Small dogs are big on fursonality and we love them enough to make sure they get the best there is no matter what we are buying for them. But a dog bed is more than just a pretty piece of furniture, it’s an essential part of your dog’s healthy lifestyle.
After evaluating over 100 dog beds for small dogs, I found that “Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort” has the best overall combination of an extra fluffy inner core, durability, dog-safe materials and calming features.
But I understand you might have different needs, whether you’re looking for you dog a bed with orthopedic features, cave-style bed or you could be searching for a particular product that fits best for your lifestyle. That is why I prepared a shortlist of the top small dog beds that address different needs & styles.
These beds come in all shapes, sizes, fabrics, and types so you have to know how your pooch likes to sleep, what makes him feel comfortable and safe, and whether he needs an elevated bed or special orthopedic foam. You also want to know that the bed is safe and comfortable for your pup to get the best sleep he can.
We chose our pick for best small dog bed below but listed our top 13 choices in the review section below, so you can find the furfect one for you & your doggie’s needs.
But first, we are going to talk about why a comfortable bed is important for your small dog’s health, introduce you to all the types of small dog beds there are and how to make sure you get the right kind and size for your best furry friend.
A Comfortable Dog Bed Is Essential To Your Small Dog Health
All dogs need a bed just like people do. After all, you wouldn’t want to sleep on the floor all your life. A good dog bed gives your pooch a space that is furfect for him and is also soft and supportive. You want to think about what makes you comfortable and apply this to your fur baby.
As your pup gets older, he can start developing joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia and arthritis. Whichever bed you choose, you have to make sure it is supportive enough to give him the pressure relief he needs. This is also important for growing puppies to support their joints while they sleep.
Small dog beds are typically 20 inches to 25 inches wide by 30 inches to 35 inches long but the sizes vary according to the manufacturer. They also range in thickness and style. For example, they have crate beds, outdoor beds, orthopedic beds, elevated beds. cooling beds, bolster beds, and donut-style beds. And make sure you change your fur baby’s bed once a year or whenever the cushion starts going flat.
Small dogs may not require much space, but they do need their own cozy bed that is of high quality and they should be the right size. Sure, your small pooch could sleep in any size bed, but it is impawtant for them to have one made for their size because of the structure.
In addition, just like us humans, dogs need high-quality sleep to be healthy and happy. In fact, it can even make your fur baby smarter. Check out this study in Scientific Reports about how sleep can improve your fur buddy’s memory and overall brain health.
15 Rules Of Thumb When Buying a Small Dog Bed
When you start shopping for your pooch’s bed, there are some things to keep in mind. First of all, measure your dog so you get the right size. And pay attention to how he sleeps so you can get the right style. You will also want to make sure the bed is durable enough to stand up to your pup and that the material is breathable to keep your dog cool. Check for the orthopedic and thermal features and if you plan to use it outdoors, make sure it is made for that. And of course you will want one that is easy to clean because dogs like to get dirty.
- How Big is Your Pooch? Measure your dog from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail with a tape measure. Then add six inches to that number. That is the length your dog’s bed should be. Measure his width from shoulder to shoulder and add six inches. That is the width your dog’s bed should be. For example, if your pooch is 15 inches long and 10 inches wide, the bed you buy should be at least 21 inches long and 16 inches wide.
- Watch Your Dog Sleep: If your dog sleeps curled up in a ball, make sure the middle of the bed is the most padded and firm. But if your fur baby likes to stretch out when he sleeps, you are going to want to measure his leg and add that length onto the measurements you got before.
- Bolsters-Style Vs. Traditional Style: Does your fur baby like to sleep with his head on a pillow or anything else he can find? A lot of dogs sleep this way because it helps align their spine so it is good for him. Get him a bolster-style or sofa bed so he has a pillow to rest his head and be comfy.
- Elevated Dog Beds Style – Older dogs need special beds to support their joints and even out the pressure on them. They are also good for dogs who have trouble getting up off the floor. Another benefit of an elevated bed is that the air circulates better underneath so he does not get hot.
- Durability – Dogs are notoriously “ruff” on their beds so you want to make sure the bed is made properly. The material should be tough enough to handle any kind of scratching or digging your pup may do before laying down.
- Breathability – The material of the bed should be breathable to make sure your dog does not get overheated. This is especially impawtant for senior dogs because they start losing the ability to regulate their body temperature.
- Is it Easy to Clean? – Some dog beds are super easy to clean because all you have to do is toss it in the washing machine. Others like elevated and outdoor beds can usually be hosed off or spot cleaned. Just make sure the bed you buy is not one that has to be specially dry cleaned or you could be in for some high cleaning costs.
