Choosing the perfect bed for your dog is more than just a cosy decision, it’s a commitment to their comfort, health, and overall happiness. With so many styles, shapes, and materials on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But worry not, our expert dog bed guide will walk you through everything you need to consider to find the best dog bed for your four-legged friend.
From understanding your dog’s sleeping style to finding the right size and fabric, this guide covers it all—plus, we’ll introduce you to the luxury range of dog beds at Lords & Labradors, designed to suit dogs of all breeds and personalities.
1. Start with the Right Size: Why It Matters
Before anything else, size matters. A bed that’s too small will leave your pup feeling cramped, while one that’s too large might not provide the snug security many dogs crave.
Use our handy dog bed size chart below as a general guide:
|
Dog Size |
Example Breeds |
Recommended Bed Size |
|
Dachshund, Pug, Chihuahua |
50–70 cm |
|
|
Cocker Spaniel, French Bulldog |
70–90 cm |
|
|
Labrador, Boxer |
90–110 cm |
|
|
Great Dane, Newfoundland |
110 cm+ |
Measure your dog while they’re lying in their natural sleeping position, and add a few centimetres for comfort. Don’t forget to account for growing room if you’re shopping for a puppy!
Tip: All our luxury dog beds at Lords & Labradors are available in a range of sizes tailored to suit both toy breeds and gentle giants alike.
2. Consider Their Sleeping Style
Just like humans, dogs have their own sleeping quirks. Does your dog curl into a tight ball, sprawl out on their side, or burrow under blankets? Their preferred position can help determine the best bed shape and structure.
- Curled-up sleepers tend to love donut or bolster-style beds with raised edges for a sense of security.
- Stretchers and loungers will benefit from flat, mattress-style beds that offer plenty of space to spread out.
- Burrowers adore cave-style beds or beds with hoods they can nestle beneath like our original Sleepy Burrow Beds.
Our curated range at Lords & Labradors includes all of the above styles, each crafted with care to suit your dog’s individual personality and sleeping habits.
3. Material Matters: Comfort, Durability & Style
When selecting a dog bed, the material it’s made from is just as important as how it looks in your home. Think about your dog’s coat, age, and any sensitivities they may have.
Key Materials to Consider:
- Memory Foam: Offers excellent joint support, ideal for senior dogs or those with arthritis.
- Plush/Faux Fur: Super soft and comforting, particularly for puppies and anxious dogs.
- Canvas/Cotton: Durable and breathable—perfect for warmer climates or heavy shedders.
- Waterproof & Washable Covers: Essential for puppies in training, elderly pets, or muddy adventurers.
Our dog beds at Lords & Labradors feature premium fabrics with practicality in mind, removable covers, machine-washable materials, and top-tier filling for long-lasting loft and support.
4. Indoor vs Outdoor Options
Most dog beds are designed for indoor use, but if your pup enjoys lounging in the garden or travels with you on outdoor adventures, a purpose-built outdoor bed is worth considering.
Indoor Beds:
- Typically softer, more stylish, and designed to blend in with home interiors.
- Include options like cosy nests, sofas, and plush memory foam mats.
Outdoor Beds:
- Made from tough, weather-resistant materials such as waterproof canvas or elevated mesh.
- Ideal for camping trips, back gardens, or dogs who love basking in the sun.
Our outdoor-friendly options at Lords & Labradors combine durability with design flair, ensuring your dog rests in luxury wherever they are.
5. Style & Aesthetic: A Bed That Fits Your Home
While your dog’s comfort is the top priority, there’s no reason their bed can’t look fabulous too! Many modern dog beds are made to resemble designer home furnishings, think velvet fabrics, tasteful neutrals, and elegant patterns.
At Lords & Labradors, we believe a dog bed should be both functional and fashionable. That’s why our beds are crafted to complement a variety of home décors, from classic country chic to contemporary minimalism.
So, What is Best for Your Dog?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the best dog bed UK offering. Each pup is unique, and the ideal bed for one may not suit another. But by considering your dog’s size, sleeping habits, environment, and preferences, you’ll be well on your way to making the right choice.
Explore our complete range of luxury dog beds at Lords & Labradors. From snug puppy nests to spacious orthopaedic loungers, we’ve got comfort covered.
Ready to find the perfect bed for your pooch? Browse our full collection of luxury dog beds and give your dog the restful sleep they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dog beds do vets recommend?
Vets most commonly recommend orthopaedic or memory foam beds, particularly for older dogs, larger breeds, or those with joint conditions such as arthritis or hip dysplasia. The key factors vets look for are even weight distribution, adequate support for the spine and joints, and a washable cover for hygiene. A bed that is easy to get in and out of is also important for dogs with reduced mobility. If your dog has a specific health condition, it is always worth asking your vet for guidance on the type of support they need before choosing a bed.
Should a dog bed be bigger than the dog?
As a general rule, yes. Your dog should be able to lie in their natural sleeping position without any part of their body hanging off the edge or resting on a hard surface. Measure your dog from nose to tail while they are lying down, then add around 20 to 30 centimetres to give them comfortable room to move. That said, some dogs — particularly those who like to feel enclosed and secure — may feel more settled in a bed that fits them snugly, such as a donut or bolster style. It is worth taking your dog's sleeping habits into account alongside their measurements.
How to pick the right size dog bed?
Start by measuring your dog while they are lying in their usual sleeping position, nose to tail and across the widest point. Use that measurement as your baseline, then size up to allow a little extra room. If your dog tends to curl up tightly, a more compact bed with raised sides will suit them well. If they stretch out fully, opt for a flat mattress style with generous dimensions. For puppies, consider sizing up to allow for growth, or choose a brand that offers a good range of sizes so you can move up as they do.
What type of dog bed do dogs prefer?
It varies quite a bit depending on the individual dog. Breed, size, age, and personality all play a role in what a dog finds comfortable. Dogs that like to curl up tend to gravitate towards bolster or donut beds with raised edges that give them something to rest against. Dogs that stretch out prefer flat, spacious mattresses. Anxious or nervous dogs often feel safest in cave or hooded beds where they can burrow in. Older dogs or those with stiff joints generally do best on a memory foam or orthopaedic mattress that takes pressure off sore areas. Watching how your dog naturally sleeps is usually the best way to figure out what they need.
