We want our furbabies to enjoy all the comforts of home. For some of us, that includes letting them sleep with us. But if your pooch likes to sprawl or is larger than a Chihuahua, the bed can get crowded.
Fortunately, there’s a way to have the best of both worlds. You can invest in an elevated bed that brings your pooch to your level but gives him his own sleeping space.
However, when you have a raised platform, your dog needs a safe way to access the top. So, it’s best to choose a product that includes stairs.
After evaluating more than 30 elevated dog beds with stairs, we chose the “GDLF Multi-Level Bed Window Perch Platform Wood Stairs” as our favorite because it’s made with durable wood particleboard. It comes with a comfy cushion for the top layer and has a safety railing to prevent your dog from rolling off the platform and the stairs are detachable from the bunk so that you can use them around the house. Each step includes a carpeted covering.
But I understand that you might have different needs, whether you’re searching for a bed for a smaller breed or a bed that is easy to storage.. That is why I prepared a shortlist of our top best elevated beds with stairs that address different needs.
In addition, in the review section below we listed our top 5 choices so you can find the best pick for you and your furry family member.
But before we look at my results we’ll look at the benefits of elevated beds with stairs and how pet stairs help your dog, and the 10 rules of thumb to consider when choosing a bed for your doggie.
Let’s dive in.
The Benefits of an Elevated Dog Bed With Stairs
You may be wondering, what’s the big deal about elevated pet beds with stairs? There are many benefits associated with elevated dog beds. And when you’re choosing a product that’s several feet off the ground, stairs can help protect your pooch. So, combining the two features can be extremely convenient for you and your furbaby.
Whether the bed is a cot or a loft, using a raised platform provides added benefits over a floor bed. For one, a raised sleeping surface keeps your furbaby away from crawling bugs and dust bunnies. These products also frequently offer better orthopedic support. Loft beds may come with an innerspring mattress or similar option that distributes your pal’s weight more evenly.
In many cases, it’s easier to clean around an elevated pet bed because you can vacuum underneath it. Because the mattress is off the floor, it won’t be sitting among tufts of dog hair and dirt. The elevated platform also means there’s better air circulation around your pup to help him sleep more comfortably.
Particularly if you have a large dog, you may think pet stairs aren’t necessary. But the truth is that they offer a variety of benefits:
- They help dogs that have difficulty jumping on elevated surfaces reach their goal
- When pets use steps, you won’t have to risk straining your back to lift them up
- They can prevent back or joint injuries sustained when your dog jumps up or down
- They ease the pain of arthritis by reducing the strain on the joints
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, there are several reasons why raised beds are convenient.
- Elevated beds can allow your furbaby to sleep beside you without taking up space in your bed. You both win.
- Stairs help to ensure that your furbaby has safe access to raised surfaces.
- For some pooches, the elevated bed can serve as a window perch that lets them survey the property while they’re resting.
- A bed with stairs helps to prevent limb and joint injuries that may predispose your pup to arthritis.
- If your pup loves his loft, he’ll be less likely to jump on other furniture when you’re not at home.
10 Rules of Thumb When Buying An Elevated Dog Bed With Stairs
When you’re looking for an elevated bed for your dog, keep his comfort and safety in mind. Use these 10 rules of thumb to help you make the best choice for your pooch.
- Stretch or Snuggle – How Does Your Dog Sleep? Observe your pup’s sleeping style. If he likes to curl into a tight ball, his space needs will be different from dogs that sprawl out. Some dogs also like to rest their heads on a pillow or bolster.
- Big or Little – What Size is Your Dog? A tiny bed won’t fit a giant breed dog, and an extra-large bed could overwhelm a teacup pup. Measure your dog’s height and length to help you decide the right dimensions for your pooch.
- Is It Easy to Clean? By regularly cleaning your special pal’s bed, you can help keep him healthy. Check to see if the bed is easy to wash, vacuum or brush to remove dust, dirt, and hair. You want to be able to remove potential allergens and bacteria.
- What Kind of Material Is It? For maximum comfort, look for a breathable material that’s easy to clean. Fabrics like hemp, microfiber, and tightly woven cotton tend to be cleanable and hypoallergenic.
- How Durable Is It? No one wants to invest in a bed that they’ll have to replace in a few months or a year. Check the bed’s material and stitching for durability. The stairs and platform should also be sturdy and made from rugged materials such as wood.
