Table of Contents
- Why Your Pet Needs a Dog Bed
- How to Choose the Best Dog Bed for Your Pet
- Picking Ten of the Best Dog Beds for This Review
- 1 Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Bed (Headrest) The best dog bed for large breeds
- 2 eLuxury Supply Orthopedic Gel Memory Foam Bed The best cheap dog bed
- 3 Molly Mutt Dog Duvets The best bed for dogs with anxiety
- 4 Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed The best-elevated dog bed
- 5 Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish Bed The best pet bed for nesting dogs
- 6 BarksBar Orthopedic Bed
- 7 K&H Pet Products Original Bolster Pet Cot
- 8 Majestic Pet Bagel Bed
- 9 Snoozer Luxury Cozy Cave Pet Bed
- 10 PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed with Orthopedic Memory Foam
Dog beds aren't just a comfortable place for your pet to sleep at night. They actually serve many purposes. A good dog bed, both for small and large breeds, will offers physical and psychological benefits to a canine, but you need to pick the right one for your dog, and not all of them will be a perfect fit.
Due to rising popularity of pet beds, there's hundreds of different brands available online, but many of them aren't worth investing in. We've researched, bought, tried, tested and reviewed number of beds for dogs to find ten of the best dog bed and nine runner-ups, each serving their own purpose.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed w/Headrest - 7”... | 5,983 Reviews | Check Price | |
eLuxurySupply Dog Bed - Orthopedic Memory Foam Pet... | 17 Reviews | Check Price | |
Molly Mutt Medium to Large Dog Bed Cover - Royals... | 2,034 Reviews | Check Price | |
Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Dog Bed,... | 73,150 Reviews | Check Price | |
Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish... | 21,284 Reviews | Check Price |
Why Your Pet Needs a Dog Bed
First and foremost, a bed gives your dog a space that is all his. It's somewhere that he can retreat to when things overwhelm and stressed your pooch, and he wants a break from the chaos around him. Think of your dog's bed as his own little oasis within the walls of your home.
Our dogs are social creatures by nature, but they do crave alone time once in a while. They may want some personal space while they're sleeping or chewing a bone. Sometimes our dogs are just having a bad day and want to lie quietly while they watch the business of you and your family members.
There are many benefits of having your dog sleep on his own bed instead of random locations around the house. We know many owners enjoy having their canine companion sleep in bed with them, but there are several reasons why your pup should have his own sleeping quarters, even for an occasional nap:
- Insulation – It's cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
- Security – Dogs love to have their own place and feel safe, secure.
- Cushioning – Dog beds provide support for your pet's joints and bones.
- Controlling hair – Having their own bed prevents hair and dander from ending up in yours.
- Preventing injuries – Dog beds ensure that your pooch won't be jumping everywhere and anywhere, potentially opening himself/herself up for different injuries.
How to Choose the Best Dog Bed for Your Pet
How do you choose an appropriate bed for your pooch and how do you know whether your pup will be comfortable on it? Even if you go by our reviews and my top best dog bed pick, your personal situation must be considered. You're going to need to make a few decisions:
- What type of pet bed would best suit your dog?
- What is your dog bed budget?
- What size bed will your pet need?
- Do you have multiple pets at home?
No matter how well-reviewed a pet bed is, your pet's size and measurements of the bed are crucial. A dog bed that is too small will be more of a detriment to your pet's health, and a bed that's too large may not feel appealing to some canines.
However, if your pooch is a puppy, you may want to choose a dog bed slightly too large that will be comfortable for him now and allow him the space to grow into as he ages. This will save you money in the future as you won't need to upgrade the pet bed every few months.
In addition, you also need to think about your dog's sleeping style (how much your dog moves, what positions he sleeps in, etc.), your dog's activity level, and of course your home decor. Most likely, you're not going to want a fancy looking bedazzled pet bed in your rustically decorated living room.
Sometimes, factors such as your dog's age, current health status, daytime behavior, and breed should also be considered. For example, if your dog suffers from severe arthritis, it will be extremely important to find a pet bed that provides the comfort and support that he'll need to sleep comfortably without joint pain.
