How to Choose the Right Dog Bed: 7 Things Every Owner Should Know

Your dog deserves a good night's sleep just as much as you do, but standing in the pet store staring at a wall of options can feel pretty overwhelming. Soft or firm? Round or rectangular? How much should you actually spend? If you've ever found yourself asking these questions, you're definitely not alone.

Picking the perfect dog bed isn't just about grabbing whatever looks cute or fits your budget. The right bed can support your pup's joints, ease anxiety, and even improve their overall health and happiness. Get it wrong, and you might end up with a chewed-up, ignored bed sitting in the corner collecting dust.

The good news is that once you know what to look for, the whole process becomes a lot simpler. In this guide, we're breaking down seven key things every dog owner should consider before making a purchase. Whether you've just welcomed a new puppy into your home or you're upgrading an older dog's sleeping spot, these tips will help you find a dog bed that both you and your furry friend will love.

Why the Right Dog Bed Actually Matters

Here's something most new dog owners don't realize right away: your dog is going to spend more time on their bed than you spend on yours. Dogs sleep between 12 and 14 hours a day on average, which makes their sleeping surface one of the most-used items in your entire home. That's not a fun accessory purchase. That's a functional health investment.

And it's not just about your dog's corner of the living room, either. According to the Australia Pet Beds Market Report 2025, 62% of dog owners say their dogs sleep in the bedroom. So the bed you choose affects your space, your sleep, and your daily routine just as much as it affects your pup's.

The market data tells the same story. Pet bedding research from Dataintelo puts the global pet bedding market at $4.8 billion in 2025, projected to reach $8.7 billion by 2034. Pet owners are clearly taking this purchase seriously, and for good reason.

A well-chosen dog bed does a lot of heavy lifting. It supports joint health (especially important for larger breeds or senior dogs), helps reduce anxiety by giving your dog a defined safe space, and even helps regulate body temperature through breathable or insulating materials. This shift toward health-focused buying is part of a broader trend called pet humanization, where owners treat their dogs like family members and prioritize comfort and wellness outcomes over just grabbing whatever's cheapest on the shelf.

The Main Types of Dog Beds Explained

Not all dog beds are built the same, and that's actually a good thing. Different dogs have different sleeping styles, health needs, and personalities, so having options means you can find something that genuinely works for your pup. Here's a breakdown of the five main types you'll come across.

1. Pillow and Cushion Beds

These are exactly what they sound like: flat, padded surfaces that give your dog a soft spot to land. They're a great starting point if you're not sure what your dog prefers yet, and they work especially well for dogs who like to stretch out and sprawl. Pillow beds are typically the most affordable option in the category, which makes them easy to buy in multiples and scatter around the house. The main thing to watch out for is filling that flattens quickly; look for beds with removable, machine-washable covers and high-density filling that holds its shape over time.

2. Orthopedic Beds

Orthopedic beds are the most popular type on the market, holding the largest product segment share at 28.5% as of 2025. They're built with memory foam or pressure-relieving layers that cushion joints and distribute your dog's weight more evenly. If you have a senior dog, a large breed, or a dog dealing with hip or joint issues, this is the type most vets recommend. According to orthopedic dog bed market research, memory foam options alone make up 42.3% of the orthopedic segment, driven by growing awareness of conditions like arthritis and hip dysplasia in dogs.

3. Donut and Bolster Beds

Donut beds have raised, circular walls that let your dog rest their head on the edge and feel snugly wrapped in on all sides. They're particularly popular with anxious dogs and breeds that naturally curl up to sleep, like Beagles, Shih Tzus, or Greyhounds. The enclosed feeling can be genuinely calming for dogs who feel unsettled in open spaces. This style has grown significantly in recent years and consistently performs well among dog owners who share their pets' bedtime routines on social media.

4. Heated Beds

Heated beds are designed for dogs that have trouble staying warm, including senior dogs with slower circulation, short-haired breeds like Whippets or Chihuahuas, and dogs living in colder climates. They use low-level, self-regulating heat to keep your dog comfortable without any risk of overheating. Climate-adaptive beds are a growing segment of the market, particularly as more owners pay attention to how temperature affects their dog's sleep quality and overall comfort through the colder months.

5. Outdoor and Waterproof Beds

If your dog spends time in the yard, goes camping with you, or travels regularly, an outdoor bed is worth considering. These beds are made with weather-resistant fabrics and often feature elevated frames that keep your dog off damp, hot, or uneven ground. Washability is a big selling point here; most outdoor beds are designed to be hosed down or wiped clean easily. This segment sees solid growth among puppy owners too, since waterproof bases handle the inevitable accidents without any fuss.

