The best dog beds 2024: elevated, calming and cooling dog beds for a paw-some sleep

German shepherd on one of the best dog beds
(Image credit: Getty)

Choosing one of the best dog beds will help our faithful companions get the sleep they need to maintain good health and well-being. This is a space they can call their own and rest in comfort whenever they need to recharge.

With adult dogs sleeping for around 12-14 hours a day, choosing the most comfortable dog bed becomes a must, whether it goes in one of the best dog crates or sits on the floor by your own bed. However, the dog bed that suits one isn't necessarily going to suit another.

For example, some like to curl up in the comfort and protection of a round dog bed, while others like to stretch out, so a rectangular option would be better. Older dogs - or ones with health issues - are likely to be better served with the support provided by one of the best orthopedic dog beds, while durability will be important for chewers. We want our faithful companions to find their beds comfortable too - during the warmer months, an elevated bed could make the difference for dogs with thicker coats. An easy-to-clean option, coming with a machine-washable removable cover, for example, will make your life as an owner easier too.

There are clearly a lot of factors for owners to consider, so to help, we've also spoken to Dr. Hannah Godfrey BVetMed MRCVS, who answers some commonly asked questions pup owners have when choosing a dog bed.

As Dr. Godfrey says, a dog bed is “a good idea to provide them with a space of their own that they can retreat to if they want some peace and to feel safe and secure,” so with that in mind, we’re sharing our favorite options.

PetsRadar's pick of the best dog beds

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A small dog lying on the Best Friends by Sheri Luxury Shag Faux Fur Donut Cuddler Dog BedBest buy award

(Image credit: Amazon)

Best Friends by Sheri Luxury Shag Faux Fur Donut Cuddler

Best overall dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: Small, medium, large, x-large
Style: Donut/bolster
Materials: Nylon, faux fur, polyfill
Washability: Machine washable

Reasons to buy

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Numerous sizes and color choices
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Easily washable
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Comfortable faux fur

Reasons to avoid

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Not all dogs like the round style
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Faux fur gets less comfy over time
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Must be careful to ensure a good fit

The Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Vegan Fur Donut Cuddler Cat & Dog Bed has a number of positive features. 

For a start, it actually seems to have been designed with dogs in mind. Also, the material it is made from is similar to what you'll get in a lot of human beds, so dogs are more likely to be satisfied with this and less likely to resort to invading your own sleeping area. 

It is available in four sizes, and comes in three colors. The smallest has a diameter of 23 inches, and the largest is 45 inches. With this in mind, you may want to measure your dog in order to make sure they get the one that fits them best.

It also has a skid-proof bottom, meaning that when it gets dirty, you can simply throw the entire thing into the washer, then air dry or even put in the dryer. Considering the convenience of use it offers, it represents great value for money, and as such makes it to the top of our list.

A german shepherd lying on the Dog's Bed Premium dog bedPets Radar Approved Award

(Image credit: Amazon)

The Dog's Bed Premium

Best hard-wearing option

Specifications

Sizes offered: Medium, Large, Extra Large
Style: Edged mat
Materials: Polyester Oxford fabric
Washability: Machine washable

Reasons to buy

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Easy to move
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Tough fabric

Reasons to avoid

-
Not too easy to clean
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Sizing a little small

This is premium by name and premium by build quality thanks to a polyester Oxford fabric which makes this tough as well as waterproof on the underside. The cover is also easy to clean for a quick wipe down, or for our hairier friends, a vacuum over. While the main bed is flat, the edges are raised for added warmth and comfort. But not too high to make vacuuming an issue.

Despite being packed with a solid premium and durable foam which offers comfort, this remains light enough to make it easy to move about, should you need to. When it comes to washing, the high-quality zip can be used to remove the outer for washing. That said, this material is quick drying so a wash and dry doesn't take long.

Everything is abrasion resistant. That's not to say this is built to withstand a continued chew attack. But it will take clawing and a bit of gnawing over time. In fact this is covered by a one year warranty and there are covers sold on their own, should you want a fresh one or to change colour. Perhaps a spare cover for those kennel trips could be useful.

