How to Choose the Right Pet Bed for Your Pet

You love your pet, but that pancake they call “sleeping position” on your couch isn’t exactly ergonomic. A good bed can fix that. The right one keeps joints happy, fur off your pillow, and your pet from stealing your side of the sofa. Let’s get you from “random fluffy thing” to “this bed slaps” in a few minutes.

Start With Your Pet’s Sleep Style

Some pets curl into cinnamon rolls. Others stretch like yoga instructors. Their sleep style tells you a lot about the shape and support they want.

• Curlers: Look for donut or bolster beds with raised edges. The walls give them a cozy, den-like vibe.
• Stretchers: Go for flat, rectangular mattresses with space to sprawl.
• Leaners & Head-resters: Bolsters or sofa-style beds win. They love a place to prop their chin like tiny royalty.
• Burrowers: Cave beds or blankets attached to the bed make them feel secure and hidden.
• Hot sleepers: Elevated cots, mesh platforms, or cooling gel toppers keep temps down.
• Cold sleepers: Faux fur, sherpa, and memory foam keep them warm and snug.

Quick test

Watch your pet for a few nights. Do they circle and tuck? Or flop and sprawl? That’s your first filter—no fancy quiz needed.

Measure Like You Mean It

Forget “small/medium/large.” Those labels lie. Measure your pet from nose to base of tail while sleeping in their typical position.

• Length: Add 6–12 inches for wiggle room (larger pets need more).
• Height of sides: If your pet has short legs or arthritis, avoid high bolsters they must climb.
• Weight rating: Heavier pets compress foam more, so thickness matters—aim for 4–6 inches for big dogs.

Pro tip (IMO)

If you’re between sizes, size up. No one ever says, “I wish this nap cloud were smaller.”

Materials Matter (More Than the Pattern)

Yes, the plaid is cute. No, your pet doesn’t care. Focus on the inside first.

• Memory foam: Great for joint support and older pets. Look for high-density, not flimsy toppers.
• Orthopedic foam: A firmer foam that supports hips and elbows. Awesome for large breeds.
• Polyfill: Fluffy and cheap, but compresses quickly. Fine for light or young pets.
• Egg-crate foam: Improves airflow and reduces pressure points. Budget-friendly option.
• Cooling gels or phase-change fabrics: Help hot sleepers chill out, especially in warmer climates.

Outer fabric checklist

• Removable, machine-washable covers: Non-negotiable. Accidents happen. Fur happens. Life happens.
• Durable weave: Canvas, heavy microfiber, or ripstop for chewers and diggers.
• Water-resistant lining: Saves the foam from drool, spills, and “oops.”
• Quiet fabric: If your pet startles easily, avoid crinkly covers.

Consider Age, Health, and Breed

Your Chihuahua doesn’t need a Great Dane throne, and your senior Lab needs more support than a kitten.

• Puppies/kittens: Soft, washable beds with chew-resistant covers. Expect upgrades as they grow.
• Adults: Match to activity level and sleep style. Athletes often love firm support for recovery.
• Seniors/arthritic pets: Orthopedic foam, low entry, non-slip bottoms, and supportive bolsters.
• Large breeds: Thicker foam (4+ inches), tougher fabric, and beds that won’t pancake in a month.
• Short-haired or lean pets: They get cold easily—choose plush fabrics and insulated layers.

For cats, specifically

Cats want height options. Try a mix: a warm cave bed for security and a window perch for sun worship. FYI, many cats ignore beds until you pretend it’s off-limits. Then it’s their favorite.

Where Will the Bed Live?

Location affects everything—from size to fabric to shape.

• Living room: Go stylish but tough. Washable covers are a must. Bolsters blend with furniture vibes.
• Bedroom: Low-profile or mattress-style beds that slide under a nightstand work great.
• Crate: Crate mats should fit snugly with no bunching. Add non-slip backing.
• Outdoors/porch: Elevated cots with breathable mesh. Look for rust-resistant frames and UV-safe fabric.

Noise and traffic

If your home gets loud or busy, a bed in a calm corner helps anxious pets decompress. Think of it as their “do not disturb” bubble.

Durability, Cleaning, and Real-Life Use

Let’s be honest: that bed will face fur, drool, zoomies, and that mysterious stain you never fully understand.

• Removable cover with strong zippers: Hidden or protected zips survive diggers.
• Machine washable: Entire bed or at least the cover. Check the care tag before buying.
• Spot-clean-friendly: Smooth fabric beats shag when you need a quick wipe.
• Non-slip bottom: Prevents cartoonish slips on hardwood floors.
• Replaceable parts: Some brands sell new covers or inner cushions. Saves money long-term.

For chewers and scratchers

No bed is indestructible, but tougher fabrics, double-stitched seams, and minimal piping help. If your dog thinks beds are snacks, start with an elevated cot or a mat until the chewing phase passes.

Budget vs. Value (a Friendly Reality Check)

You can spend $25 or $250. A higher price doesn’t always mean better, but certain features are worth it.

• Spend on: Quality foam, durable cover, washable design, and proper size.
• Save on: Trendy shapes, fancy patterns, and gimmicky extras your pet won’t notice.
• Do the squeeze test: Press the center—if you feel the floor easily, the foam’s too thin.

When to upgrade

If the bed sags, smells like a gym bag, or your pet avoids it, it’s time. Beds should last 1–3 years depending on size, use, and materials. IMO, one great bed beats cycling through three mediocre ones.

Make the Bed Irresistible

You bought it. Now convince your furry roommate to actually use it.

• Location, location: Put it where you spend time. Pets want to snooze near their people.
• Layer with familiar scent: Add a worn T-shirt or their favorite blanket.
• Reward the choice: Treats and praise when they settle on the bed. Instant positive association.
• Don’t force it: Guide them gently with cues. Make it a happy spot, not a time-out corner.

Multiple pets?

Get more beds than pets. Otherwise you bought the stage for nightly WWE matches.

FAQs

How often should I wash my pet’s bed?

Aim for every 1–2 weeks for the cover, more often if your pet has allergies or sheds a ton. Vacuum the bed between washes to reduce dander and dirt. If the foam has a liner, wipe it down monthly.

What’s the best bed for dogs with arthritis?

Choose a thick, high-density orthopedic or memory foam bed with a low entry and supportive bolsters. Non-slip bottoms and water-resistant liners help too. Keep it in a warm, quiet area to ease stiff joints.

Do cats even use pet beds?

Yes—when you’re not watching. Offer a variety: a cozy cave, a sunny perch, and a small bolster. Sprinkle a little catnip or silvervine if they need motivation, and place the bed near their favorite lookout.

Are elevated beds good for all dogs?

They’re great for hot climates and messy spaces, and they help keep pressure off joints. However, tiny dogs or seniors may prefer something softer or lower. Add a pad on top if you need extra cushioning.

Should I get a waterproof bed?

Get at least a water-resistant liner. Fully waterproof covers can feel crinkly and trap heat. A liner under a comfy fabric cover gives you protection without sacrificing comfort.

What size bed should I buy for a growing puppy?

Buy a budget-friendly bed for now, then upgrade at adult size. Or choose a larger bed with firm support so the puppy doesn’t sink and slide. Add blankets to make the space feel cozier until they grow into it.

The Bottom Line

Pick a bed based on how your pet actually sleeps, not how cute it looks in your feed. Measure your pet, match materials to their needs, and choose something washable and durable. Do that, and you’ll give your sidekick a legit nap haven—and finally reclaim your couch. FYI: happy naps make for happier zoomies.