How to Choose a Pet Bed

How Do I Choose the Best Bed For My Pet?

There are so many beds to choose from! Bolster beds, round beds, raised beds, mats, cubes, igloos – oh my! It’s hard to know where to begin. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you! Rest assured, there’s a bed for every pet.

What Type of Bed Is Best For Dogs?

Factors like your pet’s age and sleeping preferences will affect which bed is best for them. Cats also have different bedding requirements which we will address below. Read on for a rundown on each bed type and what pets they’re best suited for.

Bolster Beds for Dogs

Bolster beds are a type of indoor pet bed that features a plush cushion-like bed, with raised sides that allow your bed to curl up in the interior and use the sides as a head rest. Bolster beds can be used by small and large dogs alike but are favoured by dogs that like to sleep in a curled position. They’re also a choice bed for younger dogs as the enclosed space imbues a sense of safety and comfort.

Ideal for:

✓ Puppies

✓ Indoor dogs

✓ Small dogs

✓ Dogs that like to sleep in a curled position

Cushion Beds for Dogs

Cushion beds boast a flat plush mattress structure that provide more space for dogs to stretch out. They tend to be the preferred bed for larger dogs and those that like to fully extend or lie on their backs to sleep. They’re also the choice bed for older dogs and those that suffer from arthritis or joint issues because they offer extra padding and support. They’re also low to the ground and are easier to get on and off.

Ideal for:

✓ Large dogs

✓ Dogs that like to sleep stretched out

✓ Indoor dogs

✓ Pairing with an elevated bed for extra padding in winter for outdoor dogs

Elevated Beds for Dogs

A great option for dogs that sleep outside, elevated and raised beds allow air to circulate in the space underneath th

Elevated beds are also well suited to outdoor use as they stay cleaner for longer as dirt and dust don’t stick to the shade cloth or hessian material as easily as they do to plush fabrics. These beds are also flea resistant, as fleas are more prone to laying their eggs in softer materials found in blankets, cushions and carpets.

Ideal for:

✓ Outdoor dogs

✓ Low-maintenance cleaning

Will your dog be sleeping outdoors? Read up on how to choose a kennel here!

Orthopaedic Beds for Dogs

Our orthopaedic dog beds feature memory foam to provide additional joint support. Designed for older dogs or dogs with arthritis, orthopaedic beds relieve pressure on joints, muscles, and the spine by moulding to your dog’s body to ease aches and pains.

Ideal for:

✓ Senior dogs

✓ Dogs with arthritis

✓ Dogs with weak or inflamed joints

Warming Beds for Dogs

Another great option for older dogs – warming beds (sometimes called thermal beds) provide extra warmth by trapping your dog’s body heat. They also help improve circulation, thus providing a degree of relief for arthritis symptoms.

Ideal for:

✓ Senior dogs

✓ Short-haired breeds

✓ Winter

...But, what about my cat?

What Type of Bed Is Best For Cats?

Cats can be a source of frustration when it comes to beds – why is it you can purchase the perfect piece of human-grade cat furniture, and then kitty would prefer to curl up in the fruit bowl? While amusing, this isn’t unusual. Most cats seek out hideaways to sleep as they help them feel comfortable and secure.

Donut Beds for Cats

Donut cat beds feature a round shape with raised edges, made from soft, plush materials. These beds offer a cosy, secure environment, ideal for cats who love to curl up and feel enclosed. The raised edges provide additional support for your cat's head and neck, enhancing their comfort and sense of security.

Ideal for:

✓ Cats

✓ Kittens

Covered Beds for Cats (Igloo or Cave Beds)

Igloo and cave beds are designed to appeal to the cat's nature to curl up in a small and secure location. They can also be used for pint-sized dogs. Our cat cube even features a versatile 2-in-1 design that means the cube can function in a 3D ‘house’ shape and a traditional bolster bed shape.

Ideal for:

✓ Small cats

✓ Kittens

✓ Shy or anxious cats

Orthopaedic Beds for Cats

Orthopaedic cat beds are designed with memory foam or other supportive materials to provide optimal joint support. These beds are especially beneficial for older cats or those with arthritis, as they help reduce pressure points and enhance comfort. With a low entry for easy access, orthopaedic beds are perfect for senior cats or those with mobility issues.

Ideal for:

✓ Senior cats

✓ Cats with arthritis or joint issues

✓ Cats recovering from surgery

✓ Large cats

Heated Beds for Cats

Heated cat beds come with built-in heating elements that can be self-warming or plugged in. These beds keep cats warm, especially during colder months, making them ideal for cats with thin fur or those who love warmth. Check out these tips to keep your furry friend extra warm during the winter season.

Ideal for:

✓ Cats

✓ Kittens

✓ Senior cats

✓ Cats with thin fur

✓ Sick or recovering cats

Window Perch and Hammock Beds for Cats

Window Perch and Hammock cat beds have a suspended design and can be floor-standing or window-mounted. These beds allow cats to climb and lounge in elevated positions, which many cats enjoy. Ideal for indoor cats needing stimulation and entertainment, they can be placed by windows for bird-watching or sunbathing.

Ideal for:

✓ Active cats

✓ Indoor cats

✓ Small to medium cats

✓ Cats that enjoy elevated spots

✓ Cats that love to watch outside

FAQS About Pet Beds

Should a dog bed be soft or hard?

It depends on your dog and their specific needs – while younger dogs are more likely to prefer soft beds, dogs with arthritis are better with firmer Orthopaedic beds. Research your dogs specific needs, or head into PETstock where our team would be happy to help!

What type of bed is best for dogs?

There is no one size fits all for dog beds – it depends on your dog’s age, their specific needs and their sleeping style. Read our guide above to see what bed suits your dog best and browse our range of dog beds here.

What size bed should I get for my dog?

Measure your dog to determine what size bed is best for them. When your dog is sleeping, you can measure the space they take up, and add an extra 30cm to the length and width to ensure they have room to stretch. If your dog is between bed sizes, it’s best to go up a size. Another way is to measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the tail – this provides your desired length. For width, measure your dog’s shoulder to the floor.

How do I clean a dog bed?

If your bed has a cover, it’s as simple as unzipping the bed and putting the cover in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. If your bed doesn’t feature a cover, hose it down outside and scrub corner areas with soapy water. Make sure you hang it to dry so that air circulates and it doesn’t go mouldy.

What bed should I get for my cat?

We recommend beds that cats can snuggle up in as this helps them feel safe and secure. Browse our range of cat beds here.