10 Best Dog Beds to Help Your Dog Sleep Peacefully

Choosing the right dog bed for your canine buddy can help them get a better night's sleep and give them a comfortable, safe space to relax between playtime and barking at squirrels. Check out some of our top picks to find the best dog bed for your pooch.

Just because your pooch can lie on the hard floor doesn't mean they should have to. A soft, comfortable dog bed is not just a frivolous creature comfort; it's a tool to help encourage relaxation and support hip and joint health.

The right pet bed can help your dog sleep better, reduce anxiety, and even support older and larger dogs, as well as smaller dogs with joint pain.

In this post, we'll go over the best dog beds in Canada so you can make the right decision for your pup.

What Kind of Bed Does Your Dog Need?

When it comes to finding the best dog beds, there are a few things you need to take into account:

• • The size of your dog. You'll want to make sure the pet bed is big enough for them to stretch out and move around in. After all, you wouldn't want your tiny Yorkie sleeping on a massive king-size mattress! There are plenty of beds specially designed for small, medium, and large dogs.
  • Their sleeping habits. Do they like to curl up in a ball, or do they sprawl out and take up the entire bed? This will help you choose a bed with the right amount of space.
  • Your lifestyle and budget. Some dog beds can be quite expensive, so you'll want to make sure you're getting something that's both comfortable for your dog and fits within your budget.
  • Age of Dog: Arthritic dogs may need a dog bed support, such as that gained from an orthopedic bed. Memory foam dog beds can also help your aging pet rise more easily upon waking.
  • Brachycephalic Dog Breeds: Dog breeds such as pugs, Frenchies, boxers, and bulldogs often struggle to breathe. They can easily become overheated and experience bouts of sleep apnea. A cooling dog bed provides respite from the heat.
  • Where It's Used: How and where your dog's bed will be used can help you make a better choice. Your dog may have multiple beds for different areas of the house, outside, or while travelling.

The type of dog bed you choose should support restfulness and relaxation, so no matter where or how it's used, the bed should be comfortable. When it comes to choosing the right dog bed, you'll want to factor in all of your dog's particular needs.

While a typical dog bed is perfect for in the house, a specialty bed might be best for car travel, camping, crate training, and even for dogs with special needs.

It's a good idea to have different beds for different purposes, so take a look at some of the best beds below to help you find the right bed for your pooch.

Benefits of a High Quality Dog Bed

Pet parents want their pups to be happy, and dogs like a cozy place to relax. Providing a comfortable bed for your dog offers numerous benefits, enhancing their overall well-being and happiness:

• • Comfort and Support: A good bed provides cushioning and support for your dog's joints and muscles, which is especially important for older dogs or those with arthritis or other health conditions. It promotes better sleep and overall comfort. An orthopedic bed is especially beneficial for older dogs.
  • Insulation and Warmth: Elevated beds or beds with thick padding provide insulation from cold floors, keeping your dog warm during colder seasons. This is particularly beneficial for dogs with short coats.
  • Security and Safety: Having a designated bed gives your dog a sense of security and a safe space where they can retreat and relax. It can help alleviate anxiety and stress, especially in noisy or busy households. Small dogs can especially benefit from a snug bed. A dog likes to feel enclosed, like a den.
  • Hygiene: Dog beds are easy to clean and maintain. Many come with removable covers, machine-washable covers, or the entire bed is machine-washable, promoting good hygiene and reducing odours in your home.
  • Containment of Shedding and Dander: Dogs naturally shed hair and dander, which can spread around your home. A bed provides a contained area where shedding is limited, making it easier to clean up and reducing allergens in the house.
  • Training and Behaviour: Having a designated bed can be part of training, teaching your dog boundaries and where they should rest. It can also discourage them from sleeping on your furniture.
  • Injury Prevention: Dogs that sleep on comfortable beds are less likely to jump onto and off of furniture, reducing the risk of injuries, especially in smaller or older dogs. Orthopedic beds not only provide support but may also help reduce the risk of injury for older dogs, arthritic dogs, and large dogs.
  • Promotes Independence: Dogs, like humans, need their personal space. Providing a bed encourages independence and gives your pet a place to call their own.
  • Longevity and Durability: A high-quality dog bed is durable and long-lasting, making it a worthwhile investment. It saves your furniture from wear and tear caused by your dog's constant movement.

By offering your dog a comfortable and supportive bed, you contribute significantly to their overall quality of life, ensuring they have a cozy and secure space to rest and rejuvenate.