- Watch Those Teeth! – Does Your Dog Chew His Bedding? If you have a heavy-duty chewer, you’ll want to look for a product that’s designed to be chew-resistant. Materials such as canvas and rugged nylon can handle more gnawing than more flimsy fabrics.
- Does It Come With a Warranty? Check the warranty information. It can help you know whether the manufacturer has enough confidence in their product to back it with a guarantee.
- Where Was It Made? You’ve probably heard some horror stories about imported products. Whenever possible, select a bed that’s made in a country such as the USA. Stick with nations that have strict product safety standards in place.
Our 2024 Top 5 Best Elevated Dog Beds With Stairs
After reviewing more than 30 elevated dog beds with stairs using the criteria mentioned above, we chose our 5 best beds that we think are essential to your fur baby getting the proper rest that he needs.
GDLF Multi-Level Bed Window Perch Platform Wood Stairs
- Bed Size: 19.7” x 27.5”
- Material/Fabric: cushion with removable cover
- Ease of cleaning: washable cover
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: sturdy wood frame
- Warranty: No – 30-day return policy
- Made In The USA: Yes
- Best for: Our top pick overall
This multi-level pet bed features a raised sleeping surface and a lower resting or storage area. For your pup’s safety, the top level has an adjustable fence that prevents falling out of bed. The wood frame is sturdy and rated to support up to 100 pounds.
With water-resistant white paint and a removable cushion cover, this product is easy to clean. Unzip the pillowcase to launder it and wipe down the structure to remove unwanted dirt or hair.
Each step has carpeting for secure footing. You can move the stairs around the structure or use them in other areas in your home. The furniture has an attractive, modern design to complement your decor.
What We Like
- You can move the stairs to fit your spatial needs
- It’s sturdy
- It’s easy to clean
- There’s a safety fence to prevent falling out of bed
What Dogs Love About It
- It makes a great window seat
- It lets your dog sleep by the bed at your level
What We Don’t Like
- Assembly can be difficult and labor-intensive
- The stairs are too steep for small dogs
Made4Pets Dog Stairs with A Deluxe Condo and Toy Storage
- Bed Size: 15.7” x 15.7”
- Material/Fabric: particleboard
- Ease of cleaning: washable cover
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: a sturdy frame
- Warranty: No – 30-day return policy
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: Affordable price
Dog condo and ladder in one, this product from Made4Pets features two steps that help your pooch reach the furniture safely. The first stair is 7.7 inches high and features a storage chamber for Fido’s toys. With a 7.1-inch rise, the second flight provides easier access to elevated surfaces.
Under the second step, there’s a cozy doghouse. Your furbaby can snuggle in privacy on a cushion with a removable, plush cover. The stairs are carpeted for safer footing. Featuring an attractive gray shade, it should look attractive in your home. It’s also easy to clean.
Sturdy yet lightweight, this dog condo is easy to move around the house. You can also take it with you when you travel. The solid design can accommodate your pet’s weight as he climbs. This product comes with instructions for easy assembly.
What We Like
- It’s easy to assemble
- They’re lightweight and easy to move around
- It’s easy to clean
- They have an attractive appearance
What Dogs Love About it
- They’re sturdy and safe for climbing
- The steps are a comfortable height
What We Don’t Like
- The bed area is small
- The stair tops don’t secure in place and can shift on your pooch
PetFusion Pet Step Window Perch Bookshelf w/Storage Baskets
- Bed Size: 20 ½ ” x 11 ¾ ”
- Material/Fabric: MDF particleboard; foam pad with microfiber cove; carpeted step pads
- Ease of cleaning: pad and step covers are removable and washable
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: a sturdy frame
- Warranty: Yes – 1 year
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: Small Breeds
With a multifunctional design, this attractive pet perch doubles as a bookshelf. The white structure features off-setting gray carpet pads, storage baskets, and a cushion. You can set this piece of furniture in your living room to provide a window seat for your furbaby.
Durable polyester storage baskets allow you to keep your home neat and organized. You can store your pup’s favorite toys in the bins for easy access. Add books to the shelves for a complete and stylish look.
The 1-inch foam perch pad has a removable cover and waterproof lining for easy cleaning. You can also detach and wash the carpet step covers. Each stair is 8 inches high to help your pup to climb comfortably.
