When it came time to buy a new bed for her dog, Jenna was stumped. Should she get a cuddler-style bed for her lazy golden retriever, or go with a longer and wider lounger bed for her German shepherd? And what about those dogs who love to stretch out? Maybe they need an elevated dog bed to give them some extra room.
Jenna polled her friends on Facebook and solicited advice from the pet store employees, but she just couldn’t make up her mind. In the end, she decided to buy one of each type of bed and let her dogs decide which one they liked best.
It didn’t take long for Jenna’s dogs to figure out which beds were their favorites. The lazy golden retriever quickly claimed the cuddler-style bed as his own, while the active German shepherd preferred to sprawl out on the lounger bed. The elevated dog bed was a hit with both of them – the German shepherd loved being able to look out the window while he napped, and the retriever loved feeling the warm breeze blowing through his fur.
The best bed for a dog is the one that makes them happy and comfortable.
So before you buy your next bed, take into account your pup’s personality and lifestyle. Chances are there’s a perfect bed waiting just for them!
Retailers classify dog beds into dozens of categories, but we grouped them into the following four categories.
![](https://petknowledge.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/a-1200x800.jpg)
A cuddler dog bed has raised edges that both embrace your dog in a hug and act as a pillow for added snoozing comfort, making this type ideal for most indoor sleep situations.
![](https://petknowledge.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/b-1199x800.jpg)
An elevated dog bed allows air to flow underneath it, so this type is great for warm environments, both indoors and out.
![](https://petknowledge.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/c-1200x800.jpg)
A crate dog bed fits inside a dog crate and provides padding while your furry friend is inside—though a crate bed isn’t leak-proof, so it’s not the best option when crate training.
![](https://petknowledge.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/d-1200x800.jpg)
And a premium dog bed uses orthopedic cushioning and durable materials often found in human beds, making it ideal for pet owners who want to treat their dogs to something special or for dogs who need extra bedding support as they age.
So, what’s the best bed for your dog? That depends on many factors, including your dog’s size, age, and sleeping habits. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a new dog bed:
Size: The first thing you’ll need to consider is your dog’s size. Dog beds come in all shapes and sizes, from small mats to large sofas. You’ll want to make sure you choose a bed that’s big enough for your dog to stretch out in, but not so big that it takes over your whole living room!
Age: Another important factor to consider is your dog’s age. Puppies and elderly dogs may need a softer, more supportive bed, while a young adult dog might be just fine with a simple mat.
Sleeping habits: Does your dog like to curl up in a ball when they sleep, or do they sprawl out? Do they like to burrow under the covers, or do they prefer to sleep on top of them? Knowing your dog’s sleeping habits will help you choose a bed that they’ll love.
Now that you know what to look for! Check out our top picks for the best dog beds of 2022.
Dog Bed Pillows
Washable Dog Round Bed Large, Donut Dog Bed Large Dog, Comfy Dog Calming Cuddler Bed