The best dog beds provide pups with a comfortable, safe space to rest, but selecting the perfect one they'll want to snuggle in can be challenging. Veterinarians told us that comfort is essential when choosing a bed for your dog. Beds featuring bolsters and supportive cores made of memory or orthopedic foam are ideal for alleviating pressure on the joints of both young and older dogs.
Our reporters tested over 30 dog beds to find the best options for dogs of all sizes and needs. Our best overall pick is the Brentwood Home Griffith Pet Bed, a waterproof orthopedic option with a durable, attractive quilted cover. If you're seeking an affordable bed that doesn't compromise on comfort or durability, the Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed is an excellent choice. This supportive bolster bed comes in a wide range of colors and sizes.
Read more abouthow Insider Reviews tests and evaluates pet products.
Our top picks for the best dog beds
Best overall:Brentwood Home Griffith Pet Bed - See at Brentwood Home
Best budget: Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed - See at Amazon
Best orthopedic: Petfusion Ultimate Dog Lounge - See at Chewy
Best calming: Furhaven Calming Cuddler Donut Bed - See at Chewy
Best cave: Furhaven Snuggery Burrow Dog Bed - See at Chewy
Best stylish: Molly Mutt Dog Bed Duvet - See at Chewy
Best for small dogs: Frisco Faux Suede Bolster Dog Bed - See at Chewy
Best outdoor: K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot - See at Chewy
Best overall
Our top pick for the best dog beds, the Brentwood Home Griffith Pet Bed, is a simply designed rectangular bed that excelled in nearly all our tests. It has a 4-inch double-layer core that gives dogs plenty of cushiony support. One of our test dogs, a 50-pound pit mix, immediately gravitated toward this bed. We also tested the large version with a 99-pound Bernese mountain dog who loved it, ultimately earning the top spot for the best large dog beds.
The bed's quilted upholstery cover comes in three neutral colors that complement most decor. Even better, the waterproof liner protects the foam from soiling, and stains and fur are easy to clean. While frequent diggers may snag the quilted stitching, we don't consider this a dealbreaker, as the zippers and seams passed our durability tests with flying colors.
The Griffith Pet Bed is an excellent choice for most dogs.
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However, the bed doesn't offer perfectly even support, so older dogs with joint conditions or those with uneven weight distribution, like our top-heavy pit mix tester, may benefit more from our orthopedic dog bed pick.
Best budget
Finding a durable and comfortable bed at an affordable price can be challenging. The Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed is a great option for budget-conscious shoppers seeking the bolsters, support, and additional features typically found in higher-end beds.
This bed features bolsters around its perimeter, except for an opening that gives plenty of room for dogs to climb in and out, which Dr. Katie Mullins, a veterinarian and small animal surgery consultant at Vespecon, says is important for ease of access. In addition to its low entrance, the bed features supportive, dense egg-crate foam, ideal for senior dogs who need extra support.
Bedsure makes an affordable bed that our dogs loved.
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We did have some issues with the bed. Spot-cleaning left some stains, and placing it in the washing machine was tedious since the bolsters couldn't be removed. This made the bed bulky in the washer and a pain to put back together. The zipper on the interior waterproof liner also got stuck during reassembly, so this might not be the best bed for frequent washing.
Best orthopedic
Memory foam is a shock-absorbing material typically made of polyurethane, a type of flexible plastic. It is commonly used in orthopedic mattresses due to its ability to conform to the body's shape, cradling limbs and alleviating pressure on joints.
Dr. Oscar Chavez Zamora, a veterinarian and assistant clinical professor of small animal orthopedic and soft tissue surgery at the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, says especially hard surfaces can put excessive pressure on tissues and compress blood vessels, potentially causing or exacerbating inflammation. He says an orthopedic bed can help reduce this inflammation by molding to the body's shape rather than forcing the body to adjust to the bed.
The Petfusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam bed is the most supportive option and is our top pick among the best orthopedic dog beds. It provided a dense, evenly supportive surface for our 45-pound Labradoodle tester. The foam mattress comes in varying thicknesses from 2 inches (small size) to 6 inches (jumbo) to support dogs of all sizes. The twill-covered bed also has bolsters, which our tester dog frequently uses. However, the tricky assembly of the bolsters might be a downside for some owners.
