Choosing a donut dog bed: how to find a cosy, practical place for your dog to rest

A donut dog bed may look simple at first: a round bed with soft sides. But models can vary considerably in size, filling, care and stability. Choose the wrong one and your dog may have hardly any room, the bed may lose its shape after a few months, or cleaning may become more difficult than it needs to be.

There are three common pitfalls to watch out for, especially when choosing a dog bed for medium-sized dogs or a dog bed for large dogs:

• Confusing the overall size with the sleeping space. A 20 cm rim takes up some of the surface area, so a 90 cm dog bed won’t offer 90 cm of flat space to lie on all the way across.
• Taking “washable” to mean more than it does. With some models, only the cover is machine washable. According to the product information, the inner filling should be spot cleaned.
• Assuming an anti-slip base makes the bed completely safe. An anti-slip dog bed can help limit movement, but it works best on a flat, dry surface that isn’t slippery to begin with.

What should you look for in a donut dog bed?

1. Choose a size to suit your dog’s sleeping habits

Measure your dog when they’re lying stretched out, then allow extra room around them. If you’re using the bed as a dog bed for a crate, measure the inside of the crate too. The bed shouldn’t block the ventilation, door or room your dog needs to move around.

The common sizes in this selection are:

• 80 cm: suitable for medium-sized dogs who like to curl up.
• 90 cm: a roomier option for medium-sized dogs or dogs who regularly change position.
• 120 cm: designed for large dogs or households with several pets, provided there’s enough floor or crate space.

A round dog bed is a good choice for dogs who like to sleep curled up. Dogs who prefer to stretch out may be more comfortable on a rectangular model with a larger flat sleeping surface.

2. Check the material and filling

The models covered here are made with plush fabric and PP cotton filling. A soft plush dog bed may feel cosy for dogs who like to rest against a raised edge. Product descriptions say the filling provides support, but this isn’t a medical claim or a substitute for professional advice if your dog has any physical problems.

Consider both the height and how well the bed holds its shape. A raised donut rim can create a more enclosed place to rest. Brands sometimes describe this as a calming or reassuring design. According to the brands’ product information, the ring shape is intended to create a feeling of being surrounded; the effect will vary from dog to dog. So treat “calming dog bed” as a description of the design, not a guaranteed result.

3. Look beyond the word “washable”

A dog bed with a removable cover is more practical if your dog often goes outdoors, sheds or comes in with muddy paws. Before you buy, check:

• whether the cover can be fully removed using a zip;
• whether the care label allows machine washing;
• whether the inner filling can be cleaned separately;
• how the cover should be dried;
• whether the zips and seams need regular checks.

According to the product information, the covers on the models below should be hand washed or washed on a delicate cycle. The inner filling isn’t suitable for machine washing and should be spot cleaned. This is an important difference from a fully washable dog bed.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

Ochama Plush Donut Dog Crate Mat, dark grey, 90 x 20 cm

Why it suits this profile: This model offers a practical size for medium-sized dogs and can be used on a flat surface or in a suitably sized crate.

How this product helps you avoid common pitfalls

The product information lists a 90 cm diameter, a removable cover and rubber anti-slip dots. This makes it easy to check the size, care requirements and stability before you buy.

Key benefits and features

Plush exterior, PP cotton filling, zipped cover and a 90 cm diameter. The cover is machine washable according to the care label.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality

Ochama Donut Dog Crate Bed, grey, 120 x 20 cm

Why it suits this profile: The 120 cm diameter gives large dogs more room to turn around and settle into different sleeping positions.

How this product helps you avoid common pitfalls

The product page states that the size is suitable for large dogs and describes a removable cover. First, check that a 120 cm bed will fit in your chosen room or crate.

Key benefits and features

Plush fabric, PP cotton filling, rubber anti-slip dots and a cover that can be washed on a delicate cycle according to the instructions.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent use

Ochama Soft Plush Donut Dog Crate Bed, black, 80 x 20 cm

Why it suits this profile: The more compact size is practical for a medium-sized dog, a smaller spot to rest or a crate with limited interior space.

How this product helps you avoid common pitfalls

The size is clearly listed as 80 x 20 cm, helping you avoid a donut bed that’s too large and blocks the crate door or walkway.

Key benefits and features

Long-pile plush fabric, PP cotton filling, removable cover and rubber anti-slip dots. According to the instructions, the inner core is not machine washable.

Care and safe use

A donut dog bed is often delivered vacuum packed. Give it a good shake and fluff up the plush filling before assessing its size. Leave the bed to regain its full shape on a dry, flat surface.

For everyday use:

1. Wash the cover according to the care label and use a mild detergent.
2. Spot clean the inner filling only if the instructions say to.
3. Allow washed parts to dry completely before putting them back together.
4. Check the zips, seams, plush fabric and filling regularly.
5. Stop using the bed if the filling becomes visible or your dog can bite off pieces of material.

An anti-slip base helps prevent the bed from moving, but it doesn’t replace placing it somewhere stable. If your dog is a keen chewer, it’s sensible to supervise them during their first few uses.

Frequently asked questions about donut dog beds

Is a donut dog bed suitable for an anxious dog?

According to the product description, the raised rim can create a more enclosed place to rest. This design may appeal to a dog who likes to sleep curled up. However, a dog bed for anxious dogs is not a guaranteed solution for anxiety. Choose a quiet spot and speak to a vet or behaviourist if the problem persists.

Will a 90 cm dog bed fit in a dog crate?

It depends on the inside measurements of the crate, not the size stated on the outside of the packaging. Measure the length and width of the base, then check that the door closes properly. Allow for the raised rim, which is about 20 cm high. A 90 cm model is generally designed for medium-sized dogs, while a 120 cm bed needs more floor space.

How long does a plush dog bed last?

Its lifespan depends on how it’s used, washed and exposed to moisture, as well as your dog’s chewing habits. Regular airing, careful washing and checking the seams can help reduce wear. If the bed is used frequently, the quality of the cover and zip is particularly important. Replace it as soon as the filling becomes visible, the base no longer sits securely or the fabric gets damaged.