The Best Dog Beds

Written by Ashley Haugen
Updated: February 10, 2023
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Just like us, our dogs use their beds for sleeping and for relaxing. For a dog their bed can also be their safe space when they go if they are frightened or upset, oven if they just want a bit of down time. However, no two dogs are the same, and that means every dog has different dog bed needs. Puppies often need a bed that is small enough to give them comfort as they adjust to being away from their mother and in a new environment, yet they also need it to be big enough that they won’t outgrow it straight away — plus it also probably needs to be chew-proof. Then there’s older dogs that might need a bed that offers them a little extra support.

Choosing the right bed for your pet can be a minefield as they are so many different options on the market nowadays, plus there are so many different things to consider. So, whether you’re looking for an outdoor bed, a heated dog bed, or some other option for your pup, here are the best options in each category to help you make a quick, easy, A-Z-Animals-approved selection!

  1. Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed
    • Elevated cots are an alternative to cooling beds and pads filled with gel and/or memory foam
    • The Coolaroo features Greenguard-certified breathable high-density polyethylene
    • It's made of 100% recyclable fabric
    • It works by allowing air to circulate through the bed and dissipate any heat radiating from your dog
    • Flea, mite, mold, and mildew resistant
    Check Amazon
  2. Big Barker 7" Pillow-Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
    • Features three layers: top and bottom layers made of 2" comfort foam and a 3" middle layer made of support foam
    • Designed specifically to comfort and support large dogs
    • Available in 3 sizes and 4 colors
    • Features a removable, washable cover
    • 10-year warranty
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  3. K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Two-Tone Lounge Cat & Dog Bed
    • Self-warming
    • Uses the same technology as "space blankets" that use mylar to reflect body heat
    • No electricity required
    • Machine washable
    • K&H has over 20 years of experience creating quality products you can trust
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  4. The Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat For Dogs
    • Pressure-activated
    • Features a patented, non-toxic gel that will absorb your dog's heat for up to 3 hours
    • It "recharges" after 20 minutes of disuse
    • You can put it in the freezer for an hour before use if it's particularly hot out
    • The surface is heavy-duty, waterproof plastic and features double-stitched edges
    Check Amazon
  5. Kuranda Elevated Indoor Bed
    • Features a furniture-grade, heavy-duty PVC frame
    • Supports up to 100 pounds
    • The sleeping surface is made of a durable, canvas-like Cordura fabric that is abrasion-resistant
    • Designed to hide the bed frame edges from your dog's sight to deter them from chewing
    • The raised design keeps your dog cool and comfortable
    Check Amazon
  6. FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Sofa Cat & Dog Bed
    • Orthopedic dog bed
    • Variety of different sizes
    • Available in 14 different colors
    • Bed cover is removable and machine washable
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  7. PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed
    • This orthopedic bed features 4" thick memory foam
    • Available in 4 sizes and 4 colors
    • Features a water-resistant, polyester blend cover and waterproof liners
    • The cover is removable and washable
    • The bolsters are filled with eco-friendly recycled "green" polyfill
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  8. Furhaven Replacement Pet Bed Cover
    • Designed to fit 20" x 15" x 3" foam mattresses
    • Available in additional sizes
    • Four colors -- one of which is sure to match your decor
    • You can fill it will alternative fillings, such as shredded foam or even old clothes
    • Machine washable
    Check Amazon

#1 Best Overall: Coolaroo The Original Elevated Pet Bed

After careful consideration, we have chosen the best overall dog bed as Coolaroo The Original Elevated Pet Bed.

This dog bed offers it all in terms of comfort and durability which means it’s the perfect choice for your beloved pet. The elevated design of this bed means that air can circulate through the bed and dissipates excess heat from your bed without the need for gel.

This bed is made from recycled fabric which is not only sustainable but is durable too. The material is Greenguard-certified which means that it is completely free from any harmful substances, giving you complete peace of mind that your pet is safe.

