The best dog beds, tried and tested by canine experts

Telegraph

07-03-2025

Did you know, dogs sleep on average 11-14 hours a day, increasing as the dog ages? Studies show that dogs who sleep more during the day are happier, more relaxed and more receptive to training, so finding the best dog bed that ensures your pooch gets enough rest, can make your life easier. But with so many available, from orthopaedic pet beds to raised dog beds and everything in between, how do you choose?
Qualified veterinary nurse and canine behaviourist Rachel Bean explains, 'It's really important that your dog's bed offers plenty of space to stretch out and lie flat. Consider the size of your dog and whether they'll have enough room to move around while they are on the bed. Round hard beds are not advised by veterinary physiotherapists because they force the dog to sleep curled up, which can cause back and joint issues.'
To help you pick the best dog bed, I've tested a selection on multiple dogs with varying needs. From puppies to rescues who might benefit from a waterproof dog bed, elderly dogs whose old bones would love a memory foam dog bed, and nervous hounds who just want to feel cosy and safe. You can read my reviews below, followed by some answers to frequently asked questions. But if you're in a hurry, here's a look at my top five:
Which are the best dog beds? At a glance
Do dogs prefer beds with sides?
'This is really a personal preference,' Rachel says. Some dogs feel more secure in an enclosed space and a bed with sides can provide a feeling of being held and hidden. A dog bunk bed can be a great choice for this, as these give your pet the choice of being sheltered or exposed. However, a bed with no sides, or a dog cushion, might be better for allowing your dog to fully stretch out. Whereas a dog sofa bed would probably be the first choice for a pampered pooch.
How we tested the best dog beds
As well as testing most of these beds at home with my own rescue dog Ginger (centre), I had my dog-owning friends rate how much their pets seemed to enjoy them, too. We noted whether they helped with any specific issues (e.g. anxiety) and any specific features (e.g. waterproof, machine washable, etc). I also rated how a memory foam dog bed compared to an orthopaedic pet bed and of course, value for money,
Best dog beds
1. Baker & Bray Eco Luxury Orthopaedic Pet Bed
Currently £89.99, Baker & Bray
Best dog bed overall, 10/10
We like: orthopaedic, cooling and offers anti-anxiety features
We don't like: it's not a waterproof dog bed, so not the best for accident-prone pups
Eco-friendly and machine washable fabric cover
100 night guarantee
Available in 2 sizes
The Baker & Bray ticks more boxes and meets a wider variety of needs than any other bed we tested. Its unique geometric shape is designed to calm nervous dogs and the specially created memory foam cushion is designed to prevent overheating. Meanwhile, the beautiful Scandi aesthetic machine washable cover(available in multiple colours) means that humans can appreciate it too.
Every part is made from recycled materials, not just the fabric cover which has been woven using recycled ocean-bound plastic bottles (officially verified by the Global Recycle Standard (GRS). This is a memory foam dog bed, and the mattress has been created using repurposed, premium-grade foam from human bed off-cuts and the bolster is filled with surplus material from the textile industry. The patch is made out of vegan leather and every aspect is non-toxic and hypoallergenic.
Our doggy tester had three beds to choose from, including a dog sofa bed, a luxury dog bed and a raised dog bed, but this is the one she kept coming back to. She slept soundly throughout the day and night and seemed very happy indeed. Her owner loves that the cushion is easy to remove and machine washable. The 100-night money back guarantee is a bonus, too.
2. Three Peaks Anti-Bacterial Dog Bed
From £35, Pets At Home
Best value dog bed, 8/10
We like: the cushion is treated with an anti-bacterial treatment to help reduce bacteria levels within 24 hours
We don't like: cushion cover can't be removed
Anti-bacterial
Fully machine washable
Available in 3 sizes
This cosy bed was tested by Remix, a small dog who had never wanted to use a bed before. Much to her owner's surprise, she took to this one right away and seemed very comfortable.
For a low-cost small dog bed, it comes with impressive features, including a non-slip base which makes it a good choice for excitable pups like her who like to leap into bed. But perhaps the most notable feature is the cushion which has been treated with anti-bacterial agent Reputex 48.
