Best Dog Beds: The Ultimate Guide for Dog Owners

Best Dog Beds: The Ultimate Guide for Dog Owners
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Finding the best dog beds can be a challenging task. After all, every pooch is unique and likes to snooze in different ways. There are many different styles and types of dog beds to choose from. With so many brands and options, how do you know which one is best for your dog?

 

Don't worry because we've done all the research for you! This article will go over the highest quality beds (and our favorites!) for most dogs and explain why they deserve them. Once you learn a little about these amazing beds, you'll be able to choose the perfect one for you and your dog. Let's begin!

 

 

Top 5 Best Dog Beds for Ultimate Comfort - According to Dog Experts

  1. Deluxe Mattress Bed - Terry & Suede
  2. Luxe Lounger - Microvelvet
  3. Orthopedic Oval - Plush & Velvet
  4. Sofa Bed - Velvet Waves Perfect Comfort
  5. Deluxe Mattress Bed - Indoor/Outdoor Oxford

 

These five dog beds are the best of the best! Each bed has its unique benefits, but they all have one thing in common: a great night of sleep for your furry friend. On top of that, these beds can work wonders for dogs that have joint discomfort or general soreness.

 

Like humans, dogs can develop problems like joint pain and hip dysplasia. These issues shouldn't limit a dog's enjoyment of life if we can provide them with a comfortable dog bed suitable for their condition. For example, orthopedic dog beds are designed with joint, muscle, and bone wellness in mind!

 

A supportive dog bed is imperative to cushion your pet's body and provide relief from the pain associated with age-related health problems. You can also pair a suitable dog bed with wellness products to boost your pooch's health further. Many veterinarians will recommend CBD oil as well to help ease aging complications!

 

But how do you choose the right bed for your dog? Before we get there, let's take a look at some of our favorite and best dog beds that have been carefully reviewed and selected!

 

Deluxe Mattress Bed - Terry & Suede

  • Benefits: This Deluxe Mattress Bed is made with a soft, terry fleece sleep surface that your pet will love lounging the day away in. The suedine gusset is dyed to match whichever color you choose, resulting in a bed that is both comfortable and stylish! It also features a "mat" design for older or disabled pets. The cover can be unzipped and removed for quick and easy machine washing.
  • Colors: Espresso, Camel, Clay, Forest, Gray
  • Mattress Types: Fiber Filled Pillow, Orthopedic Foam, Memory Foam, Cooling Gel Foam
  • Dimensions: Small (L 20in. x W 15in.) / Medium (L 30in. x W 20in.) / Large (L 36in. x W 27in.) / Jumbo (L 44in. x W 35in.) / Jumbo Plus (L 53in. x W 42in.)

 

 

big black dog sleeping on deluxe bed

 

 

Luxe Lounger - Microvelvet

  • Benefits: If you've got big dogs, the Luxe Lounger is perfect for them. This luxurious bed goes all the way up to a "Giant" size, meaning there's an option for every size dog, from breeds like Chihuahuas to Great Danes. This soft, ergonomic bed cradles your pet's body while providing superior back and neck support. The padded, microvelvet sleep surface is quilted for maximum comfort, and the step-on design makes it accessible for dogs of all ages and mobility levels. The cover is removable and can be washed by hand or machine.
  • Colors: Espresso, Clay, Stellar Blue, Gray
  • Mattress Types: Orthopedic Foam, Memory Foam, Cooling Gel Foam
  • Dimensions: Small (L 21in. x W 14in.) / Medium (L 30in. x W 20in.) / Large (L 36in. x W 24in.) / Jumbo (L 45in. x W 30in.) / Jumbo Plus (L 51in. x W 36in.) / Giant (L 58in. x W 42in.)