This unique bed is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, plus it can be used for any size of dog too. The steel frame is lightweight but tough enough to withstand the elements. It is super easy to assemble too, which is always a plus!

Although this dog bed has loads going for it, some customers have reported that their pets have chewed the fabric so it’s not completely chew-proof.

See A-Z Animals other top-rated outdoor dog beds here.

Pros and Cons of the Coolaroo The Original Elevated Pet Bed

ProsCons
The elevated design allows air to circulate, cooling dogs without the need of gel pads.The material is not chew-proof.
The steel frame is lightweight yet strong enough to withstand the elements.
This bed is suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
It is suitable for any size of dog.
Best Overall
Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed
  • Elevated cots are an alternative to cooling beds and pads filled with gel and/or memory foam
  • The Coolaroo features Greenguard-certified breathable high-density polyethylene
  • It's made of 100% recyclable fabric
  • It works by allowing air to circulate through the bed and dissipate any heat radiating from your dog
  • Flea, mite, mold, and mildew resistant
Check Amazon

2. Best Large Dog Bed: Big Barker 7-Inch Pillow-Top Orthopedic Dog Bed

Finding a bed for a large breed of dog can be tricky, so we’ve selected the Big Barker 7-Inch Pillow-Top Orthopedic Dog Bed for those dogs that need extra room.

This ultra-comfortable bed feature three layers — a top and bottom layer made of comfort foam two inches thick, and a three-inch middle layer made of support foam. This is specifically designed to provide comfort and support for big dogs. The manufacturers even put so much faith in the foam padding that they offer a 10 year “can’t flatten, won’t flatten” warranty on these beds.

This bed is available in three different sizes and four colors. It also features a removable cover which is machine-washable. However, due to the overall size and the amount of padding, this bed is not suitable for smaller dogs.

See the other best large dog beds A-Z Animals recommends here.

Pros and Cons of the Big Barker 7-Inch Pillow-Top Orthopedic Dog Bed

ProsCons
This bed features three foam layers — two-inch thick top and bottom layers, and a three-inch thick middle layer.This bed is not suitable for smaller dogs.
This bed comes with a 10 year warranty.
It is available in three sizes and four colors.
Best Large Dog Bed
Big Barker 7" Pillow-Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
  • Features three layers: top and bottom layers made of 2" comfort foam and a 3" middle layer made of support foam
  • Designed specifically to comfort and support large dogs
  • Available in 3 sizes and 4 colors
  • Features a removable, washable cover
  • 10-year warranty
Check Chewy Check Amazon

3. Best Heated Bed: K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Lounge Bed

If your dog feels the cold easily, or even if you’d just like them to have the luxury of a heated bed, then we have chosen K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Lounge Bed.

The best feature of this dog bed is that it is self-warming which eliminates the need for electrical cords and the risk of it overheating, meaning that it is much safer for your pet (and you). The unique design of this bed means that it generates warmth from your pet’s own body heat through the use of metalized insulation. Unfortunately, the insulation material does make a crinkly sound which some dogs may not like.

The outside of the bed is made from soft poly/cotton material while the center is lined with a soft fleece material to keep your pup super cozy and warm. The underside of this bed even features non-slip material so you never need to worry about it sliding across the floor as your eager pet jumps into bed.

See the complete list of other heated dog beds A-Z Animals has reviewed.

Pros and Cons of the K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Lounge Sleeper Pet Bed

ProsCons
This bed is self-warming which eliminates the need for electricity.The insulation material makes a crinkly sound which some pets do not like.
The insulation material uses the pet’s own body heat to generate warmth.
It has non-slip material on the underside to prevent it sliding across the floor.
Best Heated Bed
K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Two-Tone Lounge Cat & Dog Bed
  • Self-warming
  • Uses the same technology as "space blankets" that use mylar to reflect body heat
  • No electricity required
  • Machine washable
  • K&H has over 20 years of experience creating quality products you can trust
Check Chewy Check Amazon

4. Best Cooling Bed: Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat

When it comes to cooling your dog off, the best overall cooling mat is the Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat.

