The 10 Best Indestructible Dog Beds in 2024
You’ve just spent your savings on a brand-new luxurious bed for your four-legged pal. You’re sure your dog is going to fall in love with it, and from now on sleep peacefully throughout the night. Only your dog shows a little too much appreciation – within a matter of days, they’ve chewed on every corner, shredded it to pieces, and left the stuffing all around the house.
If this happens again and again with your pooch, you may be thinking no bed will ever survive their jaws and claws. But fear not, we’re here to save the day.
Today we’ll be telling you exactly which beds on the market can withstand your dog’s boundless energy and persistent chewing (or digging), so no longer will you be greeted by the chaotic sight of stuffing all over your kitchen floor.
- What You Need to Know About Indestructible Dog Beds
- Top 10 Best Indestructible Dog Beds 2024
- 1. Best Overall Indestructible Dog Bed: Kuranda Dog Bed
- 2. Best Premium Indestructible Dog Bed: Big Barker Orthopedic Bed
- 3. Best Indestructible Bed for Keeping Cool: K&H Elevated Bed
- 4. Best Indestructible Bed for Allergy-Prone Dogs: DogBed4Less Memory Foam Bed
- 5. Best Budget Indestructible Dog Bed: Hero Dog Crate Pad
- 6. Best Indestructible Bed for Travel: Chuckit! Travel Bed
- 7. Best Indestructible Bed for Excessive Chewers: K9 Ballistics Elevated Bed
- 8. Best Indestructible Bed for Anxious Dogs: Majestic Pet Donut Bed
- 9. Most Stylish Indestructible Dog Bed: Blueberry Pet Bed
- 10. Best Canvas Indestructible Dog Bed: Carhartt Canvas Dog Bed
- Guide to Buying the Best Indestructible Dog Bed
- Final Thoughts
What You Need to Know About Indestructible Dog Beds
Before we go over the top ten indestructible dog beds of 2024, we’ll first cover the most important information you need to know.
What Is an Indestructible Dog Bed?
Sadly, no dog bed is truly indestructible. If a dog bed was indestructible, it would likely be made entirely out of steel, and it goes without saying that no pup is going to enjoy sleeping on a cold, hard surface.
That said, there are dog beds available on the market which are highly resistant to wear, scratches, and bites, and others are built in a way that makes it difficult for dogs to chew on them. These are the beds we classify as “indestructible.”
Why Is an Indestructible Dog Bed Important?
Unsurprisingly, an indestructible dog bed is more cost-effective in the long run, but it’s also extremely important for your dog’s well-being, particularly if they’re a chewer. Stuffing, padding, and other material commonly used in dog beds can be harmful to your pup if ingested in large amounts.
Factors to Consider in an Indestructible Dog Bed
It’s a given that an indestructible dog bed has to be durable. However, there’s a lot more to consider beyond durability. Here, we’ll cover what other factors you need to keep in mind when buying an indestructible dog bed for your four-legged pal.
Type
Dog beds come in all shapes and styles. Certain types will be better suited for your dog’s needs than others. In our full guide, we go into detail about the different types to help you find the one that will benefit your dog the most.
Size
If the bed is too small, your dog will be forced to sleep in a position that isn’t comfortable or natural for them. This can cause a whole host of issues, including sore joints and back problems.
If you’re not sure what size your dog needs, measure their length (from muzzle to the start of their tail) using a tape measure. Then, add 4 to 6 inches to that measurement, or 6 to 12 inches for large dogs.
Material
Indestructible dog beds come in a range of durable materials. In our material guide, we cover which material is best for your pup, based on their destructive habits.
Easy to Clean
A dog bed that’s hassle-free to clean will save you a lot of time and energy when it inevitably becomes dirty. The best indestructible dog beds have covers that are removable, machine washable, and easy to dry.
Chew Potential
Protruding corners, visible zippers, loose stitching – all of this is incredibly tempting for a chewer. If your dog is a chewer, stick to a bed with low chew potential. Dog beds with low chew potential typically have rounded sides with zippers, positioned in a way where they can’t be easily seen or reached.