The Petfusion Ultimate Dog Lounge is a well-designed orthopedic dog bed.
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If you have a senior dog prone to accidents, the waterproof liner provides complete protection. The cover is easy to spot clean, and tossing both the cover and liner into the washing machine and dryer is incredibly convenient.
Best calming
The most calming bed for your dog is ultimately based on their individual preferences, and there's no scientific data to support a specific type of calming bed, says Dr. Melissa North, a veterinarian and resident in the NC State University College of Veterinary Medicine's Behavioral Medicine Service. "Any bed that provides a pet a secure, comfortable place and that allows them good quality sleep could be considered calming," she adds. That said, both of our tester dogs were instantly attracted to the Furhaven Calming Cuddler Donut Dog Bed, which follows the design people typically think of when they search for a calming dog bed.
With a deep-set sleeping surface surrounded by high bolstered sides — both of which are filled with separate polyester fiber-filled cushions — this bed creates an extremely soft and inviting sleeping area. The deep crevices between the bolster and bottom of the bed make it easy for dogs to nestle inside the deep pockets of space, and the soft, shaggy fur cover adds to the overall coziness.
The Furhaven Calming Cuddler Donut Bed immediately received the seal of approval from our comfort-seeking pups.
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Although this bed is relatively bulky, its pliability and light weight (just 4.7 pounds for the size medium) made it easy to move from my upstairs studio to the living room at the end of the day. This ease of portability is another calming benefit: North says dogs rest better when they are closer to their owners. Although cleaning the removable liner is convenient, this bed is not waterproof.
We chose the Furhaven calming bed over the Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Bed, which is somewhat pricier and lacks firmness in the bolsters. However, if you're looking for a wider range of colors, like pastels, the Best Friends by Sheri bed is still an excellent choice.
Best cave
Some dogs like to feel sheltered, and cave beds like the Furhaven Snuggery Burrow Bed meet that need. This bed features a top layer of cozy fabric that can be propped up with a plastic interior arch, creating a cave-like bed for your dog to sleep in.
This bed is exceptionally supportive, so much so that we'd sleep in it ourselves if it were larger. The bed held up after multiple washing and stain tests. Spot cleaning removed almost all the materials we placed on it — black tea, dirt, and peanut butter — and a quick wash removed anything that remained. Given that the interior of this bed is made of white faux sheepskin fabric, we were impressed that it came out of the washing machine still retaining its snowy color.
The Snuggery Burrow Dog Bed has a unique cave-like design.
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Although the blanket-like cover gives dogs a place to burrow, the frame is a little flimsy, and big dogs can easily knock it down. Our 50-pound pit mix preferred to lounge on the bed without the frame propping up the fabric and instead snuggled under the cover like she would a blanket.
Best stylish
Pet parents looking for a stylish dog bed will want to take a peek at the Molly Mutt Dog Duvets. These duvets are not beds but covers you can fill with sheets and towels to create the perfect loft for your dog. You can also purchase a bed insert from the brand.
We love the unique designs Molly Mutt offers, with more than two dozen colors and prints ranging from tropical leaves to constellations. Beyond aesthetics, the cotton-canvas covers are stain and damage-resistant. We filled ours with old towels and sheets, and the cover protected the materials inside against dirt, peanut butter, and black tea spills. The spills also washed out easily. The cover isn't waterproof, however. You'll have to pick up the Molly Mutt Water Resistant Liner for that. It passed all of our waterproofing tests.
Molly Mutt makes stylish dog bed covers that you can fill with your own blankets and towels.
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The downside of this cover is the time it takes to fill up with your own material and make it comfortable for your dog. It took a lot of maneuvering and adjusting to get the comfort just right, and things can shift with too much movement. But when we took the time to make this bed appealing to our test dog, she loved to lay on it. Molly Mutt is also one of only a few pet companies that are Climate Neutral Certified, and the brand has taken several actions to reduce its carbon footprint.
