Pet Bed Buying Guide

October 5, 2026

Most advice on how to choose a dog bed sizes beds by weight alone, which is why so many beds end up too small, unused or returned. A 25 kg dog that sprawls needs a very different bed from a 25 kg dog that curls into a ball. This pet bed buying guide explains how to choose a dog bed by how your dog actually sleeps, why washability should be a top priority, and what support older and larger dogs need.

Key Takeaways

How to choose a dog bed: start with your dog's sleeping position, then measure.
Curlers suit round or bolster beds; sprawlers need a large, flat rectangular mattress.
Measure your dog stretched out and add about 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches).
Choose a removable, machine-washable cover, ideally with a waterproof liner.
Older and larger dogs need supportive foam and a low, easy entry.
Revisit how to choose a dog bed as your dog ages and its needs change.

Size by Sleep Position, Not Just Weight

Watch how your dog sleeps for a few days before you buy. It's the most important step in how to choose a dog bed.

Sleep position	What it looks like	Best bed type
Curler	Curled in a tight ball, nose to tail	Round, donut or bolster bed
Sprawler	Stretched out on the side or belly	Large rectangular mattress or flat bed
Leaner	Likes to rest against a wall or sofa	Bolster bed with raised sides
Burrower	Digs under blankets or cushions	Cave or hooded bed, or a bed plus a blanket
Back sleeper	Lies on its back, legs in the air	Flat, roomy mattress

Many dogs change position through the night or with the seasons, often curling in winter and sprawling in summer. If in doubt, size for the stretched-out position.

How to Measure Your Dog

Length: while your dog is lying stretched out, measure from the nose to the base of the tail.
Add space: add about 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches) so paws and head don't hang off.
Width: measure from the back to the outstretched paws and add a little extra.
Curlers: measure the diameter of the curled-up circle and add about 15 cm (6 inches).
Check inner dimensions: bolster beds lose space to their raised sides, so compare your measurements with the sleeping area, not the outer size.

Measuring this way is the most reliable answer to how to choose a dog bed that fits. Weight guides on packaging are a rough check, not the main measure.

Washability: Make It a Priority

Dog beds collect hair, dirt, drool, odours and sometimes fleas. A bed that's hard to wash becomes a problem within weeks. When thinking about how to choose a dog bed, put washability near the top of the list:

Removable cover: a zipped cover that comes off easily.
Machine-washable: check the label for washing temperature and drying instructions.
Waterproof liner: protects the foam or filling from accidents and drool.
Quick-drying fabric: so the bed isn't out of action for days.
A spare cover: lets you swap immediately on wash day.

Washing covers every one to two weeks keeps odours down and helps dogs with allergies. Small beds that fit whole into a washing machine are easiest of all.

Fillings and fabrics

Foam holds its shape longer than loose fibre, while shredded or fibre fillings can clump and need regular plumping. Tightly woven canvas and similar tough fabrics resist claws better than plush, and fleece is warm but collects hair. Material matters as much as size when working out how to choose a dog bed that lasts.

Support for Older and Larger Dogs

Older dogs, large breeds and dogs with joint problems need more than a soft cushion. Thin, fluffy beds can flatten so the dog ends up on the hard floor.

Supportive foam: orthopaedic or memory foam spreads weight evenly. Thicker foam suits heavier dogs.
Low entry: a low edge or step makes getting in and out easier for stiff joints.
Non-slip base: stops the bed sliding as your dog lies down or gets up.
Raised bolster: gives a headrest and helps some dogs push up to stand.
Steps or a ramp: if your older dog sleeps on the sofa or your bed.

For senior dogs, how to choose a dog bed is about comfort and safety as much as size. If your dog seems stiff or sore, talk to your vet too.

Beds for puppies

Puppies grow quickly, chew and have accidents. Start with an inexpensive, washable bed or crate pad, then upgrade once your dog's adult size and sleeping habits are clear. That keeps how to choose a dog bed simple during the puppy months.

Dog Bed Types Compared

Bed type is the next decision in how to choose a dog bed.

Bed type	Best for	Watch out for
Bolster or donut	Curlers and leaners	Smaller sleeping area than the outer size
Flat mattress	Sprawlers and back sleepers	Little edge support
Orthopaedic foam	Older, large and arthritic dogs	Higher price; check the cover is washable
Elevated or cot bed	Warm climates, outdoors, dogs that run hot	Less cosy; height may not suit stiff dogs
Cave or hooded bed	Burrowers and small dogs	Can be warm in summer
Cooling mat or bed	Hot weather	Not a full-time bed in winter
Portable or travel bed	Holidays, visits, cars	Usually thinner

Elevated dog bed benefits

Raised beds lift dogs off cold, damp or hot floors, allow air to circulate underneath and are easy to hose down outdoors. They're a great choice for dogs that run hot. Very small dogs or stiff older dogs may find the height awkward, so choose a low model for them. For dogs that run hot, an elevated frame is often the answer to how to choose a dog bed.

Beds for Chewers

Chewing changes how to choose a dog bed. If your dog chews beds, choose tough fabrics, hidden zips, no loose tassels and, ideally, a sturdy elevated frame. Supervise at first, and remove a damaged bed before stuffing is swallowed. Bed chewing is often a sign of boredom or anxiety, so look at the cause too. Our guide to the best interactive toys for bored dogs can help.

Where to Put the Bed

Placement completes how to choose a dog bed well.

In a quiet, draught-free spot, but close to the family.
Away from radiators, heaters and direct sunlight.
On a flat surface, not a slippery one.
Many dogs enjoy a second bed in a different room.

Common Mistakes

Buying by weight alone and ending up with a bed that's too small.
Choosing a cover that can't be removed or washed.
Picking a very soft bed for an older dog that needs support.
Ignoring chewing until the bed is destroyed.

Avoiding these is the quickest route to getting how to choose a dog bed right first time.

Watch how your dog sleeps, measure properly, prioritise washability and add support for older dogs. That's how to choose a dog bed your dog will actually use. For a calm, settled home, see our guide on how to get a dog used to grooming, which also covers reading stress signals.

Dog Beds From Global Swanky

These beds suit different sleepers. Use this guide on how to choose a dog bed to check sizing before you buy. Browse more in our Pet Cleaning and Grooming collection.

5. Summer Wooden Dog Bed

The Pet Dog Bed, Summer Wooden Bed for Small and Large Dogs is $125.68, a raised wooden frame for dogs that run hot.

6. Pet Stair Ladder

The Pet Stair Ladder Dog Stair, Easy Climb for Cats and Dogs is $57.24, helping older dogs reach sofas and beds safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you choose a dog bed?

Watch how your dog sleeps, measure them stretched out from nose to base of tail and add 20 to 30 cm, choose a bed type that suits their position, and prioritise a removable, washable cover.

What size dog bed do I need?

Measure your dog lying stretched out from nose to the base of the tail, then add about 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches). For curlers, measure the curled circle and add about 15 cm.

What is the best bed for an older dog?

A supportive orthopaedic or memory foam bed with a low entry, a non-slip base and a washable cover. Add steps or a ramp if your dog sleeps on furniture.

Are elevated dog beds good?

Yes, especially for dogs that run hot or sleep outdoors. They lift dogs off cold or damp floors and improve airflow, but very small or stiff older dogs may prefer a low bed.

How often should you wash a dog bed?

Wash the cover every one to two weeks, and more often if your dog has allergies, sheds heavily or has accidents. A waterproof liner protects the filling between washes.

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