Adult dogs sleep around 14 hours a day — and spend even more time resting and dozing. That makes a good bed one of the more important purchases you’ll make for a dog. The right type depends almost entirely on how your specific dog sleeps, their age, and whether they have any health considerations.
This article covers the key decisions: which type suits which dog, how to size it correctly, what materials to look for, and where to go for more specific recommendations.
Which Bed for Which Dog
🐾 Match the Bed to the Sleep Style
Curlers
Dogs that curl up tightly when sleeping often feel more secure with defined edges — a framed bed gives them something to press against. Wooden dog beds and rattan beds with solid sides suit this sleep style well.
Try: Framed beds, bolster beds, cave beds
Sprawlers
Dogs that stretch out fully need unobstructed surface area — a framed bed will just mean their legs hang over the edge. Flat pillow beds without hard frames give sprawlers the most usable space.
Try: Flat pillow beds, orthpaedic mattress-style beds
Burrowers
Some dogs insist on getting under something to sleep — blankets, covers, anything. Cave beds are built for this and are significantly tidier than a dog that has rearranged every blanket in the house.
Try: Cave beds, hooded beds
Older Dogs and Dogs with Joint Issues
Dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or general age-related stiffness benefit from beds that reduce pressure on joints and support the body rather than letting it sink unevenly. Orthopaedic dog beds with memory foam or high-resilience foam are the standard recommendation.
Try: Orthopaedic beds, memory foam mattresses
How to Size a Dog Bed
📐 Sizing Guide
Flat and Pillow Beds
- Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail
- Add 15–20cm to that measurement for comfortable stretch room
- Measure shoulder width at the widest point and add 15cm
- The bed should comfortably accommodate your dog fully stretched out
See our large dog bed guide if you’re shopping for a bigger breed.
Cave and Enclosed Beds
- Measure your dog’s curled-up diameter rather than full length — this is what determines whether they fit comfortably inside
- The dog should be able to turn around inside without touching the walls
- Don’t oversize enclosed beds — too large and the dog loses the cosy enclosed feeling they’re seeking
What Dog Beds Are Made Of
🧵 Materials Guide
Outer: Leather or Synthetic Leather
The easiest outer material to clean — hair doesn’t cling and liquids wipe off. Leather is more prone to scratches; synthetic leather tends to be slightly more durable for everyday use. Both are a good choice for dogs that shed heavily or have skin conditions.
Best for: Easy cleaning, heavy shedders
Outer: Fabric and Nylon
More variety in textures and designs, but hair clings more readily and uncoated fabric absorbs moisture. Look for a water-repellent coating or a removable, machine-washable cover — this makes a significant practical difference to how easy the bed is to maintain.
Best for: Comfort and style variety — prioritise removable covers
Inner: Standard Foam and Polyester
Polyester fibre and standard foam are the most common fillings in budget to mid-range beds. They provide reasonable comfort for healthy adult dogs. Polyester fibre can compress and lose shape over time with heavy use.
Best for: Healthy adult dogs, everyday use
Inner: Memory Foam and Orthopaedic Foam
Viscose foam (memory foam) and point-elastic orthopaedic foams adapt to the dog’s body shape, distribute weight evenly, and reduce pressure on joints. More expensive, but the standard recommendation for older dogs or dogs with joint conditions. See our orthopaedic bed guide for specific options.
Best for: Senior dogs, joint conditions, large breeds
Types of Dog Beds
🛏️ Five Common Types
Orthopaedic Beds
Memory foam or high-resilience orthopaedic foam construction designed to support joints and distribute body weight evenly. The standard recommendation for older dogs, large breeds, and any dog with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or mobility issues. More expensive than standard beds but meaningfully different in quality for dogs that need support.
Cave Beds
A hooded or enclosed bed with an opening for the dog to enter — the dog sleeps inside, covered. Built for dogs that burrow under blankets, dogs that feel the cold, and shy dogs that prefer a sense of enclosure. Much tidier than a dog that has redistributed every blanket in the house.
Dog Dens
Dogs are den animals — an enclosed, covered space gives many dogs a strong sense of security. Options range from custom wooden crates to a standard wire crate with a crate cover or blanket draped over it. The dog should be able to stand up and lie down fully stretched without touching the walls.
Elevated Trampoline Beds
A raised mesh or fabric sleeping surface on a frame — keeps the dog off the ground, allows airflow underneath, and is significantly more weather-resistant than padded beds. Good for outdoor use, verandahs, and travel. Can be combined with a pillow or blanket for added comfort.
Dog Sleeping Bags
Insulated, packable sleeping bags designed for dogs — primarily for camping and outdoor adventures. Compact enough to carry on a hike and warm enough for cold nights. A good complement to a portable elevated bed or a sleeping mat for overnight trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Dog Bed FAQ
How often should I replace my dog’s bed?
There’s no fixed timeline — replace when the bed no longer provides proper support. Signs it’s time: the filling has compressed permanently, the cover is worn through, there’s persistent odour that washing doesn’t resolve, or your dog has stopped using it voluntarily. Orthopaedic foam beds typically last 2–4 years with regular use; standard polyester-filled beds often compress sooner.
Should I wash my dog’s bed in hot or cold water?
Check the care label first — most fabric covers can be washed on a warm cycle (40°C) which kills dust mites and bacteria without damaging the material. Memory foam inserts should never go in the washing machine — spot clean only and air dry thoroughly. Wash bed covers fortnightly or monthly depending on how much the dog uses it and whether they go outside.
My dog won’t use their bed — what should I do?
Several things can cause this. The location may feel exposed — try placing it in a quieter corner or against a wall. The material may be uncomfortable for the dog — some dogs dislike certain textures. The bed may smell too strongly of manufacturing chemicals when new — airing it out for a few days can help. Adding a worn item of your clothing to the bed temporarily can also help the dog associate it with safety and comfort.
Do dogs need more than one bed?
Many dogs benefit from having a bed in more than one room — particularly one in the main living area and one in the bedroom if the dog sleeps near you. This gives the dog a consistent “this is my spot” option wherever they are in the house, which can reduce anxiety and furniture use. It doesn’t need to be an expensive second bed — a simple flat cushion in a secondary location is enough.