Best for small dogs
Our two small dog testers couldn't get enough of the budget-friendly Frisco Faux Suede Bolster Bed, whining and begging for it anytime it was removed from their space. While the bed's core consists of polyester filling instead of super supportive memory foam, it has a soft, fluffy feel that a 10-pound chihuahua mix and a 12-pound terrier loved to cuddle up in. The side walls provided good support, and the pups burrowed their heads into the area where the sidewalls met the cushiony base.
This Frisco bed was the obvious favorite of our small dog testers.
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We were impressed that the bed held its shape even after lots of sleeping and lounging. The thick cover was also resistant to damage. It didn't puncture or tear when we took a fork to it, and our dogs didn't tear it when they went to town digging.
This bed isn't waterproof, which may be a dealbreaker for some, and the cover is not removable. However, you can run it through the washer and dryer. It came out looking great after we washed it.
Best outdoor
Platform beds are ideal for dogs who lounge outside when the weather is nice, as they allow air to circulate underneath the sleep surface. Our favorite elevated dog bed is the K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot. The outdoor bed supports dogs with a tightly woven nylon canvas platform, which prevents sagging while still allowing breathability. We tested the medium size bed, which can accommodate dogs up to 200 pounds. We put 137 pounds of our own weight on it and felt nicely supported.
The bed is easy to assemble, with plastic legs that snap into place. However, this convenient feature can be a hassle since the legs can fall out of alignment if you move the bed around. It's important to place it on a flat surface when in use.
For your dog's outdoor lounging and snoozing needs, look no further than the Original Pet Cot.
Amy Graves/Business Insider
We hosed the bed down for quick cleaning and also washed the fabric platform in the washing machine. While it cleans up well, the fabric is not as durable as we'd hope to see. It was easy to puncture the fabric with dull scissors, so it's not a great option for dogs who are tough on their things. Given the medium-sized bed is raised 7 inches from the ground, it's also not appropriate for very short dogs or pups with limited mobility.
What to look for in a dog bed
When shopping for the best bed for your dog, there are a few key qualities to look for.
Comfort and support: Our experts say comfort and support are the most important things to consider. Since many dogs spend a lot of time cozying up in their bed, it must be a safe and comfortable resting place. We recommend looking for bolster beds to appease dogs who prefer head support while resting. As for the cushion, Zamora says dogs who spend excess time in their beds should have one specifically designed to relieve pressure, either an orthopedic or a memory foam bed with a thick cushion.
We found that mattresses that are 2 inches or higher are standard in most beds and provide good support. In addition to mattress height, Dr. Erin Tate, a veterinarian and vice president of clinical development at CityVet, likes to see certifications for non-toxic materials. OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certifications are two common labels you may see on dog beds. An OEKO-TEX certification ensures that a bed's foam insert won't off-gas harmful chemicals. A CertiPUR-US label certifies the foam is free of heavy metals, formaldehyde, and other toxic substances. Tate says these certifications are good to pay attention to if your pup has allergies or is sensitive to certain materials like synthetic filling or wood chips.
Durability: For dogs that chew, dig, or scratch, a tough bed is essential. Look for beds with strong polyester or nylon fabric covers, which resisted damage from tearing and scratching in our testing. While no bed will last forever, we recommend beds with dense foam to limit the chance of premature flattening.
Materials: Tate says the best material for a dog bed will depend on where you place the bed. Dogs that spend much of their time outdoors will need a bed with breathable and weather-resistant material, like mesh. A bed kept indoors can be made of simple fabrics such as cotton or polyester. If you're unsure where to start, Tate says a cozy material will usually be a hit with your dog. "A nice, soft fluffy bed is what most dogs like," she says.
Water resistance and ease of cleaning: Our experts say cleaning your dog's bed should be easy, whether you have a puppy that you're potty-training or an adult dog. "As our pets age, accidents may happen, especially while sleeping, either because they can't get up quickly enough or due to incontinence," Mullins says. "Without thoroughly cleaning the bed's surface, urine and/or fecal leakage can lead to skin ulceration and infection." Look for beds with machine-washable covers and water-resistant or waterproof liners to protect the foam core.