Features
An indestructible dog bed can have a variety of features, such as a slip-resistant bottom or a water-resistant cover. We’ll be noting the features of each bed we review, so you can shop fully informed.
With that said, it’s now time for your dog to meet their match. Here are the best indestructible dog beds of 2024. If you need help figuring out which bed is right for your pup (and their destructive habits), make sure to check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide below.
Top 10 Best Indestructible Dog Beds 2024
1. Best Overall Indestructible Dog Bed: Kuranda Dog Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The Kuranda Dog Bed can withstand almost all diggers and chewers, and it’s even suitable for dogs with sensitive skin!
Quick Facts:
- Type: Elevated
- Size: 25 x 18 – 50 x 36 inches
- Weight Limit: 100 lbs
- Material: PVC Frame, Cordura
- Style Options: 4
- Warranty: 1 Year Chew-Proof Warranty
- Machine Washable: Yes
If your dog has been bred to dig, you’ll be too familiar with the sight of them digging at everything they can get their paws on; from your rose garden to your carpet, and even your velvet pillows. Thankfully, with the Kuranda Dog Bed, you can have peace of mind that their bed will be the one thing they can’t dig through. Thanks to its abrasion-resistant cordura canvas, this indestructible bed can withstand heavy diggers, moderate chewers, and even the most energetic pups.
This elevated bed is also suitable for dogs with sensitive skin (contact dermatitis), as the cordura canvas is breathable and it doesn’t have a vinyl coating, something that is known to cause irritation.
The canvas is exceptionally easy to clean and dries quickly, but be aware that it does create a fair amount of noise when scratched. While this won’t be an issue for most, if your pooch is scared of loud noises, it could potentially startle them. If you want a bed that’s easier on the ear, we recommend the Majestic Pet Donut Bed.
Additional Features
The frame’s legs have slip-resistant rubber feet pads, which will protect your floor from scrapes.
Chew Potential
With its durable PVC frame and its lack of raised sides and stuffing, the Kuranda bed has little to no chew potential. Its joints are even made from stainless steel.
The canvas also doesn’t cover the frame and instead slides insides it. This means the edges of the fabric – which are easy to chew on – are kept out of your dog’s reach.
Keep in mind that aggressive chewers, or puppies with sharp teeth, may be able to bite through the PVC frame. That said, Kuranda does sell an even more durable variant of this bed, which has a chew-proof aluminum frame and heavy-duty vinyl canvas. That version, though, is more expensive and not ideal for dogs with skin sensitivity.
Pros
- Abrasion-resistant cordura canvas
- Durable PVC frame and slip-resistant
- Suitable for dogs with sensitive skin
- Little to no chew potential
- Easy to clean, dries quickly
Cons
- Noisy
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: A scratch-resistant, comfortable bed that will ensure your dog’s restless nights become a thing of the past.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Orthopedic, Bolster
- Size: 48 x 30 x 7 – 60 x 48 x 7 inches
- Weight Limit: 300 lbs
- Material: Micro-Suede, Orthopedic Foam
- Style Options: 4
- Warranty: 10 Year “Won’t Flatten” Promise
- Machine Washable: Yes
The Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed comes equipped with a scratch-resistant micro-suede cover, and several layers of thick, therapeutic foam that effectively supports your dog’s joints. And when we say effective, we mean it: it’s been clinically proven to improve joint function and reduce pain. Unsurprisingly, this makes the bed perfect for senior dogs and those suffering from physical ailments like hip dysplasia.
This bed’s largest size is 60 inches in length, so it’ll easily accommodate a giant breed. It can even fit two large dogs comfortably, making it an excellent option for multi-dog households. While this particular version is not really designed for small breeds, there is a mini-version available for small dogs.
Big Barker is not all bark and no bite; they offer an exceptional 10-year “won’t flatten” warranty, meaning you can rest assured the bed will maintain its shape, and the foam will always provide your dog with the best support possible.
Additional Features
This bed has a cozy bolster edge and it’s designed to keep cool – it uses open-cell foam, which allows for ample air circulation. However, it still retains some heat. If your dog is prone to overheating, you’ll need a bed that can really help keep them cool during the summer, like the K&H Elevated Bed.
