Imagine spending a third of your life on a mattress that’s too small, too hard, or doesn’t support your body correctly. Sounds awful, right? Yet, that’s precisely what happens to countless dogs every day. While we obsess over the best memory foam for ourselves, many dog owners unknowingly settle for beds that cause joint pain, anxiety, or even disrupt sleep quality. The right dog bed isn’t just about comfort but long-term health. Orthopedic support can ease arthritis, cooling fabrics can prevent overheating, and even the shape of the bed can impact your pup’s sense of security. But with so many options, how do you know which is truly best? This guide reveals the top choices for every type of sleeper—from sprawlers to curlers and everything in between.
Why Having The Best Dog Bed Matters
According to the latest research, investing in a high-quality dog bed is crucial for the following reasons:
Optimal sleep duration and quality: Studies show that adult dogs sleep between 8 and 13.5 hours per day, averaging about 11 hours.[1] A dog bed can help ensure your pet achieves this optimal sleep duration by providing comfort and support throughout their rest periods.
Support for sleep architecture: Research using polysomnography has revealed that dogs, like humans, experience both NREM and REM sleep stages. A high-quality bed can promote uninterrupted sleep cycles, allowing your dog to benefit from each sleep stage fully. This is particularly important as studies have shown a positive correlation between time spent in NREM and REM sleep and problem-solving abilities in dogs.[2]
Cognitive function and memory consolidation: Research suggests that dogs’ sleep, like humans’, is involved in memory consolidation and learning.[3] A comfortable, supportive bed can facilitate better quality sleep, potentially enhancing your dog’s cognitive functions and learning capabilities.
Age-related sleep changes: Research on senior dogs has identified age-related changes in sleep-wakefulness cycles. As dogs age, they may experience alterations in their sleep patterns and electroencephalographic features.[3] A high-quality bed can help mitigate some of these age-related issues.
Environmental comfort: Studies have shown that a dog’s sleep environment can affect their sleep and their human companions.[4] A dog bed can help establish a consistent sleep location, potentially improving the dog’s and the owner’s sleep efficiency.
Health and behavior benefits: Dog beds have been linked to better overall health and behavior in dogs. A clinical study evaluated the effects of dog beds on large dogs with arthritis and found that orthopedic beds reduced joint pain and improved stiffness, joint function, gait, and nighttime restfulness.[5]
How to Pick The Best Dog Bed
Choosing the right dog bed goes beyond just picking the softest option. Here’s what to look for:
Factor
What to Consider
Best For
Quick Tip
Size & Weight
Measure nose-to-tail when fully stretched; add 6–12 inches. Choose thickness to support body weight.
Toy to giant breeds; heavy dogs that compress thin filling.
When in doubt, size up so limbs don’t hang off the edge.
Sleeping Style
Curled sleepers feel safer with raised rims; sprawlers need wide, flat surfaces; leaners prefer bolsters.
Why we recommended it: We chose the Bully Bed Orthopedic for its exceptional orthopedic support and durability. This bed is designed for large and medium-sized dogs, but small dogs can benefit from it, too. The bed’s construction withstands everyday wear and tear, making it a long-lasting option. This bed features a thick, 7-inch orthopedic foam that provides superior pressure point relief for perfect sleep and prevents joint problems. It’s also ideal for breeds with arthritis, joint pain, muscle stiffness, old age, mobility issues, or recovering from surgery.
What sets it apart from competitors: It is designed to retain its shape over time and offers lasting comfort and support. The 20-year guarantee against flattening is a standout feature, demonstrating the manufacturer’s confidence in the bed’s durability or orthopedic support.
Key Features
CertiPUR-US certified foam
Made from non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials
Washable and removable microfiber cover
Pros
Free internal waterproof cover with each purchased bed ($75 Value)
Medical-grade orthopedic memory foam
Risk-free 30-day trial offer for your dog, with no hidden fees
Heavy-duty zipper with a cover to prevent chewing
Offers both luxurious relaxation and therapeutic relief
Cons
Higher price point compared to standard beds
Some owners mention that the cover can be tricky to remove for washing
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Why we recommended it: The PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed is a great choice. It features a solid four-inch memory foam base, complemented by supportive bolsters, offering your puppy a secure and cozy resting place. Additionally, the polyfill bolsters offer puppies various resting options and a heightened sense of security and enclosure, which is essential for puppies.
What sets it apart from competitors: PetFusion uses premium materials, including Certi-PUR-US certified memory foam, which is free from harmful substances like mercury, lead, formaldehyde, phthalates, and ozone depleters. These toxin-free materials ensure a safe sleeping environment for your puppy. The cover fabric is also certified as ‘skin contact safe,’ making it ideal for protecting your puppy’s soft skin and delicate coat.