10 Best Dog Beds to Maximize Your Dog’s Comfort

No matter what size, breed, or life stage your dog is in, there is a choice for her. With a little research, you'll find a wide array of beds for your pup. 

Depending on where and how your dog will be using his extra-large pet bed, you might need to have more than one dog bed on hand. 

Senior dogs may require a specialized dog bed to overcome arthritis pain. Here are some of our favourite dog beds to pick for your furry friend's needs.

Whether you are stocking up on must-haves for a new puppy, upgrading your dog's nap space, or looking for the perfect gift for a canine friend, our list of the 10 best beds for dogs can help you find the perfect fit for your pup:

Best Orthopedic Dog Beds

Stiff joints and sore hips can make a good night's sleep a challenge for dogs. Investing in a high-quality orthopedic bed can offer them the support and comfort they need to get the zzz's they need and may help reduce pain that comes with hip and joint issues.

From memory foam to heated beds, the best orthopedic dog beds will help support hips and joints while they snooze. Take a look at a few of our top-rated beds for dogs that need extra support:

1. BeOneBreed Orthopedic Diamond Bed

When it comes to managing your dog's discomfort, you can't go wrong with a vet-approved bed, like BeOneBreed Orthopedic Diamond Bed. This dual-layer combo of memory foam and structural foam can help to evenly distribute your dog's weight and reduce discomfort that can come from poor support.

Whether your dog is young, old, gigantic or tiny, the best memory foam dog bed is sure to help them sleep more peacefully and wake more comfortably.

2. BeOneBreed Memory Foam Cloud Pillow Bed

Looking for the best dog bed for older dogs? BeOneBreed did it again with the Memory Foam Cloud Pillow Bed. Made with 100% human-quality memory foam, this supporting pillow offers optimal comfort and stability for older dogs and dogs with hip and joint issues.

The soft pillow-style bed feels like sleeping on a cloud, and comes with a removable zippered cover made from pet-friendly fabric so you can keep your pet's bed clean and odour-free.

3. K&H Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed

Heat can be a valuable tool for healing and comfort. The K&H Lectro Soft Heated Dog Bed is the perfect lounge spot for dogs that are recovering from injury or managing hip and joint issues. It's meant for both indoor and outdoor use, and is perfectly sized for crates, kennels, and dog houses.

To be the best heated dog bed, the Lectro-Soft Bed uses an orthopedic foam base and comes with a removable and washable fleece cover. The combination of warmth and proper weight distribution can help stiff and sore dogs sleep more peacefully.

Best Calming Dog Beds

Your dog's bed should be a place that helps them feel calm and comfortable, but for dogs with anxiety, a special calming dog bed can help to promote a feeling of relaxation and help them block out stressors in their environment. 

The best calming dog beds are often the comfiest, cuddliest, and coziest options that allow your pet to feel surrounded by the safety and softness of their bed. Here are a few of our customer favourites:

4. Fringe Petshop Rectangular Cuddler Pet Bed

The Fringe PetShop Rectangular Cuddler Pet Bed is the best anti-anxiety dog bed to help calm your dog and promote quiet, relaxing downtime. This machine-washable bed is made from 100% cotton canvas with a soft filling made from recycled water bottles.

The soft fleece cushion provides warmth on a cool night, and the overfilled bolster offers optimal neck and back support. It's also designed with a low front entry, making this bed suitable for smaller dogs and dogs with limited mobility.

5. Sleep Zone Luxe Faux Fur Round Bed

This dog bed is perfect for dogs who like to curl up in a cocoon of fluff when they sleep. It's made with soft, plush polyester faux fur that is both comfortable and warm, making it the best burrow dog bed.

The Sleep Zone Luxe Faux Fur Round Bed is ideal for anxious dogs. This bed will envelop them in a pillowy cloud of comfort that feels like a hug, easing stress and helping your dog relax after a long day of worrying about dog stuff.

Best Dog Beds for All Sizes

The best dog bed needs to support their whole body, which is why choosing the right size and shape is key to their overall comfort. Consider not only your dog's size, but also their preferred sleeping position to help you grab the lounge spot that truly suits them.

Whether you are looking for something your larger breed dog can stretch out on, or something soft and pillowy that a tiny pooch can curl up in, our selection offers the top picks for the best small and large breed dog beds.

