It is a heartwarming sight for any dog owner to see their pooch cuddled up and sleeping soundly. And it’s usually much more comfortable if they’re snoozing in their own bed rather than trying to share yours. So, many pet owners go on the search for the best dog bed they can find that will be comfortable, supportive, possibly even chew proof but one that their pet will love.
In this best dog bed review, we've taken a look at five top rated dog beds, with quality and comfort in mind, to give you several great choices for your pet. Whether you have a large breed, like a German Shepherd, or a smaller one, like a Pug, they all need a warm spot to call their own.
We want to help you find the best dog bed ever by providing details on manufacturer, materials, size options, and more to help you make the best choice. We also include several dog bed reviews so you can see what other pet parents have to say about each of them.
So, let’s get started finding the perfect dog bed for your pet that will make you both happy for years to come.
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| Image | Dog Bed Brand | Material | Size (inches) | Washable | Price | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Memory Foam | 47 x 29 x 4 |  | $$ | 2 Years | |
| Memory Foam | 52 x 36 x 7 | | 10 Years | ||
| Memory Foam | 49 x 35 x 8 | | 1 Year | ||
| Memory Foam | 36 x 28 x 9 | | 1 Year | ||
| Polyester Fibers | 52 x 36 x 14 | | $$s | 2 Months | |
| Polyester Fibers | 25 x 21 x 8 | | Unknown | ||
| Polyester Fibers | 34 x 24 x 4 | | Unknown | ||
| 100% Recyclable Micro Fibers | 25 x 21 x 10 | | Unknown | ||
| Polyester Fibers | 27 x 21 x 8 | | Unknown | ||
| Memory Foam | 40 x 35 x 4 | | Unknown |
Different Types of Dog Beds
It may sound a little confusing at first when you’re trying to tell the difference between a pillow bed, a nest bed, and an orthopedic bed. It’s important to know the difference in styles so you can choose the one that fits your pet’s size and personality the best. Here’s an overview of each type of dog bed style.
The Pillow Bed
The pillow bed is one of the most common types of dog beds you’ll see. Some also refer to it as the “standard” type. They are generally round or rectangular in shape, and are filled with a soft material, like polyester or foam, to make the bed comfortable. Some may even contain cedar chips to help keep odors or insects at bay. Many pillow beds can also be machine washed in whole or have covers that can be removed and washed.
This type of bed provides easy access, since your pet doesn't have to navigate any tall sides or a raised platform, they can just lay right down with ease. This style is also the easiest to use inside a crate or carrier because of the versatility and many shapes available.
Some extra options offered with the pillow bed style are memory foam filling and extra-soft top covers. These beds also come in a wide variety of sizes to fit every breed you can think of, and can come in designer colors as well to fit many home decors.
The Nest Bed
The nest style bed is like a pillow bed, but has the extra feature of raised edges. Its name comes from the “bird nest” design that allows your dog to snuggle and burrow. This style is also called a “donut” bed, as they generally come in a round shape with the cushioned bottom and raised sides.
This style is great for those pets that like to curl up and feel protected from all sides. The design can also help keep more body heat than a simple pillow bed. For dogs that like to rest their head on something when sleeping, the sides can give them a perfect spot for that.
A sub-set of this style is called a “bolster bed,” which means that the edges do not go all the way around the bed, but are usually just on either one or two sides. The bolster version of the nest bed can be great for dogs that need easier access to the bed without having to step over the sides.
Burrowing pets will love this style as it makes them feel safe and protected. Some nest beds go beyond the typical bird nest style to include a thin fabric cover over the top, for burrowing. Others are more beanbag in style with less structure.
The Cot or Couch Style Bed
What makes this style special isn’t only that Fido looks adorable sitting on a doggie version of a sofa. What’s most significant is that they are raised off the floor or ground. This is why they can also be found by the term “elevated bed.” Some pet parents like getting a little matching couch for their beloved dog, but these beds offer some unique benefits due to the height.
A cot or couch style bed can keep pets cooler in the summer, by raising them off a hotter floor or ground. Likewise, in the winter they can protect your dog from chilly floor, allowing them to sleep more comfortably. Using a cot style bed outdoors can also protect your pet from bugs or damp ground.
Larger dogs might find a raised bed easier to get in and out of. But smaller dogs or those with arthritis could have a more difficult time with a cot or couch style dog bed. Another benefit of this type of bed is that it is breathable and allows airflow. They also tend to stay cleaner than beds with pillow construction, but some pets might not find them quite as comfortable.