- Orthopedic Features: No matter how old our dog is, we want him to be comfortable. Large dogs and senior pooches need special orthopedic features to spread his weight evenly. This helps their joints and eases arthritic issues like hip or elbow dysplasia. Memory foam is typically the best orthopedic feature for dog beds just like for human beds.
- Thermal Materials- If you have an older dog or a dog with a thin coat, you may want to consider getting a bed made of thermal materials. Thermal beds work by reflecting their body heat back to them so they stay warm. This can be from thermal reflectors like mylar or by having a cover made of a sherpa or faux fur.
- Indoor or Outdoor Bed: If you plan to keep your dog’s bed inside, you do not have to worry about it too much although you may want to check that the material does not shed all over the place. But if your dog’s bed will be outside, make sure it will stand up to the elements including rain, snow, and sun.
- Beds for Aggressive Chewers- Some dogs just love to chew on everything they can get ahold of. If your dog is like that, you may want to start training him not to do that. In the meantime, try to get a bed made of a tough material like canvas, Cordura, ballistic nylon, and ripstop fabric.
- Waterproof fabric Even if your dog’s bed will be inside, having a waterproof fabric is still great, especially if your pup has “accidents” once in a while. Some of the best waterproof materials include canvas, laminated cotton, poplin, nylon, polyester weave, vinyl, and pleather.
- Environmental Friendly- It is always nice to do something good for the environment. A lot of dog bed manufacturers now use recycled materials to make their beds so try to find one of those so we can keep our planet safe for the future.
- Warranty- If a dog bed manufacturer believes in his product enough to provide a warranty, that is a good sign. While many of them have a 30-day warranty and that is nice, but look for longer warranties like one or more years.
- Made In The USA- The United States has strict guidelines and laws about how they make their products, especially those used by humans or animals. This does not mean that other countries do not follow these guidelines and laws, but it is better to be sure.
Our 2024 Review For 13 Dog Beds For Small Dogs
After reviewing more than 100 dog beds for small dogs using the process mentioned above, we chose 13 that we think are essential to your fur baby getting the proper rest that he needs. We even classified them to help you choose the best for your pup’s essential healthy sleep.
Best Friends by Sheri
- Bed Style: Bolster
- Material/Fabric: Shag plush faux fur and polyfil
- Thermal Materials: No
- Waterproof fabric: No
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Bed Size: 23L x 23W x 7H inches to 45L x 45W x 8H inches
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: Top overall Pick & calming bed
This furry bed is furfect for those fur babies that need a cuddly place to chill out or sleep in. The extra fluffy inner core is overstuffed for comfort and the double overlock-stitch provides a stronger, reinforced edge finish that gives durability through use and washings. It was made with no unsafe fillings or materials so it is safe for your fur baby.
It is available in eight colors and four sizes. The small is 23″W x 23″L x 7″ H on the outside and 20″W x 20″L on the inside, the medium is 30″W x 30″L x 9″ H on the outside and 21″W x 21″L on the inside, the large is 36″W x 36″L x 9″ H on the outside and 27″W x 27″L on the inside, and the x-large is 45″W x 45″L x 9″ H on the outside and 28″W x 28″L on the inside.
What We Like:
- It is machine washable
- It comes in eight colors
- The stuffing lasts longer than most
What Dogs Love about it?
- The faux fur is very soft and calming
What We Don’t like:
- It is not waterproof
- It does not have orthopedic features
AmazonBasics Water-Resistant bed
- Bed Style: Bolster
- Material/Fabric: Oxford fabric and foam
- Thermal Materials: No
- Waterproof fabric: Yes
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Warranty: Yes, for one year
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: affordable
The Amazon Basics bed is a fantastic deal at a nice low price. In fact, this is one of the most affordable beds on the list. The oxford fabric is water-resistant and is comfortable while being functional. The pillow is removable so you can fluff it, wash it, or flip it over if you need to. The bolsters also make excellent headrests for your fur baby.
It only comes in royal blue/gray but it is a gorgeous color combination. The bed comes in five sizes. The small is 19L x 16.5W x 8H inches, the medium is 23L x 20.5W x 9H inches, the large is 27L x 23W x 10H inches, and the x-large is 29L x 25W x 10H inches.
What We Like:
- The removable pillow is pawesome
- The fabric keeps the inside dry
- You can use it inside or outside
What Dogs Love about it?