Key Features
A waterproof liner keeps the memory foam mattress dry, making it a great option for puppies in potty training.
Waterproof liner to protect against puppy potty accidents while in training
Anti-tear, removable cover that can be spot-cleaned or conveniently machine-washed
Pros
The micro plush resting area is soft and cozy, providing the warmth and comfort puppies need
Features two zipper compartments for storing toys and treats, helping your puppy to associate the bed with their personal space
Also an excellent option for adult dogs
Passes European REACH safety standards
Durable cotton and polyester twill cover
Non-skid bottom
Cons
The price might be high for those on a tight budget
Some puppies may chew on the bolsters
Cheapest Dog Bed
4.5
★★★★★
The Dog’s Bed
Who It’s For: For those seeking an affordable dog bed that offers the highest quality.
Why we recommended it: Although more affordable options exist, The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Dog Bed stands out for meeting quality standards and providing essential features for dogs. The Dog’s Bed has the best price on dog beds compared to beds in the same category. The quality and materials are just as good as our top picks.
What sets it apart from competitors: Designed with a high stability premium support foam, this product provides relief and comfort to dogs with joint conditions, mobility issues, and other conditions such as torn cruciate ligaments, helping them get the rest they need. Prevents elbow calluses and pressure sores due to immobility during illness or post-surgery.
Key Features
Waterproof mattress protector to catch accidents associated with incontinence, drooling, or potty accidents
Designed to fit your home decor seamlessly
Heat-sensitive mattress supports a dog’s skeletal system in its correct alignment
Pros
Quality verified by two international third-party companies
Keeps joints youthful for longer
Easy-clean cover
The cover has a plush, soft blanket feel
1-year limited warranty for manufacturing defects
Cons
Some dogs, especially those used to softer surfaces, may find the orthopedic foam too firm
Best Dog Bed For Heavy Chewers
4.7
★★★★★
Bully Beds
Who It’s For: This bed is ideal for heavy-chewing dogs and is specifically designed to resist chewing and digging.
Why we recommended it: We chose Bully Beds Chew Resistant Bed for its exceptional durability, orthopedic support, and chew-resistant properties. It’s made with extra-strong padding and fabric resistant to wear and tear. It comes with a 200-day chew warranty and a one-time complete replacement policy if your dog chews through it.
What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike many competitors, it uses a proprietary cover material designed for chewing and digging resistance. It also uses heavy-duty velcro closures instead of zippers for added durability.
Key Features
7-inch high-density orthopedic foam
Non-slip base and CertiPUR-US certified foam
Non-clinging, hair-resistant covers
Pros
Hypoallergenic, making it safe for sensitive dogs
Hair-resistant covers
Easy to clean with a machine-washable cover
No stink construction
Water-resistant construction
Cons
The price point may be higher than other dog bed options
Limited color options
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Who It’s For: Dog owners who travel regularly or go on trekking, picnics, road trips, vacations, or hikes. Also great if your dog enjoys spending time in your garden or backyard.
Why we recommended it: Regardless of the outdoor activity your pup enjoys, the Kurgo Loft Wander Outdoor Dog Bed is an excellent choice for dogs to relax and unwind after playtime. It keeps them off the ground, protecting them from dirt, dust, and the elements. A polyfill cushion makes this bed comfortable and cozy enough for everyday use and rolls up for easy transportation. It easily rolls up for storage in a car or luggage bag and includes a handle for easy transport.
What sets it apart from competitors: It’s made of quilted, microtomic ripstop fabric that is tough enough to handle any dog, no matter how wet, and in any environment, from hotel floor to RV to campsite.
Key Features
A lifetime warranty covers this item against manufacturing defects
Built-in handle for toting for easy handling and portability
It can be used in the car, RV, camping, the back deck at your lake house, and most outdoor places.
Pros
Portable
Waterproof top and bottom
Hidden zipper pocket for small items
Hand wash or machine wash
Cons
Unfortunately, the biggest size they offer is large. If you need an extra-large outdoor dog bed, consider the Cheerhunting Portable Outdoor Camping Dog Bed.
Best Dog Bed For Senior Dogs
4.7
★★★★★
Bully Beds
Who It’s For: It is perfect for aging or senior dogs thanks to its FDA-approved infrared technology, which supports healthy aging.
Why we recommended it: We recommended the Bully Beds Infrared Dog Bed for older dogs due to its ability to alleviate muscle and joint pain, stiffness, arthritis, and similar conditions. It treats the whole body and not just a specific symptom. Its infrared technology promotes blood flow and helps maintain a dog’s natural body temperature, making it highly beneficial for older dogs with health issues.