Remix's owner noticed that, unlike other beds, it stayed fresh with minimal smell even after a couple of weeks of use and no washing. The fabric is wipe-clean. When you do machine-wash it, the cover isn't removable, so you have to put the whole cushion into the washing machine, which takes longer to dry than a cover alone.
Finally, for those concerned with helping save the planet, you'll be pleased to read that the filling is recycled.
3. Red Dog Classic Dog Bed
£265, The Red Dog Company
Best orthopaedic dog bed, 9/10
We like: veterinary-approved orthopaedic pet bed design for optimum joint support
We don't like: not a raised dog bed, which can be helpful for older dogs
Vet approved orthopaedic mattress
100% wool fleece topper and filling
Moisture-wicking
As dogs age, not only do they need more sleep, but they require extra support too. The Red Dog classic beds provide a vet-approved orthopaedic surface, not just on the base but all around the sides too, for your companion to get seriously comfy on.
Our tester was a blind, arthritic 13 year old pointer mix who is used to sleeping on her owner's bed but can no longer jump up to it. No other dog bed has ever interested her, but the Red Dog bed was an instant hit.
This luxury dog bed is firm all round for optimal comfort levels and support, which also gives it a very neat appearance. A waterproof liner is a useful addition to protect the mattress, should any accidents happen. Our pointer's owner was also impressed with the smart British tweed cover, made by a traditional family-owned weaving mill in the heart of West Yorkshire. The whole bed is made in Britain.
A great reason for choosing a wool bed like this is that it has excellent thermoregulating properties, meaning it will help your dog stay warm in winter and cool in summer. It's also hypoallergenic and self-cleaning, but when you do want to give it a proper wash, the cover can be easily removed and chucked in the washing machine.
The only down-side to this orthopaedic pet bed is that there's no option for it to be a raised dog bed, which can be helpful for elderly dogs who struggle to get up and down. Choosing a raised dog bed also helps to avoid any problems with damp and mould. However, the second point is dealt with by the water-resistant base and the natural antibacterial properties of wool.
Fully customisable
Eco-friendly
Available in 3 sizes
This large dog bed is hand-made using sustainable hard or soft wood from forests managed by the FSC & PEFC. You can choose from a range of 16 colours and four leg styles.
Although it comes in smaller sizes, we were impressed by the size of the largest one is. A generous 185 x 75cm can provide a comfortable place to rest for even the largest of dogs, or two smaller dogs curled up together. For owners who might be considering getting two beds, this makes the price even more reasonable.
While it's not an orthopaedic pet bed, it is made of memory foam, so the mattress offers a spongy yet firm surface. The extra-large size also gives them plenty of room to stretch out - something which can be hard to come by for very big dogs.
Our tester, a German Shepherd, certainly made the most of all that space. His owner found it nice to look at and very well made, with solid wooden slats and high quality materials. This will explain the company's willingness to offer an 11 year guarantee.
5. The Really Tough Tuffie Waterproof Dog Bed
From £235, Tuffies
Best dog bed for puppies, 9/10
We like: the totally chew-proof construction
We don't like: the high cost
Easy to clean
Waterproof
Optional soft covers
While some dogs will curl up and sleep soundly, others have somewhat destructive habits. Chewing and digging are two very common canine urges, particularly for puppies or stressed dogs - usually when the owner is absent. This can present a big problem when trying to find a bed that can withstand this abuse.
Fortunately, Tuffies have created the ideal solution with their incredibly durable 'Really Tough Tuffie', whose inner fabric can't be ripped out and whose robust plastic surround can't be grabbed by the side teeth. On top of this, every inch of the sturdy material makes this a very waterproof dog bed, so when it's time for a clean all you have to do is hose it down and leave it outside to dry.
To really put this one through its paces, we decided to test this on a large and energetic Labrador puppy, a breed known for destructive habits. As suspected, our tester did try to chew the bed, but to no avail. Just as advertised, the bed is seriously tough. It is also surprisingly comfortable too, with a supportive futon mattress hidden away underneath the waterproof cover.
It is undoubtedly pricey, but considering how much our Labrador's owner has already splashed out on beds that were quickly destroyed, they think it's worth it.
