Joybuy Insights

Choosing a donut dog bed: how to find a soft, practical place to sleep

A donut dog bed looks inviting, with its round shape, soft covering and raised edge. But a fluffy appearance doesn’t tell you everything about how it will perform day to day. A bed can quickly lose its shape, be difficult to wash or slide across a smooth floor. A few checks before you buy can help you avoid a disappointing purchase.

In this buying guide, I’ll cover the key things to consider when choosing a soft dog bed, from size and filling to cleaning and stability. Then I’ll share some recommendations for small, medium and large dogs.

Three common pitfalls when choosing a donut dog bed

1. Confusing the overall size with the sleeping area

With a dog bed that has raised sides, the edge takes up some of the surface area. So a bed with a diameter of 70 cm doesn’t offer 70 cm of flat sleeping space. Measure your dog while they’re lying stretched out, then allow some extra room to move.

A bed that’s too small forces a dog to stay curled up. But one that’s too large may feel less cosy and secure for a small dog.

2. “Washable” doesn’t always mean fully machine washable

Check exactly which parts can be washed. Some models only have a removable cover; the inner filling can’t go in the washing machine. That’s not a problem as long as the zip is easy to reach and you know how to remove stains from the inner cushion.

A washable dog bed with a removable cover is handy for muddy paws, shedding or accidents. Also check the care label and drying instructions. Don’t use bleach or harsh detergent unless the label says it’s safe to do so.

3. An anti-slip base won’t keep the bed completely still on every floor

A dog bed with an anti-slip base will generally stay more stable on laminate, vinyl or tiles. The floor should still be flat, dry and clean. Rubber dots help reduce movement, but they’re no substitute for choosing a safe spot. Check regularly that the base and seams are still intact, too.

Key features to compare

Size and suitable pets

Don’t rely on “small”, “medium” or “large” in the product title alone. Check the diameter, the height of the edge and the recommended build. The range includes:

  • 60 cm: particularly suitable for cats and small dogs that like to curl up.
  • 70 cm: often a good fit for small to medium-sized dogs.
  • 80 cm: more room for medium-sized dogs or cats that like to stretch out.
  • 100 to 140 cm: designed for medium to large dogs or several small pets.

A donut dog bed can also be used as a cat bed, especially if your cat likes a round, sheltered place to sleep.

Filling and support

Plush, PP cotton and egg-crate foam each have different qualities. PP filling feels soft and can create a springy raised edge. According to the product description, the FUNNYFUZZY model uses egg-crate foam. The description also mentions a raised headrest.

Treat terms such as “calming” or “helps with anxiety” as product claims, not medical promises. According to the brands’ own information, the round, raised edge is designed to create a sheltered feeling. Whether it actually helps your pet feel calmer will vary from one animal to another.

Cover, zip and care

A practical choice has a zip that’s easy to open without straining the fabric. Check whether:

  • the cover can be washed separately;
  • the inner cushion can be removed;
  • the filling can only be spot-cleaned;
  • the bed needs to be air-dried or dried at a low temperature;
  • the cover fits snugly over the filling again after washing.

Many models are vacuum-packed. Shake out the bed after unpacking and give the filling time to return to its original shape. Some models need 24 to 48 hours.

Recommended models for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Ochama donut pet bed for dogs and cats

Ochama Donut Pet Bed for Dogs and Cats, 60 cm

Why it suits this type of pet: The 60 cm diameter is a manageable size for cats and small dogs. The long plush fabric and rounded edge suit pets that like to sleep curled up.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists a removable cover and rubber anti-slip dots. Before buying, check the cover’s exact washing instructions and measure your pet.

Key benefits and features

60 cm diameter; PP filling; removable centre section; suitable for cats and small dogs.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
FUNNYFUZZY Warm & Comforting Pet Bed

FUNNYFUZZY Warm & Comforting Pet Bed, size M

Why it suits this type of pet: This model combines fluffy faux fur with a raised headrest. It’s a good fit for pets that like to rest their head on an edge, so you can choose it for its features as well as its appearance.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product description, the cover is removable and machine washable. The inner cushion core must not be washed, so you know what to expect when it comes to care.

Key benefits and features

Egg-crate foam according to the product information; raised headrest; machine-washable cover; anti-slip base.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent use
Ochama donut dog crate bed, 120 cm

Ochama Donut Dog Crate Bed, 120 x 20 cm

Why it suits this type of pet: The 120 cm diameter is designed for large dogs. It’s a practical choice when a compact bed doesn’t offer enough room to lie down.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size is clearly stated, and the central filling can be removed via the zip. The anti-slip dots help limit movement across the floor.

Key benefits and features

120 cm diameter; PP cotton filling; removable cover; suitable for large dogs.

How to keep the bed in good condition for longer

Place the bed in a dry, level spot away from radiators and open flames. Fluff up the filling regularly and remove hair with a vacuum cleaner or lint roller. Wash the cover according to the care label and let all the parts dry completely before putting the bed back together.

Also check the zips, seams and anti-slip base. If you spot loose threads, tears or exposed filling, stop using the bed. Dogs that like to chew need extra supervision when they’re first introduced to it.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about donut dog beds

What size donut dog bed should I get?

Measure your dog from nose to the base of the tail while they’re lying stretched out. Allow extra room for turning and stretching. Compare that measurement with the flat sleeping area, not just the bed’s overall diameter.

How do you clean a fluffy dog bed?

First, check whether the cover and inner cushion can be removed separately. If the care label allows it, wash the cover on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. You can air a non-washable filling and spot-clean it. Let everything dry completely to prevent moisture from building up.

How long does a plush dog bed last?

How long it lasts depends on the filling, your dog’s weight, how often you wash it and whether they chew it. Regularly airing the bed, washing it carefully and checking the seams and zips will help keep it in good condition. No bed is suitable if your pet constantly chews it to pieces.