If your dog suffers from incontinence issues, Big Barker does sell a waterproof cover for this bed.
Chew Potential
While the micro-suede cover will tolerate a light chewer, it’s best to avoid this bed if your dog is an excessive chewer or has a strong bite; the cover tends to wrinkle, which provides an opportunity for them to pull at it and tear it apart. Plus, a chewer would definitely be tempted to sink their teeth into the raised edge!
Pros
- Large and exceptionally comfortable
- Clinically proven to relieve joint pain
- Bolster edge and veterinarian recommended
- CertiPUR-US certified open-cell foam
- 10-year “won’t flatten” warranty
Cons
- Very expensive
- Cover slightly wrinkles
3. Best Indestructible Bed for Keeping Cool: K&H Elevated Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: This durable, easy-to-assemble bed has a breathable, mesh middle which keeps it cool and odor-free.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Elevated Bed
- Size: 17 x 22 x 7 – 32 x 50 x 9 inches
- Weight Limit: 200 lbs
- Material: Heavy Denier Nylon, Mesh, Metal Frame
- Style Options: 1
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty
- Machine Washable: Yes
This indestructible bed won’t harbor your dog’s overpowering odor, and it boasts fantastic scratch-resistance thanks to its heavy denier nylon. It even has double-stitching and a double backing, ensuring it won’t break, no matter how much pressure your dog applies.
If your dog tends to overheat, you’ll be glad to know that the K&H Elevated Bed has a breathable mesh center, which will keep them cool as it lets air flow freely. The mesh also helps to prevent the build-up of allergens, dirt, and debris.
With its waterproof cover and rust-resistant frame, this elevated bed is suitable for outdoor use, making it perfect for working dogs that spend a lot of time outside.
When it comes to assembling an elevated bed, it’s usually a hassle. Securing all the parts takes time and plenty of tools, which you undoubtedly will have to rummage through several boxes and drawers to find! The K&H Elevated Bed, however, can be put together with ease; no tools are needed, and on average, it takes less than five minutes.
Sadly, hairs do tend to get stuck in the mesh material. If your dog is a heavy shedder, you’ll likely have to scrub at the mesh and vacuum it regularly.
Additional Features
This bed has slip-resistant rubber feet, and K&H also sells an attachable canopy.
Chew Potential
While able to hold up against moderate chewers, this bed does have more chew potential than the other elevated beds on our list; the bed’s canvas has gaps on each side, which makes it easy for a chewer to get a firm grip on it. Its plastic joints, while durable, are no match for a strong chewer. If your dog is an excessive chewer, the K9 Ballistics Elevated Bed is better suited.
Pros
- Keeps dog cool; mesh center and attachable canopy
- Highly scratch-resistant and slip-resistant
- Suitable for outdoor use
- Hassle-free assembly
- Stays odor-free
Cons
- More chew appeal than other elevated beds
- Hairs get stuck in the mesh
4. Best Indestructible Bed for Allergy-Prone Dogs: DogBed4Less Memory Foam Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: This orthopedic bed is hypoallergenic and comes equipped with a heavy-duty cover.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Orthopedic, Standard
- Size: 35 x 20 x 4 – 55 x 47 x 4 inches
- Weight Limit: Size-dependent
- Material: 100% Cotton Denim, Memory Foam
- Style Options: 1
- Warranty: 2 Year Limited Warranty
- Machine Washable: Yes
When you think about things that could trigger your allergy-prone dog, their bed probably doesn’t even enter your mind. However, their bed could actually be the culprit of their sneezing, itching, and restless nights! Fortunately, you won’t have to sacrifice durability to get a bed that’ll keep away the itches. The DogBed4Less bed uses hypoallergenic materials and is also durable due to its thick inner liner and heavy-duty cover.
Another great aspect of this bed is that it’s filled with high-density memory foam. While the memory foam is not as thick as the Big Barker Orthopedic Bed, it still provides fantastic joint support. Plus, this bed’s foam is infused with a cooling gel, which will help keep your pooch cool during the summer as well as soothe any aches or sores. That said, the K&H Elevated Bed is the best bed by far for cooling.