A purple Scruffs Expedition Water Resistant Box Dog BedPets Radar Approved Award

(Image credit: Amazon)

Scruffs Expedition Water Resistant Box Dog Bed

Best durable dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: large, x-large
Style: Box
Materials: Polyester, recycled fibre fill
Washability: Machine washable

Reasons to buy

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Water-resistant
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Washable
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Durable

Reasons to avoid

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Size may be inconsistent
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Not good for hard chewers

The Scruffs Expedition Water Resistant Box Dog Bed is made of strong water resistant fabric that won’t become stained with mud or grass if your dog is the rough-and-tumble type. The whole bed can be put into the wash if it gets dirty, and it won’t easily rip or tear either. If your dog enjoys chewing on fabric, though, this may not be the best bed for them. The Scruffs bed is available in multiple sizes and colorways, so you should be able to find one that both you and your pooch will enjoy. Because it is all one piece, the Scruffs bed should hold up well and provide support for dogs of all sizes. One important note based on customer feedback: Look closely at the measurements to ensure that it will be large enough for your dog. The seller measurements appear to be based on the inside cushion area, and your dog will need a few inches beyond that depending on how they sleep. Overall this bed is a good choice for a messy dog, though. 

Best Friends by Sheri Novelty Cat & Dog BedPets Radar Approved Award

(Image credit: Amazon)

Best Friends by Sheri Novelty Cat & Dog Bed

Best novelty dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: one size
Style: Cave
Materials: Microplush, fiberfill
Washability: Machine washable

Reasons to buy

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Whimsical
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Multiple styles and designs
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Washable

Reasons to avoid

-
One size only
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Not much padding

Novelty dog beds are plentiful, but we chose the Best Friends by Sheri Novelty Hut Covered Cat & Dog Bed because of its 360-degree coverage and variety of designs. Sometimes puppies and smaller dogs enjoy hiding for safety and security, especially if you have larger animals in the house. One of these dog beds could be just the thing for them. It comes in eight different styles, but they’re all roughly the same size on the inside - about 16 inches by 16 inches - and the same roundish shape. The seller suggests that it fits dogs (and cats) up to 15 pounds, so definitely keep that in mind when checking out these beds. The Best Friends by Sheri Novelty Hut bed would fit especially well in a whimsical kid’s room, but because it’s small you could really put it anywhere. The cushion inside is reversible, removable, and washable. The entire bed is supposed to be machine washable, although given the shapes and styles it seems like that might be a bit tricky to handle. For a little dog, though, this novelty dog bed is great! 

Coolaroo Steel-Framed Elevated Dog BedPets Radar Approved Award

(Image credit: Amazon)

Coolaroo Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed

Best outdoor dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: small, medium, large
Style: Platform
Materials: Polyethylene, metal
Washability: Wipe clean

Reasons to buy

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Indoor/outdoor
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Cooling
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Waterproof

Reasons to avoid

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Challenging to put together
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No cushioning
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Not soft

The Coolaroo Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed is a cot-style bed made to allow air to circulate, keeping your dog cool and comfortable even in the heat. A big dog or a breed with thick fur that lives in warmer climates might especially appreciate being able to rest on its breathable surface. The bed’s frame is coated steel, so it’s incredibly sturdy, and the fabric is waterproof as well as resistant to mold, mildew, fleas, and more. You can wipe off or even hose down the Coolaroo, making it incredibly easy to clean. It’s available in three sizes and several different colors. Like many dog beds we’ve reviewed, the measurements are very important. Buyers state that the measurements are for the frame and not the usable surface itself, so you may want to buy larger than you’d think depending on how your dog likes to sleep. 

Some have also stated that it can be difficult to assemble the bed alone, especially as you have to do some stretching to get the fabric to fit the frame. It’s not suggested that you leave this dog bed outside all of the time, as the steel frame would eventually rust. However, Coolaroo does sell replacement covers. This dog bed can last a long time if well cared for, making it an excellent buy.

The Dog’s Bed Orthopaedic Dog BedPets Radar Approved Award

(Image credit: Amazon)

The Dog’s Bed Orthopaedic Dog Bed

Best orthopaedic dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: small, medium, large, x-large, xx-large, xxx-large
Style: Platform
Materials: Memory foam, faux fur or nylon
Washability: Machine washable cover

Reasons to buy

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Therapeutic
+
Easy to clean
+
Variety of sizes and covers

Reasons to avoid

-
May not resist all accidents
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Covers may need replacing

The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Dog Bed contains a layer of high-density memory foam over a layer of supportive foam - just like memory foam beds for humans. Unlike a lot of dog beds, it comes in six sizes. The largest size is 64 inches wide, so you can buy this bed for your giant breed like a Great Dane. It can support dogs with any type of joint issues, as well as dogs predispositioned to them. However, you can also buy the bed in a size small enough for your toy-sized dog, because who doesn’t want to rest in cushy comfort? The seller claims that it is great for improving mobility and stiff joints, and many customers have purchased the bed to help their dogs as they recover from surgery.