Picking Ten of the Best Dog Beds for This Review
There are a few features that you need to be focused on when shopping for a good dog bed. Some owners think that a soft, comfortable pet bed will be just fine for their pup. Others assume that a soft blanket on the floor is a suitable place for their pooch to sleep. With all of the reasons that we discussed above, you now understand why your dog needs a bed, but what features should the bed have?
Through testing many pet beds, researching and talking to veterinarians and industry experts about beds for dogs, I have narrowed the most important features down to:
- Quality of the materials used
- Support the bed provides for your dog
- Comfort for the dog
- Affordability for the owner
I've evaluated every top-rated dog bed option on this list for these four key features and a few additional ones. I learned a lot about the quality of the materials used to make dog beds while researching for this article. For example, while many dog beds are made with foam, there are different types of foam that are used and the quality of these foam materials can be very different and have a significant impact on the bed's quality.
We already discussed why dogs need support while they sleep, but it's up to you to choose a pet bed that can provide enough support for your Fido. This might be a little bit simpler for dog owners with small pups; however, it can be quite difficult if you have a large, heavy dog.
Of course, your dog's comfort is also a big factor. Likewise, finding the best bed for dogs that fits into your budget and accompanies your home decor is also something to consider. We'd all love to give our dog a luxurious pet bed that provides maximum support and comfort. Unfortunately, the best quality beds can also cost hundreds of dollars!
1 Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Bed (Headrest)
The best dog bed for large breeds
The price might scare you a little bit, but be sure to read the details about this bed before you let that deter you. The first thing you need to know is that this bed is guaranteed for 10 years. So, let's say you need the Giant size that costs about $400. If you do the math, that's only about $40 per year to provide your pet with this high-quality bed.
- Dog Beds for Large Dogs:...
- Clinically Shown to Reduce...
- Washable Microsuede Cover: Big...
- Intuitive Zippered Design:...
- Elevated Foam Dog Bed: Our...
These beds are specifically made for large breed dogs that weigh at least 80 pounds. They are made with 7″ of American-made orthopedic foam. The top 2″ is comfort foam, the middle layer is 3″ of support foam, and the bottom 2″ is another layer of comfort foam. The bed that I tested with my dogs also has a headrest that is made of 4″ of contoured comfort foam.
Big Barker guarantees that the beds will retain 90% of their original shape and loft for ten years or they will give you a full refund.
Now, as I mentioned, this top rated dog bed that's currently the most popular in the USA is made for large breeds primarily. They are available in 3 sizes:
- Large – 48″ X 30″ X 7″
- Extra large – 52″ X 36″ X 7″
- Giant – 60″ X 48″ X 7″
The 100% microfiber covers are machine washable and available in 4 colors. You can choose from Burgundy, Charcoal Gray, Chocolate, and Khaki. I really like the look of the Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Bed. They're sleek and elegant, and the colors will match any home décor.
I've washed the cover of our Big Barker bed more than a dozen times, and it's held up very well. Being easy to clean is a MUST for any dog bed in our home, and I'm sure it's important to most pet owners. Our dogs chew bones and chew on their bed, so between the slobber and residue from the treats their beds get pretty gross after a couple of weeks.
Big Barker dog beds help to reduce the stress and pressure on the dog’s joints. The unique 3-tier foam engineering process keeps your pooch up off the floor so he’s not putting all his weight on vulnerable pressure points. This saves him a lot of pain, especially if he’s already suffering from hip or joint issues.
According to the company, this popular dog bed can help canines who:
- are getting stiffer with age;
- recovering from an injury;
- have arthritis or hip dysplasia.
The Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed has a thickness (7-inches) that makes it easier for large dogs to stand up, as they won’t have to raise themselves from the floor. All the beds are manufactured in the USA, and no China-made materials are used (unlike many other dog beds currently available on the market).
The obvious drawback to these beds is the enormous expense. Many pet owners can't afford to spend $300-$400 on veterinary expenses, let alone spending it on a dog bed. Just remember that most dog beds do not last for more than 6-12 months. With a 10-year guarantee, you're sure to your get your money's worth out of a Big Barker bed.