- The pillow is comfy
What We Don’t like:
- It only comes in one color
JOYELF Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Bed Style: Bolster
- Material/Fabric: Polyester and memory foam
- Thermal Materials: Yes
- Waterproof fabric: Yes
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 27L x 20W x 6H inches to 47L x 33W x 10H inches
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: orthopedic dog bed
Your fur baby will get the same pawesome memory foam that you have in your bed with this dog bed. Even a tiny dog needs memory foam to be comfy because it helps distribute his weight over the whole bed and eliminate pressure points. The waterproof liner keeps the inner foam dry but the rest of the bed can be unzipped and tossed in the wash for easy cleaning.
It comes in five sizes. The small is 27L x 20W x 6H inches, medium is 31L x 22W x 7H inches, large is 36L x 27W x 8H inches, xlarge is 40L x 30W x 9H inches, and xxlarge is 47L x 33W x 10H inches.
What We Like:
- The inner foam is supportive
- You can wash the cover
- There is a waterproof liner
What Dogs Love about it?
- It comes with a free toy
What We Don’t like:
- It only comes in one color
Brindle dog bed
- Bed Style: Both
- Material/Fabric: Memory foam with microsuede cover and 100% waterproof encasement
- Thermal Materials: No
- Waterproof fabric: Yes
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 22L x 16W inches to 46L x 28W inches
- Warranty: Yes, for three years
- Made In The USA: No
Best for: memory foam bed
Give your pooch a cozy thick bed with a removable cover that will stay clean and fresh no matter what. It has two inches of comfort memory foam with two inches of high-density support foam for four inches of orthopedic comfort for any dog. And the zippered cover comes off for machine washing when needed.
It comes in eight colors and patterns as well as six sizes. The x-small is 22L x 16W, small is 25L x 17W inches, medium is 34L x 22W inches, large is 36L x 27W inches, x-large is 40L x 30W inches, and the xx-large is 46L x 28W inches. And you can get them with or without bolsters too.
What We Like:
- It is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites
- You can get it with or without bolsters
- The inner membrane keeps the inner foam dry
What Dogs Love about it?
- The foam is thick and holds its shape
What We Don’t like:
- The zipper can be chewed on
Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort
- Bed Style: Bolster
- Material/Fabric: Polyester with AirLoft fibers inside
- Thermal Materials: Yes
- Waterproof fabric: Yes, the bottom is waterproof
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 20L x 20Wx 12H inches to 24L x 24W x 13.5H inches
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: donut-style bed
In this cozy dog bed, there are crevices your pooch can burrow in as well as deep plush sherpa for him to cuddle up with. And he has an entire wall circling him to help make him feel safe. The back wall is three inches taller than the front so your pooch can use it as a backrest while using the front for a pillow. And it is overstuffed with virgin AirLoft fibers that last three times as long as other fillers. For little pooches who love to sleep curled up, this bed is furfect and the material is so thick it can stand up to diggers and scratchers.
It comes in 16 different colors and three different fur styles. You can choose from sherpa, Ilan, and lux. They are all soft and cozy but it just depends on what your dog likes. The sherpa is more of curly wool, the lux is a faux fur material, and the Ilan is a microfiber with a smoother touch. The base is waterproof and the outer material is triple stitched to keep the stuffing in place. There are two sizes. The standard is 20L x 20Wx 12H inches with a sleeping surface of 16L x 16W inches and the jumbo is 24L x 24W x 13.5H inches with a sleeping surface of
21L x 21W inches.
What We Like:
- It comes in 16 different colors and three fabrics
- The deep pockets are great for snugglers
- The bottom is waterproof
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is cozy and warm
What We Don’t like:
- Only the bottom is waterproof
K&H PET Elevated bed
- Bed Style: Bolster
- Material/Fabric: 600 Denier fabric and metal
- Thermal Materials: No
- Waterproof fabric: Yes
- Elevated Bed: Yes
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 17L x 22W x 7H inches to 30L x 42W x 7H inches
- Warranty: Yes, for one year
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: elevated bed
K&H Pet Products makes this bolster elevated pet bed that is pawfect for dogs that roll around a lot. Is your little Yorkie falling out of bed at night? This bolstered bed will keep him in where he belongs. The material is breathable and very durable but the bolsters may be chewed up by an aggressive chewer.
This bed is also great for older dogs who have joint problems and need the extra breathability to regulate their temperature. It comes in three sizes. The small is 17L x 22W x 7H inches, medium is 25L x 32W x 7H inches, and the large is 30L x 42W x 7H inches. You can also remove the bolster and add other accessories like the self-warming cover or cot canopy (both sold separately). The cover and bolster are machine washable too so it is easy to clean.
