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The 9 Best Dog Beds for Puppies of 2026

We tested more than 70 dog beds and found the best for your puppy

MidWest Homes for Pets QuietTime Crate Bed
Credit:

The Spruce Pets

Choosing the right bed for your puppy can help them adjust to their new home and put them on the right track with training. From style to size, many factors should go into this decision, and you’ll likely want to include both a bed and a crate in your new puppy setup during house training.

Remember, puppies are often prone to chewing and accidents, which is why the experts we consulted agree that a dog bed should be chew-resistant, washable, and budget-friendly. “Until you get to know your puppy’s chewing proclivities, I suggest a bed with no stuffing inside,” Shelby Semel, dog trainer and founder of Shelby Semel Dog Training, told The Spruce Pets. “Avoid large zippers or anything that a pup can chew off and ingest." But most importantly, take this time to get to know your puppy and their sleeping style. “Getting a few different beds is a good idea so they can let you know which one they favor,” added Semel.

After testing over 70 pet beds—each of which spent a significant amount of time in a home with at least one dog (and cats, too!)—we have strong recommendations for the very best options to meet a variety of puppy needs.

What We Like
  • Sturdy bolster full of recycled polyfill

  • Available in three colors and four sizes

  • No-skid bottom

  • Solid memory foam core

  • Machine-washable cover

  • Water-resistant

What We Don't Like
  • Not chew-resistant

The PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed includes a 2.5-inch thick memory foam base for a firm but adaptive surface. For extra snuggle, it's also got a bolstered rim, which fully wraps the mattress on three sides. This bolster is cushioned with recycled polyfill and gives your puppy a lot of different options for resting positions, in addition to a greater sense of protective enclosure.

The cover can be taken off and tossed into the washing machine. There’s also a no-skid bottom for active pups and a waterproof liner to keep the memory foam mattress dry. This makes it a great option for puppies who are potty training. The bed also has two zipper compartments for holding toys and treats, which can help encourage your puppy to recognize the bed as their own space.

The PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed comes in three colors and four sizes. The smallest size is 25 by 20 inches, which should be large enough for most puppies, and will continue to be useful for small breeds even once they've grown a little.

Sizes: Small, large, extra-large, jumbo | Materials: Polyester, cotton, memory foam, recycled polyfill | Colors: Sandstone, brown, slate gray

What We Like
  • Machine-washable, dryer-friendly

  • Seven sizes

  • Fits in most crates

  • Soft, plush, and cozy

  • Non-skid bottom

What We Don't Like
  • Not chew-resistant

The best bed for a new puppy is inexpensive, easy to clean, and with zero frills to reduce their temptation to chew on it. The MidWest QuietTime Deluxe Ombre Swirl Pet Bed meets all these requirements, plus it's soft and inviting, with a non-skid grippy bottom to keep it in place on a variety of flooring surfaces. Its rectangular shape also fits inside most crates. It comes in two neutral colors and seven sizes for puppies of all shapes and breeds.

After months of testing with a 15-pound pug, the MidWest QuietTime Pet Bed continues to hold onto its shape and appeal. Our doggie tester enjoys taking their Kong toy filled with dog-safe peanut butter to their kennel, so the bed has gone through multiple rounds of machine-washing and drying.

The bed is soft enough for snugglers but still durable enough for diggers. It is the ideal starting bed while you are still getting to know your puppy’s habits.

The dog bed basically hasn't left her kennel since we got it (except for washing!). She sleeps on it daily and seems to like going into her crate more now that the bed is in there." –Genevieve, long-term tester

Within the MidWest collection of QuietTime Pet Beds, you'll also find variations on the Deluxe Ombre Swirl Pet Bed that we tested. For puppies, we also like the MidWest QuietTime Bolster Bed with a raised cushioned perimeter that helps some puppies self-soothe, and the MidWest QuietTime Defender Crate Pad made with extra stain-resistant fabric.

