Picking out the perfect dog bed for your pup can be hard — there are just so many options out there! Some dogs prefer a memory foam mattress, while others adore a cave-like bed that nestles around them — then there are tons of different shapes, sizes and materials to choose from. Even the best researcher can start struggling with all the “best dog beds” out there.

That’s where this list was born — to help you narrow down the options and find the right dog bed for your pup’s needs. Canvas Dog Bed

We reviewed the most sought-after dog beds from a number of the country’s most renowned pet brands. Along the way, we learned a lot about what dogs — and their parents — look for in the perfect bed.

In the end, we compiled a list of the six best dog beds so your pup can get a good night’s sleep.

Whether you have an older pup with joint pain, a dog who loves to burrow, or a large breed who needs some extra space, we’re confident you’ll find a bed they love from one of these brands.

Since your dog is an individual, we picked seven beds that shine in various categories so that you can find the ultimate dog bed for your pup.

We chose the FurHaven Sofa Dog Bed as our Best Overall winner because of its combination of aesthetics and comfort, making it the ultimate dog bed for pups in general. We also appreciate the many customization options the company offers: Customers get to choose not only the size and color of their dog bed, but also the mattress type (Hello, new favorite dog bed!).

This bed has an attractive, sofa-like shape and will look stylish no matter which room your pup snoozes in. Reviewers note their dogs enjoy resting their heads on the bolster part of the sofa bed. The bolster also helps nervous dogs feel comforted and assured. If the bed ever gets dirty, there’s a removable cover that you can just toss in the washing machine. This helps keep odors and hair to a minimum.

Customers whose dogs have arthritis and other orthopedic issues find that the convoluted orthopedic foam version of this bed helps reduce pressure points and keep their dogs more limber. We also saw positive reviews for the cooling gel foam version of this bed. It helps keep furry dogs cooler in the heat of summer.

FurHaven is an American pet supply company with a community-focused approach. They partner with Givz to support shelters in the Pacific Northwest. FurHaven stands behind their products with a 60 day warranty, and their loyalty program helps customers save.

Learn more about this dog bed at FurHaven.com

Larger dogs need big beds, and they’re also prone to orthopedic issues that make comfort and support essential. Our top pick for large dogs is the Bully Bed Orthopedic, Washable & Waterproof Big Dog Bed. We love that this bed was designed with big dogs’ needs in mind, from its ample size to its high-density, human-grade, memory foam core.

This dog bed features extra padding in key areas, making it a wise choice for dogs with hip dysplasia and similar orthopedic issues. The no-slip base keeps the bed from sliding around on hard floors, and the hypoallergenic material is suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.

Customers love this bed for their mastiffs, great Danes, and other large breeds. We saw multiple reviews from customers whose dogs move more fluidly and sleep better after switching to this bed. Customers also appreciate how this bed uses a removable cover for super easy cleaning.

Bully Beds is named after the owner’s dog, Bull, a cane corso mastiff. The first Bully Bed was created specifically for his comfort. After that, the owner began marketing the beds for other large dogs with similar orthopedic concerns. Bully Beds stands behind their products with an industry-leading, 20-year guarantee.

Learn more about this dog bed at BullyBeds.com

Does your dog like to snuggle or burrow into her bed? Then we recommend trying the Arlee Cody Original Cuddler Bed. This was our top pick in the Best for Snuggly Dogs category because of its soft and fuzzy texture, raised sides, and fluffy fiber filling.

The Arlee Cody Original Cuddler Bed is pre-shrunk, so you can wash the whole bed without worrying about shrinking or distorting it. The internal stuffers help the bed hold its shape over time. Customers say their dogs love curling up in a ball, supported by the sturdy yet plush raised sides of this bed. We saw positive reviews from owners of labs, bulldogs, and Bichon frise — all dogs known for their desire to cuddle.

Arlee Pet Products is a division of Arlee Home Fashions. They aim to create pet beds that are durable, functional, and in line with the latest furnishing trends. The company also takes a planet-focused approach by using repurposed materials and energy-efficient technology.

Learn more about this dog bed at CherryBrook.com

If your dog prefers a covered dog bed, we recommend trying the Best Friends by Sheri Cozy Cuddler. With its movable, blanket-style cover and upholstery-grade corduroy material, your dog can dive right in under the cover and snuggle up for a comfy nap.

The Best Friends by Sheri Cozy Cuddler has a water and dirt-resistant bottom for easy cleaning. The upholstery-grade fabric stands up well to wear and tear, and the faux fur interior lining is enticing on chilly nights. The raised walls make this bed even more comforting and secure for nervous dogs.