What We Like
- It’s sturdy
- It’s easy to put together
- It’s lightweight and easy to move around
- The storage space makes organizing easier
What Dogs Love About It
- It allows small dogs to lay in front of the window and see outside
- The foam pad is comfortable
What We Don’t Like
- The stairs are steep and shallow for smaller dogs
- It’s not made in the USA
Penn-Plax Buddy Bunk – Multi-Level Bed and Step System
- Bed Size: 20” x 28”
- Material/Fabric: memory foam mattress, removable cover
- Ease of cleaning: washable cover
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: sturdy wood frame
- Warranty: No – 30-day return policy
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: Medium dog breeds
Made from sturdy wood, this platform dog bed features removable, carpeted stairs and a bunk bed. With multiple sleeping areas, your furbaby can use the elevated area to sleep beside you at night. During the day, the carpeted bottom makes a nice napping spot.
The dual sleeping areas also allow you to provide a comfortable bed for more than one pooch at a time. The mattress is 1-inch memory foam with a removable, washable cover. An additional mattress is available for purchase to make a bunk bed. You can also use the lower area for storage.
You can use the removable stairs around the house to help your furbaby access the couch, his favorite chair, and more. With carpeted steps, your pal has secure footing for his climb. Additionally, there are bolsters to prevent your pooch from falling out of bed. The wooden frame is an attractive espresso color that adds style to your home.
What We Like
- It’s easy to clean
- It has sturdy construction
- It’s easy to assemble
- It has safety rails
What Dogs Love About It
- It provides a comfortable window perch
- It lets your dog sleep beside you without taking your space
What We Don’t Like
- The steps are a little steep for smaller breed dogs
- There’s too much distance from the top step to the platform
PetFusion Hybrid Pet Furniture 18x18x18”
- Bed Size: 18” x 18”
- Material/Fabric: particleboard; polyester fabric; heavy-duty hinges and screws
- Ease of cleaning: washable stair covers
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: a sturdy frame
- Warranty: Yes – 1 year
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: storage
This cute cube from PetFusion serves multiple functions. With fold-out pet stairs, your pooch will have comfortable access to the couch or bed. The top landing area is 18 inches square and provides a convenient resting space.
When the stairs are out, you can open the lid on the landing area to store your dog’s things. The product comes with a removable compartmented basket for easy sorting. If you don’t need the pet stairs, remove the storage basket and fold the stairs in. Voila, you have an instant ottoman.
The product is made of pressed wood and has heavy-duty hinges and screws to provide a sturdy structure. The stairs have removable carpeting which is washable. There’s a waterproof inner liner to help protect your furbaby from accidents.
What We Like
- It has a sturdy structure
- It’s attractive and functional
- The design makes it a great space saver
- It’s lightweight and portable
What Dogs Love About It
- It provides a safe way to climb up on the couch or bed
- The top is a comfortable resting spot for smaller dogs
What We Don’t Like
- The fabric is thin and not chew-proof
- It makes a poor ottoman – the edge has a hard, uncomfortable ridge
Common Questions from Dog Parens
How much assembly is required?
The amount of assembly required depends on the product and how many pieces the product has. Some may take half an hour while others will need a few hours of work.
Will my dog fit on the platform/bed?
To figure out whether your pooch will fit in the bed, check the product dimensions and compare it to where your pup is currently sleeping.
How safe is a raised bed?
It depends on the product’s safety features. Many elevated beds with stairs have protective barriers to prevent your dog from falling off. Stairs also usually have carpeting or another type of cover for secure footing. Check the product description to learn what type of safety features it offers for your pooch.
Can it support my dog’s weight?
To find out if the bed can support your dog’s weight, look for the product limits. How much a bed can handle will vary based on the materials and construction.
Can I use the steps separately?
Some products have separate or detachable stairs. Provided they are light enough to maneuver, you can use them in other places in your home.
Will the steps slip if my dog runs at them?
If the product comes with non-slip footings, the steps are less likely to move on impact. Check the manufacturer’s information to see what types of legs or bottom the steps have.
Can it be used outside?
If the product uses water-resistant materials, you may be able to use it outside. Check with the manufacturer.
The Final Woof
We evaluated several brands of elevated dog beds with stairs to help you find the best match for your pooch. Keeping both comfort and safety in mind, we recommend GDLF Multi-Level Bed Window Perch Platform Wood Stairs for Dogs as our pick for the best product.
This elevated bed is made with durable wood particleboard. It comes with a comfy cushion for the top layer and has a safety railing to prevent your dog from rolling off the platform.
Offering convenience, the stairs are detachable from the bunk so that you can use them around the house. Each step includes a carpeted covering.
With easy to wipe surfaces and a removable cushion cover, you can keep this bed clean for your furbaby. It’s sized to comfortably fit small and medium dogs.