As it has multiple layers, this bed can withstand most diggers, though if your dog has sharp nails or is an excessive digger, they’ll likely wear the denim cover down over time.
Additional Features
The thick inner liner is water-resistant, so it will help to protect the foam from any messy accidents. However, be aware that it’s not entirely waterproof and won’t protect the foam from large spills.
This bed also comes with an extra micro-suede cover that has a slip-resistant bottom.
Chew Potential
Although the denim’s texture may deter some chewers from biting down, this bed is not durable enough for a heavy chewer. Nevertheless, it is well-stitched, and its zipper is hidden.
Pros
- Multi-layered: scratch-resistant outer cover and water-resistant inner liner
- Thick memory foam with cooling-gel
- Hypoallergenic
- Well-stitched
- Hidden zippers
Cons
- Inner liner not completely waterproof
- Denim wears down over time
5. Best Budget Indestructible Dog Bed: Hero Dog Crate Pad
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: This resilient budget-friendly crate pad is lightweight and features a non-slip bottom, making it safe for an energetic dog.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Crate Pad
- Size: 21 x 14 – 55 x 39 inches
- Weight Limit: 110 lbs
- Material: Fleece, Cotton Fill
- Style Options: 5
- Warranty: No
- Machine Washable: Yes
For many pups, their crate is a place they can call their own, and it can help to make them feel safe and secure. Most crates’ hard floors aren’t easy on the joints though, and over time your dog could end up with aches and pains. Luckily, the Hero Dog Crate Pad aims to change that. Its fleece cover provides ultra-soft comfort, and it’s also able to handle light scratching and chewing.
The cover is a breeze to clean, and it will maintain its shape no matter how many times you have to throw it in the wash.
This bed is lightweight and not bulky. Due to this, you can even use this bed as a protective cover for your furniture. For example, if your dog loves snuggling up with you on the couch, you can cover it with this pad, which will prevent their nails from scratching it up.
Additional Features
The bottom is extremely slip-resistant, so this pad won’t move much or get crumpled, even if your over-eager furry friend decides to dive onto it.
Chew Potential
While this mat can only hold up against light chewing, its design does help to deter chewing; it has no protruding edges or obvious zips, and its fleece is fairly hard to shred.
Sadly, this bed’s stitching isn’t very tight, so it’s definitely not suitable for puppies that chew (even lightly) – their sharp teeth would be able to pull the stitches apart. For a puppy-proof bed, check out the K9 Ballistics Elevated Bed.
Pros
- Budget-friendly and eco-friendly cotton fill
- Ultra-soft comfort yet durable
- Lightweight, not bulky
- Easy to clean and maintains shape
- Extremely slip-resistant
Cons
- Only for light scratching and chewing
- Loose stitching
6. Best Indestructible Bed for Travel: Chuckit! Travel Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: This indestructible bed will make traveling with your furry friend a breeze.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Travel
- Size: 30 x 39 inches
- Weight Limit: 25 lbs
- Material: Poly-Suede Quilted Top, Ripstop Nylon
- Style Options: 1
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty
- Machine Washable: Yes
If you enjoy going camping with your scratch-loving companion, you’ll know all too well how difficult it can be to find a portable bed that will tolerate the outside and their endless scratching. More often than not, your dog will have to go without a bed and sleep on uncomfortable, cold uneven ground.
Fortunately, the Chuckit! Travel Bed is cozy, portable, and extremely tough; it has a durable poly-suede top and a ripstop nylon bottom that prevents the bed from tearing, whether from your dog’s nails or rough terrain.
But what exactly makes this bed portable, you ask? Well, it’s incredibly lightweight, can be folded up and made compact, and it even comes with its own convenient drawstring storage bag. That said, it is pretty bulky when folded. It probably won’t fit in your camping backpack. Its bottom is also on the slippery side.