Reviewers like that they can wash this entire bed in their washing machine. It can even be dried in a clothes dryer! We saw several positive reviews from customers whose dogs like to hide in this bed during storms.

Best Friends by Sheri makes cozy, cuddly beds for dogs and cats. As a company, they seek to empower their employees and customers through teamwork and community involvement. Best Friends by Sheri always uses vegan faux fur, and their premium filling lasts up to three times longer than standard fiber pet bed filling.

Learn more about this dog bed at Chewy.com

For dogs with orthopedic concerns such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or a torn ACL, we recommend trying the Lay Lo Pets Black Chevron Boho Dog Bed. This orthopedic dog bed is a strategically designed, memory foam mattress with soft poly-fill that makes the bed breathable.

The Lay Lo Pets Black Chevron Boho Dog Bed is certainly designed for comfort and support, but it is also stylish. The chevron pattern has a modern vibe and complements many styles of decor. The non-slip bottom keeps this bed from sliding around, and the handle makes it easy to move.

We saw several reviews from customers who use this orthopedic dog bed for sick or aging dogs. The mattress insert is covered in water-resistant fabric, which makes it easy to deal with “accidents.” Customers also appreciate being able to remove and launder the cover.

Lay Lo is a California-based company that partners with artists around the world to create stylish, comfortable, orthopedic pet beds. They release new styles every three months. Every bed comes with a 30-day, no-questions-asked return policy.

Learn more about this dog bed at LayLoPets.com

The winner in our Best for Anxious Dogs category is Calming Cuddle Beds. We chose this bed because it is created specifically for nervous dogs who seek comfort and security. Customers can choose from five sizes to ensure a close, snuggly fit. Raised sides, plush faux fur lining, and squishy filling provide maximum comfort. The company even sells scented calming inserts that you can add to the bed for additional anxiety relief.

The Calming Cuddle Bed has a non-slip bottom, so it stays in place even if your dog jumps onto it. The entire bed is machine washable, so you don’t have to worry if there’s an accident or a spill. With nine color options, you can choose a bed that perfectly suits your decor.

Customers say their dogs enjoy this bed when settling into a new space, dealing with thunderstorm anxiety, or recovering from medical procedures. We also saw reviews praising the softness of the premium, sustainably sourced cover material.

Calming Dogs has a mission to strengthen the bond between dogs and their people. They create high-quality calming products specifically for stressed-out and anxious dogs. For each product purchased, they donate $1 to North Shore American League, a no-kill rescue and adoption organization.

Learn more about this dog bed at CalmingDog.com

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of comfortable pet beds available today. So you might be wondering how we were possibly able to choose just seven to feature on this list. It was actually easier than you might think – once we came up with a systematic process.

First, we made a list of dog bed companies that had the following qualities:

Then, we started looking into individual beds. The key things we were looking for were comfort, cleanability, durability, and attractiveness.

We only selected beds that reviewers said their dogs genuinely enjoyed sleeping on. In some cases, those were orthopedic beds designed with specific issues in mind. In other cases, they were cozy beds designed for snuggling.

Dog beds are put through a lot of wear and tear, so we looked for ones covered in durable materials such as corduroy or polyester. We also made sure that either the bed itself or its covers was machine washable. Pet owners don’t want to go to the dry cleaner each time their pup has an accident!

While stylishness was not the first thing we looked for, it did play a role. We only chose dog beds that customers enjoyed having as a part of their decor. Some are shaped like sofas and others have a more typical dog bed look, but they’re all attractive in their own ways.

After reading countless reviews, combing through product descriptions, and putting these beds to the test with our own furry friends, we can confidently say they’re the best of the best. We hope you and your dogs agree.

To some degree, which dog bed is the best is a matter of preference. Your dog may prefer a certain bed style, while your neighbor’s dog of the same breed prefers an entirely different bed. There’s no way to be 100% certain your dog will love a bed until you try it. However, you can still be a savvy shopper and keep the following features in mind as you shop for a dog bed your pup is most likely to enjoy.

This is perhaps the most important feature to consider for your dog’s long-term comfort. There are two primary types of material used for dog bed mattresses: memory foam and fiber.

Memory foam beds provide superior support and are a good choice for large dogs, older dogs, and those struggling with orthopedic issues such as arthritis or hip dysplasia. You’ll see some memory foam dog beds marketed more specifically as orthopedic dog beds. The foam in these beds is often reinforced and thicker in key areas, such as where the dog’s hips will rest. Owners often report that their older and arthritic dogs have an easier time getting up and moving with agility after sleeping in an orthopedic or memory foam dog bed.