6. Midwest QuietTime Deluxe Ombré Swirl Pet Bed

Most dog bed styles are designed with small breed dogs in mind, and we think that's just not fair. Big dogs need a nice, extra-large and comfortable place to sleep, too! The Midwest QuietTime Deluxe Ombré Swirl Pet Bed is the best big dog bed because it is a super soft and lightweight dog bed that comes in a variety of sizes, up to 48" long.

This will allow your large breed dog to really stretch his legs and get comfy. It's also machine washable, making it super easy to keep clean. The non-skid bottom makes this bed versatile and portable. It can be used in a kennel or crate, in the car, or anywhere in your home.

7. Fuzzyard Life Rope Basket Bed

The Fuzzyard Life Rope Basket Bed is the best dog bed for small dogs to let them lounge comfortably, and the double-sided cushion lets you choose the cushion style that suits your dog's needs. One plush side is calming and warm for colder months, while the other cotton side is breathable for spring and summer weather.

This adorable rope basket is exactly the tiny throne your small breed dog needs to get comfy. The contemporary style and pastel colours fit perfectly into your home decor, while still offering your teeny pup the cozy spot they need for all of their daily naps.

Best Travel Dog Beds

Whether you are hitting the highway to adventure or just looking for a way to offer a comfortable space for your dog in new environments, the best dog travel beds can be found at Homes Alive Pets. 

Travelling requires something versatile, comfortable, and easy to pick up and go, so no matter where your travels take you, a high-quality dog travel bed can help your dog enjoy the experience. Our newest and most practical options are below:

8. Kuma Lazy Bear Dog Bed

If you and your dog are planning to be one with nature, or you just enjoy sitting around the campfire with friends, picking up a safe spot for Fido is always a good idea. The best dog bed for camping should be a durable, portable, and comfortable option for your next dog-friendly camping trip.

The Kuma Lazy Bear Dog Bed is a one-of-a-kind elevated dog bed that looks similar to a camping chair. This way, you can park your pooch right next to you, allowing them to stay visible, close, and cozy.

9. P.L.A.Y. Coastal Chill Pad

The P.L.A.Y. Coastal Chill Pad is perfect for wherever your dog-friendly adventures take you. The safest place for your pup while you travel is their crate, and the best dog crate bed is the perfect accessory to keep them comfortable and safe.

Whether you are taking a road trip with your dog, camping under the stars, or visiting family for the holidays, the best crate bed for dogs can make their space feel safe and comfortable. It's not only good for your dog, but it's also good for the planet. The filler is made of 100 percent post-consumer certified safe memory foam base, recycled plastic bottles.

10. Kurgo Loft Wander Dog Bed

This dog bed is perfect for dogs who like to travel. It's made with a durable, water-resistant fabric that's perfect for use in the car or on the go. Plus, the Kurgo Loft Wander Dog Bed comes in a variety of sizes to fit any dog and is easy to clean, making it the best dog bed for the car.

Whether you're going camping or just enjoying some time in your own backyard, you need a dog bed that is easy to clean. You can rest easy knowing your dog can relax in both comfort and style on the Kurgo Loft Wander Dog Bed.

Best Dog Bed Cover

You hate to spend money on a nice, comfortable dog bed only to have it get torn by your dog's claws, permanently covered in pet hair, or saturated with the dreaded wet dog scent.

Instead of constantly replacing your dog's expensive beds, try a dog bed cover to make your dog's bed last.  Many will slip easily over a memory foam mattress or a memory foam insert.

Molly Mutt Armor Water-Resistant Bed Liner

Protect your pet's bed with the durable Molly Mutt Water-Resistant Bed Liner. This 100% non-toxic polyester cover comes in three sizes for any rectangular bed or pillow, and it pairs perfectly with the Molly Mutt Stuff Sack.

This style of pet bed is perfect for everyday use, but it also works as an outdoor dog bed and is an accident-proof dog crate bed solution. Choose from a variety of styles and sizes to perfectly match your dog's needs and your decor.

Best Dog Blanket

Sometimes a cozy bed just isn't enough. A soft dog blanket is an excellent way to tuck your little pooch in on a cold winter night. The best dog blanket can be a comforting place to snuggle for a young pup, too. 

Smart Pet Love Snuggle Dog Blanket

This blanket is too cute and will quickly become your best friend's must-have blankie! The Smart Pet Love Snuggle Dog Blanket is a soft plush throw that is perfect for a cozy nap. The comforting material makes this blankie the best calming blanket for dogs.

The warm fleece blanket can be used to swaddle a stressed dog, line a crate or kennel, and work as a simple travel bed.

