Choosing a Donut Dog Bed: Pay Attention to These Sizes, Materials and Cleaning Details

A donut dog bed provides a soft place to lie with a raised edge. This round design particularly appeals to dogs that like curling up or sleeping against an edge. However, not every plush dog bed is practical for everyday use. An attractive, extra-fluffy cover says little about how well the bed keeps its shape, how easy it is to clean or how well it grips the floor.

When buying a soft dog bed in the Netherlands, shoppers mainly come up against these common pitfalls:

• Choosing a size that is too small: your dog may fit in the bed when curled up, but may not be able to stretch out fully.
• A cover that is not genuinely removable: spot-cleaning alone is inconvenient when dealing with mud, hair or accidents.
• A slippery underside: a dog bed that slides across laminate or tiled floors is less practical for active or older dogs.
• Unclear comfort claims: terms such as “calming” often describe the design or product positioning. According to the brands’ own information, raised edges and soft filling may help create a nest-like feeling; this is not a guaranteed effect and does not replace advice from a vet.

What should you look for in a donut dog bed?

1. Measure your dog and the available space

Measure your dog from nose to the base of the tail, then add extra room for turning and stretching. Next, look at the overall outside dimensions, not just the diameter of the sleeping area. A dog bed with a raised edge takes up more space than the inside may suggest.

As a practical guide:

• Dog bed for small dogs: a diameter of around 60 to 70 cm may be suitable, depending on your dog’s sleeping position.
• Dog bed for medium-sized dogs: models measuring approximately 80 to 90 cm offer more room to move.
• Dog bed for large dogs: look for 100 cm or more. A 120 cm model can also work as a spacious dog basket or dog bed for a crate, provided the crate is large enough.

Always check the stated weight recommendation and measure the area where the bed will be placed. An extra-large model may be comfortable in a living room, but awkward in a crate or small corner.

2. Assess the filling and support

Plush fabric, polyester and PP cotton feel soft. However, the amount and distribution of the filling determine how the bed performs with everyday use. Resilient PP filling may, according to the product description, help the bed retain its shape, but filling should be plumped up regularly.

For dogs that like to lie against an edge, a donut shape makes sense. For dogs that mainly sleep stretched out or need more targeted support, an orthopaedic dog bed with a foam structure may be more suitable. If your dog has specific joint or mobility problems, it is advisable to discuss your choice with a vet. A bed is not a medical aid.

3. Check washing, drying and non-slip features

A washable dog bed is only genuinely practical if the cover can be removed easily. Look for a zip and check whether the product information distinguishes between the cover, inner cushion and filling. With several models, only the cover or central cushion is suitable for machine washing; the inner filling must be spot-cleaned.

Also look for:

• a dog bed with a removable cover for regular washing;
• a non-slip dog bed with rubber dots or another grip layer;
• an underside that makes full contact with a flat, dry floor;
• drying instructions that suit your household.

Wash the bed according to the care label, do not use bleach or harsh cleaning products, and allow all parts to dry completely before using the bed again. Check the seams, zips and loose fibres regularly. Supervision is particularly important for dogs that like to chew.

Recommended models for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

JOYFURNOS Dog Bed, Round Donut Bed, 70 cm

Why it suits this profile: This 70 cm round dog bed is designed for small to medium-sized dogs and features a soft plush outer fabric with PP cotton filling.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states the size, recommended dog size and that the central cushion can be removed using a zip. This means you do not have to rely solely on an attractive lifestyle photo.

Key benefit & advantages

70 cm diameter, 20 cm height, removable central cushion and rubber non-slip dots on the underside.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality

Ochama Fluffy Calming Donut Dog Bed, 100 cm

Why it suits this profile: The 100 cm diameter is designed for medium to large dogs that like curling up or sleeping against a high edge.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description mentions a removable, machine-washable cover and recommends leaving the bed to expand for 24 to 48 hours after unpacking.

Key benefit & advantages

Plush polyester, PP cotton filling, raised edge and a dark grey colour that is less likely to show dirt.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive use

FUNNYFUZZY All-Around Support Water-Resistant Large Dog Crate Bed

Why it suits this profile: This model is aimed at large dogs and households where the bed will be used intensively or may get dirty more quickly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product description, it features water-repellent Oxford fabric, a removable cover and an edge that runs all the way around. The inner mat must be cleaned separately.

Key benefit & advantages

Oxford fabric, all-round support, washable cover and a design that, according to the product details, is resistant to scratching.

Positioning and caring for your dog bed at home

Place the bed in a flat, dry spot where your dog likes to relax, preferably not directly next to a radiator or open fire. If you have underfloor heating, an insulating layer such as a rug can be useful. A donut dog bed is not intended to replace a crate or to be used as a restraint.

Has the bed arrived vacuum-packed? Loosen the filling and give the model time to regain its shape. Place a familiar blanket or toy in the bed to make the new resting place feel recognisable. Plump up the filling regularly and wash the cover according to the care label.

Frequently asked questions about donut dog beds

Is a donut dog bed suitable for a large dog?

That depends on the outside dimensions and your dog’s sleeping position. Measure your dog while lying down and compare the measurement with the diameter. Models measuring 100 cm or 120 cm are generally more spacious, but always check the product specifications and the available floor space.

How often should you wash a dog bed cover?

This varies according to your dog and how the bed is used. More frequent washing may be needed if your dog sheds a lot, uses the bed after being outdoors or has accidents. A removable cover makes maintenance easier. Wash the cover separately and only use the bed again once all parts are completely dry.

How long does a soft dog bed last?

The lifespan depends on the material, how the bed is used and whether your dog chews. Regularly plumping up the filling, washing the bed correctly and repairing or replacing a damaged bed promptly can help. Pay particular attention to the seams, zips, loose fibres and exposed filling.