The Orthopedic Bed
If you have an older pet that suffers from joint pain or a dog that is recovering from surgery, then an orthopedic bed can make a world of difference to them. These beds are typically made with supportive materials, like a foam inset that will keep its shape, and are made to help relieve joint stress. Some even come with a “non-flattening” warranty.
An orthopedic bed can come in any of the above styles, pillow, nest or cot. The filling sets these beds apart from the rest. They usually have medical-grade orthopedic foam inserts to provide maximum support. You’ll even find that they use similar materials to human beds, like the same type of memory foam in a Beautyrest mattress.
Many of the best rated dog beds that are orthopedic offer heated pad insets to sooth sore muscles and joints. The heating pad accessory can also help keep chills at bay during the winter months. These beds are great for older dogs of all types, are post surgery, or dogs that have arthritis.
Overview of Our 5 Top Rated Dog Beds for 2017
Comfort is key when you’re looking for looking for the best dog bed ever for your beloved pet. While price can also be a factor, most pet owners just want to find a bed where their dog can sleep peacefully and will enjoy for years.
You’ll find our best dog beds review includes details on several key factors. We will look at the type of materials the beds are made from, available sizes and options. And, most importantly, what dog owners are saying about them in their dog bed reviews.
1. Dogbed4less Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed for Small, Medium to XL Large Pet
This is one of the dog beds designed to provide orthopedic support for your pet. It includes a 4” non-toxic memory foam insert that is five times denser than regular foam. It comes in a total of six different sizes to comfort your dog no matter what size they are.
This is a rectangular pillow style bed and the sizes range from 35”x20”x4” for small to medium dogs, up to a jumbo size that is 55”x47”x4”. The bed includes 2 comfortable layers, and has a heavy duty washable denim external zipper cover in blue. It has a waterproof internal zipper case for easy cleaning. There is also an extra bonus external micro suede brown cover that comes with it. So, your dog never has to go without their bed while one cover is in the washing machine.
Dog owners give this bed an impressive rating of 4.7 stars out of 5, with a stunning 83% of reviewers giving it 5 stars. The reviews include many that state “my dog loves this bed!” They also confirm that it is true memory foam, and not just a cheap substitute. One happy reviewer with a 12-year old lab having leg and hip issues shared a video, and said she could not be more pleased with the bed.
2. Big Barker 7" Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large and Extra Large Breed Dogs (Headrest Edition)
The Big Barker lives up to the name by providing a hefty 7” of cushion with their orthopedic dog bed. They state that this bed is “too powerful for smaller dogs,” and is designed for the largest breeds. This bed also includes a comfortable headrest pillow at one end so your big dog can sleep in full comfort, just like you.
This bed comes in three sizes, Large (48”x30”x7”), Extra Large (52”x36”x7”), and Giant (60”x48”x7”). It also is available in three décor matching colors, burgundy, chocolate, and khaki. The bed has a 10-year guarantee that the foam will retain 90% of its original shape and loft and won’t flatten over time. The cover is easy to clean and machine washable.
Pet parents giving reviews of this product love this bed, giving it 4.9 stars out of 5, and a whopping 94% of them give it 5 stars. You can see a reviewer video demonstrating how study this bed is here. He says the XL size fits his German Shepherd perfectly. Another big dog owner with a 100 lb Rottweiler that was post surgery praised this bed as “heaven sent” and said it was not even in the same class as others.
3. Armarkat Pet Bed Mat 49-Inch by 35-Inch by 8-Inch M02HjH/MB-Extra Large, Ivory
Armarkat is a popular brand of pet bed, and their extra large sized 49”x35”x8” pet bed is perfect for larger pets and multiple pets sharing the space. The 8” cushion ensures extra plush comfort and the bed features a skid free base and waterproof lining. The cover is also removable for machine washing.
Any large dog should enjoy this rectangular pillow style bed. Pet parents will also like the pleasing burgundy color with a fluffy ivory top. The bed is made of heavy duty canvas material with zippered opening for easy cleaning. It is filled with extra thick 100 percent poly fill for maximum comfort.
This bed gets a very respectable 4.2 stars out of 5 stars from pet owner, an impressive 79% of them giving it either 4 or 5 stars. One reviewer posted adorable photos of her “dog tested and very dog approved” Armarkat Pet Bed. Many other reviewers mention that it is an excellent buy and their dogs love it. One reviewer said they had to order a second one because their St. Bernard’s fought over the one they had.
4. PetFusion Ultimate Pet Bed & Lounge In Premium Edition with Solid Memory Foam
If you’re looking for ultimate comfort in an adorable nest style bed, the Pet Fusion Ultimate Pet Bed & Lounge may be just what you’re looking for. The bed has a cushion that runs about 90% around the edge of the bed for maximum snuggling. It’s made of 4-inch memory foam to help reduce joint pain and provide a supportive and comfortable resting place for your pet.