Size: Many brands provide sizing recommendations for dogs of various lengths and weights, but some general guidelines exist. For dogs that stretch out in bed, a bed that's as long as their length from nose to base of tail is appropriate. Dogs with longer legs will benefit from extra depth. Bolster beds should be chosen based on the sleep surface's dimensions rather than the bed's overall size.
Warranties and return policies: Make sure to read any policies closely. Some brands offer generous trial periods, while others will not accept returns of used beds. If you're investing a couple hundred dollars in a bed, a manufacturer's warranty of one year or more is ideal.
How we tested the best dog beds
To choose the best dog beds, we consulted four veterinarians to learn what to look for in a dog bed. Then, we tested over 30 beds with dogs of all sizes and ages. But we also tested the beds ourselves according to the above criteria to see what the fuss was about. We evaluated comfort and support using weighted bags to see how well uneven weight was distributed. Durability testing involved using dull scissors to simulate chewing and sandpaper to simulate wear over time. We also ran all zippers back and forth to test for failure. Finally, we looked at each bed's water resistance and ease of cleaning by pouring warm water on the beds and smearing them with dirt, black tea, and peanut butter.
Dog bed FAQs
What type of bed is best for dogs?
Our experts say the best bed for your dog depends on their specific needs and preferences. We always recommend choosing a bed with a dense foam base and soft fabric for support and comfort. Zamora says it's especially important to select a memory foam or orthopedic bed for dogs with joint issues. However, these types of beds can benefit any dog by reducing stress on the body. Bolsters are particularly beneficial for dogs that require head and neck support, especially those who tend to let their head hang off the side of the bed. Tate says this can strain the neck muscles.
Do dogs prefer round or rectangle beds?
While your dog might love to curl up in a round bed, Zamora says it's generally good to have a bed where your pup can stretch out. This doesn't mean you shouldn't select a round bed for your dog — just make sure to pick out a large enough size to allow them to lay flat from head to tail. Zamora says that laying flat can more evenly support the tissues and muscles, especially those of the limbs where there are fewer muscles than the rest of the body. He says that dogs who can sleep stretched out may also be able to regulate their temperature more effectively, so keep this in mind if your dog sleeps hot.
Do dogs prefer hard or soft beds?
While each dog has individual preferences, Tate recommends purchasing a soft bed. In addition to comfort, a soft but evenly supportive core allows a dog to sink deeper into the bed, which may lessen the strain on tissues and joints.
Best overall: West Paw Heyday Bed
Our top pick for the best dog beds has a lofty filling made of recycledplastic bottles.
Karen Asp/Insider
Pros: Lightweight, doesn't slide on floors, come in four sizes
Cons: Not waterproof
The Heyday Bed has an incredibly soft top and microsuede bottom that stays put on hardwood floors. The beauty of this product, and the biggest reason it landed at the top of our list of the best dog beds, is its versatility. Four pillowy sides give it a bolster-like feel. The sides are low enough that any dog can easily get in and out of it, including senior pups with arthritis. Because the sides are not super high, this bed will appeal to dogs who love — and don't love — bolsters.
The Heyday was introduced several years ago and, ever since then, it's been our golden retriever tester's favorite bed. That's saying a lot because she normally doesn't like beds. She has two and both have held up well throughout the years, even through numerous washes and spot cleanings.
West Paw is a certified B Corp that uses recycled materials in its products, and this bed's lofty filling consists of OEKO-TEX-certified recycled plastic bottles.
Best calming: Best Friends by Sheri the Original Calming Donut Bed
The Best Friends by Sheri the Original Calming Donut Bed can help ease a dog's anxiety.
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Pros: Water-resistant bottom, comes in 5 sizes and multiple colors
Cons: Must remove filling from larger bed to wash
The world can sometimes be a scary and stressful place for a dog. Having a safe, cozy space to curl up can help dogs feel calmer by providing warmth and psychological comfort. The super-soft Best Friends by Sheri the Original Calming Donut Dog Bed earned our top spot for calming dog beds.