The Dog’s Bed is available with two different types of fabric covers, faux fur, and an easy-clean polyester, so you can choose what your dog would like most as well as what’s most convenient for you. The mattress underneath is protected by another cover. Even if your dog does have an accident, you can easily remove the outer cover to wash. Some customers caution that the waterproof mattress cover hasn’t entirely held up when their dogs have had serious accidents, so beware. Generally customers appreciate the thick, firm cushioning, and believe that this orthopedic bed is worth the price. The seller does offer replacement covers, too. 

Dr. Hannah Godfrey BVetMed MRCVS
Dr Hannah Godfrey

Dr Hannah Godfrey is a small animal vet who graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2011 and began work straight away at a busy mixed practice. Initially, she treated all species, but focussed on small animals from 2014. She has a passion for soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, and canine and feline dentistry, having completed additional training in these areas.

Do dogs prefer hard or soft beds?

Only your dog can definitively answer this question but dog owners can get an indication of their preferences by seeing where their four-legged friend currently curls up. If you find your dog is generally lying on the floor, it points to a preference for a harder bed, while sleeping on the sofa suggests a more comfortable sleep setup will be preferred.

Age can also play a part. Speaking from personal experience, my dog - a 14-year-old cockalier - has changed his habits as he’s got older. When he was younger, he preferred a harder bed and also enjoyed resting on the floor. In more recent years, he’s liked the comfort of the sofa, so I bought a softer bed for him, which he loves curling up in, especially at night.

How big should a dog bed be?

Dog beds come in a variety of sizes, catering to the differing requirements that each breed will have. Certain aspects are obvious - ie, a smaller dog will require a smaller bed - but you also need to consider your dog's sleeping style. 

Dr. Hannah Godfrey advises to “measure them from their nose to their tail, then their shoulder width, to give you an idea of the absolute minimum size. However, your dog will likely choose to lie down and spread out sometimes, so it’s best to make sure they have enough room for this.” 

Godfrey added, “don’t go overboard – some dogs like the security and coziness of a bed that’s not too roomy, but you can always add a blanket or a cushion or two (if they’re not likely to chew them!) to help with this.”

Are raised beds good for dogs?

Raised dog beds can have numerous benefits for pups, especially if they have joint pain or you’ve seen them chew a previous dog bed to pieces. They can also help your pup stay cooler during the warmer weather, as the lack of padding can offer better ventilation. 

According to vet Dr. Hannah Godfrey, “these beds are great for large breeds of dogs and dogs with joint pain because they provide superior support while allowing your dog to stay cool. There's also far less chance of your dog chewing or eating a raised dog bed, so it might be a good idea to consider one if your dog regularly chews or pulls the stuffing out of their standard dog bed.”

What kind of bed is best for dogs?

Your dog's personality will play a part here. Does your four-legged friend like feeling secure? If so, a bed that is covered and shaped like a dome will help to give them the security they need for a good sleep. In contrast, some dogs will like the freedom to stretch out, in which case a rectangular pillow bed will be likely to do the job.

Size and age can factor in too. Smaller dogs that like curling up will be suited to round or oval-shaped options, while larger and senior dogs will appreciate the support of an orthopedic bed, which prioritizes cushioning and joint support. 

Then there are bolster beds - available in a variety of styles, these are well suited to pups who like resting their chin on the bolster but will be less suited to dogs who wouldn't like feeling hemmed in. 

Do dogs prefer round or rectangular beds?

This is another question best answered by observing your dog's habits. Round or oval-shaped beds are better suited to dogs who like curling up into a ball but will be less ideal for bigger breeds who need support for their joints or dogs who like stretching out.

In contrast, a rectangular dog bed, typically in the shape of a pillow bed, will be better for dogs who like stretching out more and are likely to change their position in their sleep.

Shanna Tyndall

Shanna Tyndall has been writing and editing for the web and print for most of the 2000s. She is also a happy life-long cat owner and acquired a cat-like dog seven years ago. She believes that pets are generally better than people.