Luxury Dog Beds

A dog sleeps twelve to fourteen hours a day, so the bed is the piece of equipment it uses most. The difference between a cheap bed and a good one shows up in two places: whether the filling still supports the dog after six months, and whether the cover can actually be washed.

Choosing the type

• Donut and bolster beds suit dogs that curl and lean against an edge, which is most small breeds.
• Orthopedic and memory-foam for seniors, large breeds and any dog with joint problems. Support matters more than plushness here.
• Sofa and lounger styles for dogs that sprawl and stretch out.
• Calming and fur-style beds for anxious dogs that burrow.

Sizing

Measure the dog lying down in its normal sleeping position, nose to tail base, and add roughly six inches. Dogs that curl can go smaller; dogs that sprawl need the larger size. A bed that is too small is the most common reason a dog ignores a new bed and returns to the sofa.

What to check

A removable, machine-washable cover, a non-slip base for hard floors, and filling that recovers when pressed rather than staying compressed. For seniors, a low entry edge matters more than depth.

Frequently asked questions

What size dog bed do I need?

Measure the dog stretched out and add about six inches. Err larger for dogs that sprawl.

Are orthopedic beds worth it for older dogs?

For dogs with arthritis or joint pain, firm supportive foam usually makes a visible difference to how easily they get up.

Why won't my dog use its new bed?

Usually size, placement or smell. Put it where the dog already sleeps and add a blanket that smells of home.