It is donut-shaped so dogs can automatically assume a rounded, calming position. Plus, there's a natural crevice around the bed's circumference that allows dogs to burrow deep into the sides, adding another layer of comfort.
If a dog wants to look out from their bed, they can prop their head onto the raised sides, something my golden/lab foster prefers doing. There's no need to worry if your dog has an accident while in the bed because the water-resistant bottom will prevent urine from hitting your floor.
The smaller sizes of the bed can be placed in the washing machine whole, but the larger sizes require that the filling be removed first, which we found is easy to do.
Best orthopedic: Casper Dog Bed
Orthopedic beds like the Casper Dog Bed can help ease joint pain and pressure in older and large dogs.
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Pros: 30-night trial period, memory foam, dig-proof cover
Cons: Only comes in one color, not waterproof
Any dog can benefit from a supportive orthopedic bed. "Because dogs sleep for most of the day, it can be taxing on their body if they're lying on hard surfaces or nonsupportive bedding," says Dr. Felicity Moffatt, head of veterinary medicine for Dr. Treat, adding that owners of dogs that use orthopedic beds report significant reductions in joint pain and stiffness and improvements in quality of life.
Casper is renowned for its human mattresses, so you can rest assured that you're getting a high-quality product with the Casper Dog Bed. It's made from pressure-relieving memory foam that feels supportive and durable. Small bolsters on each side give dogs a spot to rest their heads, but there's plenty of room on the bed's interior if your dog wants to go bolster-free.
Orthopedic beds are particularly beneficial for dogs that are obese, old, lean, or physically active; those that suffer from orthopedic issues like hip dysplasia, arthritis, and joint pain; and dogs with bone or soft tissue injuries, muscle problems, and spinal disease. My foster, who spends many hours in this bed every day and is suffering from an ACL tear, does both.
The bed also earned high marks for its dig-proof cover. The company says the material makes it feel like your dog is pawing at loose earth. There is some minor assembly required when you first get the bed and after you wash it, but it's easy to do. The cover is easily removed to put through the washing machine. If your dog doesn't like the bed after 30 nights, you can return it.
Read our full review of the Casper Dog Bed.
Best for large dogs: Big Barker 7-Inch Headrest
The Big Barker 7" Headrest Edition is a great option for larger dogs who need a soft place to rest their head.
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Pros: Removable cover, super supportive foam, 1-year trial period, 10-year warranty
Cons: Heavy, waterproof liner sold separately
Large- and giant-breed dogs are especially prone to joint and mobility problems and benefit from beds that provide ample body support. The Big Barker 7" Headrest Edition features a triple-layer orthopedic foam base and is designed for dogs weighing 50 to 250 pounds.
A 2020 study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine evaluated the Big Barker bed and reported large reductions in joint discomfort. It also found improved mobility and quality of life for large dogs that slept on the bed for 28 days.
If your dog likes to prop their head up while they sleep, as my golden/lab foster does, this bed has a headrest on one side. And if not, your pup can choose just to lie flat. There's plenty of space for your dog to move about and even invite a canine (or human) friend for a slumber party.
The bed's foam is certified by CertiPUR-US, meaning that it is free from harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and heavy metals. With zippers on three sides, I had no problem removing the microsuede cover for washing.
An added bonus: Big Barker offers a one-year trial for the bed. If your dog doesn't like it or does not benefit from it, you can get your money back.
Best for small dogs: Aspen Pet Self-Warming Rectangular Bed
The Aspen Pet Self-Warming Rectangular Bed bed can keep your pup cozy all winter long.
Karen Asp/Insider
Pros: Nonskid bottom, lightweight, self-warming
Cons: Not waterproof, cover cannot be removed, only one color option
Compared to large dogs, small dogs can quickly lose body heat and become cold. A self-warming bed can be just what small pups need to stay warm while they sleep. The Aspen Pet Self-Warming Rectangular Bed uses the same heat-reflecting technology found in Mylar space blankets. When your dog lies in the bed, the material generates warmth. Crevices around the four sides of the bed allow them to get even closer to the walls for warmth on their back.