6. Omlet Topology Dog Bed
From £139, Omlet
Best raised dog bed, 9/10
We like: the customisable look and firm, memory foam dog bed
We don't like: slightly noisy bean-bag style topper (optional)
Raised bed
Customisable
Available in 3 sizes
Topology beds are completely customisable, with a wide range of bases and toppers (from sheepskin to microfibre fleece). This is definitely a luxury dog bed (without the luxury price tag) for the style conscious pet owner. You can choose to have no legs, but we loved the look of the little wooden feet which gives it an armchair feel. There are a variety of other leg style.
Not only do the legs this make the bed very stylish, but they make this a raised dog bed, offering aid to older dogs who struggle to get up and down: the slight elevation is better for dogs struggling with arthritis or other joint issues.
And as it turns out, it's also attractive to dogs who have a penchant for nabbing your best chair. Our tester Jasper, a well-spoiled border terrier, was happy to give up his usual spot in lieu of his new Topology throne which had a sheepskin topper and an optional bolster.
Jasper's owner found the Topology raised dog bed beautiful, thoughtfully designed and good value, considering what you get compared to similarly-priced dog beds.
7. Earthbound Waterproof Flat Cushion Bed
From £41.99, My Pet Warehouse
Best waterproof dog bed, 8/10
We like: it's heavy-duty, waterproof and light
We don't like: it's not eco-friendly
100% waterproof
Machine washable
Maintains structure
Available in 2 sizes
If you're looking for a sturdy, resilient, waterproof dog bed that you can easily chuck in the car boot or use in the garden, this tough cushion is the one to go for. Unlike many other cushion beds, the filling is in three separate compartments to ensure the pillow maintains an even structure after washing. Usually, the hollow fibre moves around inside, resulting in uneven support for your dog.
Since the machine washable cushion is made entirely from heavy-duty polyester, it can take a lot of scratching, gnawing, movement water, wee and mud. This was very appealing to the owner of our tester, Oscar the Staffie, who she describes as an 'adventure dog'. They took the bed camping, onto the beach, into the garden and home again after a good rinse down. Of course, the bed isn't immune to all filth, but both the removable cover and cushion are waterproof and machine washable.
Despite not being as luxurious as other dog beds, it provided plenty of comfort for Oscar the adventure dog and gave him loads of room to stretch out.
8. Lords & Labradors Wooden Open Dog Crate
From £499.99, Lords & Labradors
Best dog bed for nervous dogs, 9/10
We like: beautiful and functional, as well as being comforting for nervous dogs
We don't like: it's pricey and cushions are sold separately
Optional drawer
Hand made from sustainably sourced FSC timber
Available in 3 sizes
This bed made the perfect, protective cave for brand new Romanian rescue dog Ginger, helping her feel safe and secure in a new environment. She was lucky enough to arrive (very nervous) to a selection of luxury dog beds. While the others left her feeling exposed and frightened, this crate bed gave her a place to hide away until she felt ready to come out. There are other options available, too, which are even more enclosed and come with a sliding door, ideal for crate training.
Although expensive, you're paying for a full piece of furniture here, not just a dog bed. This is perfect for smaller spaces, where the idea of having a large dog bed taking up room is unappealing. With this, you've got the drawer and surface space on top, allowing this luxury dog bed to fit seamlessly into your home and provide extra storage (which admittedly has ended up being used for dog toys, leads and treats).
This isn't cheap material - it's solid, wooden construction which arrives in five parts that easily screw together. There are a wide range of cushions to choose from, all of which are waterproof underneath a removable, machine washable fabric cover.
9. The Cornish Bed Company Dog Day Bed
Currently £1,600, The Cornish Bed Company
Best luxury dog bed, 9/10
We like: custom made and utterly beautiful
We don't like: it's very heavy and very expensive
Made from solid cast iron
Available in any colour
11 bed designs
If you're looking for the epitome of luxury dog beds, look no further. This is a handcrafted, cast-iron bed that is almost certainly more comfortable than many human beds. In fact, it's made exactly the same as the company's human-sized beds.
Other than the eye-watering price tag, it's hard to fault this stunning product, with its hand-poured cast knuckle joints for solid construction, its brass detailing and all-natural upholstered base made from wood and coconut fibres. It's really an heirloom. The dog and owner who got to test this one out couldn't find fault, other than the fact that the mattress isn't waterproof.