What sets it apart from competitors: This dog bed differentiates itself with its infrared technology that uses the dog’s body heat to reflect far infrared ray emissions to the skin. This feature helps increase blood circulation, enhance tissue oxygen levels, and deliver nutrients to areas with soft tissue, reducing discomfort and maintaining an optimal sleep temperature.
Key Features
First and only dog bed that has FDA medical device certification
Increases energy, recovery time, and reduces discomfort
Pros
Durable and chew-resistant, ideal for persistent chewers
20-year warranty, demonstrating the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability
Non-slip base and CertiPUR-US certified foam
Cons
Higher price point compared to other dog bed options
Get 22% OFF your order with code CNB22—Use thislink to get started.
Best Calming Dog Bed For Anxious Dogs
4.5
★★★★★
Furhaven
Who It’s For: Perfect for dogs with anxiety, who often benefit from a cozy, enclosed space. It’s also great for dogs that enjoy curling up and nesting.
Why we recommended it: The Furhaven Pet Calming Donut Dog Bed is an excellent option for anxious dogs. This dog bed nesting design creates a plush and cushy burrow that promotes a sense of security, effectively soothing anxiety for better sleep and promoting better health and behavior.
What sets it apart from competitors: The sleeping area is luxuriously plush, with thick vegan faux hair fabric for enhanced snuggling comfort and a soft touch.
Key Features
Raised fluffy cushion for orthopedic support, high-loft comfort
Calming long faux fur
Vegan wool that is soft on snouts and paws
Pros
Raised fluffy cushion for orthopedic support, high-loft comfort
Calming long faux fur
Vegan wool that is soft on snouts and paws
Cons
Not suitable for dogs with excessive teething or destructive chewing behavior
Best Elevated Dog Bed
4.8
★★★★★
K9 Ballistics
Who It’s For: Dogs prone to overheating or those living in extremely warm or cold climates, requiring improved airflow to stay cool or avoid cold floors. Also, ideal for mobility issues.
Why we recommended it: The K9 Ballistics Elevated Dog Bed is your best option if you want raised dog beds. This bed is highly durable due to its 100% aluminum frame, legs, and corners, along with the ripstop ballistic fabric designed to be stronger than Kevlar. Unlike many other beds, all fabric edges are covered to prevent chewing, making it an excellent choice for persistent chewers. This bed can support the weight and size of a large canine.
What sets it apart from competitors: Elevated dog beds are multipurpose. The raised design helps relieve pressure on the joints and can make getting in and out of bed easier for dogs with mobility issues, older dogs, or those suffering from arthritis. The off-the-ground design also allows air to circulate around the dog, which can help keep it cool in hot weather and keep it off the ground during winter when the floor is too cold.
Key Features
Great for outdoor use. Elevated beds can keep dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors or are frequently dirty or wet off the ground and provide a cleaner, drier place to rest.
You can clean them with warm, soapy water or rinse them with a hose, as there is no foam core to worry about
Made with ripstop fabric and a chew-proof armored frame
Pros
Designed to withstand heavy chewing. It’s considered one of the best indestructible dog beds on the market
Waterproof
Hammock sling style
Comes assembled
120-day chew-proof armored warranty
Cons
The price is on the higher side, which might not fit all budgets
Some users report that it makes noise when dogs get on it, but it stops once the dog stays still
Best Dog Bed With Bolsters
4.6
★★★★★
Casper
Who It’s For: Dogs who like to rest their head up or lean on edges. Also great for dogs needing joint support to reduce pressure points on joints.
Why we recommended it: The Casper Plush Memory Foam Dog Bed combines a supportive design and quality materials. Engineered by the same team behind the Casper mattress, this dog bed is a human-grade mattress tailored for dogs. It’s constructed with strongly bonded microfibers, similar to those used in performance footwear. The Casper dog bed’s cover is durable enough to withstand even the roughest play from your dog, resisting rips and tears. Its pressure-relieving memory foam makes this bed an all-around option.
What sets it apart from competitors: Casper’s dog bed was created based on extensive research into dogs’ natural behaviors, particularly their instinct to scratch or dig before lying down. That’s why this bed includes excess material on top, simulating the sensation of pawing at loose earth – perfect for dogs who like to dig in.
Key Features
It won’t sink, slump, or sag over time
Removable and machine-washable cover
Water-resistant material to protect against spills
Pros
Stylish design available in many color options
Supportive foam bolsters
Zippers are hidden so your pup won’t be able to chew on them
Bolsters on all four sides for comfort and security
Durable, rip and slobber resistant
Cons
A little expensive
Best Stylish Dog Bed
4.7
★★★★★
Paw Brands
Who It’s For: Ideal for individuals seeking a luxurious, stylish dog bed that complements their home decor and meets the high standards of a quality dog bed.