Although this bed was too small for my golden retriever and golden/lab testers, my cat slept in it regularly. If there's anybody who knows something about finding warm spots, it's a cat, so getting his paw of approval confirms that the bed provides a good level of warmth.
The bed is made from a faux wool plush, and the eco-friendly recycled polyfill creates an ultra-pillowy feel. Even with this softness, the bed provides good body support. The bottom is made of a nonskid material so it will stay put on any surface in your house. If you don't like the rectangular shape, there's a round versiontoo.
Best for chewers: K9 Ballistics Tough Rectangle Dog Comfort Bed
The K9 Ballistics Tough Rectangle Dog Comfort Bed will be a challenge for even the toughest chewers.
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Pros: Comes with 3-month chewing warranty, water-resistant, comes in 5 sizes and 4 colors
Cons: No bolster support
The chewers and scratchers of the dog world need a bed that can withstand even the most aggressive munching and scratching habits. You'll be hard-pressed to find a dog that can destroy the K9 Ballistics Tough Rectangle Dog Comfort Bed, which is made from a rip-stop fabric that's cool to the touch. Plus, the bed comes with a chew-proof warranty. If your dog damages the bed within 120 days of receiving it, the company will give you a one-time-only store credit to replace the bed.
Two tips to help if you have a chewer in your house: Rotate your dog's toys so they don't see the same 3 (or 25!) toys all the time. "This could cause their bed to be the new chew toy," says Amber Walker, KPA-CTP, a dog trainer in Batavia, Illinois. Then consider a chew toy that matches the texture of the bed so you can redirect them to a toy their mouth is craving if they begin chewing on the bed. Of course, some dogs do consume toy parts when chewing so be mindful of that, she added.
The K9 Ballistics bed has a nonskid bottom so you can place it on any surface in your home. The cover is water-repellent and easy to spot clean and wash. I accidentally spilled coffee on it, and the liquid rolled right off. K9 Ballistics uses shredded Certi-PUR US foam in its dog beds to cut down on waste during the manufacturing process.
Best waterproof: Brindle Waterproof Memory Foam Pet Bed
Waterproof beds like the Brindle Waterproof Memory Foam Pet Bed can be a smart option for dogs who are incontinent.
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Pros: Memory foam, waterproof liner, nonskid bottom
Cons: None
A dog's bathroom accidents are no fun to clean up. Unfortunately, these accidents are common in dogs who suffer from incontinence, often caused by health conditions like spinal injury and bladder stones. The Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam Pet Bed is ideal for these dogs who just can't make it outside in time or who can't go to the bathroom as other dogs do and must wear diapers.
There's no better tester for a waterproof bed than my paralyzed, incontinent pittie mix foster. She's used this bed daily for well over a year (and is on it almost any time she is resting during the day), both with and without diapers. Impressively, it has held up to her many accidents.
The 4-inch memory foam interior is encased in a waterproof liner to keep the foam protected from urine. The foam provides incredible support and is so comfortable that the bed will surely become a favorite resting spot for your dog. The bed's ultra-soft cover zips off for machine washing, and it comes out looking almost brand new every time.
A nonskid bottom prevents slipping, and the bed is light enough to easily move around your house. As a nod to community service, the company donates a bed to its local Humane Society each day, and the bed goes home with the dog at adoption.
Best for travel: Yeti Trailhead Dog Bed
The Yeti Trailhead Dog Bed is a great option for traveling that will still offer your pup bolster support.
Karen Asp/Insider
Pros: Water-resistant, bolsters, waterproof nonskid bottom
Cons: Both parts combined are somewhat heavy, only available in one size
Choosing the best travel dog bed was especially tough. There are vast differences among travel beds. While we wanted to opt for the most convenient bed, namely one that could be rolled up and stuffed in a pack if necessary, we fell in love with the Yeti Trailhead Dog Bed. That's because this bed fulfilled some additional criteria that dog trainer Walker shared with us.