 

 

great dane relaxing on lounger bed

 

 

Orthopedic Oval - Plush & Velvet

  • Benefits: Perfect for dogs that love to curl up and get snuggly, the Orthopedic Oval is cloud-like comfort at its best. This amazing dog bed comes with foam rail walls that offer additional limb support and gives your pooch that cozy, protected feeling it craves. You can wash the zippered, removable cover by hand or in the machine, so there's no mess this bed can't handle!
  • Colors: Driftwood Brown, Smoke Gray
  • Mattress Types: Orthopedic Foam
  • Dimensions: Small (L 19in. x W 15in.) / Medium (L 23 in. x W 18 in.) / Large (L 26in. x W 21in.) / Extra large (L 30 in. x W 27 in.)

 

 

french bulldog enjoying orthopedic bed

 

 

Sofa Bed - Velvet Waves Perfect Comfort

  • Benefits: The wide-open space that the Sofa Bed offers is perfect for dogs that love to spread out! This bed is also ideal for small dogs that love to snatch the biggest cushion in the room. Also, if you have an older dog that can't jump up onto the couch the way it used to, Velvet Waves Perfect Comfort can provide them with the comfort they need. Give your pet the couch experience without having to worry about scratched, fur-covered, dog-smelling cushions. Washing couch cushions can be a hassle, but this Sofa Bed has removable covers to make it easy to clean!
  • Colors: Brownstone, Granite Gray, Celadon Green
  • Mattress Types: Fiber Filled Pillow, Convolute Orthopedic Foam, Solid Orthopedic Foam, Memory Foam, Cooling Gel Foam
  • Dimensions: Small (L 20in. x W 15in.) / Medium (L 30in. x W 20in.) / Large (L 36in. x W 27in.) / Jumbo (L 44in. x W 35in.) / Jumbo Plus (L 53in. x W 42.5in.)

 

 

black lab lounging on sofa style bed

 

 

Deluxe Mattress Bed - Indoor/Outdoor Oxford

  • Benefits: This dog bed has a weather-proof cover made from a durable, water-resistant coated poly-canvas. It is extremely versatile and can be used indoors or outdoors for a comfortable place for your pet to lounge. The Deluxe Mattress Bed also features a simple "mat" design for older and disabled pets. The zippered cover is removable for easy washing.
  • Colors: Chestnut, Forest, Stone Gray, Deep Lagoon
  • Mattress Types: Convolute Orthopedic Foam, Solid Orthopedic Foam, Memory Foam, Cooling Gel Foam
  • Dimensions: Small (L 20in. x W 15in.) / Medium (L 30in. x W 20in.) / Large (L 36in. x W 27in.) / Jumbo (L 44in. x W 35in.) / Jumbo Plus (L 53in. x W 42in.)

 

 

Do Dogs Need Dog Beds?

Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and activity levels, but one thing is true for all of them: they need comfortable dog beds! While the best type of bed for your dog depends on their age and mobility level, they will always need a cushioned spot to lay down. Why is this is a necessity? Let's take a closer look.

 

The first and most important reason dogs need beds is that they spend most of their days sleeping. Some breeds are more active than others, but the average dog sleeps between 12-18 hours every day. Our furry friends love staying cozy, so a soft bed that offers good body support is crucial.

 

The second reason dogs need beds is to have more support for pressure points. Certain areas on a dog's body receive more daily wear and tear than others. After putting pressure on their ankles and wrist all day, dogs like to curl up on a high-density surface that offers comfort and support, just like we do!

 

Your canine companion will appreciate a pet bed at any age, but they are especially beneficial for older dogs. Joint pain can become a more common issue later in your pet's life, and materials that offer support can keep your dog comfortable and healthy.

 

Related: Dog Joint Health: 10 Tips to Promote Mobility & Ease Tension

 

 

What About a Couch or Crate?

You may be asking yourself, "Does my dog need a bed if they already sleep on the couch or in their crate?" While dogs are notorious sofa snoozers, your pet should have a space to call their own.

 

Dogs are den animals, which means they enjoy having spaces all to themselves. Plus, there are plenty of sofa-style dog beds that let your pet feel like it's still on the couch!