This unique cooling mat is pressure activated and is filled with a non-toxic gel that absorbs the heat from your pet for up to three hours. If it is particularly hot out then you can simply put it in the freezer for an hour before using to make it even more cooling for your dog. Additionally, it can “recharge” itself after only 20 minutes of disuse.

This mat is made from heavy-duty waterproof plastic which is double stitched for added strength. As it is waterproof it easy super easy to just wipe clean after each use.

Although this mat is certainly useful, pet parents have reported that not every dog actually likes to lay on it. Also, the gel can turn hard — albeit customers reported that this was after approximately one year of use.

Check out the complete list of other cooling dog beds here.

Pros and Cons of the Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat

ProsCons
This mat is pressure activated simply by the weight of the dog on it.Not every dog likes this mat.
The non-toxic gel absorbs heat from pets for up to three hours.The gel can turn hard.
It “recharges” after 20 minutes of disuse.
It is made using heavy-duty waterproof plastic.
Best Cooling Bed
The Green Pet Shop Pressure Activated Pet Cooling Mat For Dogs
  • Pressure-activated
  • Features a patented, non-toxic gel that will absorb your dog's heat for up to 3 hours
  • It "recharges" after 20 minutes of disuse
  • You can put it in the freezer for an hour before use if it's particularly hot out
  • The surface is heavy-duty, waterproof plastic and features double-stitched edges
Check Amazon

5. Best Calming Bed: Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Dog Bed

We know that some pets can get anxious or upset, so that’s why our selection as the best calming dog bed is the Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Dog Bed.

This super snuggly dog bed is a classic circular “donut” shape to offer pets the utmost comfort and security. This shape is perfect for pets that like to curl up while providing support for their head and neck. It is made from faux shag fur material to provide a soft and cozy bed which is perfect for snuggling into while providing plenty of warmth too.

This bed has a removable shell which is machine washable. It comes in a variety of sizes as well as a selection of natural colors. It also features a waterproof and non-slip bottom which prevents any accidents from reaching your floor.

However, some customers have reported that the material this bed is made from is not durable and some pets chew through it.

See other tested and reviewed calming dog beds here.

Pros and Cons of the Original Calming Donut Dog Bed

ProsCons
This bed is a classic circular “donut” shape.The material is not durable and some pets chew through it.
It is made from soft faux shag fur material.
It features a removable shell which is machine washable.
There are a range of colors and sizes available.
Best Calming Bed
The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Bed
  • Machine-washable and dryer safe construction
  • Classic circular shape offers comfortable bolstering
  • Soft faux shag material for maximum comfort
  • Waterproof and slip-proof bottom
Check Chewy Check Amazon

6. Best Indestructible Bed: Kuranda Elevated Indoor Bed

The Kuranda Elevated Indoor Bed is our top recommendation if you’re looking for an indestructible dog bed.

This bed features a furniture-grade, heavy-duty PVC frame which is designed to support up to 100 pounds.

The sleeping surface is made from Cordura fabric that is durable like canvas and resistant to abrasions. When designing this bed, Kuranda engineered it so that the fabric would slide into the bed’s frame, keeping the edges hidden to deter dogs from chewing. Kuranda offers a one year warranty to protect your purchase.

This rectangle-shaped bed features a raised design to ensure dogs stay cool and comfortable. It is available in six sizes — mini, small, medium, large, extra-large, and extra-extra-large — which means that it is suitable for any dog. There are also four fabric color options to choose from: burgundy, forest green, khaki, and smoke.

However, some users have reported that the screws for the frame are not sufficiently long enough to tighten properly. Additionally, it can be difficult to get the fabric taught enough during assembly.

See other tested and reviewed indestructible dog beds.