This travel bed is only suitable for dogs up to 25 pounds. If you own an extra-large dog, we recommend the K&H Elevated Bed, as while it’s not as portable, it is suitable for outdoor use, and it can be set up and disassembled with ease.
Additional Features
This bed is water-resistant and has a built-in loop that will allow you to hang it up for fast drying. It’s also exceptionally easy to clean and stain-resistant, so it’ll stay looking brand new despite the amount of mud, dirt, and slobber your dog “gifts” it.
Chew Potential
Although fairly chew-resistant, the poly-suede cover won’t prevail against a heavy chewer. Plus, the built-in loop is very visible, so a chewer will definitely want to pull at it.
Pros
- Tough ripstop nylon bottom
- Cozy padded top
- Highly portable, even comes with storage bag
- Easy to clean and stain-resistant
- Water-resistant and built-in loop for fast drying
Cons
- Bulky
- A little slippery
7. Best Indestructible Bed for Excessive Chewers: K9 Ballistics Elevated Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: Even an aggressive chewer is no match for this indestructible elevated bed.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Elevated
- Size: 29 x 18 x 3.5 – 50 x 33 x 7 inches
- Weight Limit: 250 lbs
- Material: Aluminum Frame, Ripstop Ballistic Nylon
- Style Options: 4
- Warranty: 180 Day Chew-Proof Warranty
- Machine Washable: Yes
If your dog or teething puppy has shredded every bed you’ve ever bought them to pieces, you’ll be relieved to know the K9 Ballistics Elevated Bed is finally a bed they won’t triumph over. Its frame and joints are made from aluminum, and its canvas is made of ballistic ripstop nylon, a material that’s designed to be tougher than Kevlar.
The canvas is waterproof and stain-resistant, making it perfect for potty training pups and dogs with incontinence issues. Hair also doesn’t stick to it, so you’ll have no problem brushing the strands off.
Sadly, the canvas is extremely noisy when scratched, meaning this bed is not suitable for anxious dogs.
The K9 Ballistics Bed can be used outside, but if you plan on moving it about frequently, be aware that it can be difficult to reassemble.
This bed is more pricey than other elevated beds. If your dog is not a highly aggressive chewer, you probably won’t need to splash out. The more affordable Kuranda Dog Bed will withstand most dogs’ chewing.
Additional Features
The smallest size has a low height, making it a good option for small dogs that struggle to lift their legs up, like those with arthritis.
Conveniently, this bed arrives mostly pre-assembled, and the remaining parts you do have to assemble won’t require any tools.
Chew Potential
This bed has no chew appeal whatsoever – its sides are hidden inside the frame, and the aluminum is impossible to penetrate. While the canvas is indestructible for 99% of dogs, if your dog does manage to break through it, it doesn’t have any loose parts that they could bite off and swallow.
Pros
- Extremely durable, comes with ‘chew-proof warranty’
- Low height and hair doesn’t stick
- No chew appeal and stain-resistant
- Hassle-free initial assembly
- Waterproof, suitable for outdoor use
Cons
- Noisy
- More pricey than other elevated beds
- Difficult to reassemble
8. Best Indestructible Bed for Anxious Dogs: Majestic Pet Donut Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: This tough bed will make your dog feel safe and cozy, which can help to soothe their anxiety.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Donut Bed
- Size: 24 x 18 x 7 – 52 x 36 x 14 inches
- Weight Limit: 110 lbs
- Material: 300/600 Denier Base, Poly/Cotton Twill, Polyester Fiber Fill
- Style Options: 7
- Warranty: 30 Day Limited Warranty
- Machine Washable: Yes
An anxious dog will appreciate a bed that can make them feel safe and secure. Luckily, the Majestic Pet Donut Bed provides this experience – its soft, high sides envelop your dog to help them feel more protected. If your dog is a burrower, they’ll also appreciate the high sides, as it will make them feel hidden.
As this bed will help put your dog at ease, it can actually lessen any destructive behavior caused by their anxiety. That said, its durable poly/cotton twill cover can withstand most scratching as well as light bites.
This bed isn’t the easiest to clean; dirt and fur get easily trapped inside due to its deep creases. It also doesn’t have a removable cover, making it a hassle to wash. Plus, hair really shows on the cover.