Sizes: 18, 22, 24, 30, 36, 42, and 48 inches | Materials: Faux fur, polyester, cotton | Colors: Gray, cocoa, mocha

What We Like
  • Internal divider expands as puppy grows

  • Seven size options

  • Easy assembly

  • Pairs with MidWest QuietTime Pet Beds

  • Side doors with safety latches

What We Don’t Like
  • One color option

The MidWest iCrate Dog Crate is equipped with an internal divider to easily expand the inside of the crate, along with a rapidly growing puppy. It's our top choice because it allows you to purchase a larger size than you currently need for your little puppy, ensuring that the crate will serve its purpose in your home for longer than a few weeks.

After testing 20 dog crates, we found that this affordable option is great for puppies since it comes in seven different sizes, includes an easy-to-remove tray at the bottom for cleaning, and is made with a durable wire frame that can withstand repeated chewing and pawing. The movable divider is also an important aid in potty training because it helps to keep the crate space to a minimum, reducing the likelihood that your puppy will relieve themself while inside.

Messes happen while learning, but the leak-proof plastic pan easily slides out and contains liquids, making it especially easy to clean in comparison to other options we tested. "Some puppies will prefer to be able to see you [from] their crate," said Semel. Other dogs will settle down better in a covered crate, and MidWest offers a crate cover designed to fit snugly over the crate. We also recommend the MidWest QuietTime Pet Bed—our top choice for young puppies—which fits inside the iCrate and is machine-washable.

This crate can also be broken down to transport it easily. “If you're someone who travels a lot, you can utilize your travel crate at home and then take it with you as well, which I think is so nice to have that consistency,” said Semel.

Sizes: Extra-small, small, medium, medium/large. large, extra-large, and extra-extra-large | Materials: Metal, plastic | Colors: Black

I think all puppies, with almost no exceptions, should be crate-trained,” said Dr. Dawn Filos, a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience.

What We Like
  • Easy setup

  • Removable, washable cushion cover

  • Fun colors and patterns

  • Suitable for cats and dogs

What We Don’t Like
  • Has zippers

  • Not sturdy enough for very active puppies

The FunnyFuzzy Trendy Striped Faux Lambswool Double Layer Cat & Dog Sofa Bed is easy to set up, soft, durable, and adorable. We most recently tested this pet-friendly bed in a home with a ragdoll cat, which is similar in size to a small dog (around 15 pounds).

The bed requires assembly upon arrival, but the process is straightforward and involves inserting the interior pads into the bed’s shell. Our tester found the bed to be sturdy yet lightweight, allowing them to easily move it around their home, but we caution that it might not be the most sturdy option if you have a very active puppy.

The sofa-style bed comes in four sizes with a machine-washable and dryer-friendly cover that unzips. Structurally, the interior is composed of foam to support joints and evenly distribute pressure points.

Sizes: Medium, large, extra-large, and triple extra-large | Materials: Faux lambswool fabric, cotton padding | Colors: Beige, rose, black

What We Like
  • No assembly

  • Durable

  • Built-in-blanket design

  • Machine-washable, dryer-friendly

What We Don’t Like
  • Slides around on smooth surfaces

  • Takes longer to wash and dry

Some dog breeds are natural burrowers, and if you notice your puppy enjoys climbing under blankets, the Best Friends by Sheri Cozy Cuddler Covered Cat & Dog Bed would be a good pick. This plush bed, which is designed for smaller breeds, has a ton of cushioning, with soft bolsters and a round central pad for a puppy to curl up in. It scored high in comfort and ease of use with our testers, but what sets it apart is the built-in blanket.

This dog bed is also durable and easy to clean, two important factors to consider for a puppy. There are three primary fabrics included in the design: a fluffy, fleecy bolster and cushion; a soft and textured outer cover, and the durable nylon bottom. While the upper is soft, the bottom of the bed is made out of a thick nylon that feels puncture-resistant. “It's primarily polyester, but I would still rate the fabrics as having an overall high-quality feel to them,” our tester said.

Setting up for a new puppy is already a time-consuming process, so we also love that this bed comes fully assembled and ready to put in place. While this bed does not have a removable shell like some other options, the entire bed is washable and can be put in the dryer. Due to its thicker design, it might require multiple cycles or air drying overnight. The bed comes in two sizes: standard/small (24 x 24 x 7 inches) and medium/jumbo (27 x 27 x 8 inches).

