Adopting a Dog? Here’s Why a Good Bed Should Be on Your List

If a pup is about to join your family, they’re going to need a bed. After all, you have one, so why shouldn’t they? If you’re considering letting your dog sleep in your bed, you’re not alone — between 47 and 70 percent of pet parents share their beds with their pups. Still, your dog will need their own space as they adjust to new surroundings.

A dog coming out of a rescue, shelter, or even foster home needs a comfy bed to call their own — a safe space that is just theirs. When they’re feeling overstimulated or overwhelmed in their new space, they can retreat to their beds. Below, we’ll explore how a bed can benefit your pup, and what kind of dog beds you should consider, taking size and other factors into consideration.

Anna Belova / Adobe Stock/ Bumper bed

Do dogs like dog beds?

Yes, dogs like dog beds — just like people like their beds. Will they always sleep on them? Truthfully, it depends on the dog. Some dogs prefer to sleep in their beds, even if their pet parent’s bed is an option at night. Other canines only nap in dog beds during the day or curl up in them when it’s cold outside. And other dogs will only go into their beds once a year, if that. (This latter category will be sleeping on every available human bed, couch, and rug possible, though.) Regardless, when you bring home your new pup, they should have a bed, because one day they might decide they need it. 

What are the benefits of a dog bed?

While 16 percent of pet parents have their dog sleep on the floor, throwing a towel or blanket on the floor doesn’t cut it when it comes to joint support. Think about how sore you’d be if you had to sleep on the floor all the time. Dog beds come with plenty of perks (not to mention all the health and memory benefits that come with sleeping) — let’s break down a few of them.

Comfort and support

High-quality dog beds are usually made of foam, which can provide ergonomic and orthopedic benefits for all dogs, but especially senior dogs. Pressure-relieving beds provide the proper support for bones and joints, as well as comfort.

Security

A dog’s bed is their safe haven. When they’ve had enough and need a break, they know that they can go to their bed for a little time out. The rest of the surfaces in your home are communal — your sofa, your bed, your rug — but that dog bed is theirs.  

Joint support

As a dog gets older, they can develop arthritis or hip dysplasia. This can cause a lot of discomfort. A well-made dog bed, specifically designed for these issues, can relieve the stress and pain, helping your pup get some much-needed sleep. This is also true for puppies, who are growing quickly and need support for their growing joints. “Pillows and orthopedic beds can be very helpful for old, arthritic bones and joints,” Dr. Julie Buzby, DVM, writes for the Grey Muzzle Organization. 

Temperature regulation

Certain dog beds, including cooling dog beds, are made with special materials that can help keep your pup from overheating. This is especially important during the warmer months and for flat-faced dog breeds, such as Pugs, who struggle to cool themselves down. 

Cleanliness

A clean space to sleep means your pup will be less likely to get fleas and other parasites. So, a clean bed can keep your pup healthy. There are plenty of dog beds out there with removable, machine-washable covers that are relatively low-maintenance for pet parents.

Leah Flores / Stocksy/ Pillow bed

Different types of dog beds

So, what kind of bed should you get for your dog? We’ll help break down all the types of dog beds out there to find the right one for your pup. 

• Orthopedic dog beds: Orthopedic beds have extra support — ideally memory foam, because it’s a denser foam that bounces back and relieves aches and pains. They usually cost a little bit more, but they are ultimately worth it: These beds will last longer than a cheap, non-orthopedic one. 

• Elevated dog beds: Made of a stainless steel frame, with a durable piece of fabric pulled tightly across it, elevated dog beds allow your dog to hover above the ground as they relax. Elevated dog beds are known for their cooling properties, providing relief for joints, and staying cleaner because dirt is not dragged directly onto them from the ground.

• Heated dog beds: Senior dogs, dogs with joint issues, and small dogs who have trouble staying warm in the winter could all benefit from a heated dog bed. There are two types of heated dog beds: electric beds and self-heating donut beds, which use a combination of the dog’s heat and insulating materials like faux shearling, shag fur, or microfleece to keep them warm. To keep dogs safe, the bed temperature should be monitored when they’re in these beds, especially for dogs with mobility issues who might find it difficult to get up off the bed.

• Cooling dog beds: Like heated dog beds, cooling dog beds help your dog regulate their body temperature. Cooling beds can be made out of a chilling material, such as gel, or they can be elevated. Cooling mats can also be placed over your pup’s regular bed in the summer, so they can find some relief from the heat. 

• Pillow and cushion beds: Pillow-like dog beds are very plush, fluffy beds that mimic the shape and feel of the pillow you rest your head on every night. These comfy, cozy beds are beloved by pups, though they can be harder to clean if they don’t have removable, washable covers. 

• Bumper bed: A dog favorite, the bumper bed features a plush, raised edge that helps provide your pooch with more security, while allowing them to rest their sweet head on the bed’s built-in pillow.

• Blankets and mats: As we mentioned above, cooling mats can be great to have on hand to add to your dog’s bed during the summer to help with overheating. Blankets and mats can also be helpful to put in a puppy’s crate or X-pen if they aren’t quite house-trained yet, because they’re easy to clean.

Read this related article on Kinship

The Best Dog Beds According to Experts

Our dogs sleep with us, too. But these trainer-recommended dog beds—from indestructible ones for puppies to orthopedic options for seniors—are the next best thing.

What type of dog bed should I get for my dog?

You might be feeling a little overwhelmed after learning about all the different types of beds — we bet you didn’t know some of them even existed. If you’re not sure what type of bed your dog needs, we’ll break down the factors to consider while browsing for one. 