Additional Features
This donut bed comes in a wide array of colors, including blue, khaki, and red.
The base of this bed is made of 300/600 denier, making it reasonably water-resistant and strong. Unfortunately, the bottom doesn’t have as much padding as the bed’s sides, so it won’t provide your pup much joint support. If joint support is vital for your pup, stick to an orthopedic bed like the DogBed4Less Orthopedic Bed.
Chew Potential
As the cover isn’t removable, it doesn’t have any zippers your pooch can grab hold of and chew on. However, its high sides do encourage chewing.
Pros
- Wide range of colors
- Comforting high sides
- Helps put dog at ease
- No zippers
- Water-resistant, strong denier base
Cons
- Hassle to clean
- Hair really shows
- Bottom not thick
9. Most Stylish Indestructible Dog Bed: Blueberry Pet Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: This scratch-resistant bolster bed for small dogs is exceptionally stylish, with a wide range of colors to choose between.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Bolster
- Size: 25 x 21 – 34 x 24 inches
- Weight Limit: Size-dependent
- Material: Micro-suede or Linen Blended Fabric, Recyclable Micro-Fiber Fill
- Style Options: 8
- Warranty: No
- Machine Washable: Yes
Plenty of indestructible dog beds are designed with functionality in mind rather than looks. With the Blueberry Pet Bed though, you’ll be getting the best of both worlds: it’s durable and extremely stylish. In fact, there’s a wide range of colorful styles to choose between, so you’re sure to find one that complements your décor.
Be aware that the Blueberry Pet Bed has two cover options, micro-suede or linen blended fabric. Both are scratch-resistant and will tolerate moderate wear and tear, but each has unique advantages. For example, the micro-suede cover will hold color better over time and is more stain-resistant, while the linen blended fabric is more breathable.
This bed is made up of several separate compartments rather than one. This ensures the bed maintains its shape, as the filling won’t move out of place and end up clumped to one side. Unfortunately, the multiple compartments do make this bed a hassle to put together – you have to fill each compartment separately, and then zip them all up. If you want a bed for a small dog that’s hassle-free, we recommend the Majestic Pet Donut Bed.
Hair does stick easily to this bed due to its various crevices. This bed is also a little on the hard side, so it won’t provide much joint support.
Additional Features
This bolster bed’s raised sides have plenty of benefits, which we go into detail about in our guide below. This bed also comes with a cozy bone-shaped pillow!
Chew Potential
The Blueberry Pet Bed is not designed for chewers. It has several protruding edges and it’s filled with loose stuffing. While the pillow is adorable, we can guarantee it will be the first thing your dog snap their jaws around.
Pros
- Stylish, plus two cover types to pick between
- Adorable soft, bone pillow
- Raised sides and maintains its shape
- 100% recyclable, eco-friendly micro-fiber filling
Cons
- Hard
- Hair sticks easily
- Hassle to put together
10. Best Canvas Indestructible Dog Bed: Carhartt Canvas Dog Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: This indestructible standard bed is extremely thick and ideal for outdoor use.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Standard
- Size: 28 x 20 – 33 x 41 inches
- Material: Cotton Duck Canvas, Polyester Fiber Fill
- Style Options: 6
- Warranty: Limited Warranty
- Machine Washable: Yes
Wanting a standard dog bed that’s scratch-resistant, suitable for the outside, and cozy, too? Then the Carhartt Canvas Dog Bed has got you covered. Its water-repellent coated cover is made from scratch-resistant canvas, and it contains a comfortable, polyester-fiber filled cushion.
This bed’s cushion is extremely thick, so even a heavy dog won’t sink to the floor in this bed. Though, keep in mind that this bed is bulky as a result of this. The puffy cushion also makes it very difficult for some dogs, particularly those with physical ailments, to get on and off the bed.
If your dog tends to move their bed about or jump on it, you’re probably familiar with the frustration of the stuffing becoming uneven. Fortunately, this won’t happen with the Carhartt Bed, as the pillow’s baffle construction ensures the filling stays evenly distributed, no matter what your dog puts it through.