Fiber-filled pet beds are ideal for younger dogs, smaller dogs, and those without any known orthopedic concerns. Dogs who like to curl up in a ball and snuggle in their beds often prefer ones filled with soft, squishy fiber.

Do you need to keep your dog cool due to hot spots or overheating in general? If so, look for a dog bed with cooling gel. Usually, these beds still have a memory foam mattress, but with a layer of heat-repelling gel on top of it to help out your furry friend.

You’ll see some beds covered in soft, faux fur material and others covered in smoother materials like polyester or quilted fabric. If your dog is a snuggler, a bed with a faux fur cover is a good choice. Just keep in mind that this furry layer can become compacted over time, especially if your dog tends to lick it.

If your dog sheds a lot, polyester and quilted covers are usually easier to keep clean and hair-free. Customers also prefer these materials for older dogs who struggle with incontinence; they’re easier to keep clean.

If you plan on placing your dog bed on a carpeted floor, then the base material is not so important. But if you plan to put the dog bed on a hard floor, you really want one with a non-slip base. This will ensure the bed does not slide around if your dog jumps onto it or pushes it with their nose. A dog bed can become a tripping hazard at night if it ends up in the middle of your hallway where you don’t expect it!

Experts recommend washing your dog’s bed every two weeks, at a minimum. So, you really want the bed you choose to be easily washable. Stay away from pet beds that require dry cleaning. There are lots of machine-washable options out there.

Many owners prefer beds with a removable cover for easy washing — or even a water resistant cover. However, if your dog is prone to accidents or strong body odor, being able to machine wash the entire dog bed is probably preferred.

Dog beds come in many different shapes and sizes, from flat to sofa-shaped. Here are a few common shapes to consider:

Flat Beds: Often featuring a memory foam mattress, a flat bed is the best dog bed for older, arthritic, and injured dogs to get on and off. Some vendors also call them mattress beds.

Donut Beds: Round with a divot in the center, donut beds are great for dogs who like the snuggle. Many use the raised, rounded edges as a pillow.

Sofa Beds: Sofa beds are stylish, and the raised arms also give dogs a place to rest their heads.

Cave Beds: With a blanket-like cover that stretches over the main bed, this style is ideal for anxious and nervous dogs who like to burrow.

To select the right size premium dog bed, start by measuring your dog. Measure the length of their body from their nose to the tip of their tail. Then, consider how your dog likes to sleep. If they tend to sleep stretched out, look for a bed that’s at least a few inches longer than their nose-to-tail length. If they like to sleep curled up, a bed that’s about equal to their length should suffice.

Most dog bed companies also offer a size guide that you can reference. For example, they might state that their small bed is for dogs up to 20 pounds, and medium is for dogs up to 40 pounds. These guides tend to be pretty accurate. When in doubt, size up; most dogs are not bothered by a little extra bed around them.

Your dog probably does not care about the color of their bed, but you do. These days, dog beds come in an array of colors, so it’s easy to find one that matches your decor. If you’re not sure what room you’ll put the bed in, or if you plan on moving it around your house, look for a dog bed in a neutral color, such as gray or beige.

If your dog sheds, also consider their hair color when selecting a bed color. Light-colored dog hair will be less obvious on a lighter-colored bed. Dark hair is less visible on a dark bed.

Some humans prefer softer mattresses, while others prefer harder mattresses. Dogs are not much different. Some dogs will only sleep on soft beds. Others will turn up their nose at a bed that’s too soft and opt to sleep on the floor.

Thankfully, if you know your dog’s health, needs, and preferences well, you should be able to deduce whether they’d prefer a softer or harder bed. If in doubt, you could buy a harder bed and a softer bed and let your dog decide. Some will choose a different bed type based on the day and how they’re feeling.

Many young, healthy dogs prefer a soft bed. You may notice your dog rarely sleeps on the floor or even on a blanket, preferring to hop up on your own bed or a nearby sofa. This is likely because they are looking for a soft surface where they can snuggle up.

Softer beds are also preferred by dogs who like to burrow into their beds for security and comfort. If your dog is a snuggler and you always find him in a pile of blankets, he’s probably the soft bed type.

It’s not healthy for a dog to sleep on a truly hard surface, such as a floor. This can lead to aching joints and back pain, and so most dogs will avoid these truly hard surfaces. However, some dogs do prefer beds that are “harder,” – or firmer. Dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, or other orthopedic concerns usually benefit from the support a harder bed offers. Orthopedic and denser memory foam beds usually fit the bill.

Dogs may also prefer harder beds in hot climates. The material does not bunch up around the and trap heat against their body.