For a closer look at Barker's bed, check out my extensive Big Barker review here.
2 eLuxury Supply Orthopedic Gel Memory Foam Bed
The best cheap dog bed
If you're not a huge fan of the pattern that I have, don't worry. This top-rated bed for dogs has a removable cover that is available in dozens of patterns. You could even purchase multiple covers to change with the seasons or whenever you feel like sprucing things up.
There are bold, bright patterns and simple, neutral designs. I like all of the options because pet owners can find a cover that matches their home's décor. In case you are wondering, the pattern that I've chosen is called Charcoal Arrows.
The inside of the bed is a 5″ piece of gel-infused memory foam. The foam is CertiPUR Certified, which simply means that the foam is safe and made without many common chemicals found in other memory foam materials.
The top layer is 2″ of orthopedic gel memory foam swirl foam, and the bottom 3″ is high-density support foam. eLuxury Supply is a veteran-owned business, and they take pride in the fact that their dog beds are made in the USA.
The eLuxury Supply Orthopedic Gel Memory Foam Dog Bed is available in 3 sizes:
- Small – 22″ x 27″ x 5″
- Medium – 27″ x 36″ x 5″
- Large – 36″ x 45″ x 5″ (this is the size shown in my video review that you can watch below)
The bed covers are made of 100% cotton. There is also a waterproof interior cover, which is my favorite feature of this bed. If your dog has incontinence issues or you have a puppy that may still have accidents, you're going to want to be sure to buy a pet bed that has a waterproof cover. Like the Big Barker bed, the cover of this best dog zips off easily and is machine washable.
The company does offer a 90-night risk-free money-back guarantee, but unlike Big Barker, they don't tell you how long the memory foam will hold it's shape. Most high-quality dog beds made with similar materials are guaranteed for 6-10 years. Many pet owners have had this bed for more than three years, and they still say it is holding its shape well.
The price depends on the size of the bed, and they range from $75.99-$140.99. They're still quite expensive, but not as expensive as the Big Barker beds. eLuxury also offers the option of a payment plan if you order through their website, which is a nice choice for dog owners on a tight budget that still want to provide the most appropriate bed for dogs in their household.
For a closer look at this best, check out my eLuxury Dog bed review here.
3 Molly Mutt Dog Duvets
The best bed for dogs with anxiety
This bed is a unique twist on a traditional dog bed. The cover is made from 100% cotton canvas. It is very durable, machine washable, and pre-shrunk. Like the eLuxury bed above, Molly Mutt Dog Duvets are available in many patterns – 22 different patterns to be exact!
- SUSTAINABLE -Stuff this dog...
- 100% COTTON - Our range of dog...
- FOR MEDIUM/LARGE DOG BEDS -...
- MACHINE WASHABLE - These dog...
- NO HARMFUL INGREDIENTS -We...
When I say durable, I mean durable. I had my doubts when I first received this dog bed. Our dogs are nesters, especially our little Beagle. She'll scratch and scratch in one spot for about 2 minutes before she finally settles down to sleep. Months later, our Molly Mutt bed still looks like new!
So, what's inside these beds? Well, nothing. Yes, when you receive Molly Mutt Duvets there is nothing inside them.
That's because you get to fill it with any material of your choosing. You can fill these duvets with old clothing, blankets, towels, or any other material that will provide a soft, comfortable bed for your pet.
This is a highly ranked dog bed for pets suffering from anxiety issues. Research has proven that it's comforting for your dog to have a bed that smells like you. You are comforting to your pet, and when you're not around your smell can be the next best thing.
It's available in 4 sizes:
- Small – 22″ X 27″ X 5″
- Medium/Large – 27″ X 36″ X 5″
- Huge – 36″ X 45″ X 5″
- Round – 36″ diameter and 5″ thick
The Stuff Sack that I show in my video review is very helpful, but it isn't included with the Molly Mutt Duvets. You can buy one separately for $12.50. These bags are made of 100% nylon. While it's a small added expense, I highly recommend getting the Stuff Sack as well.
