Choosing a dog bed by size: the complete bedding guide
A dog sleeps around twelve hours a day on average, sometimes more for a puppy or a senior. Its bed is therefore no mere decorative accessory: it’s central to its wellbeing. Planète Pets guides you to the right bed first time, alongside our bedding and habitat section.
The right size: one simple rule to remember
Measure your dog lying on its side, from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, and add 15 to 20 cm: that gives you the minimum internal length of the bed. A bed that’s too small strains the joints; an oversized one can, conversely, deprive some dogs of the sense of security they seek by curling up against a raised edge.
- Small dogs (under 10 kg): a 50 to 60 cm bed.
- Medium dogs (10 to 25 kg): a 70 to 90 cm bed.
- Large dogs (over 25 kg): a 100 to 120 cm bed, or more for giant breeds.
Basket, cushion or bolster bed: which shape for which sleeper?
Watch your dog’s favourite sleeping position. If it sleeps curled up, an oval bed with raised sides or a plush donut will suit it. If it stretches out full length, go for a flat mattress or a rectangular cushion. Dogs that like to hide away appreciate dome beds and indoor dens, while those that feel the cold favour high sides that block draughts.
Materials and filling: comfort that lasts
The filling makes all the difference. Standard polyester wadding flattens quickly under a heavy dog; high-density foam keeps its support. For an older dog or one prone to stiff joints, a memory-foam mattress is a genuine plus, and your vet may point you towards an orthopaedic bed. As for the cover, insist on a removable, machine-washable one: it’s the number-one hygiene criterion, especially during flea and tick treatment periods. A non-slip base and water-repellent fabrics are welcome day to day.
How much should you budget?
Expect €20 to €45 for a good-quality small bed, €40 to €90 for a medium dog, and €70 to €150 for a large high-density or memory-foam mattress. Plastic baskets paired with a cushion, easy to disinfect, remain an economical and durable option at around €15 to €40.
Mistakes to avoid
Don’t place the bed in a busy walkway: dogs need a quiet corner where they won’t be disturbed. Avoid polystyrene-bead fillings with a destructive puppy, which could swallow them; in that case, opt for reinforced materials and take a look at our guide to dog toys for heavy chewers. Finally, outdoor sleeping has different constraints: our article on the outdoor dog house covers the right choices.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Dogs universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.