When it comes to choosing a new bed or mattress for ourselves, we treat it as an investment. We do our research, we dedicate time, we drag ourselves around the shops, jump onto each mattress enthusiastically and pretend to sleep in different positions in front of the salesperson to really get a feel for it. Awkward? Yes. Necessary? Yes.
After all, you spend eight hours every night on the thing, so quality and comfort matters to ensure you get the rest you need to, you know, function as an adult. Why, though, don't we express the same concern for our dog's bed?
I'll hold my hands up and say that I've walked into a pet shop and walked out with the first bed that felt reasonably comfortable and had the prettiest design on it. In reality, it was a cheap piece of foam with a thin cover on it. Needless to say, Frankie wasn't best pleased, and I wasted that cash as it's now gathering dust under the stairs.
I've tried numerous beds over the years for my pooch, each one costing less than £30 and lasting no longer than a few months before feeling flat or being unusable. It makes me wonder... what if I'd just taken the plunge and spent a bit more on something that's built to last?
The best luxury dog beds
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The best luxury dog beds
1 of 9On Paws® Sleep Well Lounger, from £29.99
The On Paws Sleep Well Lounger is perfect for those whose dogs love a muddy walk, as it's coated with DuPont Teflon to help repel water, oil and stains. It has seven removable cushions to make washing easy and to stop the filling going flat or clumping. With an anti-slip mesh on the bottom and five sizes to choose from, it's great for a functional household. amazon.co.uk
£39.99
2 of 9Scruffs Grizzly Bear Dark Brown Bed
Brilliant in both quality and style, this paw-shaped bed from Scruffs not only looks cute but is ultra-comfy for pets who love to spread out and laze around. With a non-slip base and washable cover, it has three large pads at the back for dogs to rest their heads on. Perfect for large breeds.Dimensions: 50 x 130 x 130cmReview: This is a perfect bed for my dog, she is so comfortable on it and sleeps in it all the time, it's soft, nicely cushioned, and perfect for pets."
3 of 9Charley Chau Deep Sided Dog Bed In Cotton
This beautiful deep-sided luxury dog bed not only looks great in your home but, most importantly, is super comfy for your dog. The deep-sided walls of the bed create a den-like feel so your dog will just love its new comfy space. Charley Chau mattresses are constructed to stop the fibre filling from moving around, so it will stay even and firm for years to come.The bed has a removable cotton cover which is machine washable, along with the mattress inner. It's available in size small or medium, so will suit a multitude of breeds; from pugs and Italian greyhounds to Spaniels and terriers.Dimensions: Small W65 x D53 x H28 cm and Medium W78 x D60 x H29cmReview: "Beautiful quality dog bed which has been used from the moment it was unpacked. My dog has moved all his toys into it so I know its special."
4 of 9The Dog’s Bed Orthopaedic Dog Bed
This therapeutic bed is designed to provide relief and comfort to dogs suffering from a number of medical conditions, including arthritis, elbow sores, dysplasia and more. If your dog is already showing signs of these conditions or you want to prevent them happening, this bed ensures their joints remain mobile. The removable covers are easy to wash and the bed comes in a variety of sizes, all the way up to XXXL. It even has a waterproof mattress protector for those little accidents. Ideal for older dogs, this bed provides comfort for them, and peace of mind for the owner. Dimensions: Small 71 x 48 x 10cm to XXXL 162 x 111 x 15cmReview: "Only had the bed for 3 days and it's already having an impact on my large (44kg) Lab who was starting to suffer from hip and joint stiffness each time she was getting up out of her old bed - once up and stretched she was fine, but those first few moments, well you could tell it was stressing her out. The Dog's Bed is really sturdy. The 15cm foam does take about 3 hours to fully expand once you have unrolled it from its packing (just like when you buy a memory foam mattress from IKEA that comes rolled up and compressed) so don't let your dog ud83dudc36 get on it yet - keep it out of sight."
£36.99
5 of 9PawHut Toledo Dog Sofa in Grey
Perfect for a stylish home, this mini faux-leather sofa dog bed is made with a memory foam cushion. The faux leather can be easily wiped down, while the cushion cover is machine washable. The low cushion height is great for older animals, and the high walls provide a draught-free environment for your pet. Anti-slip legs will keep the sofa steady and still while also protecting your floor. Dimensions: 32cm H x 41cm W x 68cmReview: "This is my fave purchase in life. Dog hides his treasures under it but doesn't sit on it. I love it and smile every time i look at it."
6 of 9Rustic Luxury Wooden Pet Bed
Make your pampered pooch feel extra special with their own personalised rustic dog bed. Each bed is expertly handcrafted in the UK for every customer and feature a made to fit cushion with a hard-wearing fabric back, five mini cushions, finished wood and anti slip feet.Dimensions: Small Bed 46cm x 39cm x 20cm, Medium 59cm x 46cm x 20cm, Large 76 cm x 58 cm x 20cm, XL 90 cm x 76 cm x 20cmReview: "We were over the moon with our purchase and needless to say a little 4 legged friend was just as happy. She sleeps soundly in her new bed and everyone just adores it! Great quality item!"
