The correct dog bed size lets your dog sleep well and stay healthy. You need a bed big enough for your dog to stretch out. This guide will help you find the proper dog bed size for your furry friend. We will look at how to measure your dog and what to think about when choosing right dog bed.
Measuring Your Dog for the Perfect Fit
Finding the right dog bed dimensions starts with knowing your dog’s size. You need more than just breed knowledge. Dogs vary a lot even within the same breed. Taking a few simple measurements ensures a snug, comfy fit.
How to Measure Your Dog’s Sleeping Style
First, watch how your dog sleeps when they are most relaxed. Do they curl up tight like a donut? Or do they sprawl out flat on their side or back? Their natural sleeping position tells you a lot about the bed shape and size they need.
The Curler vs. The Sprawler
- Curlers: Dogs that sleep in a tight ball need a bed with good bolsters (raised sides). These beds offer support and a feeling of safety. For curl-sleepers, the bed length should be about 12 inches longer than your dog when curled up.
- Sprawlers: Dogs that stretch out need a flatter, larger surface area. They need length and width to fit their whole body without hanging off the edges. For sprawlers, measure your dog from nose to tail when fully stretched. Add about 6 to 12 inches to this total for the minimum bed length.
Taking Key Measurements
Use a flexible tape measure for accuracy. Have someone help you hold the tape if your dog is wiggly.
- Length: Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. This is crucial for sprawlers.
- Height/Depth: Measure from the floor to the top of their head or shoulder when standing. This helps determine if the sides of the bed are high enough for support but low enough for easy entry.
- Width (if applicable): For dogs that sleep splayed out sideways, measure from one hip joint to the other.
Once you have these numbers, you can start comparing them to small dog bed measurements or large dog bed requirements.
Relating Dog Size to Bed Size Charts
Most dog bed manufacturers use general size labels like Small, Medium, Large, etc. These are often based on average breed sizes. However, using a dog bed size chart based on actual measurements is much safer.
General Sizing Reference Table
This table offers a starting point, but always check the specific product’s measurements.
| Size Label | Typical Dog Weight Range (Approx.) | Example Breeds | Suggested Bed Inner Dimensions (L x W) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extra Small (XS) | Under 10 lbs | Chihuahua, Toy Poodle | 18” x 13” |
| Small (S) | 11 – 25 lbs | Beagle, Shih Tzu, French Bulldog | 24” x 18” |
| Medium (M) | 26 – 40 lbs | Cocker Spaniel, Border Collie | 30” x 20” |
| Large (L) | 41 – 70 lbs | Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd | 36” x 23” |
| Extra Large (XL) | 71 – 90 lbs | Golden Retriever, Rottweiler | 42” x 28” |
| Jumbo/Giant | Over 90 lbs | Great Dane, Mastiff | 48” x 30” and larger |
If you are shopping for a puppy bed size guide, remember that puppies grow fast! Buy a bed that fits their current size but is inexpensive, or jump up one size so they can grow into it without being overwhelmed.
The Importance of the Crate Size Connection
Many owners use beds inside crates or carriers. If this is the case, the bed must fit inside the crate without bunching up. Always check the dog crate size chart provided by the crate manufacturer. Your bed dimensions should be slightly smaller than the interior crate dimensions. If a crate is 30” x 20”, look for a bed that measures around 28” x 18” so it fits easily and doesn’t get stuck when closing the door.
Special Considerations for Different Bed Types
The type of bed you choose heavily affects the sizing. A donut bed fits a curler differently than a flat mattress fits a sprawler.
Bolster and Donut Beds (Nest Style)
These beds have raised sides. While the dog fits inside the middle circle, the outside dog bed dimensions are much larger.
- Focus: The internal sleeping surface is what matters most.
- Rule of Thumb: If your dog likes to lean against the sides, ensure the internal space is large enough for them to lie down with their head resting comfortably on the bolster without their body being cramped. Add 4–6 inches to your dog’s stretched length measurement if they like to use the bolster as a pillow.
Orthopedic Beds and Mattresses
Orthopedic dog bed sizing is critical, especially for senior dogs or large breeds needing joint support. These beds are often flatter but very thick.
- Thickness Matters: The foam density or layering might compress when the dog lies down. Always check the advertised sleeping surface size when compressed, not just the outer shell size.
- Large Breeds: For large dog bed requirements, thickness is often more important than just length. A dog over 70 lbs needs at least 4 inches of high-density foam to keep their joints off the hard floor.
Elevated or Cot-Style Beds
These beds stretch a fabric surface tautly. Because the surface is firm and supportive, dogs tend to sprawl more naturally.
- Sizing: For these, lean towards the larger side. You want the material to support the dog’s entire body weight without sagging too much in the middle. If you are between sizes, always choose the next size up.
Utilizing a Dog Bed Size Calculator
If you still feel uncertain, look for an online dog bed size calculator. These tools often ask for your dog’s breed, weight, and preferred sleeping style (curled or sprawled). They use algorithms based on thousands of recorded measurements to suggest a size range.
