Buying Guides
The Best Dog Beds of 2026, Tested in Real Homes
Supportive, washable, and good-looking — our favorite beds this year.
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Dogs spend a large part of the day resting, so a good bed is one of the most-used things you'll buy for them. The right one supports joints, stays clean, and fits the way your dog likes to sleep.
This guide explains how to choose a bed, rather than ranking products with scores, so you can match the features to your own dog.
Match the bed to how your dog sleeps
Watch your dog for a few nights.
- Curlers: round or bolster beds with raised sides
- Sprawlers: large, flat rectangular mattresses
- Leaners: beds with a bolster on one or more sides to rest the head on
- Burrowers: cave or hooded beds
Support and filling
Fillings vary in comfort and durability.
Memory or orthopedic foam
Distributes weight evenly and is often a good choice for large, heavy, or older dogs. Look for a reasonably thick, dense foam base.
Polyester fill
Soft and affordable, but tends to flatten over time. Better suited to smaller dogs or as a secondary bed.
Sizing correctly
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail while lying stretched out, then add several inches. When in doubt between two sizes, larger is usually more comfortable.
Washability and materials
A removable, machine-washable cover is one of the most valuable features. A waterproof liner protects the inner foam from accidents and drool. Tightly woven fabrics resist hair and claws better than loose weaves.
Durability for chewers and diggers
If your dog chews bedding, choose a bed with fewer exposed seams, zippers hidden or covered, and tougher fabrics. Monitor any dog who chews, as swallowed foam or fabric can be dangerous.
Placement
Put the bed somewhere draft-free that still lets your dog feel part of the household — many dogs prefer a spot with a view of the family rather than a secluded corner.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I replace a dog bed?
When the foam no longer springs back, the cover can't be cleaned, or your dog stops using it — often every one to three years.
Do older dogs need an orthopedic bed?
Many senior dogs find supportive foam more comfortable. Ask your vet if your dog has joint concerns.
The bottom line
Choose for sleep style, size generously, and prioritize a washable cover and supportive base. Those features matter far more than looks — though good-looking options exist too.
Continue exploring
Beds
Linen Bolster Dog Bed
Supportive foam with a washable linen cover that suits calm interiors.
- Best for:
- Medium dogs who like to lean
- Consider:
- Cover dries slowly
Feeding
Stoneware Pet Bowl
Heavy, non-slip, dishwasher safe and beautifully simple.
- Best for:
- Cats and small dogs
- Consider:
- Breakable if dropped
Whiskers, Paws & Claws Editorial Team
Editorial Team
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