03 Aug 2023
An Easy Guide to Choosing the Best Dog Beds for Your Pup
Updated: 22nd July 2024
Dog beds are more than just a cosy place for your pup to sleep. They should support their limbs and joints and promote healthy sleep. But what is the best dog bed for them?
Whether you’re preparing for the arrival of a new puppy or want to upgrade your dog’s current bed situation, choosing a bed that meets all their sleep needs is important – and one that many pet owners don’t fully consider at first!
Just as we wouldn’t get a good snooze on a lumpy or ill-sized bed, our furry friends also need the right bed to ensure they get a good night's sleep and are comfortable throughout the day.
So how do you choose the best dog bed for your pup?
In this dog bed buying guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about choosing the best dog bed for your pet and offer our recommendations for every breed.
Different Dog Bed Styles
From round beds to flat and rectangular ones, there are many styles of dog beds to choose from. But aside from just how they look, different styles of dog beds offer up different benefits for your furry friend.
Things like their sleeping style and habits can influence which style of bed will be the most comfortable for them, which we’ll dive into a little later.
First, though, let’s look at the different types of beds you can choose from…
High-Sided Dog Beds
High-sided dog beds feature raised edges that offer extra support and a sense of security for your dog. These beds are ideal for dogs who like to curl up, lean against something, or hide their heads while they sleep.
The raised sides also help to keep draughts away, making them perfect for colder climates or older dogs who might appreciate the added warmth and comfort.
Explore Our High-Sided Dog Beds
Dog Mattress Beds
Dog mattress beds are flat, cushion-like beds that provide ample space for your dog to stretch out and relax. They are ideal for larger breeds or dogs that like to lie flat while sleeping.
The even surface supports their joints evenly, reducing pressure points and promoting better sleep. These beds are versatile and can be used on the floor in your house or in the car, making them a practical choice for many dog owners.
Shop Comfortable Mattress Dog Beds
Flat Dog Beds
Flat dog beds, like vet bedding, provide a versatile and easy-to-clean surface for your pet. They offer excellent support and comfort, making them a popular choice for use in crates and whelping boxes.
The flat design ensures that dogs have ample space to stretch out, while the non-slip backing helps keep the bedding in place.
Additionally, vet bedding is highly absorbent and durable, providing a hygienic and cosy environment for puppies and adult dogs alike.
Browse Non-Slip Bedding for Crates
What Size Dog Bed Do I Need?
The most important thing to consider when buying a bed for your four-legged friend is the size of the bed.
Whether you have small dogs or large dogs, you can't get the right dog bed without the right dimensions.
All of our dog bedding comes in 6 standard sizes, which are:
| Size | Dimensions |
| Small | 56x56cm |
| Medium | 72x72cm |
| Large | 86x86cm |
| Giant | 100x100cm |
| Rectangle Cosy Plus Medium | 56x72cm |
| Rectangle Cosy Plus XL | 72x100cm |
We have a Dog Bed Size Chart that details which of our dog bed sizes suit which breeds, but we'll also cover the basics here.
Does My Dog's Breed Matter?
Yes, your dog's breed plays a crucial role when selecting the perfect dog bed. Different breeds have varying sizes, weights, and sleeping habits that need to be considered to ensure maximum comfort and support.
For instance, smaller breeds like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians may prefer a snug and warm bed, such as our Small or Medium sizes, which provide a sense of security.
In contrast, larger breeds, such as Labradors or Great Danes, require a more spacious and sturdy bed to accommodate their size and weight, making our Giant or Rectangle Cosy Plus XL beds ideal options.
Additionally, some breeds are more prone to joint issues and may benefit from orthopaedic dog beds, providing extra cushioning to alleviate pressure on their joints.
Does My Dog's Weight Matter?
While you should certainly consider your dog’s weight when choosing their bed, we don’t recommend using it as a surefire way to determine the right size.
At Bronte Glen, we recommend prioritising your dog's size over its weight when choosing a dog bed. This ensures your dog has the room it needs to sleep comfortably, regardless of its weight.
Does My Dog’s Sleeping Position Matter?
Does your pup sleep on their side, curl up, or sprawl out when they sleep? The way in which your dog sleeps can also impact the type of bed that would be best for them.
If your dog stretches out while sleeping, consider a larger bed to give them ample space. A mattress bed is recommended for dogs that like to stretch, providing the extra space they need.
If they tend to curl up or sleep without taking up too much space, stick to their normal size and consider a bed from our Cosy bed range to give them support all around.
Read more about the type of sleeper they are and find out The Meaning Behind Your Dog’s Sleeping Position.
Bespoke Dog Bedding SizesSince we manufacture all our beds, we can create custom sizes as needed. We understand that every dog is unique with different needs and preferences. If none of the standard sizes fit your pup, we can make a bespoke bed tailored to their exact measurements. Send us an email or give us a call to discuss your pup's custom bedding requirements. |
Which Material is Best for Your Dog’s Bed?
When choosing a new dog bed, the material is also important to think about. From tough fabrics to snuggly soft ones, there are many options to consider…
Merino & English Wool Fabric
The Merino wool used in our Merino Dog Beds keeps your pup warm and provides a comfortable, supportive sleep area. Similarly, our Tweed Wool Dog Beds, made with Shetland wool, offer great support.
These materials are fantastic for all dogs, especially seniors or those with joint pain. Our Senior Gold 7+ Beds are an excellent all-round option.
