Dog bed size chart: what size bed does my dog need?

More questions

Round or rectangular bed?

Curlers like round or bolster beds; dogs that sprawl need a rectangle at the longer size.

Do older dogs need a different bed?

Older dogs often do better on a thicker, firmer bed that’s easy to step onto; ask your vet if your dog has joint pain.

What size bed for a Labrador?

Measure your own dog nose to tail base and add 8–12 inches; individual Labradors vary too much for a breed size.

What size bed for a puppy?

Buy for adult length if it won’t chew it; otherwise a cheap bed now and the right size later.

Should a dog bed be bigger than the crate?

No: a bed inside a crate should match the crate’s inside floor.

Do big dogs need orthopedic beds?

Many owners choose thicker, firmer beds for large and older dogs; ask your vet if your dog has joint pain.

How do I measure my dog for a bed?

With the dog standing, nose to the base of the tail; or measure it lying in its usual sleeping position.

Is a dog bed size the same as a crate size?

Not quite: crates add about 4 inches to length; beds add 8–12 inches.