Learning how to choose a dog bed comes down to four simple decisions: the right size, the right sleep style, the right bed type, and the right material. Get those four right and your dog gets deeper, more restful sleep — get them wrong and you end up with an expensive bed your dog refuses to use. This guide walks you through each step, with a size chart you can save and real recommendations for every kind of sleeper.
Quick answer: Measure your dog nose-to-tail while they're lying down, add 8–10 inches, then match that size to a bed type that suits how your dog sleeps (curled, sprawled, or burrowed) and their age or joint needs. Prioritise a removable, machine-washable cover.
Why the Right Dog Bed Matters
A good bed is more than a comfort upgrade. Dogs sleep 12–14 hours a day, and the surface they sleep on directly affects their joints, posture, and sleep quality. The right dog bed supports aging hips and elbows, keeps your dog off cold hard floors, gives anxious dogs a sense of security, and contains shedding and dander in one washable spot instead of across your sofa. Choosing well now can also delay or ease joint problems later, especially in large breeds and seniors.
Step 1 — Measure Your Dog for the Right Size
Size is the single most common mistake owners make. A bed that's too small forces your dog to curl tighter than they'd like; one that's too big can feel exposed and insecure.
How to measure: Wait until your dog is lying down in their favourite sleeping position. Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, then add 8–10 inches to that length. That total is your minimum bed length. When in doubt, round up to the next size — dogs rarely complain about too much room to stretch.
Dog Bed Size Chart by Weight
Use your dog's weight as a quick starting point, then confirm with the nose-to-tail measurement above.
| Bed Size | Dog Weight | Typical Breeds | Recommended Bed Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 25 lb (11 kg) | Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Dachshund | 24" or less |
| Medium | 25–50 lb (11–23 kg) | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Border Collie | 30–36" |
| Large | 50–90 lb (23–41 kg) | Labrador, Boxer, German Shepherd | 36–42" |
| Extra Large | 90 lb+ (41 kg+) | Great Dane, Mastiff, St. Bernard | 42–54" |
Tip: Puppies grow fast. If you have a large-breed puppy, buy for the adult size they'll reach, or expect to upgrade within a year.
Step 2 — Know Your Dog's Sleep Style
Watch how your dog naturally settles. Most dogs fall into one of four sleep styles, and each one points to a different bed shape:
- Curlers wrap into a tight ball and like edges to lean against → bolster or donut/calming beds.
- Burrowers dig, nest, and like to disappear under blankets → covered or hooded "cave" beds.
- Sprawlers stretch out flat on their side or back → flat orthopedic mats or large rectangular beds.
- Leaners rest their head and legs on a raised edge → bolster beds with a raised rim on at least one side.
Matching the bed shape to how your dog already sleeps is the fastest way to make sure they'll actually use it.
Step 3 — Choose the Right Bed Type
Once you know size and sleep style, pick the type. Here's how the main options compare:
| Bed Type | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Orthopedic (memory foam) | Seniors, large breeds, joint issues | Even support that relieves pressure on hips and elbows |
| Bolster / sofa | Leaners and curlers | Raised edges for head/neck support and security |
| Calming / donut | Anxious dogs, curlers | Round, plush walls that create a sense of safety |
| Elevated / cot | Hot climates, outdoor use | Airflow underneath keeps dogs cool; easy to hose down |
| Flat mat / pad | Crates, travel, sprawlers | Lightweight, portable, fits inside crates and carriers |
If your dog is older or shows any stiffness, lean toward an orthopedic dog bed. If they're nervous, pace, or hate being left alone, a calming dog bed is usually the better starting point. You can browse all of our options in the full dog beds collection.
Step 4 — Pick the Best Material & Support
The fill determines how long the bed lasts and how much support it gives.
- Memory / orthopedic foam holds its shape and cradles joints — the best choice for seniors, heavy dogs, and any dog with arthritis. Look for a solid foam base rather than loose shredded fill if support is the priority.
- Poly-fill / cotton padding is softer and cheaper, fine for young, healthy dogs that just want something cosy, but it flattens faster.
- Cover fabric matters too: tight-weave canvas or ripstop resists scratching and chewing, while plush fleece adds warmth for dogs that like to nestle.
For large or senior dogs, prioritise high-density foam — thin foam compresses to the floor under their weight and offers little real support.
Don't Forget Washability & Maintenance
A bed your dog loves is also a bed that collects hair, dander, drool, and the occasional muddy paw. Choose a bed with a removable, machine-washable cover and, ideally, a fill or inner liner that can also be washed. Aim to wash the cover roughly once a week to keep allergens and odour down.
If easy cleaning is a priority — homes with shedding breeds, puppies, or allergies — start with our washable dog beds, which feature removable covers built for frequent laundering.
Special Cases: Puppies, Seniors & Anxious Dogs
- Puppies: Choose something durable and washable (accidents happen) and inexpensive enough that you won't mind replacing it as they grow and chew. A flat mat or a sturdy bolster works well.
- Seniors & arthritic dogs: Go orthopedic, with a low entry height so they don't have to climb. Solid memory foam relieves pressure on aging joints.
- Anxious dogs: A calming dog bed with raised, surrounding walls helps dogs that are nervous, reactive, or struggle with being alone feel safely enclosed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size dog bed should I get? Measure your dog nose-to-tail while lying down and add 8–10 inches. Use that number as the minimum bed length, and round up to the next size if your dog likes to stretch out.
How often should I replace a dog bed? Most beds last 1–3 years. Replace it sooner if the foam has flattened, the cover is torn, or it no longer springs back when your dog gets up — flattened beds stop supporting joints.
Is memory foam safe for dogs? Yes. Quality pet memory foam is designed for safe, long-term use and gives the best joint support, which is why it's recommended for seniors and large breeds.
What's the best dog bed for a dog that chews? Look for a tough, tight-weave cover (canvas or ripstop) and avoid loose stuffing. For heavy chewers, an elevated cot-style bed with no soft fill removes the temptation entirely.
Should I get a covered or open bed? Covered "cave" beds suit burrowers and anxious dogs that like to hide; open beds suit sprawlers and dogs that run warm. Watch how your dog already sleeps and match it.
Putting It All Together
Choosing the right dog bed is simple when you take it one step at a time: measure for size, match the shape to your dog's sleep style, pick the bed type that fits their age and needs, and choose a supportive, washable material. Do that, and you'll buy once instead of twice.
Ready to find the perfect fit? Shop our dog beds collection → — free shipping on every order. Have a cat too? Browse our cat beds as well.