What We Like:
- Easy to clean
- The bolster is removable
- It repels moisture, mold, and mildew
What Dogs Love about it?
- The bolster is comfortable as a pillow
What We Don’t like:
- The bolster can be chewed up
Barkbox dog bed
- Bed Style: Flat
- Material/Fabric: Orthopedic gel foam and polyester vinyl cover
- Thermal Materials: No
- Waterproof fabric: Yes
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 24L x 16W x 3H inches to 50L x 34W x 5H inches
- Warranty: Yes, a lifetime warranty
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: flat-style bed
With 10 colors and patterns to choose from, this pawesome bed is three inches thick with gel memory foam and high-density foam just like they use in your own memory foam mattress. The cover is waterproof and will keep the inner foam clean and dry. And the 100% lifetime guarantee means you get your money back even if your dog does not like it.
Every bed comes with a free toy so your fur baby can play before relaxing on his comfy bed. The small is 24L x 16W x 3H inches, medium is 29L x 18W x 3H inches, large is 35L x 22W x 3H inches, x-large is 41L x 29W x 4H inches, and the xx-large is 50L x 34W x 5H inches.
What We Like:
- It has many colors and sizes
- The lifetime warranty is pawesome
- The cover is waterproof
What Dogs Love about it?
- It comes with a free toy
What We Don’t like:
- It won’t stand up to diggers
Furhaven Pet
- Bed Style: Flat
- Material/Fabric: Polyester and faux lambswool with cooling gel foam
- Thermal Materials: Yes
- Waterproof fabric: Yes
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes/No
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 18L x 18W x 3H inches to 44L x 44W x 3H inches
- Warranty: Yes, for 90 days
- Made In The USA: Yes
- Best for: cuddlers
If your fur baby is a cuddler and loves to get underneath the blankets, this is the bed for him. This bed has a blanket hood that is attached to the bed and can be made into a tent or a burrowing cave with plastic tubing. The base is made of two inches of medical-grade support foam, one inch of cooling gel foam, and a faux lambswool sleep surface.
No matter how your pooch likes to sleep, this bed is furfect. It can be used as a flat open bed with a blanket or a cave for him to hide in. The waterproof membrane keeps the foam dry but you can remove the cover and put it in the washing machine too. It comes in 11 colors and four sizes. The small is 18L x 18W x 3H inches, medium is 26L x 26W x 3H inches, large is 35L x 35W x 3H inches, and x-large is 44L x 44W x 3H inches.
What We Like:
- The versatility is pawesome
- It is easy to clean
- It has a waterproof membrane
What Dogs Love about it?
- He can snuggle in the cave or cover with the blanket
What We Don’t like:
- Not good for chewers
Blueberry Pet dog bed
- Bed Style: Bolster
- Material/Fabric: Microsuede and polyfill
- Thermal Materials: No
- Waterproof fabric: No
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Bed Size: 25L x 21W x 10H inches to 34L x 24W x 12H inches
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: removable & washable cover
This adorable dog bed by Blueberry Pets is made of microsuede fabric and filled with 100% recyclable microfiber. They use premium grade white cotton inserts that are more healthy to humans as well as pooches. The durable YKK zipper makes it simple to unzip the bed and toss the cover into the washing machine for a deep clean when needed.
It comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics so there is something for every decor. Sizes include small, which is 25L x 21W x 10H inches with a sleeping surface of 14L x 11.5W inches and the medium is 34L x 24W x 12H inches with a sleeping surface of 23L x 15W inches.
What We Like:
- It comes in a variety of colors, patterns and fabrics
- The polyfil is stitched in place so it won’t shift
- It can be machine washed
What Dogs Love about it?
- It comes with a free toy
What We Don’t like:
- It is not waterproof
- It does not have orthopedic features
SPOT Ethical Pets Sleep Zone
- Bed Style: Cave
- Material/Fabric: Faux suede outer and plush interior
- Thermal Materials: Yes
- Waterproof fabric: No
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: No
- Bed Size: 22L x 17W x 10H inches
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: cave-style bed
The cuddle cave is a durable and cozy den where your fur baby can feel safe as he takes his power naps. The strong construction gives your pooch countless hours of comfy sleep and lots of cuddle time. The deep plush interior and ribbed faux suede outer gives your fur baby a feeling of comfort and security. And the filling process keeps the stuffing in the top of the bed cave so it stays up.
It only comes in one size but it comes in four colors, which are brown, black, tan, and snow leopard print. The whole bed is easy to clean because you just have to toss it in the washing machine. And the company will refund your money if you are not 100% satisfied for any reason.