Additional Features
This bed comes in styles that have an extra-soft sherpa top. Although, if your dog is a chewer, the sherpa will be easier to chew on.
Chew Potential
This bed’s zipper is hidden from view under a flap. Even if your dog does manage to access the zipper, it is durable: it’s an extra-wide YKK zipper. However, be aware that this bed’s corners stick out and are very easy to latch onto.
Pros
- Durable scratch-resistant canvas cover
- Water-resistant, suitable for outdoor use
- Thick, cozy pillow and has styles with a sherpa top
- Hidden zipper
Cons
- Bulky
- Corners easy to chew on
- Difficult for some dogs to get on and off it
Guide to Buying the Best Indestructible Dog Bed
Dogs spend most of their time asleep. In fact, they spend around 14 hours each day snoozing! That’s why it’s crucial your dog has not only a bed that’s indestructible, but also one that’s comfortable and considers their needs. After reading our in-depth guide, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which bed on our list is best for your pup.
Types of Dog Beds
There are several types of dog beds, each offering different benefits for your dog.
Standard
A standard dog bed is the most common type. It is usually rectangular in shape and has no raised edges. Like a mattress, it is thick and contains a comfortable filling.
Ideal For: A standard dog bed is ideal for most dogs. It’s particularly great for dogs that love to stretch out while they sleep. We go over the importance of taking into account your dog’s sleeping position when buying them a bed a little further down.
Elevated
An elevated dog bed is a bed that is held up in the air by some sort of frame. The bed, or “sleeping area,” is typically made from a highly durable, stretched canvas surface, which is firm and even.
Elevated dog beds are easy to clean, and some are even suitable for outdoor use, like the K&H Elevated Bed.
Ideal For: An elevated bed has low chew potential and is usually made from exceptionally durable materials, making it perfect for excessive chewers and diggers.
It’s also a good option for dogs that struggle to regulate their body heat. As it’s raised, air can circulate underneath it, which stops a dog from getting too hot, and during the winter, it keeps them off cold floors.
An elevated bed is particularly ideal for dogs with physical issues like arthritis; its firm and even surface takes the pressure off their joints. It also enables them to get onto and off the bed with ease, as they won’t have to lift their body as much as they would have to if they were lying on the floor.
Bolster
A bolster bed is similar to a standard bed, but it has raised sides that are filled with a cushion-like material. Usually, a bolster bed only has two to three raised sides.
Ideal For: A bolster bed, like the Blueberry Pet Bed, has the same benefits as a donut bed, which we discuss below. The main difference between them, though, is that a bolster bed is better suited for dogs that struggle to get over high sides, as its non-raised side(s) allows your dog to get in and out of the bed with ease.
Donut
A donut bed is, quite literally, shaped like a donut! It’s a circular bed with high, raised sides and a dip in the middle for your pooch to sleep in.
Ideal For: A donut bed keeps your dog cozy and warm, so a short-haired dog will be able to feel snug, even in the winter. An anxious dog will also appreciate a donut bed, as the high sides can help make them feel safe and protected.
If you always find your dog resting their head on something while they snooze, they’ll definitely love a donut bed – it provides them with various places to rest their head.
Orthopedic
An orthopedic dog bed is a bed that’s specifically designed for dogs with physical ailments. It is made from memory foam, which offers firm support and helps to relieve pressure on their joints. The best orthopedic dog beds use CertiPUR-US certified foam (such as the Big Barker Orthopedic Bed), though they are expensive.
Ideal For: An orthopedic bed is ideal for senior dogs, dogs with physical ailments (or prone to them), and those recovering from surgery. Memory foam is typically a good option for allergy-prone dogs, as its denseness acts as a barrier against allergens.
Crate Pad
A crate pad is simply a thinner version of a standard bed. It can easily fit in a crate or kennel.
Ideal For: If your dog tends to sleep in their crate, a crate pad will allow them to rest in it comfortably.
Travel
A travel bed is even thinner than a crate pad, and it’s also lightweight. It can be folded up for easy storage, and it typically has a durable, padded waterproof cover, which makes it comfortable and suitable for outdoor use.