Understanding which category fits your dog's needs is the first step toward making a purchase you won't regret.

How to Find the Right Size for Your Dog

Getting the sizing right is one of the most important steps in choosing a dog bed, and it's easier than you might think once you know what to measure.

Start with a simple measurement. Grab a soft tape measure and get your dog to lie down in their natural sleeping position. Measure from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail (not the tip of the tail). Once you have that number, add 20 to 30 cm to it. That gives you the minimum bed length your dog needs to sleep comfortably without feeling cramped or having their legs dangling off the edge.

Sleeping style changes what you measure. If your dog tends to curl up into a little ball when they sleep, length matters less than width or diameter. For curlers, a donut or bolster-style bed in the right diameter is more useful than a long flat one. The goal is that your dog's curled body fits neatly inside the bed without pressing against the edges. You can check out this helpful Chewtorials video on how to measure your dog for a bed if you want a visual walkthrough of the process.

Don't overlook weight ratings. A bed might look like the right size but still compress too much under a heavier dog, which reduces joint support where it counts most. This is especially important for large and giant breeds that are prone to hip and joint issues. Always check the manufacturer's weight rating alongside the dimensions, not just the size label.

Use breed tendencies as a shortcut. Sprawling breeds like Labradors and Greyhounds do best on flat, generously sized pillow beds. Curlers like Beagles and Shiba Inus are well suited to donut designs. Giant breeds like Great Danes need XL orthopedic options with proper foam density. For a deeper look at dimensions by size category, this dog bed size guide is a handy reference.

When in doubt, go bigger. A slightly oversized bed is never a problem. A bed that leaves your dog hanging off the edge absolutely is. Think of it this way: you wouldn't choose a bed too small for yourself, and your dog deserves the same consideration.

Does Your Dog Actually Need an Orthopedic Bed?

Short answer: not every dog needs one, but more dogs would benefit from one than most owners realize. Here's a simple way to think about it.

Watch for these physical signs first. If your dog struggles to get up after lying down, looks stiff for the first few minutes after resting, hesitates before jumping onto the couch, or has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia or arthritis, standard flat bedding probably isn't doing them any favors. These are the clearest signals that your dog's body is working harder than it should be just to rest comfortably. Think of it like sleeping on a worn-out mattress every single night; you technically slept, but you wake up feeling worse than when you started.

Size matters more than most people expect. Large and giant breeds carry significantly more body weight per joint than smaller dogs, which means more structural wear and tear on hips, shoulders, and elbows, even in younger animals. A healthy two-year-old Great Dane or Rottweiler places far more load on their joints during rest than a ten-year-old Chihuahua does. For big dogs, investing in orthopedic support early is a smart preventive move rather than a reactive one.

Memory foam is the material behind most orthopedic beds. It works by distributing your dog's body weight evenly across the entire surface, so no single pressure point takes the full load. This is the same principle used in orthopedic mattresses for humans, and the benefits translate directly. Vets are increasingly recommending orthopedic beds as a supportive, non-medication measure for senior dogs, and according to Business Insider's guide to the best orthopedic dog beds, even younger and healthier dogs sleep more deeply on proper foam support.

The bottom line is that you don't need a diagnosis to justify upgrading your dog's bed. Just like a quality mattress benefits any healthy adult, higher-density foam provides better rest for any dog, across any life stage.

Budget vs. Premium: What Features Are Actually Worth Paying For

The first question worth asking when you're comparing price tags on dog beds is this: does the extra cost actually buy you a better bed, or does it just buy you a fancier label and a prettier pattern? That distinction matters more than most people realize, and it's easier to spot than you'd think once you know what to look for.

Features That Are Worth the Extra Money

Some upgrades genuinely translate into a longer-lasting, safer, and more comfortable bed for your dog. High-density foam is probably the biggest one. Budget beds often advertise "orthopedic support" on the label, but if the foam compresses flat within a few months, it's not providing any real joint relief. A bed with quality high-density foam holds its shape over time, which is especially important for larger breeds or older dogs. Removable, machine-washable covers are another feature worth paying for; a bed you can actually clean will stay hygienic far longer than one you're stuck spot-treating. Waterproof inner liners and certified non-toxic materials round out the list of upgrades that deliver real functional value, not just visual appeal.