What We Like:
- The cave stays open
- It is machine washable
- The fabric is soft
What Dogs Love about it?
- He has his own little cozy cave
What We Don’t like:
- It is not waterproof
- It only comes in one size
PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed
- Bed Style: Bolster
- Material/Fabric: Comfortable polyester (65%) & cotton (35%) twill
- Thermal Materials: Yes
- Waterproof fabric: Yes
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 25L x 20W inches to 50L x 40W inches
- Warranty: Yes, for three years
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: bolster-style bed
With this pawesome bed, you get it all. The material is made of durable material that can stand up to abuse like digging and scratching and it is water-resistant on the outside with an inner waterproof membrane to protect the inside. It is made of six inches of thick and soft Certi-PUR-US memory foam to keep your pup comfy and provides orthopedic support.
The bolsters are filled with polyfill and make great pillows for your fur baby while protecting him from falling out of bed. It comes in three colors and four sizes. The small is 25L x 20W inches for dogs up to 50 pounds, the large is 36L x 28W inches for dogs up to 100 pounds, x-large is 44L x 34W inches for dogs up to 150 pounds, and the xx-large is 50L x 40W inches holds dogs 200+ pounds.
What We Like:
- It has a three-year warranty
- The cover is machine washable
- It has a waterproof membrane inside
What Dogs Love about it?
- It has six inches of memory foam
- The bolsters make great pillows
What We Don’t like:
- It is rather expensive
PetZu Heartbeat Dog Pillow
- Bed Style: Flat
- Material/Fabric: Fleece
- Thermal Materials: Yes
- Waterproof fabric: No
- Elevated Bed: No
- Chew-Proof Fabric: No
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 12L x 12W x 3H inches
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: pillow-style bed
The PetZu Heartbeat Pillow will help soothe your puppy so he can fall asleep easier. Not only does it have a heartbeat simulator but it also has a microwavable heating pad that stays warm for at least 30 minutes. Just heat it for 60 seconds in the microwave and put it inside the pillow.
Both the heating pad and heartbeat simulator can be removed so you can toss it in the washing machine. It takes two AAA batteries that are included and it shuts off automatically after about five minutes to save battery life. This only comes in one size but has two different colors, pink/white or brown/white. The faux fur is soft and feels like mama’s fur so your puppy can feel safe.
What We Like:
- It has a microwavable heating pad
- The heartbeat is pawesome
- It is machine washable
What Dogs Love about it?
- It sounds and feels like his mama
What We Don’t like:
- It only comes in one size
- It is not waterproof
Enchanted Home Pet Quicksilver Pet Sofa bed
- Bed Style: Bolster
- Material/Fabric: Faux leather or micro velvet with wood frame
- Thermal Materials: No
- Waterproof fabric: No
- Elevated Bed: Yes
- Chew-Proof Fabric: Yes
- Durability: Extremely durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Orthopedic Features: Yes
- Bed Size: 24L x 16W x 12H inches
- Warranty: Yes, lifetime
- Made In The USA: No
- Best for: Best sofa-style bed
For those who want to pamper their pups as well as decorate their home, why not get him one of these fancy sofa beds? The Brisbane sofa bed is made of faux leather and can be wiped clean and the Quicksilver sofa bed is made of micro velvet that needs to be washed. Both of these are made of wood and have 2-inch wooden legs to give them circulation and orthopedic support.
The Brisbane sofa bed is 33.5L x 20.75W x 12H and the sleeping surface is 21L x 15L inches. The Quicksilver sofa bed is 27L x 18L x 12H inches with a sleeping surface of 24L x 16W inches. Both of these pawesome beds have pockets to keep toys and bones in and can accommodate pups up to 30 pounds.
What We Like:
- They are adorable
- The pockets are great
- They are elevated
What Dogs Love about it?
- They are cozy and comfy
What We Don’t like:
- Neither of them is waterproof
- They only come in one size
The Final Woof
The Best Friends OrthoComfort by Sheri may not be perfect for every pooch, but after evaluating over 100 dog beds on the market and comparing them using our criteria, we feel that this one is the best small dog bed overall. The fantastic price and many features give this one an advantage that many of the others do not have.
This furry bed is furfect for those fur babies that need a cuddly place to chill out or sleep in. The extra fluffy inner core is overstuffed for comfort and the double overlock-stitch provides a stronger, reinforced edge finish that gives durability through use and washings. It was made with no unsafe fillings or materials so it is safe for your fur baby.