It offers an easy way to keep all of the materials you use as stuffing together. And, the best part is that the Stuff Sack is machine washable, you can just pull it out with all of the stuffing material, throw it in the washer and dryer, and there the stuffing will be clean and odor-free.
The drawback to this bed is that using materials like blankets and old clothing as bedding won't be nearly as supportive as the orthopedic foam used in the Big Barker and eLuxury Supply beds above. It's a better option for dogs with anxiety problems (especially separation anxiety), but it's not going to be a suitable bed for dogs with arthritis or other hip and joint problems.
Molly Mutt Dog Duvets sell for $25-$50, depending on the size that you need. If you add the expense of a Stuff Sack, that takes the price to $27.50-$62.50. For a high-quality, durable bed, that's a pretty average price. Just keep in mind that you will have to provide your own stuffing.
For a closer look at this best, check out my extensive Molly Mutt dog bed review here.
4 Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed
The best-elevated dog bed
Did you know that most dogs prefer elevated beds? These beds are strong enough to hold your pet, as long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions on the proper size. They are usually up about 2″-6″ off the floor.
- COOLING DOG BED –...
- RELIEVES JOINT PRESSURE POINTS...
- EASY TO CLEAN - washable pet...
- ECO-FRIENDLY - Fabric is 100%...
- PORTABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT -...
Elevated beds allow air to flow under the bed, which can help keep Fido cool while he sleeps. Also, because the bed isn't sitting on the hard floor it reduces the pressure put on your dog's bones and joints. After all of my research and product testing, I've chosen the Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed as the best-elevated dog bed.
This dog bed is available in 4 sizes:
- Small – 35.4″ X 21.6″ X 7.9″
- Medium – 25.6″ X 43.3″ X 7.9″
- Large – 31.5″ X 51.2″ X 7.9″
- Extra Large – 59.8″ X 37″ X 8.8″
This bed is made with a powder-coated steel frame and breathable fabric that is UV-treated to resist fading. The Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed can be used indoors or outside. The first three beds on my list are only made for indoor use. You can bring them outside when the weather is nice, but if you leave them out they will get damp and begin to mold.
This bed, on the other hand, resists mold and mildew. It's also flea and mite-resistant. Again, the first three beds on my list will actually be a great place for fleas and mites to live, so if you're concerned about parasites, the Coolaroo bed is a great choice.
5 Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish Bed
The best pet bed for nesting dogs
If your dog loves to nest, providing him with a pet bed with bolsters, sides or a pillowy style is a great way to keep him happy and comfortable. This bed has high walls that surround your dog and make him feel like he's in a den. Beds like this one will often make dogs feel safer and more secure while they're resting.
- SUPPORTS BETTER SLEEP: The...
- MOVES WITH YOUR PET: From...
- DESIGNED FOR CONVENIENCE:...
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Rest assured...
- UNPACKAGING FOR USE: Your beds...
Unfortunately, these style beds are usually made for small dogs. This is the case with the Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish Cuddler. It's made for dogs that weigh less than 25 pounds. The rear bolster is 12″ high, which provides a wall that your dog can lie against. The front bolster is only 9″ high, and acts as head support for dogs that want it.
The soft, fleecy material on the outside keeps your pup comfortable, and the inside is stuffed with virgin AirLOFT fibers. Best Friends by Sheri says that these fibers keep their shape longer than the traditional poly-fill used in most dog bed products.
Ideally, the best dog bed for your dogs must be easy to clean, and this one definitely is. It's machine-washable and dryer-safe. It also features a waterproof bottom, which keeps any liquids (like urine) in the bed and off your floor. If your dog has an accident in the bed, just throw it in the wash and you won't have to worry about it staining your carpet or leaking onto the floor.
The Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish Cuddler is available in 10 different colors. The price varies depending on the color that you choose. Depending on your selection, this top dog bed will cost between $28 and $37.43. Even for a bed that is only made for small breeds, this is a very reasonable price.
6 BarksBar Orthopedic Bed
This is another orthopedic dog bed that provides excellent support for your dog's bones and joints. You'll also notice that this bed has a bolster all the way around it. Most dogs love this style bed because the bolster provides extra support and makes them feel more secure.
