Dog Bed Buyer's Guide: Find the Perfect Sleeping Spot for Your Dog

A dog sleeps or rests for an average of 12 to 14 hours per day. Choosing the right dog bed is therefore a crucial decision for your pet's well-being. The market offers a vast array of shapes, materials, and features, which can make the selection process challenging. This guide is designed to help you understand the key criteria and make an informed decision that meets both your dog's needs and your standards for hygiene and durability.

What to Look for When Buying a Dog Bed

To find the perfect sleeping spot, three main factors should be considered: material and care, size and shape, and special functional features.

1. Material and Washability: A Crucial Factor for Hygiene

A dog bed is exposed to hair, dirt, and bodily fluids daily. A hygienic sleeping area is therefore essential. Look for models with a removable cover that is ideally machine-washable. This makes regular cleaning significantly easier.

• Cover Materials: Fabrics like polyester, plush, or faux suede are durable and easy to maintain. Water-repellent or coated surfaces offer extra protection against moisture and stains.
• Filling Materials: Common fillings include polyester fibres, foam flakes, or solid foam mats. An orthopaedic dog bed often uses memory foam or other dimensionally stable foams that support the joints and spine.

2. Size and Shape: Tailored to Your Dog's Sleeping Position

The right size is critical for comfort. A bed that's too small forces the dog into an unnatural posture, while an overly large bed may not provide a sense of security.

• How to Measure: Measure your dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail while it is lying in a relaxed, stretched-out position. Add 15 to 30 cm to this length to determine the minimum size for the bed.
• Shapes:
  • Rectangular Mattresses: Ideal for dogs that love to stretch out.
  • Round or Oval Beds (Donuts): Suitable for dogs that like to curl up. The raised edge provides a sense of security and can act as a calming dog bed.
  • Dog Sofas: Models with raised edges on two or three sides offer a comfortable headrest and are perfect for dogs that like to lean.

3. Special Requirements: Orthopaedic, Calming, or Outdoor Use

Depending on your dog's age, health, and lifestyle, specialised beds can be a wise choice.

• Orthopaedic Dog Bed: Recommended for senior dogs, large breeds prone to joint problems, or pets with arthritis. The pressure-relieving mattress supports the joints and can contribute to more restful sleep.
• Dog Bed for Large Dogs or XXL Dog Basket: These models are specifically designed for the heavier weight and space requirements of large breeds, offering a more robust construction and filling.
• Outdoor Dog Bed: For use in the garden, on the balcony, or during camping trips, elevated beds made from weather-resistant materials are an excellent choice. They protect against cold ground, dampness, and dirt, and provide cooling in the summer through air circulation.

Our Recommended Dog Beds

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have curated a selection of dog beds that cater to different needs.

Ochama Fluffy Calming Donut Dog Bed, 140 x 140 cm

Why It Stands Out: With its dimensions of 140 x 140 cm, this square donut bed offers an exceptionally large sleeping area. The high, supportive edges create a nest-like environment that promotes a sense of security.

Advantages:

• Removable and washable cover for effortless cleaning.
• Soft plush fabric and a PP cotton filling for superior comfort.
• The 20 cm high edges serve as a headrest and enhance the feeling of security.
• The dark colour is forgiving when it comes to visible dirt.

Who It's For: Ideal for very large dogs, multi-pet households, or dogs that love to spread out while still appreciating the security of an enclosed space.

BEDSURE Fluffy Dog Bed for Large Dogs, 104 x 69 cm

Why It Stands Out: A classic, flat dog mattress featuring an exceptionally soft Sherpa fleece surface and a practical non-slip base. The product is certified according to Oeko-Tex Standard 100.

Advantages:

• Fully machine-washable for maximum hygiene.
• The non-slip bottom ensures stability on smooth floors like tile or hardwood.
• Lightweight and equipped with a side loop, making it easy to transport.
• Versatile use: at home, in a crate, or during travel.

Who It's For: Dogs of all sizes that prefer a simple, soft sleeping surface without edges. A practical solution for dog owners looking for a flexible and easy-to-clean bed.

COSTWAY Dog Bed with Sun Canopy for the Garden

Why It Stands Out: This outdoor dog bed combines an elevated sleeping surface with a removable sun canopy. Its design is tailored for outdoor use.

Advantages:

• The elevated design promotes air circulation and keeps the dog off cold or wet ground.
• The sun canopy offers protection from direct sunlight and light rain.
• The sleeping surface, made of breathable mesh fabric, is durable, scratch-resistant, and quick-drying.
• The steel frame is sturdy and equipped with non-slip feet.

Who It's For: Dog owners who want to create a comfortable and protected resting spot for their dog in the garden, on the balcony, or while camping.

Feandrea Orthopaedic Dog Bed, 120 x 85 cm

Why It Stands Out: A dog sofa with orthopaedic properties. The supportive foam filling is designed to relieve pressure on joints and muscles, while the raised edges serve as a headrest.

Advantages:

• Orthopaedic support from a firm, dimensionally stable foam filling.
• The removable cover is machine-washable.
• The non-slip bottom prevents the bed from sliding.
• The sofa design with soft edges offers comfort and a sense of security.

Who It's For: Especially suitable for senior dogs, dogs with joint conditions, or large breeds that need extra joint support. Also great for dogs that love to rest their head in an elevated position.

Looking for a Different Kind of Resting Place?

If you're looking for an alternative to classic beds, such as a stylish dog sofa that blends seamlessly into your living room, you'll find more options in our broader collection.

? Explore our collection of dog armchairs here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Beds

How often should a dog bed be washed?

For good hygiene, it is recommended to wash the dog bed's cover every one to two weeks. The entire bed or its filling should undergo a more thorough cleaning every few months, depending on the level of soiling and the manufacturer's instructions. For dogs with allergies or skin problems, more frequent cleaning may be beneficial.

How can I identify a good orthopaedic dog bed?

A good orthopaedic dog bed is distinguished by its filling material. Instead of soft, yielding fibres, it uses a supportive core, often made of memory foam (visco-elastic foam) or high-density cold foam. This material conforms to the dog's body shape, distributes weight evenly, and thus relieves pressure points on joints like the hips and shoulders. When you press into it, the material should slowly return to its original shape.

How do I determine the right size for a dog bed?

Measure your dog in a stretched-out position from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail. Add about 15 to 30 centimetres to this measurement for both length and width. This ensures your dog has enough space to stretch out comfortably, change positions, and fully relax without hanging over the edge.