How to Choose the Right Bed for Your Dog's Sleep Style
Dogs sleep a lot — anywhere from 12 to 18 hours a day depending on age and breed — which makes their bed one of the highest-impact purchases you'll make for their comfort. But "dog bed" isn't a one-size-fits-all category. The right choice depends heavily on how your dog actually sleeps.
Start by Watching How They Sleep
Spend a few days paying attention. Most dogs fall into one (or a rotating mix) of these patterns:
- The Curler — tucks into a tight ball, nose to tail
- The Sprawler — stretches out fully on their side
- The Burrower — digs under blankets or pushes into corners
- The Sitter-Upper — rests more upright, head elevated, especially common in older dogs
Bed Types Matched to Sleep Style
For Curlers: Bolstered or Donut Beds Raised edges give curlers something to nest against, mimicking the security of denning. Our Cozy Cloud Pet Bed works well here — the soft bolster gives a sense of enclosure without fully boxing them in.
For Sprawlers: Flat Mattress-Style Beds Sprawlers need surface area, not walls. A wide, flat, well-cushioned mattress bed lets them stretch out fully without hanging off the edges. Prioritize width over depth for this style.
For Burrowers: Blanket-Layered or Cave Beds Burrowers want to dig and cover themselves. Cave-style beds or a flat bed paired with a soft blanket they can push around satisfies the instinct without them destroying the bed itself trying to create one.
For Sitter-Uppers (often senior dogs): Orthopedic Support Beds Older dogs or larger breeds benefit from memory-foam or orthopedic beds that reduce pressure on joints. Elevated head support also helps dogs who prefer resting more upright due to breathing or mobility comfort.
Size and Material Matter Too
- Size: Your dog should be able to fully stretch out on the bed in their favorite position with a few inches to spare — not folded to fit.
- Washability: Removable, machine-washable covers aren't a luxury, they're a requirement. Dog beds trap fur, drool, and odor fast.
- Season: Cooling gel-infused beds help in hot climates; thicker, insulated beds suit colder homes or older dogs who chill easily.
The Real Test
Even the "perfect" bed on paper needs a trial period. Give a new bed 1–2 weeks before judging it — some dogs take time to trust a new sleeping spot, especially if they've been sleeping on furniture or the floor.
Shop the fix: See our full Dog Beds range to match your dog's sleep style.