- Large Orthopedic Sleeper:...
- Inner Dimensions of Sleeping...
- Premium Materials include: (1)...
- Sleek and Luxurious quilted...
- Easy to clean & maintain:...
Sadly, this bed only comes in one size. It's made for medium and large breeds and measures 40″ X 30″ X 10″. Keep in mind that the inner dimensions are only 36″ X 24″. The BarksBar Orthopedic Dog Bed would also be a good choice for a multi-pet household with dogs that enjoy sleeping together in the same bed. The company says that this bed can easily hold up to 100 pounds.
This bed for dogs features an ultra-soft polyester cover with a quilted design for added comfort. The inside is made of 4″ of solid, grooved orthopedic foam. The bolster is stuffed with cotton, so it may not hold its shape as well as the orthopedic foam.
I love that the bottom is equipped with a rubber non-slip backing. If you have wooden, tile or laminate flooring, this is an important feature to look for. It's difficult for old dogs to get up off of a bed that slides on the floor when they try to step out of it. Likewise, rambunctious younger dogs may get hurt if they try to jump into a bed that's going to slide out from under them.
As with the other beds on this list, the BarksBar Orthopedic Dog Bed is easy to clean. The cover is easily removable and machine washable. It does need to be washed on the delicate cycle though, so keep that in mind. Pet owners that recommend this bed also say that it is very easy to spot and clean, and it's easy to get shed dog hair off of this bed.
7 K&H Pet Products Original Bolster Pet Cot
This is the second elevated bet bed that has made my list. As I said, elevated beds will get your dog up off the floor. This will make Fido more comfortable and keep him cool while he sleeps. As you can see, this elevated bed also has a bolster, which adds comfort and prevents your pooch from falling off the bed.
- BOLSTERED OUTDOOR DOG BED: Dog...
- STRONG & STURDY: Dog cots...
- QUICK & EASY ASSEMBLY: Easy to...
- EASY CLEAN-UP: Removable cover...
- INDOOR & OUTDOOR DOG BED:...
The K&H Pet Products Original Bolster Pet Cot is available in 3 sizes:
- Small – 17″ X 22″ X 7″
- Medium – 25″ X 32″ X 7″
- Large – 30″ X 42″ 7″
This doggy cot is made with a sturdy frame construction that can hold more than 150 pounds! This is the best elevated dog bed for extra large breeds. The breathable mesh center is made of waterproof, 600 Denier fabric. This fabric repels moisture, mildew, mold, odors, and bacteria.
You can easily clean this canine bed by wiping it down with a damp cloth or spraying it down with the hose if you're outside. The removable bolster is machine washable. Like the BarksBar bed above, this one has non-skid rubber on the bottom of the feet. You'll be glad to have these because they will greatly reduce the risk of injury. This elevated dog bed from K&H Pet Products doesn't come assembled, but putting it together requires no tools.
The price depends on the size you'll need, and this bed will cost between $43.03 and $61.14. For a durable, elevated pet bed that can be used both indoors and outside, this is a very affordable option.
8 Majestic Pet Bagel Bed
Look how comfortable this bed looks! It cradles your dog for comfort and support while he sleeps. This design is ideal for dogs that like to nest and pets that enjoy resting their head on a bolster while they sleep. It's stuffed with a premium high loft polyester fill, which may not hold up as well as thick, dense foam.
- [Sink into luxury every day] -...
- [Designed for Perfect Posture]...
- [Style Meets Durability] -...
- [Mess-Proof, Stress-Proof] -...
- [Pure Pet Paradise] - Sink...
Best Friends by Sheri bed in my number 5 spot, the bottom of the Majestic Pet Bagel Bed is made of waterproof 300/600 Denier fabric, which is 100% waterproof. If your pet has accidents, this is a feature that you should be looking for. It will keep the urine from leaking through the bed and onto your flooring.