Pros and Cons of the Kuranda Elevated Indoor Bed

ProsCons
This bed is made from durable, chew-proof material.The screws in the frame are not long enough to tighten properly.
It is designed to support dogs weighing up to 100 pounds.It can be difficult to get the fabric taught enough during assembly.
It has a heavy-duty PVC frame.
The raised design keeps dogs cool and comfortable.
It comes with a one year warranty.
Best Indestructible Bed
Kuranda Elevated Indoor Bed
  • Features a furniture-grade, heavy-duty PVC frame
  • Supports up to 100 pounds
  • The sleeping surface is made of a durable, canvas-like Cordura fabric that is abrasion-resistant
  • Designed to hide the bed frame edges from your dog's sight to deter them from chewing
  • The raised design keeps your dog cool and comfortable
Check Amazon

7. Best Orthopedic Bed: FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed

The FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed is our selection for pets that need a little extra support.

There is a lot to love about this bed, and it is certain to offer the support your pet needs to stay comfortable. This bed offers support for a dog’s head, neck, back, hips, and joints with fluff-filled bolster railings while also helping them feel safe and nestled in. The bed itself includes top-quality memory foam to provide the utmost support for your pets joints. An extra soft faux fur material covers the base of the sleeping area while suede covers the bolsters. These materials were selected because of the comfort they provide for dogs.

Available in five different sizes (small, medium, large, jumbo, and jumbo plus), this bed can accommodate both small and large dogs. It also comes in several different color options to match a variety of decors. Additionally, the cover is removable and machine washable. However, customers have reported that the zipper fastening is not very strong and can break.

See more tested and reviewed orthopedic dog beds here.

Pros and Cons of the FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed

ProsCons
This bed has fluff-filled bolsters to provide extra support.The zipper is not strong and can break.
The memory foam filling provides support for dogs joints.
It is covered with suede and soft faux fur material.
There are five different sizes available to suit most dogs.
Best Orthopedic Bed
FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Sofa Cat & Dog Bed
  • Orthopedic dog bed
  • Variety of different sizes
  • Available in 14 different colors
  • Bed cover is removable and machine washable
Check Chewy Check Amazon

8. Best Waterproof Bed: PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed

The PetFusion Ultimate Lunge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed is our favorite waterproof bed.

This bed features a waterproof liner to keep liquids from penetrating the padding and helps extend the life of the bed. The cover is also removable and is machine washable.

This bed has an orthopedic design which features a four-inch layer of solid Certi-PUR-US memory foam to offer relief from joint pain, enhance mobility, and help your dog sleep soundly. It also features a bolster on all sides to offer a nice spot for your pup to rest his or her head.

This bed is available in four sizes (small, large, XX, and XXL) and is perfect for tiny dogs to giant breeds. There are also three neutral color choices available: chocolate brown, sandstone, and slate gray.

Although this bed is certainly luxurious, some owners have reported that the memory foam is so thick that older pets struggle to get up off it.

See more reviewed and tested waterproof dog beds here.

Pros and Cons of the PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed

ProsCons
This bed has a waterproof liner.The memory foam is so thick that older pets can struggle to rise from it.
The cover is removable and machine washable.
This bed has a four inch layer of memory foam.
It is available in a wide range of sizes to suit most dogs.
Best Waterproof Bed
PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed
  • This orthopedic bed features 4" thick memory foam
  • Available in 4 sizes and 4 colors
  • Features a water-resistant, polyester blend cover and waterproof liners
  • The cover is removable and washable
  • The bolsters are filled with eco-friendly recycled "green" polyfill
Check Chewy Check Amazon

9. Best Cover: Furhaven Replacement Pet Bed Cover

If you’re looking for a cover for your dog’s bed rather than an entirely new bed then an excellent choice is the Furhaven Replacement Pet Bed Cover.

This cover is intended to fit Furhaven traditional foam, orthopedic, pillow, memory, and cooling gel mattresses for dogs. However, whether you already have a Furhaven dog bed or something else, you can instantly improve almost any bed with a Furhaven cover. You can even improvise a DIY dog bed by upcycling old clothes, towels, sheets, bed, or pillow stuffing to fill up the shell.