Sizes: Standard/small, medium/jumbo | Materials: Sherpa, nylon, synthetic fabric, plush/fiberfill | Colors: Dark chocolate, grey, tide pool, wheat

What We Like
  • Removable, machine-washable cover

  • Non-slip bottom

  • Waterproof memory foam liner

  • Easy on joints

  • Blends with home decor

What We Don’t Like
  • More expensive

While Semel suggests starting your puppy out with a more affordable bed, or multiple options as you learn their preferences, she says your pup will likely be ready to settle into a more permanent option once they are house-trained (which often happens around 6 months old). She recommends an option your puppy can grow into, such as an orthopedic bed for larger breeds. The PupRug Orthopedic Dog Bed earned the stamp of approval from Semel’s 75-lb Samoyed, who had back and hip issues but has since passed away.

This flat dog bed is easy for dogs to get on and off of, putting less pressure on their joints. Our tester was just as impressed with the bed as Semel, noting that it’s lightweight, easy to use, and comfortable for their dog. They especially appreciated how easy it was to move the bed around to different spots in their home, finding that their dog would follow, gravitating towards it—an especially helpful factor when you’re trying to keep your eye on a puppy.

closeup dog lying on the Paw Brands PupRug Faux Fur Memory Foam Orthopedic Dog Bed
Credit:

The Spruce Pets

Since this bed is fluffy, Semel notes it might not be the best option for puppies prone to shredding fabric, but it does have a removable cover. This design makes it easy to wash, as well.

Sizes: Small/medium, large/extra-large, giant | Materials: Faux fur, synthetic fabric | Colors: White, brown, grey, beige, spotted

Pottery Barn Sherpa Faux Fur 3-In-1 Pet Bed
Credit: Pottery Barn
What We Like
  • Multi-functional

  • Easy setup

  • Four sizes

  • Blends with home decor

  • Can be monogrammed

What We Don’t Like
  • Spot-clean only

  • More expensive

The Sherpa Faux Fur 3-in-1 Pet Bed may be one of the more expensive picks on our list, but it scored high with testers on ease of use, comfort, size, quality, and durability. The stylish design will blend in with your home decor, giving ease of mind to anyone worried that a new puppy setup is taking over their home.

The three-in-one design comes fully set up and ready to use. It’s thicker than the average dog bed, due to its adjustability and plush padding, but still lightweight and easy to move around. It doesn’t have any zippers that a puppy would bite off; you simply snap it together to adjust the shape.

While this is a taller dog bed, it’s extremely versatile because you can unsnap it to lie flat against the ground. This gives your puppy a soft surface to play on. The top cover and bolsters can also be removed and placed on a sofa to give your dog a designated cozy spot. One of our testers said her dog prefers using it as a sofa, lying back against the bolsters with her head resting on the arms. The bed has not lost its shape with regular use and is very supportive. It comes in four sizes, and we recommend choosing the one that will fit your dog’s expected full-grown size.

While the material of this bed held up well during testing—even with a puppy prone to digging—and pet hair didn’t cling to it, this bed is harder to clean than others. One tester maintained the bed with regular vacuuming, and the brand suggests spot-cleaning it. Because of this, we suggest the bed for older puppies, who are already potty trained, to use into adulthood. You can also place a small blanket over the bed to ensure it stays clean for longer.

Sizes: Extra-small, small, medium, and large | Materials: Polyester knit sherpa fur, polyester, foam fill | Colors: Cream, ivory

What We Like
  • Three sizes and two neutral colors

  • Machine-washable

  • Cozy and soft

What We Don't Like
  • Only available at one retailer

  • Not chew-resistant

The Frisco Faux Suede Bolster Dog Bed is affordable, machine-washable, and cozy. Its exterior faux suede fabric comes in two colors, brown or khaki green, with a cream-colored polyester center that will invite your puppy to relax and snooze.

In a home with a 50-pound Australian shepherd, the bed's durability was put to the test. "Even after she thrashed the bed around constantly, it did maintain its shape somehow," said our testing participant. The bed is not chew-resistant, but it's durable enough to withstand a bit of puppy playtime. The bolstered edges provide a comforting and supportive barrier, allowing a puppy to feel contained while remaining free to move about. As you learn your puppy's preferred sleeping positions, you can better optimize the bed options you provide.