Our wool has excellent heat-retention properties, helping to regulate your pet's temperature and keep them warm in winter and cool in summer.
Ballistic Nylon Fabric
As the name suggests, our ballistic nylon fabric is incredibly tough and hard-wearing.
It's the same material that's used for Police and army-issue bullet and stab-proof vests, proving that these waterproof beds are seriously durable. Your dog will have a hard time trying to chew through this!
It's also waterproof, so it's an ideal choice if you walk your dog through muddy fields or they're partial to jumping in puddles. It's incredibly easy to keep clean (a simple wipe-down does the job most of the time, but the whole bed is machine washable), saving you time and hassle.
Aside from being incredibly durable, it's also super comfy, making it a great choice for any pup.
Ultra-Soft Polyester
Our vet bedding and new Rustic Collection are made with ultra-soft and specially-processed polyester, which makes for more affordable dog beds that still provide comfort and support.
The thick polyester pile used in our vet bedding creates a soft and cosy surface for your dog to relax on, while also providing insulation from cold floors.
Our Rustic Dog Beds feature a luxurious polyester cover that is both plush and durable, giving your dog the best of both worlds.
Best Dog Beds By Age
We manufacture four types of dog beds at our West Yorkshire working mill, all made from premium quality materials designed to keep your pup comfortable and cosy. Below is a breakdown of the types of dog beds we offer and what they're good for.
Dog Beds for Puppies
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Puppies tend to need:
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Puppies are energetic and often chew on everything in sight, especially during the teething stage. Therefore, it's crucial to select a durable bed that can endure biting and rough play.
Consider beds made from tough materials like our Trojan range, which is made from ballistic nylon. This fabric is not only hard-wearing but also easy to clean, ensuring that your pup's bed remains in good condition despite their teething antics.
“As a puppy owner, durability is important to me. Whilst knowing it was important for my pup to have a safe, comfortable place to rest, constant repairs and worrying about my pup’s safety when left alone with a bed was a constant stress.
As a vet, my patients’ comfort is a priority. From arthritic patients to those recovering from surgery, they need a soft, supportive, and clean environment.”
- Dr Lily Richards BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS – Veterinary Surgeon and Medical Writer
Dog Beds for Adult Dogs
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Adult dogs tend to need:
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Adult dogs have different needs compared to puppies and seniors, requiring comfort, support, and durability. For most adult dogs, a bed with adequate cushioning and support is essential for healthy joints and muscles.
Our range of dog mattress beds is ideal for adult dogs because it gives them the space they need to stretch out while providing comfortable support.
For a more luxurious option, consider our Merino Wool or Tweed Wool options. These combine natural wool benefits with a supportive design, ensuring comfort and warmth.
Wool's thermal properties help regulate body temperature, making these beds suitable for all seasons.
Explore Our Dog Mattress Range
Beds for Senior Dogs
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Senior dogs tend to need:
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Senior dogs need extra comfort and support, which is why our Senior Gold 7+ range is perfect for them. These beds feature a heavyweight pile fabric with a special antibacterial wool blend, providing exceptional comfort and warmth.
Discover Our Senior Gold 7+ Beds
Best Beds for Pregnant Dogs
For pregnant dogs in whelping boxes, vet bedding is the ideal choice. This type of bedding provides a soft, comfortable surface that is both comforting and hygienic.
Specifically, we'd recommend our Super Gold Vet Bedding for its antibacterial fibres and moisture-wicking properties, which keep the box hygienic and dry.
"Bedding that wicks away urine or spilt water in kennels so wounds are not contaminated is a key consideration.”
- Dr Lily Richards BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS – Veterinary Surgeon and Medical Writer
Choose Bronte Glen Dog Beds for Your Pup
"If you’d ask my nurses, they’d have said bedding that's easy to clean and wash was most important. A bedding that could cover all bases is durable, comfortable, supportive, and easy to clean as described by Bronte Glen dog bedding is ideal for home and veterinary clinic use.”
- Dr Lily Richards BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS – Veterinary Surgeon and Medical Writer
When you choose Bronte Glen Dog Beds, you're choosing quality and durability over all else.
We manufacture all our beds here in West Yorkshire using premium materials, ensuring your pup gets a safe and comfortable sleep.
Invest in your dog's health and comfort with our range of luxury dog beds, suitable for pets of all ages, sizes, and personalities.
Explore Our Full Range of Dog Beds
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used as a substitute for veterinary medical advice.
FAQs
Yes, a dog bed provides comfort, support, and hygiene, ensuring your pup avoids hard surfaces and stays healthy. It's essential for joint support and creates a secure, personal space for them to relax and feel safe.
Yes, wool is an excellent material for dog beds as it offers superb support, regulates temperature, and is naturally antibacterial. This makes it suitable for all dogs, especially those with joint issues or needing additional comfort year-round.
The best type of dog bed depends on your dog's needs. For joint support and temperature regulation, wool beds are ideal. For durability and mess resistance, choose ballistic nylon. Always consider your dog's size, age, and specific requirements.
You can order Bronte Glen Dog Bedding through our website by visiting our dog beds section. Choose the bed that suits your pet’s needs. Alternatively, you can reach out to us to place an order for a bespoke dog bed.
Yes, wool filling can be better than orthopaedic memory foam. It offers superior temperature regulation, natural antibacterial properties, and excellent joint support, making it ideal for dogs needing consistent comfort and hygiene.