The Best Outdoor Dog Bed
Having a fenced-in backyard allows your pup to spend hours outside doing whatever they please. And as long as they aren't digging up your garden beds, running in the sunshine and breathing in the fresh air will help your dog burn off any pent-up energy. But dogs also need a comfortable bed to rest on when they spend extended time outdoors. There are plenty of outdoor bed options for dogs, from raised cots to cooling pads. We've rounded up a few favorites to help you pick one for your furry friend.
What to Look For
After researching outdoor dog beds, we found the best ones are durable, comfortable, and easy to clean. Based on these requirements, our top pick is the raised dog bed from Bedsure. This elevated bed has a rustproof steel frame that holds the high-density mesh. This design allows air to flow through the mesh to cool down your dog on hot days. We also love the FurHaven travel bed because it is lightweight and packs down in a stuff sack. The entire bed is safe to clean in the washing machine and air dries quickly, so it’s ready to use again. Keep reading to discover your new favorite outdoor dog bed.
Bedsure Elevated Dog Bed
Durable design
Getting your dog an elevated bed will keep them dry and ensure they never have to lay on uneven surfaces. Bedsure’s outdoor bed is constructed with a rustproof steel frame that sits eight inches off the ground. And the durable mesh is dense but allows air to permeate the surface to cool your dog’s belly as they rest. Plus, you won’t have to work hard to keep it clean. Dried mud, grass, and leaves will fall off easily, and to clean off the rest you can rinse the bed with your hose.
Pros:
- This dog bed is available in multiple sizes and colors.
- The assembly instructions are simple to follow using the included hardware and tools.
Cons:
- There aren’t any feet protectors to prevent the bed from shifting when your dog jumps onto it.
FurHaven Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed
Soft and sturdy
Finding a bed for your pup that is comfortable and made to last isn’t always the easiest. FurHaven’s dog bed combines a durable water-resistant cover with a memory foam interior that will provide ultimate comfort for dogs of all ages. This bed is available in a wide variety of sizes and colors, so you can pick the perfect one for your pet. And while the heavy-duty cover is resistant to spills and stains, it is machine washable to refresh whenever necessary.
Pros:
- The two layers of memory foam and medical-grade support foam offer relief for dogs with orthopedic conditions.
- It is easy to put the foam insert back inside the cover.
Cons:
- The canvas material isn’t super soft or warm.
SweetBin Elevated Dog Cot with Sun Shade
Protect your pet
Spending hours outside can be exhausting for your dog, so giving them a shaded spot to rest will help cool them down in the heat. SweetBin’s outdoor dog bed is elevated to provide airflow for your pet. And it has a removable canopy that connects to each corner for extra protection. The canopy is waterproof and resistant to ultraviolet rays for maximum coverage. Plus, the sturdy mesh bed won’t sag or rip under your dog’s weight.
Pros:
- The raised bed and canopy are easy to assemble.
- You can use the included metal stakes to secure the entire bed to the ground.
Cons:
- While this bed is lightweight, it doesn’t fold down for travel or storage.
FurHaven Trail Pup Stuff Sack Travel Pillow
Portable pad
Whether you’re camping or taking an impromptu trip to the park, having an outdoor bed on hand for your dog is never a bad idea. FurHaven’s quilted dog bed is soft and lightweight, similar to a sleeping bag. And it packs down into a small stuff sack, so you’ll never have a reason not to pack it. You can easily brush debris off the water-resistant surface and toss the entire bed in the washing machine to deep clean it.
Pros:
- Your dog can lay on either side of this reversible bed.
- This bed has a polyester filling that won’t cause your pup to overheat.
Cons:
- You will have to fold and roll the bed before stuffing it back into the storage bag.
K&H Pet Products Coolin’ Comfort Bed
Cooled to perfection
If you can’t get your dog to come inside, even on the hottest days, you need to check out this outdoor bed from K&H Pet Products. While it may look like a standard dog bed, this one is designed to hold cool water to support your dog’s joints and prevent them from overheating. There aren’t any toxic cooling gels that could leak out and harm your dog. And the durable nylon and vinyl exterior is perfect for indoor or outdoor use.
Pros:
- This bed doesn’t require refrigeration or electricity to stay cool.
- It is easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Cons:
- It needs to be set up in the shade or in temperatures less than 95 degrees Fahrenheit to work effectively.
Why does my dog need an outdoor bed?
While some dogs only go outside to do their business, others like spending hours outside exploring, playing, and resting. If your dog spends most of their time outside, it only makes sense that they would have a bed set up on the porch to take a snooze. Young dogs may not need a bed, but as dogs age, their bodies become more fragile, and a soft bed will help them feel more comfortable wherever they are.
What do I need to consider when buying an outdoor dog bed?
When purchasing an outdoor bed for your dog, you should figure out where you want to keep it and what your pet needs. If the bed will be in a covered area, it should be durable but won’t necessarily need to be waterproof as it likely won’t get rained on. But if the bed will be out in your yard, a raised design that is water-resistant and rustproof will last much longer. Also, if you have a fluffy dog that gets overheated, you may want to consider a cooling bed that will lower their body temperature on hot days. Keeping these things in mind will help you find the best bed for your pup.
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