Features That Rarely Justify the Price Jump

On the flip side, some things that drive up a price tag won't improve your dog's experience at all. Decorative fabric patterns, branded logos, and novelty shapes like bone or paw cutouts look cute in product photos, but they don't add durability, support, or safety. If the price jump is primarily explained by aesthetics, it's worth pausing before adding it to your cart.

Why Sustainability Is a Real Factor Now

One differentiator that has earned its place in the conversation is sustainability. The sustainable pet beds segment was valued at $2.34 billion in 2024 and is forecast to reach $3.38 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 7.6%. That kind of growth reflects genuine consumer demand for recycled fill, organic cotton, and materials free from undisclosed chemical treatments. Research from the Environmental Working Group has flagged that dogs can be exposed to flame retardants and heavy metals through their bedding, so certifications like OEKO-TEX or CertiPUR-US carry real meaning here.

For most everyday dog owners, the sweet spot is a mid-range bed priced roughly between $40 and $100, one that combines a washable cover, a water-resistant base, and honest foam density. That combination will outperform both the ultra-cheap bed that flattens within weeks and the high-end option whose price is mostly driven by branding. You can browse functional, well-built options at The Bark Side to get a sense of what solid mid-range construction actually looks like.

Washability and Hygiene: What to Look for Before You Buy

Hygiene is one of those topics that doesn't get enough attention when people are shopping for a dog bed, but it absolutely should. A bed that looks great on day one can quickly become a breeding ground for pet dander, odour, bacteria, and hair buildup if it isn't easy to clean properly.

Start by checking whether the cover is fully removable and machine washable. This single feature will save you more time and effort than any other design detail. Look for beds where the cover unzips completely and can go straight into the washing machine on a warm, gentle cycle. Beds without removable covers require hand-washing in a tub, which most people simply don't do as often as they should. If you want a practical starting point, this guide to machine washable dog beds breaks down what to prioritise before buying.

If you have a puppy, a senior dog, or any dog prone to accidents, a waterproof inner liner is non-negotiable. Once foam absorbs urine, it is nearly impossible to fully sanitise, no matter how thoroughly you wash it. Moisture trapped inside the foam also creates the right conditions for mould growth, which is a health hazard for everyone in the household. A waterproof liner sits between the outer cover and the foam insert, protecting the part of the bed that cannot go in the washing machine.

For dogs with skin sensitivities or allergies, pay attention to the fill materials and fabric dyes. Hypoallergenic fill and covers free from synthetic dyes are increasingly common features in the premium segment, and they are genuinely worth looking for if your dog is prone to itching or irritation. Look for certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 as a reliable indicator of material safety, since the term "hypoallergenic" on its own is not a regulated standard.

How often should you actually wash the bed? For most dogs, washing the cover every one to two weeks is a sensible routine, especially if your dog sleeps in your bedroom. Given that 62% of dog owners report their dogs sleep in their room, bed hygiene is just as relevant to your own health as it is to your dog's. You can find a detailed walkthrough of the full process in this complete washing guide.

Finally, some beds now feature anti-microbial fabric treatments, which can be a helpful bonus between washes. However, these coatings degrade with repeated laundering over time, so they should supplement your regular cleaning routine rather than replace it. PAW.com's washing guide covers this well and is worth reading before making a final decision.

Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel Use Cases

Not every dog bed lives its whole life in the living room, and if you're someone who takes their dog outside regularly, travels with them, or just wants flexibility, it's worth thinking about where the bed will actually be used before you buy.

Outdoor Beds: Built for the Elements

If the bed is going outside on a deck, patio, or in the garden, the fabric and base construction matter a lot more than they do indoors. Look for beds made from UV-resistant, waterproof materials with either an elevated frame or a fully sealed base. The reason is simple: standard foam and fabric beds will wick moisture up from damp grass or wet decking within minutes, leaving your dog lying on a soggy, mildew-prone surface. Elevated cot-style beds solve this problem by keeping your dog lifted off the ground entirely. As a bonus, that gap underneath the bed allows air to circulate freely around your dog's body, which makes a genuine difference in warmer months when overheating is a real concern. If you want a deeper look at what makes a great outdoor option, this guide on choosing an outdoor dog bed for camping covers the key features worth prioritising.

Travel and Car Beds: Portability First

Travel beds have a specific set of requirements that standard indoor beds simply don't meet. You need something lightweight, foldable, and easy to wipe down after muddy adventures. Pay close attention to the folded dimensions before you buy; some beds fold down flat and slide neatly into a boot, while others fold but remain bulky and awkward. Non-slip bases are also important, especially for back-seat use, so the bed stays put while you're driving rather than sliding around on every corner.