Some dog beds may only last a year, while others may last for decades. It depends on the durability of the materials used to make the bed, and also on your dog’s behavior. If your dog scratches or chews on their bed, or if they have accidents on it often, you may find it needs to be replaced sooner.

Here are some key signs you need to replace your dog’s bed.

Have some portions of the bed become compacted? If you can’t fluff the filling back into place, it may be time to replace the dog bed. Sleeping on an uneven or compacted surface can be hard on a dog’s joints.

If your dog chews or scratches at their bed, you may notice some areas where the outer material is torn or thread-bare. Replace the bed before your dog has a chance to ingest any fabric pieces. You don’t want the filling to start coming out of these holes, either.

Most beds are washable, but if the bed develops an odor that does not go away with washing, it’s a good idea to replace it.

Perhaps the dog bed fit your dog when he was a pup, but now he has outgrown it. Consider donating the old bed to a shelter if it is still in good shape. Then, upgrade to a bed that fits your growing pal.

Has your dog stopped sleeping in their bed, now preferring to sleep on your bed or the human sofa? This means it’s time to shop for a bed they like better. You may want to look for a different style of bed than the one you have currently. If your dog is aging and struggles with joint pain, consider upgrading to a memory foam dog bed.

Most beds come with washing instructions, which you should follow for best results with that individual product. If you lost the instructions, try looking online for manufacturer guidelines. For instance, if you have a Casper dog bed, you could search for “Casper dog bed washing instructions.”

There are also some good, general guidelines that work well when washing most any dog bed.

If your dog bed has a removable cover, unzip it and remove the inner mattress. Put the cover in the washing machine with a pet-safe detergent. Unless the washing instructions advise otherwise, use hot water to kill the most germs. Most covers can be placed in the dryer; use the low-temperature setting for extra protection against shrinkage.

Some pet beds are fully washable; you don’t have to remove the cover first. In this case, you can shove the whole bed in your washing machine. Make sure you fluff the bed up as much as possible inside the washer for a more effective clean. Again, use hot water if possible. Many beds can be tumbled dried, but air drying the bed, when possible, may help extend its life.

Experts recommend washing your dog bed at least every two weeks. Try using the vacuum to remove hair from the bed between washings.

Memory foam conforms to your dog’s body. So, no matter how your dog is shaped, the bed will adjust to give them support as they sleep. This can be very comfortable for dogs with arthritis and joint pain. Dogs also tend to toss and turn less on a memory foam bed. If your dog moves around a lot and keeps you up at night, switching to a memory foam bed may help.

The only major downside to memory foam beds is the cost. They tend to be more expensive than standard, fiber-filled dog beds.

Older dogs generally prefer beds that rest directly on the ground. Jumping onto a sofa bed may be too difficult for an older dog.

Memory foam and orthopedic dog beds tend to be better suited to older dogs’ needs, too. Also look for a bed that is water-resistant and easily washable as older dogs tend to have more frequent accidents than their younger peers.

Many older dogs like to rest their heads and necks on a raised surface. As such, they tend to like dog beds with raised outer borders, or with arms on either side.

If you think your dog’s bed is making them itchy, you’re probably right. Some dogs are allergic to certain flame retardants used in the synthetic fibers that fill some beds. Switching to a dog bed made with hypoallergenic stuffing should help. Also pay attention to the fabric that covers the dog bed. Cotton, hemp, and microfiber fabrics are best for allergy-prone dogs.

Your dog may also be allergic to dust mites that have built up on or in the bed over time. Try laundering the bed cover, or perhaps the whole bed, more often to keep dust mites at bay. Make sure the cover is fully dry before you put it back on the bed. Damp covers can attract more dust mites.

If your dog has outgrown their bed but it is still in good shape, consider donating it to a local animal shelter or rescue. Many are in need of beds for the pets in their care.

If the dog bed is significantly worn, check the label to see whether it is recyclable. If it is marked recyclable, you can take it to a local recycling center for disposal.

Dogs deserve their own beds so they can cuddle up, spread out, or simply seek comfort in their own, personal space. While dog beds come in many different shapes and sizes, at the end of the day, the best dog bed is one your dog enjoys sleeping in.

Consider the six best dog beds we’ve shared above, and select one that’s in line with your dog’s own needs. Whether you have a hulky husky or a spunky shiba, nothing is more satisfying than watching your pup curl up on their brand new bed.

Catch up on the day’s headlines from the news and information source you trust

By signing up you agree to our privacy policy

Pet Cooling Mat Stand with us in our mission to discover and uncover the story of North Texas