Choosing the Perfect Dog Bed: How to Find the Right Size in 3 Simple Steps
Choosing a new dog bed is one of the most enjoyable things you can do for your four-legged friend. It's their own safe haven in the house—a place where they can rest, dream, and retreat. But then comes the question: which size is perfect?
A basket that is too small is not comfortable, and a basket that is too large often makes a dog feel lost.
Don't worry, with these three simple steps you'll know exactly what size you need in just a few minutes.
🐾 Step 1: Measuring is Knowing
Take a measuring tape and observe your dog in its natural resting position. The most important measurement is taken when your dog is relaxed and lying down . Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. This is the minimum length the bed should be.
Pro tip: Measure your dog while they're sleeping—that's the position they're most comfortable in. This will give you the most realistic measurement.
💡 Extra tip: Don't forget to take the width into account as well, especially with dogs with a broad chest or shoulders (such as Boxers or Labradors).
💤 Step 2: Consider Your Sleeping Position
Just like people, dogs have favorite sleeping positions, and these say a lot about the ideal shape of the bed.
🐶 The Curler
Does your dog prefer to curl up like a donut? Then they feel safe and secure. A round or oval bed with a soft, raised edge is perfect. The edge supports their head and creates that cozy, sheltered feeling.
🐾 The Extender
Does your dog prefer to lie stretched out—on his side or stomach, with his legs extended? Then he needs space. Choose a rectangular bed, dog cushion, or mattress . These offer plenty of room to stretch out without hanging over the edge.
🐕 The Leunertype
Some dogs like to lie with their heads on the edge or slightly elevated. In that case, a bed with a sturdy, half-height edge is ideal—enough support, but not too confining.
📏 Step 3: The Golden Rule — Add 6 to 10 inches
Now that you have your dog's height and how he likes to sleep, it's time for the final step.
Take the length you measured in step 1 and add 15 to 25 centimeters .
Why? This gives your dog extra space to move, turn, and stretch without having to rest against the edges.
Calculation example:
Suppose Max the Labrador measures 75 cm from nose to tail.
75 cm + 20 cm = 95 cm → Max needs a basket with a lying surface of at least 95 cm long .
🌿 Extra Tips for Choosing the Perfect Basket
🧶 Choose the right material:
Dogs with thick coats often like cooling fabrics (such as canvas or linen), while short-haired dogs prefer soft, warm materials (such as plush or fleece).
🧼 Think about maintenance:
Choose a basket with a removable, washable cover . This is especially useful for dogs that like to play outside or shed.
🏠 Placement is important:
Place the basket in a quiet place, out of drafts, and not directly next to a heater. Dogs prefer to sleep in a place where they feel safe, but still have an overview of the room.
🌡️ Comfort check:
For older dogs or dogs with joint problems, an orthopedic dog cushion is recommended. It provides better joint support and relieves pressure points.
❤️ Finally
With the right size, you're not just giving your dog a basket — you're giving him his very own throne of comfort .
A place where he feels safe, can sleep wonderfully and completely relax.
And let's be honest: there's nothing better than a happy, rested dog in the house.