Why we recommended it: Meet the PupRug Faux Fur Orthopedic Dog Bed, our pick for the best stylish dog bed. Say goodbye to lumpy cushion dog beds and get a bed that fits your home’s decor. The elegant dog bed comes in two unique styles (Curve White style and Rectangle Gray style) and three sizes that can accommodate most dog breeds. This bed is ideal for any size dog or multiple dogs. It’s filled with pressure-relieving orthopedic memory foam that supports and minimizes joint pain, thereby improving a pet’s health and mobility.
What sets it apart from competitors: The PupRug has an attractive faux fur and area rug style that looks natural as part of your home decor and doesn’t stick out like an eyesore. It’s exclusively designed to provide our best friends with the ultimate place to rest while blending into homes with modern and luxurious designs. This bed doubles as an elegant rug that blends seamlessly into home decor.
Key Features
Features an ultra-soft, pet-safe, removable, and washable faux fur cover
Water-resistant liner that acts as the first defense line against accidents
Non-skid bottom that prevents moving and shifting
Pros
No more hiding the bulky dog bed when guests come over
Guaranteed not to flatten for 10 years
Ultra-soft and plush faux fur cover (removable and washable)
Odor resistant Made accessible for elderly and disabled pets
Cons
Kind of expensive for a dog bed, but dogs love it
Other Top Dog Beds
Best Eco-Friendly Dog Bed. If you are an eco-friendly dog owner, purchasing only earth-friendly products is a priority. P.L.A.Y. Eco-Friendly Dog Bed is your best choice for dog beds made from recyclable materials. It offers an optimum amount of high-loft fiber for softness and support. It’s manufactured from recycled plastic bottles, built to last, and contributes to an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Best Dog Bed Ramp. As you may have noticed, some breeds are not agile; they can’t jump on and off beds as other breeds would. A dog bed ramp-like PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp will help your dog get up on the bed or sofa to improve quality time together. These dog stairs for beds are strong, independently tested, and rated to support pets up to 120 lb. The surface is made of a ribbed heavy-duty carpet that provides a sure footing and prevents sliding for added safety.
Best Dog Bed For Small Spaces. A corner tent bed like Pet Tent Soft Bed for Dog is a fantastic option to save space because it fits where most furniture items don’t, using unused space. It’s made with faux suede, corduroy, and soft poly-foam lining that continually molds to your dog’s favorite position, providing a comfy but strong bed. It comes with a cuddle-inducing pillow.
Best Winter Dog Bed. The Snoozer Luxury Cozy Cave Pet Bed is the perfect winter dog bed for your dog. This hooded bed envelops your dog in Sherpa fabric, keeping them warm during the winter months. It’s also great for dogs who love to dig and burrow under the blankets. Its interior fabric will keep your dog warm throughout the year.
Best Dog Bed For Dogs With Allergies. We recommend a hypoallergenic dog bed cover for dogs with allergies, like Teton Dog’s DIY Cover. This cover lets you stuff it with non-toxic, hypoallergenic fillings such as pillows, towels, or whatever works best for your Bulldog for a bed as fluffy and full as your dog likes. Made of 100% waterproof Nanopore fabric, it is an impenetrable barrier against dirt, dust, mites, and fleas.
Best Cooling Dog Bed. The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat is perfect for breeds that overheat easily or those living in hot climates. Its innovative cooling mat employs gel-based technology to efficiently dissipate your dog’s body heat, offering a refreshing surface for them to rest on during hot weather.
Best Plug-In Heated Dog Bed. The K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Dog Bed is the top choice for the Best Plug-In Heated Dog Bed due to its efficient heating, outdoor durability, and safety features. This bed provides consistent and soothing warmth for dogs, making it ideal for colder weather or pets needing extra comfort.
Best Self-Warming Dog Bed. The K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Dog Crate Bed takes the spotlight in this category due to its innovative self-warming technology. It harnesses and retains your dog’s body heat, providing a snug and comforting resting place without the need for electricity or batteries.
Best Crate Dog Bed. The VERZEY Dog Beds Crate Pad provides a snug, comfortable resting space within standard-sized crates. The non-slip bottom keeps it securely in place, even during active moments in the crate.
The Bottom Line
The right dog bed isn’t just about comfort—it’s about supporting your pup’s health, sleep quality, and overall well-being. Whether your dog needs orthopedic support, a cozy den, or a durable outdoor bed, choosing the right size, material, and design makes all the difference. Prioritize washability, durability, and support based on your dog’s age, size, and sleeping habits. If you’re unsure where to start, an orthopedic memory foam bed with a washable cover is a solid investment for most dogs. Ultimately, the best bed keeps your pup comfortable, well-rested, and happy.
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Sources
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