One fun aspect of this raised dog bed is that you can choose any colour for its powder coating paint finish. You can also order one of 11 designs that match their human bed range.
In additon to the high price, the mattresses are unfortunately sold separately through the brand's sister company, Naturalmat. These are not your ordinary mattresses of course, but organic, natural, sustainable mattresses handmade in Devon using the very finest non-toxic materials for extraordinarily pampered pooches.
10. Wainwright's Puppy Adventurer Self Warming Square Dog Bed
From £35, Pets At Home
Best dog bed for small dogs, 8/10
We like: the self-warming effect, for added comfort
We don't like: it's not very robust, so bad for chewers
Reversible heat reflective lining
Super soft
Machine washable
An anxious dog needs somewhere they can feel held and warm. This self-warming small dog bed provides a secure nest to help keep even the most nervous pup calm. The cushion has a layer of reflective material to retain body heat, along with a full fleece lining to make it super cosy.
It's great for puppies (there's actually a puppy-sized option, too) but beware, if your dog is a chewer this might not be the best choice. It isn't the most robust of beds. We had it tested by a gorgeous little bulldog who really enjoyed slumping down in his new bed and moving it around the house with him. It's very light and portable.
His owner also gave it the thumbs up for being totally machine washable and quick to dry, as well as being for how incredibly soft and squishy the fabric is. In the summer, you can flip the cushion to a cooler side without the heat-reflective layer.
11. Cooper Dog Bed
From £120, Circular Living
Best sofa bed for a dog, 8/10
We like: light cushion, removable cover
We don't like: it's not waterproof, only available in one colour
100% recycled material
Removable and washable cover
This light and durable cushion makes the ideal dog sofa bed, perfect for picking up and popping on the couch. The neat, rectangular, no-frills design means this can fit onto most sofas. The removable, washable cover is simple to remove and replace to keep your furniture clean. The half-and-half blend of cotton and linen gives this dog sofa bed an upmarket look and feel, while the 100% recycled cotton padding offers your dog all the support they need, without the use of chemical-laden materials.
Our tester particularly liked how light this pillow is, as she has arthritis – so taking dog beds on and off the sofa can be a challenge. Despite the difficulty she usually has, this offered a simple solution and appeared to be enjoyed by her dog, too, who stayed comfy and quiet throughout all their favourite TV shows.
Those who like to pick and choose the look of their dog bed will be disappointed to note that these are only available in one colour. However, it is a very chic tone that would fit with most décor.
12. Ducky Donut Bed in Weave II
From £260, Charley Chau
Best machine washable dog bed, 9/10
We like: easy to clean, extra resilient hi-tech fabric and elegant design
We don't like: expensive, waterproof liner is sold separately
Removable and washable cover
Hi-tech fabric
Fibreguard stain-guarding treatment
Most dog beds are machine washable – essential really, as every dog owner knows that nothing stays clean for long with pets around. However, not all are built to withstand regular washes, meaning with many dog beds you either have to suffer through the filth longer than you'd like to, or end up wearing through the material at a rate that's as bad for your bank balance as it is for the planet.
The new Charley Chau donut bed really stands out in this respect, boasting a new 'hi-tech' fabric that's hardy but soft. The Weave II fabric has been awarded a Martindale rub test score of 100,000 (matching upholstery used in 'severe commercial use settings') so it's incredibly resilient against the rough and tumble of weekly washes, and pet claws.
The outer covers are fully removable and machine washable, while the (optional) waterproof lining and fibreguard stain-guarding treatment helps keep the ethically sourced duck feather filled mattress pristine.
Testers have been impressed that even when washing their Ducky Donut dog bed every week, they still look good as new, making this an investment for a pet's lifetime and your home. Other than washing well, this bed also looks exceptionally smart, with three neutral colourways to choose from.
The circular design has been chosen to provide additional comfort, akin to the trend for 'calming' dog beds, but with more space for your pup to spread put (as recommended by our expert, Rachel Bean) and much sturdier construction.