While helpful, treat the calculator’s suggestion as a strong recommendation, not the final word. Always double-check the suggested dimensions against the actual product listing.
The Role of Matching Bed to Dog Weight
Matching bed to dog weight is vital for safety and longevity, particularly with memory foam or supportive beds.
- Too Small: A heavy dog on a bed sized for a lighter dog will quickly flatten the filling, reducing support and causing the dog to feel the floor underneath. This defeats the purpose of an expensive orthopedic bed.
- Too Big: A small dog in a huge bed might feel insecure or cold, especially if the bed lacks supportive bolsters for curling up. They might also sink into the center padding too deeply.
Practical Steps for Selection and Purchase
Once you have your measurements and understand the bed types, follow these steps before clicking “Buy Now.”
Step 1: Confirm Inner vs. Outer Dimensions
This is the most common mistake! Manufacturers list the outer edge-to-edge measurement. For comfort, you need the internal sleeping area.
- If a bed is listed as 30” x 20” and has 4-inch bolsters all around, the actual sleeping space is only 22” x 12”.
- Always search the product description for “inner dimensions” or “sleeping surface.”
Step 2: Account for Growth (Puppies)
If you have a puppy, estimating their adult size is necessary. Consult breed standards or ask your vet for a projection of their adult weight and height. Buying too small now means buying twice later.
Step 3: Consider the Environment
Where will the bed go?
- Small Spaces: If the bed is going into a corner of a small room, you might need to compromise on length to ensure it fits without blocking traffic flow.
- Travel/Portability: Thick, rigid orthopedic beds are hard to move. Consider softer, roll-up mats if you travel frequently.
Step 4: Look at Material and Maintenance
The material affects how the dog uses the space. Plush, velvety beds might encourage curling, while tough canvas beds encourage sprawling. Also, consider how easy the cover is to wash.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these pitfalls will save you time and money spent on returns.
- Relying Only on Breed Name: A miniature Dachshund is very different from a standard Dachshund. A ‘Beagle bed’ might not fit your stocky, barrel-chested Beagle.
- Ignoring Sleeping Posture: Buying a round bed for a dog that sleeps like a starfish guarantees discomfort.
- Forgetting the “Snuggle Factor”: Some dogs actively prefer feeling “held” by their bedding. If your dog often digs into blankets or leans against furniture, they need a bed with supportive sides, even if they sprawl a little when asleep.
Specific Sizing Scenarios
Different situations demand specific sizing adjustments.
Sizing for Seniors and Dogs with Arthritis
For older dogs, comfort and accessibility are paramount.
- Easy Entry: The rim of the bed should be low (under 8 inches high for medium dogs) so they don’t have to step too high.
- Support: Choose thicker orthopedic dog bed sizing (5 inches or more of dense foam).
- No Bolsters (Sometimes): If a dog struggles to lift their legs, bolsters can become obstacles. A flat mattress style is often better for easy climbing in and out.
Sizing for Multiple Dogs
If two dogs like to share, you must size up significantly. Two medium dogs sharing a Large bed usually won’t work. They will often end up pushing each other out or sleeping uncomfortably.
- The Best Rule: Buy two beds that fit each dog perfectly OR buy one bed that is large enough for both dogs to sprawl out separately on it at the same time. If their combined stretched length is 60 inches, you might need a 70-inch bed.
Sizing for Travel and Vehicles
When matching bed to dog weight for travel, portability often trumps perfect fit. A foldable mat that supports weight reasonably well is better than a bulky orthopedic unit that takes up the entire trunk space. For car safety, ensure the bed doesn’t slide around, potentially distracting the driver or preventing proper seatbelt harness use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I buy a dog bed bigger than my dog?
Yes, usually. You should add 6 to 12 inches to your dog’s fully stretched length measurement to ensure they have room to shift and stretch without falling off. If they are a curler, add enough space so they can stretch slightly while still feeling the comfort of the bolster sides.
How do I convert a dog crate size to a dog bed size?
If your crate is marked 36” L x 24” W, you should look for a bed that measures roughly 34” L x 22” W. This ensures the bed fits snugly inside without bulging up the sides of the crate or getting caught when the door closes. Always check the specific bed’s inner dimensions.
Are there specific tips for selecting a puppy bed size guide?
Yes. Puppies need security. A puppy bed size guide suggests choosing a bed that allows them to curl up securely, often one slightly smaller than their fully grown size, but large enough that they don’t feel lost. Because they grow rapidly, purchasing a bed that fits their current size and one for their adult size (or a cheap transitional bed) is often the best approach.
Does dog weight affect orthopedic sizing more than length?
Absolutely. When matching bed to dog weight, especially for orthopedic or memory foam beds, weight determines the necessary density and thickness of the support material. A heavy dog needs thick, dense foam; otherwise, they will compress the bed completely and receive no joint benefit.
What if my dog is between two sizes, like a Medium and a Large?
When in doubt, size up. It is better for a dog to have too much space than too little, especially when dealing with stretching or joint issues. The only exception is if the larger size will not fit in the intended space, or if the dog is a strong curler who prefers a cozy, smaller space.