Ideal For: Unsurprisingly, a travel bed is perfect for those who are on the move a lot and are regular guests at camping sites.
Which Material Is Best?
This will ultimately depend on your dog’s destructive behaviors.
Chewing
If your dog is an aggressive chewer, you’ll need an extremely durable cover material that can withstand their teeth, like the ripstop ballistic nylon that the K9 Ballistics Bed uses. For moderate chewers, stick to heavy denier fabrics. If your dog only chews on the odd occasion, micro-suede should suffice.
Avoid loose stuffing if your dog is a heavy chewer – if the bed’s cover manages to tear, the stuffing will go everywhere, including in your dog’s stomach!
Digging (and Scratching)
For an excessive digger, abrasion-resistant materials are best. We recommend the Kuranda Elevated Bed, as its cover is made of thick cordura, which is tough and extremely abrasion-resistant. Though, if your dog is a moderate digger, you probably won’t need to fork out for cordura. Instead, go for a scratch-resistant material like denim.
Nesting
Nesting isn’t really a destructive behavior like chewing and digging, but it does involve your dog scratching at their bed, which can eventually wear it down. Nesting won’t cause as much wear and tear as digging does, meaning a bed with a canvas cover, like the Carhartt Dog Bed, should be durable enough.
If your dog causes the bed to move about while they nestle, make sure to opt for a bed that’s thick and slip-resistant, such as the DogBed4Less Memory Foam Bed.
Teething
During teething, your puppy is extremely likely to chew and nip on anything in their sight. Teething usually begins at three weeks and lasts for six to eight months. If your puppy is at the stage where their needle-like milk teeth have come out, opt for strong, tightly-woven materials, and avoid beds with loose stitching they can pull at.
Teething can be incredibly painful for your pup, and it’s important you’re there for them and help to relieve their pain. We recommend buying your pup a durable teething toy that can be frozen. Its coolness will soothe their sore gums.
What Position Does Your Dog Sleep In?
Just like humans, the position dogs sleep in can vary. Most dogs have one or two preferred positions. If you don’t take into consideration how your dog sleeps when making your choice, you could end up with a bed that forces them to sleep in a way they hate. This will be uncomfortable for them, and it could even deter them from using the bed.
Dogs who sleep sprawled out will need a large bed that lets them stretch out easily. If your dog sleeps stretched out on their back, they’ll also benefit from a bed that can support their spine – we recommend the Kuranda Elevated Bed.
A curled-up position is a sign your dog wants to feel safe and/or warm. For this reason, you should get a donut bed if your dog tends to sleep curled up. A donut bed’s high sides will make them feel secure and also help to preserve their warmth.
Ways to Further “Chew-Proof” Your Dog’s Bed
While the beds in our list are all durable, there are a few extra measures you can take to ensure the one you pick lasts for years to come.
- Make sure your dog always has access to chew toys. This will redirect their chewing energy to the toys instead of their brand new bed!
- You can use an anti-chew spray on the bed to deter your dog.
- Ensure your dog’s nails are kept well-trimmed.
- Cover the bed with a durable blanket. It can provide an extra layer of protection.
How to Discourage Destructive Behavior
The best way to stop your dog’s destructive habits is by figuring out the underlying cause. A dog can engage in destructive behavior due to several reasons, including boredom, lack of exercise and separation anxiety. Once you’ve found the cause, talk to your veterinarian for further guidance.
Keep in mind that for many dogs, digging or chewing is in their nature, which makes it impossible to get them to stop this behavior completely. If this is the case for your dog, the best way to manage it is with redirection training. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has a handy guide on how to manage digging using redirection training.
Final Thoughts
No dog bed is truly indestructible, but the ones on our list are all tough and offer the best defense against destructive behavior. When compiling our picks, we also made sure to think about every pup, so whether your dog is allergy-prone or needs some extra joint support, you’ll find an indestructible dog bed that accommodates their needs.
Now you’ve got the dog bed sorted, how about dealing with those muddy paw prints?
