’s more plush
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Best Cave Bed: Snoozer Pet Products Orthopedic Cozy Cave With Cover (Verified Review)
Many smaller dogs prefer sleeping arrangements that are private and warm, as this offers them safety and comfort. “Beds that have a roof, like igloo or cave beds, are ideal for smaller dogs,” says Dr. Simon. She tells us that this is especially true for anxious dogs who like to “get away” from the hustle and bustle of a noisy household.
This cave-style bed from Snoozer features a unique hooded design. It has a soft sherpa interior and a microsuede exterior. The bed is stuffed with soft polyester, with some cedar thrown in to deter odors and pests. Our Rover tester noted that this bed is cozy but may require some training to get dogs used to entering the cave portion of the bed.
Features we like:
- Comfy poly/cotton exterior and plush sherpa interior
- Orthopedic foam interior for extra support
- Machine-washable cover
- Hand-sewn in the U.S.
- Comes in three colors
Things to consider:
- Takes up a lot of space
- Not all dogs figure out the cave
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Best Outdoor: Coolaroo Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed (Verified Review)
Cot-style beds are ideal for outdoor use since their raised design allows for optimal air circulation to keep dogs cool. Generally, elevated beds are also easy to keep clean—just hose them off, and you’re good.
The Coolaroo bed is crafted with a breathable fabric that won’t absorb water or odors. It’s also resistant to fleas, mites, and mildew. The durable, powder-coated steel frame holds up to the wind, rain, and sun. Our Rover tester appreciated that this bed gave her pooch a spot to sit outdoors without being directly on the grass. They also noted that the Coolaroo held up through wind, heavy rain, and direct sunshine.
Features we like:
- Size small (35” x 22” x 8”) recommended for dogs up to 50 pounds
- The elevated design keeps dogs cool
- Waterproof
- Lightweight, portable design
- Replacement covers available
Things to consider:
- Some assembly required
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Best Donut Bed: Majestic Pet Suede Bagel Bed
Dr. Schechter notes that oval or round beds work particularly well for toy breeds and small mixes. “The curved sides allow them to fully curl up into a ball without feeling cramped,” he explains.
The Majestic Pet’s donut design and plush bolsters offer a sense of protection and calm for smaller dogs. The cover is made with soft faux suede, and the bed is stuffed with high-loft polyester fiberfill. The smaller beds are entirely machine-washable (whereas larger sizes feature a removable slipcover).
Features we like:
- Base is made of waterproof 300/6000 Denier to prevent slipping and protect floors from accidents
- Donut shape may be comforting to dogs who like to burrow
- Lots of colors available on Amazon
Things to consider:
- May not accommodate sprawlers
Best Heated Bed: K&H Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Bolster Bed (Verified Review)
Some small dogs can get cold easily, and a heated dog bed offers soothing warmth. What’s more, Dr. Schechter says they’re a nice option for small dogs with joint pain.
K&H offers a pretty extensive line of heated pet beds. But this rounded bolster bed is thermostatically controlled and automatically warms up when your dog lays on it. A perimeter of soft foam walls provides an additional level of security.
Our Rover tester observed that the Thermo-Snuggly bed works exactly as described, noting the heat output was the perfect amount of warmth for Rover test pup Roo. This bed does run on the smaller side, though, which should be perfect for pint-sized pups. And while Roo enjoyed her heated bed, she found the overly plush cushion made entering and exiting a little awkward.
Features we like:
- Medium (26” x 20” x 5”) recommended for pets up to 35 pounds
- The heated pad can be removed when the weather is warmer
- Energy efficient: only uses 6 watts of energy when in use
- The cover and pillow are removable and machine-washable
Things to consider:
- Super chewers and puppies might gnaw on the wires
- Not safe for dogs with mobility issues who could have a hard time getting on/off the bed
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Best Cheap Bed: Frisco Rectangular Bolster Bed
If you’re looking to spare your wallet, Frisco’s affordable line is generally a safe bet. This budget-friendly dog bed comes at a lower price point than most but still has a lot to offer. The bed’s raised sides foster feelings of safety and are perfect for nesting and snuggling. One side has a low profile for easier access for tiny dogs.
For added comfort, the cushion is packed with fluffy polyester-fiber filling, and a soft faux suede cover sweetens the deal.
Features we like:
- High bolsters
- Machine-washable
- Cheap bed for pet parents on a budget
Things to consider:
- Doesn’t offer orthopedic support
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, and interviews with two veterinarians. We prioritized beds with durable materials, orthopedic support, and cozy details like shag fur and plush bolsters. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated dogs, who are never stingy with their feedback