A donut dog bed may look simple at first: a round bed with a soft raised edge and plush covering. However, models can vary considerably in size, filling, care requirements and stability. Choose the wrong one and you could soon find yourself with a bed that’s too small, goes flat or is difficult to clean.
In this buying guide, put together by the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, we focus on verifiable features. This makes it easier to compare a soft dog bed, a plush dog bed or a bed for dogs and cats without relying on marketing claims alone.
A 70 cm bed doesn’t automatically offer 70 cm of sleeping space. The raised edge takes up some of the surface area. So, measure your dog both curled up and stretched out. Then allow a little extra room so your dog can change position comfortably.
Remember to check the height, too. An edge of around 20 cm may suit dogs that like to rest against something raised, but may not be as comfortable for a dog that prefers to sleep completely flat.
For many models, washable doesn’t mean that the whole bed can go in the washing machine. Often, you can unzip the cover to remove the central cushion. The inner filling then needs to be spot-cleaned or aired.
Before you buy, check:
A dog bed with a washable cover is practical, but always follow the care instructions for the product in question.
Rubber anti-slip dots help keep the bed in place, particularly on smooth floors. But they’re no substitute for a stable surface. On a wet floor, loose rug or uneven surface, the bed may still move.
So, place an anti-slip dog bed on a flat, dry floor. Also check the base, seams and zips regularly for signs of wear.
Use the recommended pet size as a guide, but base your decision mainly on your dog’s measurements. The range includes sizes such as:
A dog bed for small dogs doesn’t necessarily need to be the same size as one for a compact but long-bodied dog. Measure your dog’s back length and shoulder height, as well as the space they take up when sleeping.
Plush or long-pile fleece feels soft and suits dogs that like to curl up in a nest. The product descriptions for the models below specify plush fabric and PP cotton filling. PP cotton is a lightweight synthetic fibre filling that can hold its shape reasonably well, but it still needs regular plumping.
Consider the difference between:
According to the product descriptions, the donut shape is designed to create a feeling of being enclosed. It is not guaranteed to relieve anxiety or stress. A calming dog bed may help provide a peaceful place to rest, but it doesn’t replace appropriate support for ongoing anxious behaviour.
A good dog bed should be easy to clean regularly. In between washes, remove hair with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner, and wash the removable cover according to the care label. Don’t use bleach or harsh cleaning products unless the instructions say they’re suitable.
Check the bed regularly for loose seams, damaged zips and exposed filling. If your dog likes to chew, supervise them when they first use the bed. A damaged bed may release fibres or filling.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this compact size is designed for cats and small dogs. It makes a practical first donut bed for a smaller home or dog crate.
The 60 cm diameter and recommended pet category make it easier to check the size before buying. The central cushion insert can be removed via a zip for cleaning.
60 × 20 cm, plush material, PP filling, removable cover and rubber anti-slip dots. Suitable for dogs and cats.
Why it suits this profile: The raised edge and round design suit small to medium-sized dogs that like to sleep curled up and rest their head against an edge.
The product information specifies a diameter of 70 cm, a height of 20 cm and a removable central cushion. This makes it easier to assess the size and care requirements in advance.
Plush covering, PP cotton filling, removable central cushion and rubber anti-slip base. The camel brown colour suits a range of interiors.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this size is designed for large dogs. It may also suit households with several small pets, provided there’s enough room.
The generous diameter means you don’t have to rely on a small product photo to judge the size. The cover can be removed from the underside; according to the description, the inner filling needs to be cared for separately.
120 cm diameter, 20 cm height, plush fabric, PP cotton filling and rubber anti-slip dots. Designed for large dogs.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Measure your dog from nose to the base of their tail when they’re stretched out. Also measure their width when they’re curled up. Compare these measurements with the bed’s inner space, not just its overall outer diameter. If you’re unsure, extra sleeping space is usually more practical, as long as the bed fits in the room you’ve chosen.
It depends on the model. On the beds mentioned here, the central cushion insert or cover can be removed via a zip. The product information states whether each version is machine washable. Some models’ PP filling isn’t suitable for machine washing and needs to be spot-cleaned.
Its lifespan depends on how often it’s used and washed, your dog’s weight and whether they chew. Regular airing and plumping can help the filling keep its shape. Check the seams, zips and anti-slip base regularly. Replace the bed as soon as the filling becomes visible or any parts start to come loose.