Wipe clean padded mattress
Premium safety standards
Many dog owners don't realise that it's actually a legal requirement to have animals restrained when travelling in a vehicle. Your average dog bed really doesn't cut it. If you don't stick to the rules, you could end up with a £5,000 fine. Fortunately, Tavo has expertly engineered an enclosed dog car bed, complete with Isofix base, that raises the bar in pet safety standards.
While you could just put your dog in a crate, this option not only looks and feels much nicer, but it's also considerably safer for driver and dog. It adheres to the latest United Nations ECE child restraint standards, featuring side impact and crash-test-certified systems. The system has also been recognised with a Red Dot Design award, and can be securely into any car using a five-second True Lock Isofix installation, so there's no fiddling around trying to get it to work.
If you've ever used a baby car seat, it's pretty much the same. The canopy is even made from UPF 50+ fabric, providing the highest possible sun protection for summer drives.
If your pet feels nervous in the car, it might help them to have a dog car bed that can also be used in the house too. When brought indoors, this dog car bed can be used as a cosy nest for your dog to curl up it, and its rubber feet ensure it stays put when your pet jumps in and out.
Dog bed FAQs
Are orthopaedic dog beds worth buying?
Our expert, Rachel Bean, says yes. Orthopaedic pet beds are well worth buying 'especially for older and arthritic dogs.' But what makes a mattress orthopaedic? It all comes down the material it's made out of and it's not just about it being labelled as a memory foam dog bed.
While regular mattresses are usually made of cotton or foam, orthopaedic dog bed mattresses are made using firm materials, such as latex. This helps hold the body weight evenly, rather than allowing areas to sag down and lead to a build-up of pressure in a particular area - usually the neck, back and hips.
Memory foam dog beds are often passed off as orthopaedic pet beds since they mould to the shape of the body but, although more supportive than other materials, memory foam alone doesn't tick all the orthopaedic boxes. In actual fact, the best orthopaedic mattresses are created using a combination of springs, memory foam, reflex foam and other fillings.
What type of bed is best for dogs?
As Bean says above, the first thing to consider is size. Dogs should be able to fully stretch out when they sleep, since lying curled up can cause back and joint issues down the line. So even a medium sized dog may require a large dog bed. If in doubt, size up.
Should I choose a hard or soft bed?
Dogs can sleep on a hard surface, but they prefer having somewhere cosy to lie down, like on a memory foam dog bed. However, too soft isn't great for healthy joints, so try to find something that offers adequate support.
Are raised dog beds better for dogs?
Some dog beds are designed with feet, so they're raised off the ground, and dogs do seem to prefer them. While not essential, there are a number of benefits to choosing a raised dog bed, including better temperature regulation, making the bed easier to get in and out of and preventing bugs, mould and damp under the bed.
Do dogs prefer circle or square beds?
Jo Middleton, owner of Canine Principles (an ethical learning platform for canine professionals and dog owners) is an expert in all things dog welfare. She believes rectangle beds are best for dogs, whatever their size, so they can lie flat on their sides and fully stretch out – echoing the guidance of Rachel Bean.
Why do dog trainers use elevated dog beds?
'Dog trainers use elevated beds so that the dogs are not in a draft,' explains Middleton. 'Some breeds, for example greyhounds, most sight hounds and Staffies don't have undercoats, so they feel the cold more.'
Do dogs prefer hard or soft beds?
The general consensus across the board is that an orthopaedic mattress is always the best choice for your dog. Unlike a memory foam mattress, which is often confused for being the same as orthopaedic, an orthopaedic pet bed is created using a range of materials, as detailed in our above FAQ 'are orthopaedic dog beds worth buying?'
Where is the best place to put a dog bed in the house?
Jo Middleton says the best place to put a dog bed is somewhere where it is not in a thoroughfare. 'It's a good idea to place your dog bed out of the way, where the dog can go and have its own space. It's important for a dog to have somewhere to go where they feel safe, and won't be disturbed every two minutes.'
How to clean dog beds
Most dog beds are machine washable but if not, vacuum first, then soak in warm, soapy water with some bicarbonate of soda (a mild alkali) or white wine vinegar (a mild acid) to remove pet odours. Then rinse thoroughly and drip-dry. Don't use fabric conditioner or detergent, even on machine washable beds, since these can irritate your dog's skin and are harmful if ingested.