 

Crate training is an excellent idea for pets, but those metal or plastic cages don't always scream "comfort." Putting a bed in a crate can help make your pup feel a little cozier. Plus, the bed will absorb their natural scent, making your pet more likely to enjoy their crate time!

 

 

large canine sitting on outdoor mattress

 

 

What Are the Different Types of Dog Beds?

When deciding the best bed for your pup, you'll quickly run into one crucial factor: materials. The fabric, base, and cover of your dog's bed should suit the lifestyle of both you and your pet. Here are some of the many types of dog beds:

  • Memory Foam Dog Bed
  • Orthopedic Dog Bed
  • Sofa-Style Dog Bed
  • Donut-Style Dog Bed
  • Cave-Style Dog Bed
  • Pillow Dog Bed
  • Heated Dog Bed
  • Outdoor Pet Cot
  • Pet Cot with Canopy
  • Blankets

 

Clearly, you've got plenty of choices! However, you didn't come here for a pile of blankets or a pillow — you came for the absolute best dog beds. We highly recommend a memory foam or orthopedic dog bed for your canine companion. Why? Because these materials simply can't be beaten when it comes to high-density support!

 

So what is a memory foam or orthopedic dog bed? Memory foam is essentially a giant mesh of tiny bubbles (or "cells") that allows air to pass through. These cells create a thick yet breathable surface with some of the best cooling properties for a relaxed night's sleep.

 

Orthopedic dog beds often overlap with memory foam. That's because orthopedic foam is typically made of the same material, but the key difference is the shape of the bed. Orthopedic foam bases are contoured to fit a dog's body. The contour allows for less pressure on the hips, neck, wrists, and ankles.

 

Many orthopedic or memory foam dog beds also come with bolsters, which are built-in cushions. If you've ever seen a bed that has "walls" resembling the arms of a couch, these are the bolsters. They provide solid neck support, which can be especially crucial for bigger dogs. If you're looking for the best dog bed that has bolsters, check out the FurHaven Sofa Bed - Velvet Waves Perfect Comfort.

 

 

What Are the Best Types of Dog Beds?

The best dog beds are the calming beds. A calming dog bed is designed not only to provide physical comfort but mental relief as well. Calming beds come with the beneficial features we've previously mentioned: bolsters for support, cozy materials like microsuede, and a well-cushioned base.

 

A calming dog bed may come with additional features like heating or burrowing areas. That's right! You can find a pet bed that plugs in and heats up! Though, if you don't want too high of a price tag, you can always toss the bed in the dryer for a few minutes to warm it up manually.

 

Burrowing areas are places where a shy pup can hide if it gets nervous or prefers to sleep with pressure on its body (similar to a weighted blanket).

 

Ultimately, the best dog bed depends on you and your dog's needs. For example, if you put a lot of time and effort into making your living room look nice, consider a bed with faux fur that will jazz up any space. If your dog is at its happiest when it's running around in the mud after a storm, be sure the cover is machine washable!

 

Want to know the best part? You don't have to choose between either a calming pet bed or a stylish one or one with a removable cover that is machine washable. Each of the five beds on our list offers some combination of these fantastic qualities.

 

 

cute white puppy in fleece blanket

 

 

What Are the Benefits of Calming Dog Beds?

Your pup may not be able to talk, but you'll likely see for yourself the benefits of a calming dog bed. Nervous pets or those dogs with separation anxiety often seem instantly at ease when lying down on their special spot. Sometimes dogs make the couch or your bed their "special spot," but a calming pet bed offers both physical and mental support.

 

Being able to throw it in the washing machine is a great feature, but the best dog bed has qualities that benefit both the owner and pup. That's exactly what a calming pet bed does — because when your furry friend is at ease, you are too.