Indoor Placement: More Important Than You'd Think

Here's something that surprises a lot of new dog owners: where you put the bed indoors can be just as important as the bed itself. A dog bed positioned near a door draught, in a patch of direct afternoon sun, or in the middle of a busy hallway will often go unused, even if it's the perfect size and style. Dogs tend to seek out spots that feel safe, consistent, and comfortable in temperature. Put the bed somewhere with relatively stable conditions and lower foot traffic, and you'll likely notice your dog choosing it far more often.

A dog that settles onto their bed willingly and consistently, whether at home, in the car, or on a camping trip, is a good signal that the bed type, size, and placement are all working together. That kind of easy, habitual use is exactly what you're aiming for.

Multi-Pet Households: Dogs and Cats Sharing Spaces

If you share your home with both a dog and a cat, you already know that bedtime can get complicated. Pets are territorial by nature, and a dog bed sitting in the middle of the living room quickly becomes contested real estate. The simplest fix is also the most effective one: give each pet their own clearly defined sleeping space. When a dog knows that spot is theirs and the cat has a separate zone they can count on, the low-level tension that comes from resource competition tends to disappear on its own.

Use Vertical Space to Your Advantage

Here's a tip that works really well in multi-pet homes: let your cat go high and your dog stay low. Cats instinctively prefer elevated spots because height makes them feel safe and in control. Placing an enclosed or high-sided cat bed on a shelf, cat tree, or raised surface lets your cat rest without ever being disturbed by your dog sniffing around below. Your dog gets a floor-level bed, your cat gets their elevated retreat, and both animals stay comfortable in the same room without conflict. No need to shuffle pets into separate spaces every night.

One Bed Won't Work for Both

Buying a single oversized bed and hoping both pets will share it rarely goes well, and the reason comes down to how differently dogs and cats like to sleep. Most cats prefer enclosed, cave-style, or high-sided beds that feel like a burrow. Dogs vary a lot depending on breed and size, with larger breeds often favouring flat orthopedic mats and smaller or anxious dogs gravitating toward bolster or donut styles. A bed that suits one will almost always frustrate the other.

Wash More, Stress Less

In a mixed-species household, washability matters even more than it does with a single pet. Dander from your cat accumulates in your dog's bed and vice versa, and that cross-species scent buildup can quietly fuel territorial stress even when your pets seem to be getting along fine. Machine-washable covers are essential here, and washing on a regular rotation keeps both beds smelling neutral and hygienic.

The good news is that shopping for both pets does not have to mean juggling multiple suppliers. The Bark Side stocks products for both dogs and cats, so you can sort out sleeping arrangements for your whole household in one place.

Choosing the Right Dog Bed Comes Down to Your Dog

Everything covered in this blog comes back to one simple idea: the bed has to fit your dog, not just look good in your home or fall within a convenient price range.

Start with size, sleeping style, and age before you look at anything else. These three factors alone will rule out most options before budget or aesthetics even come into play. A sprawling Labrador and a curled-up Chihuahua have completely different needs, and so does a bouncy six-month-old versus a stiff-jointed ten-year-old. Getting these basics right first saves you from buying twice.

From there, treat washability and a waterproof liner as non-negotiable, regardless of what you spend. Hygiene affects your dog's health and your home over the long term, not just the first few weeks.

If your dog shows any stiffness when getting up or hesitates before lying down, consider orthopedic bedding a health decision rather than an optional upgrade. Dense foam, a durable cover, and a water-resistant base are the features worth paying more for; decorative details are not.

For a practical starting point, browse the range at The Bark Side for dog and cat beds, toys, and accessories chosen with everyday pet owners in mind, no unnecessary complexity, just quality options that make sense.

Conclusion

Finding the right dog bed does not have to be a guessing game. By keeping a few key factors in mind, including your dog's size and sleeping style, their age and joint health, the materials used, and your budget, you can make a confident choice that truly benefits your pup.

Remember, the best bed is one your dog will actually use. It should fit their body, suit their habits, and hold up over time. A little research upfront saves you money and frustration down the road.

Now it is time to put these tips into action. Measure your dog, think about their specific needs, and use this guide as your checklist before buying. Your furry friend spends a huge chunk of their life sleeping. Make sure every nap is a comfortable one. They have earned it.