Brigade Pet Blanket

The Brigade Pet Blanket is a large microfibre blanket that creates the softest and coziest spot for your dog to relax. At 50" x 60", this is the best dog blanket for couches and cars. Lay it out to protect your furniture from dog dirt and fur, or fold it up to swaddle or cover your pooch on a cold winter night.

Keep your pet's chill spot clean and odour-free by tossing this blanket right in the washing machine. They come in a variety of modern and stylish colours to perfectly match your decor.

Find the Best Dog Bed for Your Dog!

As you can see, there are a variety of beds to choose from. The best overall bed for your pup will depend on their individual needs. If your dog needs more cushion, consider a memory foam mattress. Young pups might benefit from a washable dog bed.

Be sure to consider your best friend's size (if you have a Golden Retriever, then you'll want a large dog bed, and if you have a Yorkie, you'll want a small dog bed), sleeping habits, and lifestyle when making your decision on a dog bed.

With so many great options available, you're sure to find the perfect pet bed with a comfy dog mattress to fit your furry friend!

You may need more than one dog bed on hand, too! A nice fluffy dog bed is great for sleeping at night, but a bed for car rides or outdoors, a durable and more compact bed, is a better option.

Getting Your Dog to Use the Bed

Dogs tend to seek out anything comfortable, so you won't have much trouble getting your dog to use the bed with time and persistence.

Getting your dog to sleep in a bed can be a gradual process that requires patience and positive reinforcement. Here are some steps to encourage your dog to sleep in a bed:

• • Choose the Right Canine Bed: Pick a comfortable and appropriately sized bed for your dog. Consider your dog's size, sleeping habits, and any special needs. Some dogs prefer soft, plush beds, while others might like firmer options.
  • Place the Bed in a Cozy Spot: Put the bed in a quiet, low-traffic area where your dog feels secure. Dogs often prefer a bed placed in a corner or against a wall, providing a sense of safety.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Encourage your dog to explore the bed using positive reinforcement. Use treats, toys, and praise to lure your dog onto the bed. Reward your dog when they step onto or lie down in the bed.
  • Associate the Bed with Relaxation: Use cues to associate the bed with relaxation and sleep. You can place your dog's favourite toys or a piece of your worn clothing on the bed. Dogs are comforted by familiar scents.
  • Create a Bedtime Routine: Establish a bedtime routine that includes leading your dog to the bed and offering a treat. Consistency is key; follow the same routine every night to create a predictable sleep pattern.
  • Be Patient: Understand that it might take time for your dog to get used to the new sleeping arrangement. Some dogs may take to their bed immediately, while others might need weeks of positive reinforcement.
  • Avoid Punishment: Never force your dog onto the bed or punish them for not sleeping there. This will create a negative association, making it harder for your dog to accept the bed as a comfortable space.
  • Consult a Trainer or Behaviourist: If your dog is resistant, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviourist. They can provide personalized guidance and training techniques to help your dog feel comfortable in their new bed.

Remember that every dog is unique, so be patient, understanding, and consistent in your approach. With time and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn to sleep peacefully in their designated bed.

Best Dog Beds FAQs

Why does my dog need a dog bed?

A dog bed provides a comfortable and designated space for your dog to rest and sleep. It offers support for their joints, keeps them off the cold floor, and can help with their feeling of well-being and safety. 

How do I choose the right size dog bed?

To choose the right size dog bed, measure your dog from nose to tail while they are lying down. Select a bed that allows your dog to stretch out fully and comfortably without hanging off the edges.

What type of dog bed is best for my dog?

The best type of dog bed depends on your dog's needs and preferences. Options include orthopedic beds for seniors or those with joint issues, bolster beds for dogs who like to rest their heads on an elevated surface, and cooling beds for dogs who tend to get hot. You can even pick heated beds.

Can I wash my dog's bed?

Many dog beds come with removable covers that can be machine-washed. It's important to check the care instructions for the specific bed you choose to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance.

How often should I replace my dog's bed?

The lifespan of a dog bed depends on its quality, usage, and your dog's behaviour. Usually, it is recommended to replace the dog bed when it shows signs of wear and tear, loses its shape, or becomes uncomfortable for your dog.

Can I use a human mattress or pillow for my dog?

While it may seem tempting, using a regular human mattress or pillow for your dog is not recommended. They may not provide adequate support for your dog's body and can be less durable to withstand dog-related wear and tear. It's best to invest in the best bed designed for their comfort and needs.