 

Is your dog a big barker? Barking can sometimes be due to stress, and having a cozy spot to curl up and feel safe can work wonders. If you've ever had one of those days where your bed feels like home and you don't want to leave, then you know how your pup feels constantly. Having that sense of security can provide countless mental benefits, including:

  • Alleviate stress
  • Ease separation anxiety
  • Better sleep = better health
  • Improved confidence
  • Less dependence on the owner, more self-reliance

 

Different breeds can have varying levels of confidence and stress, but they can all be improved with a good pet bed! Give your pup the gift of the comfiest space and territory around with the best dog bed!

 

 

Do Calming Dog Beds Really Work?

We've explained how calming dog beds work, but do they really work? The good news is that the benefits of a calming dog bed are real and more than just because of joint support and familiarity.

 

Calming beds are very comfortable, but comfortability is not enough to be considered the "best dog bed." Calming beds should offer a trio of benefits (physical comfort, mental ease, acts as the dog's "den"), resulting in one thing: sleep.

 

A good night's sleep is just as vital to your pet's health as food and water. Sleep is important for your dog to rest and recover as they prepare for their next fun adventure. Studies have even shown that sleep can boost the memory of your pet.

 

The brilliance of calming beds is that they get your furry buddy to fall asleep faster until the point your pup can pretty much lie down, close its eyes, and instantly get sent off into dreamland. Faster snoozing means more frequent snoozing, which can have far-reaching effects on your dog's entire well-being.

 

 

What to Look for in a Dog Bed

You've found a memory foam base and a washable cover, so that's it, right? That's a great starting point, but it's worth considering other factors like size, smell, and accessibility!

  • Odor-resistant: If you've walked into a person's home and they've got several pups, you've probably picked up on a few dog odors! All breeds and sizes are prone to some pretty bad B.O. from time to time, so save yourself from dissatisfied house guests with odor-resistant dog beds (you'll thank us later).
  • Machine-washable: Even the cleanest household and the most well-mannered pup can have accidents. No one likes having to spray down fabric with stain-remover and scrubbing until their wrist is sore. It's much easier to throw it in the washer and come out with a clean bed!
  • Non-slip bottom: Did someone say zoom? Dogs love to race around the house (even if it's not allowed), and sometimes they have a hard time pumping the brakes. When your pet runs and jumps onto its bed, a non-skid bottom could mean the difference between a happy pooch and some toppled furniture.
  • Perfect size: This is more of a concern for bigger dogs since small pets generally don't have a problem cuddling up on a massive bed. Though, some small breeds prefer to feel "tucked in" and may want a smaller bed.
  • Easy accessibility: Old or slow dogs shouldn't be required to jump up onto an elevated bed. Luckily, there are ramps made just for dogs if this becomes an issue. Though, it is easiest (and cheapest) to go with a bed that your pet can easily walk onto.
  • Suitable for warmer climates: The FurHaven Deluxe Mattress Bed - Indoor/Outdoor Oxford is ideal for indoors during the winter and outdoors in summer!

 

 

How Often Should I Replace My Dog's Bed?

One of our primary concerns in this article has been bed support, and that should be one of the main factors when deciding whether it's time to replace your dog's bed. Be sure to keep an eye out for sagging cushions, frayed fabric, or lumpiness. If your dog stops using the bed altogether, this is a telling sign that it's time for an upgrade.

 

Your furry friend won't be able to tell you when its bed is uncomfortable, and the signs won't always be noticeable. Try pressing your hand against the bed's cushioning. Does it feel comfortable? Dogs can tolerate a bit more discomfort than we can, but if you couldn't sleep in your dog's bed, your pet probably shouldn't be either.

 

 

Final Thoughts On Buying The Best Dog Bed

At the end of the day, the best dog bed for your furry friend depends on their needs. For example, the best orthopedic bed would provide excellent support for an older dog, but it might not be what some smaller dogs prefer.

 

You can't go wrong with some features, like a memory foam base, a machine washable cover, and, of course, odor resistance. All five of our recommendations offer these wonderful features and more, so choose the best dog bed for your pet and watch how happy it makes them!

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