7 of 9Dog Snuggle Cave
If your dog likes to tuck itself into bed at night, then we bring to you a Dog Snuggle Cave. Your pampered pooch deserves to feel warm and cosy with this super soft fleece that it can climb into. Each bed is hand made in the UK, available for custom orders to meet your specific needs and measurements.Dimensions: Medium 75cm and Large 95cm (£89.99)Review: "Top quality item. It was even better than l expected. Alfie whippet adores it. I highly recommend this snuggle sack. If you are thinking should l order one or shouldn't l - the answer is yes - you should, your dog will love you for it."
8 of 9Sleepeezee Dog Beds
Created by a company that makes beds for humans, Sleepeezee dog beds just ooze luxury. You'd be forgiven for wanting to take a nap on one yourself, as the memory foam provides a supportive but comfortable base. The bamboo and charcoal filling cleverly neutralises odours and absorbs moisture, offering a hygienic sleeping choice for your pet. The responsive memory foam not only moulds to the shape of your dog to support their joints, but won't flatten or lose shape over time. Washable at 60°C (the only one in the biz with this ability), the cover has concealed zips to minimise the risk to your pet and is durable and stylish. What's more, Sleepeezee donates £4+VAT to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home for every bed sold, AND you can personalise the bed for your best pal. sleepeezee.store
9 of 9MINICAMP Pet teepee
If your pooch likes a spot of festival glamping then may we suggest to you a mini pet teepee. Perfect for evenings outdoor in the warm summer sun (we hope) or a sleepover style vibe in your bedroom. It's a must-have!Dimensions: Small: H 75cm, Entrance 46cm, Side wall bottom 61cm, Poles 90cmMiddle: H 83cm, Entrance 52cm, Side wall bottom 65cm, Poles 100cmLarge: H92cm, Entrance 58cm, Side wall bottom 83cm. Poles 112cmReview: "Great quality, so easy to put together and far bigger than expected, we got a medium for our mini poodle and it's perfect."
£69.99
It's important that our dogs get the proper amount of rest that they need, that they're a comfortable temperature, feel protected, have their own space and that their joints are supported and muscles can recover. While there are plenty of great options for budget dog beds, there are a few reasons why opting for a luxury bed would be better for your pet. We spoke to Amy Curtis, Marketing Manager at Sleepeezee, to find out more.
What things should you consider when choosing a dog bed for your pet?
"Whether you have a friendly giant or a pocket pooch, choosing the right size bed for your dog is important. We would recommend that you measure your four-legged friend first, measuring from the tip of the nose to where the tail begins. This will give you a clear indication of what size bed is best for your dog.
"The next thing to consider is the shape of your dog bed. If your dog likes to sprawl out across the floor then a simple flat mattress style bed is the ideal choice, however if your dog likes to curl up into a ball then a basket style bed is preferable.
"Much like us, when dogs start to get older their joints may begin to feel a little stiff and so they may require a more supportive bed to relieve pressure on any painful joints. This is why we’ve designed our Sleepeezee dog beds using soft and supportive memory foam, to ensure that your dog gets the best night’s sleep possible.
"From trips to the park to countryside walks, your dog will naturally pick up dirt throughout the day, therefore, it’s important that you choose a dog bed that is machine washable."
Which breeds benefit most from having a luxury/high quality dog bed?
"Dogs of all shapes and sizes can benefit from a luxury bed, after all having a comfortable place to sleep is one of a dog’s basic needs!
"On average, your dog will spend up to 14 hours a day sleeping, therefore, it is important that you choose a bed which ensures that they are comfortable and supported, day and night."
Why should you invest in and research around a bed for your dog, rather than choosing the first one you see?
“When investing in a dog bed, don’t rush into buying a cheaper model, you’ll not only compromise on the quality but will often end up having to buy another one sooner than you would like to. After all, you would spend a significant amount of time researching and testing a human bed, so this investment should be the same for your pet. The key is to find a bed that benefits your dog and also matches your budget and lifestyle requirements."
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What are the benefits of having a memory foam dog bed?
“A memory foam dog bed not only feels good but has added health benefits as well. Dogs of all ages and breeds will put stress on their bones, muscles and joints throughout the day, and our dog bed has been designed specifically to provide the ultimate place for your dog to relax.
"Though comfortable for any type of dog, a memory foam bed is the ideal choice for older and thin dogs who may experience painful aches and pains. Lovingly handmade right here in the UK, the Sleepeezee dog bed moulds itself to your dog’s body shape, allowing their bones, muscles and joints to rest peacefully in their natural position – ensuring your dog wakes up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated for the day ahead."
Where is the best place to put a dog’s bed?
“Much like humans, dogs like to sleep in a room that is warm and quiet so that they can get the best night’s sleep possible. We would recommend that you place your dogs’ bed in a room where they can sleep undisturbed, but also somewhere where they can come and go as they please.”