10 Best Dog Beds Tested with Real Dogs

petcarepulse/Best Dog Beds Tested with Real Dogs

Introduction

From sleepy Shih Tzus to dozing Newfoundlands, the right dog bed for your four-legged companion should be comfortable and suitable for lounging or sleeping. It also needs to withstand a bit of drool and treats, so the ability to wipe away messes or remove the cover for machine washing is essential.

We tested over 60 top dog beds, separating the lumpy and low-quality ones from the best of the best. Each of our testers tried a different dog bed at home with their dogs for over three weeks, giving their pets time to nap, rest, and kick in their sleep. Meanwhile, our testers recorded their companions’ reactions, evaluating each bed for comfort, build quality, size, and ease of cleaning.

Our favorite dog bed for most dogs is the FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed, earning perfect scores from our tester. It features an ultra-comfortable memory foam base, a removable and machine-washable cover, and is available in five colors and five sizes, making it likely you'll find a FurHaven bed that suits your dog.

However, what is comfortable for one dog may not be suitable for another, so we've curated a list of the top dog beds to suit a variety of breeds and their needs. We've also conducted specialized tests for categories like the best cooling option for summer or the best bed for an older dog needing extra support.

Best Overall

FurHaven Ultra Plush Faux Fur & Suede Sofa Bed

Highlights:

• Three bolster supports
• Memory foam support
• Cooling gel option available
• Soft faux fur cover
• Removable, machine-washable cover

Drawbacks:

• Not recommended for chewers

If your dog loves to cuddle, this soft bed made from faux fur will become their new favorite spot in your home. The FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed is supportive, spacious, and easy to clean, making it our best overall pick.

Best Cooling

K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Elevated Dog Bed

Highlights:

• Chew-proof with a 120-day chew-proof warranty
• Easy to wipe clean or hose down
• B Corporation certified and made in the USA
• Orthopedic support
• Fits most standard crates
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use

Drawbacks:

• The tester’s dog easily moved this lightweight bed

Best Orthopedic

PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

Highlights:

• Available in multiple colors
• Bolster sides for head support
• Removable, machine-washable cover
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Water-resistant cover and waterproof liner

Drawbacks:

• Low chew resistance

Best Warming

Furhaven Snuggery Burrow Bed

Highlights:

• Removable, machine-washable cover
• Memory foam
• Flexible roof with removable support ring
• Available in multiple colors

Drawbacks:

• Low chew resistance

Best Design

Tuft & Needle Dog Bed

Highlights:

• Available in three colors and three sizes
• Fits most standard dog crates
• 100-night sleep trial and limited 10-year manufacturer warranty
• Removable, machine-washable cover

Drawbacks:

• Canvas-like cotton fabric may be less appealing to dogs who prefer softer surfaces

Best Customizable

Orvis Platform Dog Bed

Highlights:

• Available in three colors
• Customizable with embroidery (additional fee required)
• Machine-washable

Drawbacks:

• Testers found the size and weight guidelines on the Orvis website confusing and recommend prioritizing cushion dimensions over selecting based on the dog’s weight.

Best for Camping

RUFFWEAR Dog Sleeping Bag

Highlights:

• Can be used as a sleeping bag and sleeping pad
• Lightweight and compressible
• Easy to clean
• Water-resistant

Drawbacks:

• Only available in Huckleberry color

Best Chew-Proof

K9 Ballistics Tough Rip-Stop Dog Bed

Highlights:

• Easy to clean
• Water-resistant fabric
• Removable, machine-washable cover
• Non-slip bottom
• Chew-proof with a 120-day chew-proof warranty
• B Corporation certified and made in the USA

Drawbacks:

• Testers found the bed's design lacking aesthetic appeal

Best for Crates

MidWest Home Quiet Time Dog Crate Mat

Highlights:

• Removable, machine-washable cover
• Fits most standard crates
• Easy to clean
• Non-slip bottom

Drawbacks:

• Low chew resistance

Best Budget

Dogbed4less Memory Foam Dog Bed

Highlights:

• Includes a soft cover and waterproof liner
• Memory foam adjusts to support the dog as they move
• Cooling gel helps regulate body temperature
• Six rectangular sizes suitable for crate or home use

Drawbacks:

• Design and color options are less appealing