This bed is ideal for any size dog or multiple dog (or cat) families. It comes in small (25”x20”x5.5”), large (36”x28”x9”), and X-Large (44”x34”x10”) sizes. The water resistant cover comes in a pleasing light grey color and is removable for easy machine washing. The bed is filled with recycled “green” polyfill support and durable polyester and cotton. Replacement covers are available.
Reviewers find this one of the best dog beds they can find, giving it 4.7 stars out of 5 stars, and an impressive 84% of reviewers gave it 5 stars. One reviewer posted photos of her large dog Cole. He was finally happy with a bed once she chose this one, and thought for sure he would recommend it to other doggies. Other reviewers remarked that it was very supportive and great or older or arthritic pets.
5. 52 inch Chocolate Suede Bagel Dog Bed By Majestic Pet Products
This cozy nest style bed is fit for any dog that is the king of his castle. It is made of heavy duty water-proof material with a comfortable and snuggle-worthy outer ring. It is stuffed with a super premium high loft polyester fiberfill and is machine washable in an oversize washer on the gentle cycle.
This bed comes in a chocolate color and is 52”x36” to fit most sized dogs. The bed is made from a plush microsuede to give your dog a luxurious night’s sleep. The bed fits perfectly in any room and the fiberfill is made from recycled materials.
Pet owners rated this bed an impressive 4.6 stars out of 5 stars. One happy dog owner has an adorable video of his dog Chance romping around that also shows how big this bed actually is. Other reviewers mention how cushy and comfortable the bed is and that it fits medium to larger sized dogs well. Some mention that it may be difficult to get your dog out of their new snuggle spot.
5 More Best Rated Dog Beds
If you’d like to search a little more, here are a few other beds to take a look at:
Best Dog Bed Buyers Guide | What to Look For In a Dog Bed
There are several considerations to keep in mind when choosing the perfect bed for your treasured pet. Here are some tips to find one they will actually take comfort in and enjoy. Even though we may not speak the same language, there are several cues that your dog will give you to help you choose the best bed.
Besides just knowing your dog’s weight and size, it’s important to know their personality type. Do they get scared easily and prefer a quiet, cave or nest? Do they have special needs due to age or illness? Considering your dog’s personal traits and needs will go a long way to helping you find the best bed for them.
Watch how your dog sleeps. Does your dog sleep curled up in a little ball and like to snuggle either with you or another pet in the family? If so, then a nest style bed with bolsters on the edges may be a good pick for them. But, if they like to stretch out, then a flat pillow style that doesn’t restrict their movements might be the one they find most comfortable.
Review the Filling Material. Not all fillers are created equal. Some dog bed padding flattens in just a few months, while other types of foams are more study and keep their shape. If you’re looking for an orthopedic bed, you will definitely want to review the filler materials. And see what warranties the manufacturer makes as to “non-flattening” guarantees.
Consider the Temperature. Do you live in a warmer, southern climate? If so, then your pet may prefer a less cozy bed that has an edge and instead may enjoy a flat cot style with a cooling airflow. If you live in a colder climate or have cold winters, then a bed either with an added warming pad or one that your pet can burrow into may be the best pick.
Positioning is Important. Where you place your dog’s bed can be just as important as the bed itself. You should find a good balance between giving them a quite space when needed and letting them hang out with the people they love. Most pets want to be around their family, so positioning their bed in a far off corner of the laundry room might not be the best place. If you find the right spot, then your dog is much more likely to hang out in their bed during their down time.
Use Your Measuring Tape. No one wants to go through the trouble of purchasing an awesome bed or their dog, only to find that it’s too small and his legs are hanging off the edge. You can easily avoid any mistakes in choosing the size of your dog’s bed by taking their length measurement when they’re lying down. Then just add about 12” to their measurement to estimate the perfect size bed.
Best Dog Bed Review Conclusion
We all know how important our bed is to our own peace and well being, and it’s no different for your dog. The right place to rest can make a world of difference in their health, mood, energy, and vitality. It’s also very comforting for any pet to have their own spot where they can get away from any noise and just relax and know they’re safe and sound.
While it can seem a bit daunting at first to choose the bed that will make your pet happy, it doesn't have to be hard. Just follow the tips in our best dog beds review and take a look over these excellent top 5 choices for beds. It should make the choice much easier and you and your dog should both sleep well and rested.
Product images sourced from Amazon.com