Joybuy Insights

Choosing a donut dog bed: how to find a soft and practical sleeping place

A donut dog bed looks inviting, but an attractive round shape alone says little about everyday use. The bed should suit your dog’s sleeping position, be easy to clean and offer enough space. If you focus only on colour, a plush appearance or a low price, you may be disappointed later.

Common pitfalls when choosing a donut dog bed

1. The diameter looks generous, but the sleeping area is smaller than expected

With a round dog bed, the raised edges take up part of the diameter. A 70 cm dog bed therefore does not offer 70 cm of flat sleeping space. Measure your dog while relaxed and lying down, both curled up and fully stretched out.

A small dog bed can often be 70 cm. For a medium-sized dog, an 80 cm dog bed or 90 cm dog bed may be more practical. Large dogs or households with several pets may need a 120 cm dog bed.

2. “Washable” does not always mean fully washable

Some product descriptions call a bed washable when only the inner cushion or removable cover can go in the washing machine. Check the following:

  • Whether the cover can be removed with a zip.
  • Whether the central cushion can be removed separately.
  • Which temperature and washing method are stated on the care label.
  • Whether the filling itself can be washed.
  • How long the bed needs to dry before your dog uses it again.

A dog bed with a removable cover is usually more convenient for regular care. With some models, only the cover is suitable for machine washing; the inner cushion must then be aired or spot-cleaned.

3. Non-slip is seen as complete protection

A non-slip dog bed with rubber dots on the underside can reduce movement on a smooth floor. This does not mean that the bed will remain completely still on every surface. Place the bed on a flat, dry floor and make sure the non-slip base is in full contact with the surface.

Also check the zips, stitching and fabric regularly. With dogs that like to chew, supervision during the first introduction is sensible. Stop using the bed as soon as filling becomes visible or the stitching starts to come undone.

Important features to check

Size: measure both your dog and the available space

First measure your dog’s length from nose to the base of the tail, then allow extra room for turning and stretching. Next, check the bed’s external dimensions. The models below are approximately 20 cm high, creating a clear raised edge but also reducing the flat central area.

A practical guide is:

  • 70 cm: for small dogs and some compact medium-sized dogs.
  • 80 cm: for medium-sized dogs that like to sleep curled up or partly stretched out.
  • 90 cm: for medium-sized dogs that need more room to move.
  • 120 cm: for large dogs or multiple pets, provided there is enough floor space.

These are guidelines, not fixed breed rules. Weight, body length and sleeping position are more important than the breed name alone.

Filling and edge: comfort without exaggerated claims

The beds mentioned use PP cotton filling and a plush or long-haired plush exterior. According to the brands’ product descriptions, the filling is resilient and supportive. This is a product characteristic stated by the manufacturer, not a medical benefit.

The raised donut edge can be comfortable for dogs that like to rest their head or curl up against a rim. A dog that mainly sleeps stretched out will instead need plenty of unobstructed central space. A soft dog bed is therefore not automatically suitable for every dog.

Hygiene, care and stability

Look for the following combination of features:

  • Removable cover or central cushion for easier cleaning.
  • Plush fabric that can be washed according to the care label.
  • A zip that closes securely and is not immediately accessible to a dog that likes to chew.
  • A non-slip underside with rubber dots.
  • A shape that needs to be fully fluffed up again after vacuum packaging.

Allow a vacuum-packed bed to expand properly after unpacking. Shake and fluff the filling according to the instructions, and give the material time to regain its shape. Before use, check that the bed is dry and that all stitching is intact.

Our recommendations for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Ochama round donut dog bed, 70 cm, camel

Ochama Dog Bed Round Donut Bed, 70 cm, Camel

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this 70 cm round dog bed is intended for small and medium-sized dogs and has a soft plush exterior.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The central cushion can be removed using a zip. The underside has rubber non-slip dots; however, place the bed on a flat, dry surface.

Key benefit & advantages

70 cm diameter, PP cotton filling and a removable central cushion. Supplied vacuum-packed.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
Ochama plush donut dog bed, 80 cm, grey

Ochama Plush Donut Dog Crate Bed, 80 cm, Grey

Why it suits this profile: The 80 cm version offers more room than a 70 cm dog bed and combines long-haired plush fabric with a removable cover.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that it has a removable, washable cover and a zip for the central cushion. According to the instructions, the inner filling must not be put in the washing machine.

Key benefit & advantages

80 cm diameter, 20 cm high, PP filling and rubber non-slip dots on the underside.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Ochama donut dog bed, 120 cm, grey

Ochama Donut Dog Crate Bed, 120 cm, Grey

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this spacious donut-shaped bed is intended for large adult dogs and may be suitable for households with several pets.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The large external dimensions mean you do not have to rely solely on the stated sleeping category. However, check that 120 cm will fit in the intended space.

Key benefit & advantages

120 cm diameter, 20 cm height, plush fabric, PP cotton filling and a central cushion that can be removed using a zip.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about donut dog beds

How big should a donut dog bed be?

Measure your dog while lying fully stretched out and compare this measurement with the bed’s flat inner sleeping area. Allow for the raised edge. A 70 cm bed is often suitable for small dogs, while 80, 90 or 120 cm may make more sense for larger dogs. Always check the product’s specific size recommendation.

How do you clean a plush dog bed?

First remove the central cushion or cover according to the instructions. Only wash parts that the care label states are suitable for machine washing. Use a mild detergent, no bleach, and allow everything to dry completely before putting the bed back together. The PP filling in some models must not be washed.

How long does a soft dog bed last?

The lifespan depends on use, washing, claws and chewing behaviour. Fluff up the filling regularly, avoid heavy pressure during storage, and inspect the stitching and zips. If there are tears or exposed filling, replacing the bed is safer than continuing to use it. A donut dog bed may therefore remain usable for longer, but no manufacturer can guarantee a fixed lifespan for every dog.