A dog bed may seem easy to choose, until you start thinking about size, filling, cleaning and stability. A soft dog bed might look inviting, but inadequate support, a non-removable cover or a slippery base can quickly lead to disappointment.
There are three common pitfalls to look out for:
The right dog bed should suit your dog’s sleeping habits, body length and daily routine.
Measure your dog from nose to the base of the tail, then allow some extra room. A dog that likes to curl up may be comfortable in a donut dog bed with a raised edge. Dogs that like to stretch out are better suited to a flat mat or a spacious dog bed.
Bear in mind that product measurements sometimes refer to the outside dimensions. On a bed with a diameter of 70 cm, the raised edge takes up some of the sleeping surface. That may be suitable for a medium-sized dog, but always check the dimensions of the inner cushion.
For larger breeds, beds measuring around 90 to 120 cm are worth considering. Check the height of the edge, too: a high edge can provide a cosy sense of security, but it isn’t practical for every dog.
The filling affects how the bed feels and how well it holds its shape. The models featured here use materials such as PP cotton, polyester fibre or egg-box foam.
Bear in mind that soft filling isn’t the same as proper structural support. A plush dog bed may feel comfortable, but with frequent use it can flatten more quickly than a model with a separate foam layer. Check whether the inner filling is machine washable, too. For several models, only the cover or centre cushion is washable, while the core needs to be spot-cleaned.
A washable dog bed is especially handy for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, shed hair or often come home wet. A dog bed with a removable cover is easier to wash than a fully enclosed model.
Check the following:
A non-slip dog bed won’t necessarily stay put on every floor. Place it on a flat, dry surface and make sure the non-slip layer is in full contact with the floor. This is particularly important for older dogs and energetic dogs that may shift the bed as they lie down.
Why it suits this buyer: The round shape makes this a straightforward choice for a first dog bed. According to the product information, it is designed for small and medium-sized dogs that like to curl up.
The product information specifies a removable centre section, rubber non-slip dots and a diameter of 70 cm. This means the key size and care details are clear before you buy.
Plush fabric, PP cotton filling, removable centre cushion and a size suited to small and medium-sized dogs.
Why it suits this buyer: This model combines plush and sherpa fabric with egg-box foam, a raised edge and a removable cover. It’s a good fit for dogs that like to rest their head on a raised edge.
The construction and materials are clearly specified. The product description says the cover is machine washable, but check the care label supplied before washing.
Removable machine-washable cover, egg-box foam, raised headrest and non-slip base.
Why it suits this buyer: The water-repellent Oxford fabric and wraparound edge make this a practical choice for large dogs, crates and homes where the bed gets frequent use.
The product description specifies water-repellent Oxford fabric, a removable cover and a separate inner cushion. According to the instructions, the inner section should be spot-cleaned.
Suitable for large dogs, water-repellent outer fabric, wraparound edge and removable parts for cleaning.
Why it suits this buyer: With a diameter of 120 cm, this model is designed for large dogs or homes with several pets. It can also be placed in a spacious crate.
The product information lists the dimensions, approximate weight of 3,2 kg and PP cotton filling. The cover is described as removable and washable, but the filling itself isn’t suitable for machine washing.
Spacious sleeping area, plush material, removable cover and non-slip dots on the underside.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Place the bed in a quiet spot where your dog already likes to rest. You could put a familiar blanket or toy in it, too. Don’t force your dog to use it. If the bed is vacuum-packed, fluff up the filling thoroughly and let the bed expand fully according to the product instructions.
It depends on how often it’s used. Remove hair regularly with a vacuum cleaner or lint roller, and wash the removable cover when it looks dirty or starts to smell. Always follow the care label. Let the cover and filling dry completely before using the bed again.
Check the seams, zips, non-slip material and filling regularly. Replace the bed if the fabric tears, the filling becomes visible, the zip is damaged or the sleeping surface stays flattened. Dogs that like to chew need extra supervision, as they may swallow loose fibres or filling.