A soft dog bed may seem simple to choose at first. In reality, models vary considerably in their filling, finish, care requirements and stability. A bed that looks spacious and thick online may seem smaller when it arrives because it has been vacuum-packed. And “washable” doesn’t always mean it can go in the washing machine in its entirety.
Use this buying guide to check the key features before you order. It’ll help you choose the right donut dog bed, plush dog bed, dog mat or sofa bed for your pet.
Long-pile plush fabric feels cosy, but that doesn’t tell you everything about how a bed will perform. Check the filling, seams and shape retention too. Product descriptions for various models on Joybuy state that PP cotton is used as filling. It can feel comfortable, but some beds need a good shake after delivery to regain their shape.
If your bed arrives vacuum-packed, unfold it fully and plump it up first. Then check that its dimensions match the product information.
A washable dog bed isn’t automatically suitable for machine-washing in its entirety. Some models have a removable cover that can be washed, while the inner filling must be spot-cleaned.
So check:
For the Ochama donut beds, the product description states that the cover can be washed according to its care label, while the inner filling should only be spot-cleaned. Don’t use a tumble dryer if the care label says not to.
A non-slip dog bed with silicone or rubber grips can help reduce movement, but it won’t prevent the bed from moving altogether. The surface underneath matters too. A bed may behave differently on smooth tiles than on carpet or a fabric sofa.
Place the dog bed on a flat, dry surface. Check the underside, zips and seams regularly. If the fabric is coming loose or the filling is visible, stop using the product.
Measure your dog while they’re lying comfortably. Allow extra room for turning around and stretching out. Don’t just look at the outer diameter or total length: check the usable space inside too. A dog bed with raised sides has less room inside than a flat dog mat.
A round bed around 90 cm in diameter may suit a medium-sized dog, depending on the breed and their favourite sleeping position. Always check the size guide and allow for a raised edge, which could be around 20 cm high.
A soft outer layer is ideal for dogs and cats who like to curl up somewhere cosy. PP cotton, foam or a combination of materials can give a bed its volume. The product description should clearly state which materials are used and whether the filling can be removed.
Know the difference between:
An older dog may benefit from a low entry point, so they don’t have to step over a high edge. Don’t make medical assumptions: choose based on accessibility, stability and your pet’s behaviour.
A dog bed with a removable cover is handy if you regularly need to remove hair, dirt or stains. A silicone non-slip layer may be suitable for furniture, while rubber grips are often used on beds designed for the floor.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. For example, FUNNYFUZZY recommends washing its square sofa covers on a delicate cycle in a laundry bag, then leaving them to air-dry. Tumble-drying isn’t recommended, as it could damage the non-slip underside.
Why it suits this profile: This sofa protector doubles as a soft place to rest, making it a practical choice for households that want one product to use on the sofa. Compare size M with your sofa and your pet’s resting space before buying.
The product description mentions three raised sides, a silicone non-slip underside and care on a delicate wash cycle. Be sure to check the exact size for your sofa.
Cotton fabric, PP cotton filling, three soft sides, and suitable for dogs and cats.
Why it suits this profile: The round shape and raised edge suit medium-sized dogs who like to curl up. The dark grey plush finish is easy to match with a range of interiors.
The cover unzips for removal. The product information also makes clear that the inner filling shouldn’t go in the washing machine.
Around 90 cm in diameter, 20 cm high, with PP cotton filling and rubber non-slip grips.
Why it suits this profile: This model is 120 cm in diameter and, according to the product description, is designed for large dogs, several pets or use in a spacious crate.
According to the product information, the removable cover can be washed on a delicate cycle. The inner filling should be aired or spot-cleaned.
Measures 120 × 20 cm, with plush fabric, PP cotton filling and rubber grips on the underside.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.
Measure your dog from nose to tail while they’re lying down, and allow extra room to turn around. Compare this with the internal dimensions, not just the outer measurements. A bed with raised sides may have less space to lie down in than its overall size suggests.
Start by removing any hair and checking the care label. Wash a removable cover on the recommended cycle and use a mild detergent. Make sure all parts are completely dry before putting them back together. If an inner cushion isn’t machine-washable, only spot-clean it if the product information says to.
Its lifespan depends on the materials, your dog’s weight, scratching and chewing, and how often you wash it. Check the seams, zips, non-slip layer and filling regularly. Replace the bed if it’s damaged or the filling is visible.