Walker recommends choosing a travel bed that is water-resistant, easy to clean, and easy to tote while also providing comfort. "If possible, you should match your dog's home bed's style or shape to their travel bed," she says. For instance, if the home bed has sides, consider a travel bed with sides.
While it carries a high price tag, the Yeti Trailhead Dog Bed is great for both home and travel. For home use, it has cushioned sides for easy chin resting (a must for my golden/lab foster), a high-density foam interior, and a water-resistant, EVA molded bottom that provides greater durability and stays put on hardwood floors.
When you're ready to hit the road, you can quickly and easily remove the travel pad, which has the same quilted material as the main bed. The travel pad contains a supportive foam interior and waterproof bottom. Its cover easily unzips for machine washing.
Best budget: Frisco Pillow Pet Bed Mat
For budget-conscious pet parents, the Frisco Pillow Pet Bed Mat is one of the best dog beds available.
Karen Asp/Insider
Pros:Only available in 2 sizes and 2 colors
Cons:Not as supportive as pricier beds, filling can shift, not waterproof
You don't always need to spend a lot of money to get a good dog bed. The Frisco Pillow Pet Bed Mat features a faux suede fabric around the sides, a fleece-like top, and a polyester fiber filling that allows the bed to rise about 7 inches off the floor. Yet it's still easy for dogs of all sizes to step onto it, something I saw my 58-pound golden/lab foster do several times.
The bed is lightweight enough that you can easily move it around your house or send it with your dog if they'll be spending the night away from home. While it lacks the sturdy support of beds with orthopedic foam, it provides enough support that even I loved curling up on it.
The design of the Frisco Pillow Pet Bed Mat is simple: It's rectangular in shape with minimal frills and the color is neutral so it will blend into any household. For cleaning, you just pull the filling out through a convenient zipper on the back and throw the cover into the washing machine. Just note, though, that you may have to fluff the bed from time to time as the filling can shift.
Best outdoor: Coolaroo Elevated Dog Bed
The Coolaroo Elevated Dog Bed can help keep your dog comfortable when temperatures rise.
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Pros: Resists mold and mildew, easy to clean, relieves pressure points, keeps dogs cool, lightweight
Cons:Requires assembly
Many dogs enjoy lounging outside on the deck, patio, or lawn, and for that, we recommend Coolaroo's Elevated Dog Bed to keep dogs comfy and cool. When we tested it for our guide to the best outdoor dog beds, our two tester hounds gravitated toward it whether it was placed indoors or outdoors.
The design of this bed means warm air can flow underneath rather than getting trapped underneath your dog. This design is different than how some of the best dog cooling mats work, but it is still effective. The bed's suspended platform made of durable polyethylene fabric also minimizes pressure points, a feature that will bring comfort to arthritic dogs.
Beyond providing your dog with comfort, an outdoor bed must hold up to the elements. Coolaroo's bed has a powder-coated steel frame that resists rust and the fabric platform comes clean with a quick hose down. Assembling the lightweight bed takes about 15 minutes,
How we tested the best dog beds
For this guide, we tested 19 different dog beds.
Karen Asp/Insider
Over the course of three months (and more, as some of these beds have been in use for over a year), we tested 19 dog beds. Two large-sized dogs and one medium-sized dog — a 13-year-old golden retriever, a 7-year-old foster golden/lab mix, and a 5-year-old foster paralyzed pitbull mix — made up the core testing team. We then evaluated each bed according to the following criteria to sort the best dog beds:
- Durability: We considered whether each bed seemed like it would stand up to the test of time. We looked for beds that weren't too flimsy and could withstand multiple washings.
- Comfort: We considered how the beds felt, even curling up in them ourselves. When our dogs lay in the beds, we observed them for signs of discomfort or relaxation.
- Ease of cleaning: Beds that were easy to clean according to their care instructions or by spot-cleaning with a damp cloth received higher marks.
- Marketing claims: If a bed was marketed with claims like being dig-proof or chew-proof, we verified their accuracy.
- Sustainability: While not a major factor, with growing concerns about the environment, we considered whether brands used eco-friendly materials, like pet-safe recycled plastic, in their designs.
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