This pet bed cover is everything you need from a dog bed. It’s water-resistant and durable enough for outside use, easily washable, affordable, and available in a range of sizes and colors to complement your decor. However, some owners have reported that some determined pets are able to chew through this bed.

Pros and Cons of the Furhaven Replacement Pet Bed Cover

ProsCons
This cover fits Furhaven traditional foam, orthopedic, pillow, memory, and cooling gel mattresses for dogs.Some pets chew through the material.
You can improvise by filling it with old clothes, towels, sheets, bed, or pillow stuffing.
This cover is water-resistant and durable.
There are a range of sizes available.
Best Cover
Furhaven Replacement Pet Bed Cover
  • Designed to fit 20" x 15" x 3" foam mattresses
  • Available in additional sizes
  • Four colors -- one of which is sure to match your decor
  • You can fill it will alternative fillings, such as shredded foam or even old clothes
  • Machine washable
Check Amazon

Our Criteria: What to Look For in a Dog Bed

This list is a round-up of the #1 best dog beds we found in each general category. But here are some of the characteristics that are important to look for when shopping for a quality dog bed, regardless of which type of dog bed you need based on you and your dog’s needs and lifestyle:

Comfort

Comfort is kind of the whole point, right? You should take your dog’s needs into account and pick the bed that will make your dog the most comfortable.

Is he or she a puppy that passes out anytime, anywhere? Or a slightly creaky senior with aches and pains who’d do better in a luxurious or orthopedic bed?

What’s the weather like where you live? You might consider a dog bed that keeps your dog warm in cold temperatures or cools your dog when it’s hot.

Does your dog get nervous about storms, fireworks, etc.? For anxious dogs, comfort might mean a calming bed that cradles dogs and gives them a safe place to hide.

Size

Especially when you’re shopping online, it can be easy to misjudge the size of the product you’re ordering. So be careful and check the dimensions of the product you’re buying to make sure your dog will fit in the bed and the bed will fit in your space.

Durability

Durability can mean a couple of different things. And in any case, a guarantee or warranty never hurts.

However, if your pet chews or scratches their bed then you should prioritize strong, heavy-duty fabrics.

Additionally, if your dog comes in to lay down after being out in the rain or is very young or very old and has accidents then, you’ll want something moisture-resistant and easy to clean.

Ease of Use

Easy cleaning is one plus. For example, many beds have a cover you can simply unzip and handwash or throw into the washing machine.

But other dog bed designs like elevated beds may require a bit of assembly/disassembly. You don’t want to spend twenty minutes or longer getting frustrated any time you have to transport the outdoor/elevated bed.

Up Next…

About the Author

Ashley Haugen is a lifelong animal lover and professional writer and editor. When she's not immersed in A-Z-Animals.com, she can be found hanging out with her dogs and birds.

The Best Dog Beds FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What factors should be considered when choosing a dog bed?

There are many things that you should consider when choosing a dog bed for your pet, but the most important thing is to make sure that your pet’s specific needs are met. This means taking into account their size — such as whether they’re a puppy, a small dog, or a larger breed — so that you choose the most appropriate bed for them. Additionally, you should consider whether your dog is older and has aching joints — in which case a more luxurious bed might be appropriate.

The other factor that you should consider when choosing a pet bed is the type of material that it is made from — such as whether you need something that is really strong and durable, or whether you need something that is waterproof and easy to wash.

Are orthopedic beds a good idea for older dogs?

Yes, older dogs sometimes require something that is a little extra to help with aching joints or stiffness. Orthopedic beds usually have extra padding — often in the form of memory foam — which provides extra comfort and moulds to their shape.

What are the benefits of a dog bed cover?

Many, although not all, dog beds come with removable covers. The main benefit of a cover for a dog bed is that it is easy to remove and therefore wash. Even if your dog bed doesn’t have a removable cover you can still purchase — or even make — a cover for your dog bed.

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