Washable and Waterproof Dog Bed Buyer's Guide

A dog enriches your life but also brings practical challenges—from muddy paws after a walk in the rain to little accidents with puppies or senior dogs. A hygienic and comfortable sleeping area is therefore essential. A dog bed that is washable and waterproof offers a low-maintenance and durable solution.

This article serves as a guide. It explains which features to look for when making your choice and presents several models that stand out for their functional properties.

What to Look for When Buying an Easy-to-Clean Dog Bed?

The selection of dog beds is vast. To make an informed decision, three criteria are particularly relevant: the material, the size and filling, and the intended use.

1. Material and Craftsmanship

The durability and ease of care of a dog bed depend largely on the materials used.

• Outer Material: Fabrics like Oxford fabric are an excellent choice. This material is known for its robustness and durability. An additional coating makes it water-repellent, so liquids don't immediately penetrate the filling. This makes cleaning significantly easier and turns the bed into an easy-to-clean dog bed.
• Seams and Zippers: Look for clean and sturdy seam construction. On models with a removable cover, the zippers should be robust and ideally concealed to withstand chewing.

2. Size and Filling

Your dog's sleeping comfort is determined by the right size and a supportive filling.

• Size: The bed should be large enough for your dog to stretch out comfortably. Measure your dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail to determine the required sleeping surface. This is especially important for a dog bed for large dogs.
• Filling: A high-quality dog mattress offers more than just a soft surface. A filling of polyester fibres, about 10 cm thick, provides a good balance of comfort and support. Such an orthopaedic dog mat can help relieve pressure on the joints, which is beneficial for dogs of all ages.

3. Versatility and Use Case

Consider where the dog bed will primarily be used.

• For Home and On the Go: Lightweight and foldable models are well-suited for transport. Such a washable dog mat can be used flexibly in the living room, in the car, or during travel.
• For Crates and Carriers: A rectangular, flat dog bed for a crate ensures comfort and safety during travel. Pay close attention to the exact dimensions of the crate here.
• Outdoor Use: If the bed will also be used on the patio or in the garden, a robust, water-repellent, and quick-drying outdoor dog bed is the right choice.

Our Top Waterproof Bed Picks

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a few models that stand out for their practical features.

BEDSURE Waterproof Dog Mat, XL (111 x 89 x 10 cm)

What makes it stand out: This model combines a generous sleeping surface with durable materials. The Oxford fabric outer is water-repellent and protects the filling from moisture. With a thickness of 10 cm, the mattress provides a comfortable and supportive base.

Pros:

• Material: Water-repellent Oxford fabric
• Care: Machine washable and easy to clean
• Comfort: 10 cm thick filling made of pet-friendly fibres
• Shape Retention: A tufted design prevents the filling from clumping

Who it's for: Ideal for owners of large breeds like Great Danes or St. Bernards who are looking for a robust and spacious dog mattress for indoor use.

BEDSURE Washable and Waterproof Dog Cushion, L (91 x 68 x 10 cm)

What makes it stand out: This waterproof dog cushion features a zipper-free design, which increases safety for dogs that like to chew. The minimalist design blends seamlessly into various home decors. The mat is lightweight and easy to fold, making it a practical travel companion.

Pros:

• Safety: Zipper-free design
• Material: Durable and dirt-repellent Oxford fabric
• Versatility: Lightweight and foldable, suitable for home, car, or travel
• Care: Fully machine washable

Who it's for: A great choice for medium to large dogs. Its flexibility makes it an excellent liner for a crate or a comfortable travel mat.

BEDSURE Waterproof Dog Bed, M (76 x 50 x 10 cm)

What makes it stand out: This compact dog bed offers the same functional advantages as the larger models but is tailored to the needs of medium-sized dogs. The combination of water-repellent fabric and a comfortable, 10 cm thick filling makes it a practical all-round solution.

Pros:

• Material: High-quality, water-repellent Oxford fabric
• Compact Size: Ideal for medium-sized breeds or as a liner in crates
• Shape Retention: The tufted filling remains evenly distributed, even after washing
• Care: Easy to machine wash

Who it's for: Perfect for owners of medium-sized dogs like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels. Its dimensions make it a suitable choice as a dog bed for a crate or for smaller living spaces.

Discover More Options

If these recommendations don't include the perfect model for your dog, you can find a wider selection of easy-care sleeping options for dogs of all sizes and for various applications in our Waterproof Pet Beds category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does "waterproof" mean for a dog bed?

The term is often used interchangeably with "water-repellent." A waterproof dog bed typically has an outer material, like coated Oxford fabric, that allows liquids to bead up and roll off for a period of time. This gives you time to wipe away the liquid before it soaks into the filling. Complete waterproofness, like that of a raincoat, is rare and often unnecessary. Protection against everyday accidents is usually sufficient.

2. How often should you clean a washable dog bed?

The cleaning frequency depends on usage, shedding, and the level of soiling. As a general guideline, it is recommended to wash the cover or the entire bed every one to two weeks to remove odours, hair, and allergens. In case of visible soiling or after an accident, it should be cleaned immediately.

3. Is an orthopaedic dog mat a good idea for every dog?

While an orthopaedic dog mat is particularly beneficial for senior dogs or pets with joint problems as it reduces pressure on joints and the spine, healthy and young dogs also benefit from a supportive surface. A high-quality, thick dog mattress promotes a healthy sleeping posture and provides high comfort, contributing to the dog's overall recovery and well-being.