Size

Keep the size of your dog in mind while shopping. Obviously, if you’re buying a bed for your German Shepherd, it’s going to need to be a big one. You might even want to go as far as measuring them while they’re snoozing to see how much space they need. Otherwise, you risk buying a bed that’s too small. Also, keep in mind that puppies are going to get bigger, so you’ll likely be replacing their beds as they grow. Each manufacturer has its own specifications, but here’s what you can generally expect when it comes to sizing.

• Small beds (for dogs under 25 pounds): Ideal for breeds such as Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, or any small breed mixes 

• Medium beds (for dogs 26 to 50 pounds): Great for breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Border Collies, Frenchies 

• Large beds (for dogs more than 50 pounds): Meant for the big puppers — Labs, Goldens, Boxers, German Shepherds, and beyond

Age

Just like us, dogs have different needs at different stages of life. The right bed can make a big difference in their comfort and health. Here are a few things to consider.

• Younger dogs: Puppies and adolescent dogs take bed testing to the next level (aka trying to rip it apart with their teeth). If your dog likes to play with their bed or rip up fluffy, soft toys, consider getting them a durable bed with a less tempting filling, such as an elevated bed or a budget-friendly training bed. With a training bed, you teach them what is appropriate to play with and what is better for sleeping on, without fretting over the cost.

• Senior dogs: For seniors or dogs with mobility issues, consider using an elevated bed, which can be easier to get into. “If your senior dog has arthritis, it can be difficult for them to change positions from standing to sitting to lying down. A raised bed can make it easier for them to change positions, since it basically gives them a head start,” shares the vets over at Tipp City Veterinary Hospital.

Other considerations

Your dog’s favorite sleeping position, where the bed will go, and how easy it is to clean — all play roles in finding the right fit. Here are a few more factors to consider when thinking about your dog’s bed.

• Sleeping position: You should keep your pup’s sleeping position in mind to help you determine what kind of bed they need. Do they like to curl up in a ball? They might like a bumper bed. Do they like to sprawl out and take up as much room as possible? A cushion bed might be your answer. Or are they a combo sleeper? Maybe a memory foam bed would be ideal.

• Location: Humans have entire rooms designated for sleeping, so you should really think about where your dog’s bed should go. For example, outside, an elevated dog bed provides a good place to sunbathe, and it’s easy to keep clean. A thick mat might be ideal for a dog’s crate, providing comfort while remaining easy to clean. 

• Ease of cleaning: To keep your dog healthy, their bed should be cleaned regularly, so a bed with easy-to-clean materials and a removable cover is a must. Read the bed’s washing instructions closely before purchasing it, to ensure it’s easy to pop the entire bed or at least the cover into the washing machine.

Commonly asked questions

Do puppies need a bed?

Yes, puppies should have a bed, because it provides them with a safe space to sleep. Because they go through rapid growth spurts, their joints should be supported by an orthopedic bed, an elevated bed, or a soft, cushiony bed. 

Can older dogs benefit from special beds?

Yes, absolutely. Getting your senior dog an orthopedic bed might significantly improve their quality of life. It’ll relieve their joints at night and perhaps help them sleep better.

How often should dog beds be replaced?

Roughly, every one to three years. That said, you’ll know it’s time to replace it just by looking at it. If it looks really worn, if it’s lost its shape, or if it just seems gross, then it’s time to spring for a new one.

Do dogs like dog blankets?

Sometimes. Some dogs love to be covered in blankets and tucked in. Others prefer to lie on top of blankets. Present your dog with both options, and they’ll show you which they prefer. Some dog breeds who struggle with temperature regulation probably won’t like blankets at all, because it’ll stress out their bodies.

How many beds does a dog need?

A dog needs at least one bed. If you have multiple dogs, it’s important that they each have their own bed. But if you have space, it’s recommended to get multiple beds, especially if your dog follows you around to different areas of the home. It can also be helpful to have a travel bed for road trips. 

Is it okay if my dog doesn’t have a dog bed?

Your dog should have a bed. Even if they don’t use it now, they might use it as they get older. Dogs shift their sleeping habits, too. You can line your dog’s crate with blankets and pillows. And you can set aside a corner of the house for your dog’s sleeping area and pile blankets there. However, we still recommend getting an actual bed for your dog. 

Are dogs okay sleeping on the floor?

Yes, dogs can sleep on the floor — if it’s their choice. Some dogs like to cool off on wood floors or tile on hot days, and some just like to sleep in the kitchen so they can be near the food. That said, they should still have a dog bed in the house. 

It can be harmful, especially to puppies and senior dogs, if the floor is the only place your dog sleeps. This can cause bone and joint issues. But napping on the floor is normal. Your dog might want to switch up their sleeping location once in a while, just as long as they have a dog bed to sleep in. 

Do dogs need their own bed inside the crate?

Yes. The bottom of the crate is too hard and firm. There should be a bed on top of it. This will also help convince your dog that their crate isn’t so bad and can be a safe space for them to rest and recharge. 

How do dogs know dog beds are for them?

You, as the pet parent, need to teach them that it’s their bed. You can do this by placing them on the bed and sitting nearby, showing them that they can relax. You might need to do this multiple times, so they learn it’s theirs.

Is it safe for my puppy to sleep in my bed?

Technically, yes, but this does come with risks. Puppies are delicate, so they could fall off the bed, or you could roll over onto them. There are also benefits to co-sleeping with puppies, like the ease of separation anxiety and bonding. It’s up to the pet parent. Read more about this topic here.

References

Chin, Brian N, et al. “Co-Sleeping with Pets, Stress, and Sleep in a Nationally-Representative Sample of United States Adults.” Scientific Reports, vol. 14, no. 1, 6 Mar. 2024, doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-56055-9.

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Hecht, Julie. “Memory Wins When Dogs Sleep.” Scientific American Blog Network, blogs.scientificamerican.com/dog-spies/memory-wins-when-dogs-sleep.

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