Bed Types

Consider your dogs sleeping style before choosing your bed style

Does your dog usually sprawl out, curl up, lean up against things? Can't decide which bed type would be best, here's our recommendations


Abbreviated Version:


SPRAWLERS love to stretch out. These are the pups that will lay on their side, flip on their backs, use all the surface area their bed has to offer. We recommend Tough Rectangle Orthopedic or  Tough Rectangle Nesting Beds


CURLERS prefer to curl up when they sleep. Paws and noses tucked in to provide warmth and conserve body heat. We recommend Tough Deep Den Beds or Tough Round Nesting Beds 


 LEANERS love the sense of security bolster beds can bring. They like to lean up against something and prop their heads on pillows. We recommend Tough Bolster Beds 


 For really BIG DOGS, consider our K9 Giant Beds that offer more surface area and an optional bolster. They are made with thicker, 7” orthopedic mattresses for maximum pressure relief. They come in two versions K9 Giant Rectangleor K9 Giant Bolster Beds. All our other giant beds offer similar surface area but please note that they are 5" thick.


Still unsure? Here's a deeper dive...


Which dog bed shape will my pup prefer?The most suitable bed shape for your particular dog depends on how they prefer to rest. 


In general, we find that circular dog beds are best for those that like to curl up in a ball, while rectangular beds are better suited to pups that like to sprawl out on their side or back. 


Bolster nesting beds & bolster orthopedic dog beds are a popular option, as they offer raised sides for those dogs that like to prop their heads up while resting. These beds also provide extra comfort and security but still have the convenience of an opening in the front to allow your pup easy access when hopping on or off. 


Den beds are similar to standard bolster beds in that they have raised sides -- however, the sides go all the way around with no opening in the front. Small or anxious dogs tend to love this design as it makes them feel extra secure and retains body heat, keeping them warm and cozy while they nap. 

Tip: When ordering a bolster or den bed, be sure to select the proper size according to the sleeping, inside dimension measurements (rather than the outer dimension measurements) to accommodate your dog’s length. 


Choose the right mattress for your pup’s comfort. 

The best type of mattress for your dog will depend on their individual needs. Consider their behavior, habits, and any health conditions before making a purchase. 


If your dog is arthritic or has painful joints: 

Any pooch with joint or other painful conditions, and most large breed dogs, require the extra support of a firm, orthopedic mattress to remain comfortable for long periods of time. Orthopedic mattresses provide even weight distribution to protect your dog’s spine and joints and allow for better circulation and pain relief. Our orthopedic mattresses are designed to provide superior support and cushioning for dogs weighing up to 350 pounds, so even the largest breeds can stay comfy. Best of all, the 5” solid CertiPUR-USA® foam won’t flatten out after repeated use, so you can rest assured knowing your pooch will be cozy for years to come. 


Shop Orthopedic Dog Beds 


If your dog likes to “nest” 

Some pups need their beds to be just right before lying down and will spend a considerable amount of time circling and pawing at the stuffing before settling in for a snooze. Our nesting mattress was designed specifically for those dogs; The fill is made of shredded CertiPUR-USA® certified foam that allows your pup to rearrange stuffing and nestle right into the cushioning. Own a smaller breed? This is likely what they’ll prefer. Because of their tiny size, small dogs weighing under 20 pounds typically enjoy the nesting mattresses more than the firm, orthopedic style. 


Shop Nesting Dog Beds 


If your dog loves to destroy their bed 

Many pooches view their beds as giant chew toys and may do best with a cot rather than a mattress. For those pups that find great joy in shredding their dog bed, we recommend the world’s #1 dog bed for power chewers, our K9 Ballistic Chew Proof Elevated Dog Cot™. While no dog bed is completely indestructible, this one comes pretty darn close. This cot performs even better than a Kevlar dog bed (which dogs can still chew through, resulting in long strands that can be very harmful if swallowed!) The cots are elevated off of the ground to provide support and comfort and can be used indoors or outdoors in all seasons. They’re also extremely easy to clean, which makes life easier if your pup tends to be messy. 


Shop Chew Proof Armored Dog Beds 


Consider Washability 

Dogs of all breeds and sizes will get their beds messy eventually; for your sanity, you’ll want to make sure you have the option of washing it when necessary. We know from experience that snagging a dog bed with a removable cover will make your life infinitely easier -- Many dog beds, especially larger ones, won’t fit inside your washing machine. With this in mind, we’ve designed a number of mattress options with easily removable covers to make life on laundry day as painless as possible. Even better, all cover options are designed with fabric that can be quickly spot-cleaned. 


Some dogs just love to beat up their beds. Our tough covers are extra durable and made from our proprietary K9 Ballistic Rip-Stop Proprietary Fabric™ designed to last for many years despite digging sharp nails. If you’ve got a pup that’s rough on his or her bed, our beds are your best bet.Whatever your dog’s needs, we’ve got the bed to keep them well-rested, comfortable, and healthy for the long haul.