This dog bed is available in 4 sizes:
- 24-inch: outside dimensions 24″ X 18″ – inside 18″ X 11″ – cushion is 6″ high
- 32-inch: outside dimensions 32″ X 18″ – inside 24″ X 18″ – cushion is 6″ high
- 40-inch: outside dimensions 40″ X 29″ – inside 30″ X 18″ – cushion is 8″ high
- 52-inch: outside dimensions 52″ X 36″ – inside 46″ X 30″ – cushion is 10″ high
As you know, being easy to clean is a must when it comes to choosing the best dog beds. The Majestic Pet Bagel Bed is machine-washable and dryer-safe. It is made in the USA, but the materials are imported.
The price varies depending on the size and color that you choose. These beds cost between $21.99 and $76. I'm really impressed with the pricing, but some reviewers did say the beds didn't last as long as they had hoped. This seemed to be a more common complaint among pet owners with large dogs.
9 Snoozer Luxury Cozy Cave Pet Bed
Another unique design, these beds are perfect for pups that like to be under the covers while they're snoozing. The design offers a plush bed for Fido to sleep on and a soft covering for him to snuggle under.
- LIKE A HUG FOR YOUR DOG! Is...
- QUALITY FEATURES. Our Cozy...
- WE DON’T CUT CORNERS. Our...
- DURABLE, LUXURY FABRIC. With a...
- SIZING: This Large Cozy Cave...
The “cave” design of this bed is great for dogs who need a little help to feel safe and secure. Dogs are naturally denning animals, and this bed offers the feel of a den in the safety of your home.
The poly-cotton exterior comes in more than 25 colors, and the inside of the Snoozer Luxury Cozy Cave Pet Bed is lined with soft Sherpa for extra comfort. It's also available with a microsuede exterior. The cover is machine washable for easy cleaning. This bed is stuffed with cedar/poly filling, which helps to reduce odors. Unfortunately, this type of filling doesn't keep its shape as long as dense, orthopedic foam.
The Snoozer Cozy Cave Bed is available in 3 sizes:
- Small – 25″ diameter X 4″ sidewall – hood height is approximate 8″ tall
- Large – 35″ diameter X 4″ sidewall – hood height is approximate 8″ tall
- Extra-Large – 45″ diameter X 4″ sidewall – hood height is approximate 8″ tall
The price varies depending on the color and size. If you think that this unique dog bed is right for your pet, it'll cost you $79.95-$152.89. It's slightly more expensive than other beds of its size, but the original design warrants the increase.
10 PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed with Orthopedic Memory Foam
With over 18,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating on Amazon, now you can give your dog trusted comfort. They use orthopedic materials in the making of this bed and it consists of a 4-inch memory foam designed to keep every dog breed comfortable. Plus, its recycled ‘green' support bolsters are generously filled with durable and comfortable polyester (65%) & cotton (35%) twill.
- PREMIUM COMPONENTS & BETTER...
- SMART DESIGN: (i) Base &...
- PEACE OF MIND: (i)...
- IDEAL FOR MEDIUM / LARGE OR...
- WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: (i)...
Not only does the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed with Orthopedic Memory Foam make a great bed to keep in your home, but its cover is also water-resistant perfect for taking along while traveling or hanging out outdoors. The orthopedic foam contours to your dog's body. Like the other orthopedic options on this list, this last-rated best dog bed is ideal for dogs with arthritis, joint issues, and painful diseases like hip dysplasia.
You can order this bed in 4 sizes (inner dimensions):
- Small – 21″ X 16″ X 2.5″
- Large – 30″ X 22″ X 4″
- X-Large – 36″ X 26″ X 4″
- XX-Large – 42″ X 33″ x 5″
The removable cover is machine washable, but you'll have to spot-clean the internal foam. If your pup has incontinence issues or still has accidents once in a while, it would be better to invest in one of the best beds for dogs that has a waterproof cover like this one.
The price varies depending on the size you'll need, but you can expect to pay between $179.95 and $249.95 for one of these dog beds. As far as dog beds go, that's pretty pricey. But, this bed is as thick as most other beds made with similar materials. Not to mention, the many positive reviews by verified customers on Amazon add to the credibility of this product.
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