A donut dog bed looks comfortable, but not every round dog bed is right for every dog. The wrong size, hard-to-clean filling or slippery base can quickly make your purchase disappointing. It’s especially important to look beyond the fluffy appearance if your dog likes to curl up, sheds a lot or is unsettled by a new place to sleep.
In this buying guide, you’ll find out what to look for in a soft dog bed, which features you can check and which model could suit a small, medium or large dog.
A 70 cm dog bed isn’t automatically suitable for a dog that’s 70 cm long. The raised rim takes up some of the available sleeping space. So measure your dog while they’re lying down and relaxed, ideally in their favourite sleeping position. Add a few centimetres to allow them to move around.
A bed that’s too small could mean your dog keeps pushing the rim aside or ends up lying half outside the bed. On the other hand, a bed that’s too large may feel less cosy for a small dog that likes to curl up.
With many models, only the cover or central cushion can be removed. The inner filling may not be machine washable. That’s fine as long as you know in advance, but it does mean the bed needs different care from a fully washable dog bed.
So check:
A dog bed with a non-slip base will generally stay more stable on a smooth floor, but rubber dots aren’t a substitute for placing it properly. The bed may still move on a wet floor, loose rug or uneven surface. Place it on a flat, dry surface and make sure the whole base is in contact with the floor.
If your dog likes to dig or jump into their bed, it’s a good idea to check the seams, zips and fabric regularly.
Product descriptions for donut beds use different categories. Treat these as a guide and compare them with your dog’s measurements.
Check the height too. The models listed are usually around 20 cm high, including the raised rim.
Plush or long-pile fabric feels soft and suits dogs that like to snuggle against a rim. The PP cotton filling is described in the product information as resilient or supportive. This tells you something about the construction, but it doesn’t guarantee that every dog will find it equally comfortable.
A fluffy dog bed may arrive in compact packaging. Give it a good shake and loosen the filling before you assess its size. Some product descriptions recommend leaving the bed to regain its shape for 24 to 48 hours after unpacking.
A dog bed with a washable cover is practical for everyday use, especially if your dog goes outside, sheds or comes in with wet paws. Wash the cover according to the care label and don’t use bleach or harsh cleaning products.
Check the bed regularly for:
If your dog chews their bed, it’s important to supervise them during the first few weeks. A donut bed isn’t designed to be used as a carrier, crate restraint or restraint device.
Why it suits this type of buyer: According to the product information, the 70 cm diameter is designed for small and medium-sized dogs. The removable central cushion cover and rubber non-slip dots make it a simple, practical choice.
The product size and recommended pet category are clearly stated. The cover or central cushion can be removed using the zip for cleaning.
70 cm diameter, plush fabric, PP filling, removable central cushion and non-slip base.
Why it suits this type of buyer: This spacious model has a raised rim, plush fabric and PP cotton filling. The product description says it’s suitable for medium to large dogs weighing up to around 30 kg.
The generous diameter means the rim takes up less of the sleeping space. The cover is removable and, according to the product information, machine washable.
100 cm diameter, raised rim, removable washable cover and soft plush fabric.
Why it suits this type of buyer: This dog bed for large dogs has a diameter of 120 cm and is intended for large adult dogs, according to the product information. It may also fit in a spacious crate or a dedicated resting area.
The large size reduces the risk of the sleeping area being too cramped. The non-slip base helps limit movement on the floor, but you’ll still need to place it on a stable surface.
120 cm diameter, plush fabric, PP filling, removable washable cover and rubber non-slip dots.
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 while they’re lying stretched out. Then measure the space they take up when curled up. Choose a bed where your dog won’t have to lie with their body constantly over the rim. Check the inner dimensions as well as the outer diameter.
Yes, as long as the bed’s diameter and height fit the crate’s internal dimensions. Make sure there’s enough ventilation and that the door can open and close properly. A dog bed used in a crate mustn’t trap your dog and isn’t designed to act as a restraint or barrier.
Its lifespan depends on how it’s used, how often it’s washed, exposure to moisture and whether your dog chews it. Airing the bed regularly, washing the cover according to its care label and checking for damage promptly can help it last longer. Replace it as soon as the filling is exposed, the seams start to come apart or the non-slip base no longer works properly.