This bed is from Frisco, which is Chewy's house brand, so it is only sold through Chewy. It comes in three sizes, but if your puppy is bound to be big, they might outgrow this one within a year. For context, our pictured testing dog is snoozing in a large bed.

Sizes: Small, medium, large | Materials: Synthetic fabric, fiberfill | Colors: Brown, khaki green

What We Like
  • Durable molded cushion base

  • Raised rim calms puppies

  • Memory foam donut model has removable base

  • Anti-slip bottom

What We Don't Like
  • May not fit in a crate

  • Not for aggressive chewers

Donut-style pet beds have increased in popularity as a way to calm anxious dogs and cats. This type of bed is meant to mimic the cozy, nest-like feeling of sleeping curled up next to furry litter mates. The soft, plush fur may feel like a mother's fur, which can be comforting. This round, fluffy bed with a molded, comfortable memory foam base (not loose stuffing) may ease your puppy's anxiety. For older dogs, the furry rim provides a place to rest with their heads up, eases pressure on the neck, and instinctively protects their organs at the same time. While we did not test this bed, it gets high ratings from Amazon shoppers, so we think it's worth including on our list.

Though the base of this donut bed is molded memory foam, the rim may not be, which could pose a risk for tough chewers. You can also remove the molded memory foam base via a zipper at the bottom and toss the rest of the bed into the washing machine while air-drying or spot cleaning the foam. If your puppy isn't yet potty-trained, you may want to encase the memory foam base in plastic before zipping it back into the cover to avoid mold and bacteria growth.

Sizes: Small, medium, and large | Materials: Synthetic fur, memory foam | Colors: Tan, gray, ivory, pink, rainbow

Final Verdict

Our favorite dog bed for puppies is the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed, which is available in a wide range of configurations and has a water-resistant, machine-washable cover. If you are looking for a no-frills bed that is compatible with a crate, check out the MidWest QuietTime Pet Bed and consider the MidWest iCrate Dog Crate as well.

How We Picked

Testing beds for dogs is an ongoing pursuit for The Spruce Pets. We have completed multiple rounds of real-world testing with real dogs, totaling over 70 beds for dogs. In addition to testing a wide range of bestselling and popular dog beds, we have also completed targeted tests of dog beds designed for cooling during hot weather and dog beds designed with orthopedic features.

While we've tested hundreds of products in our New York testing lab, dog bed tests were primarily conducted at home, using a lengthy process that began with expert consultations. After conducting our best possible research, we develop a methodology that guides our volunteer testers through several weeks of observations, questions, and hands-on experience.

Testers evaluated dog beds based on each bed's comfort and build quality, in addition to how easy they are to clean and other features. Subsequent long-term follow-ups ensured that well-reviewed dog beds continued to be a success with our testers and their dogs.

What to Look For in a Dog Bed for Puppies

House Training

A dog bed can be a helpful aid in house training and is an essential part of your new puppy setup. “I like to go super basic when you're getting a puppy,” says Semel.

She recommends setting up a “containment area” for your puppy, either in a playpen or a closed-off area in your home. Include both a crate and a separate dog bed within this space. This is also where you’ll put a potty pad if you choose.

“As they get older, some people will get rid of the gate, some people will get rid of the crate based on their dog's experiences, but most people keep the bed,” says Semel. “The bed is what could stay with them their entire life.”

Transition From Crate to Dog Bed

The experts we consulted generally recommend using a crate when you bring your new puppy home. “Crates help with training, and should be adjustable to fit the dog as he grows, with dividers to remove as the puppy ages,” says Dr. Filos. “They should love their crate and feel safe in it, and it should never be used as, and associated with, punishment.”

To help with crate training, Dr. Filos says to remove any chance of mistakes, such as giving a dog too much space in the crate, as they will more quickly learn what earns praise and repeat it.

However, Semel notes that you should stay flexible since every puppy is different. “If your puppy does end up crate-trained, you can transition out once housetraining is solid and they are no longer a risk to chew household items when you’re out of sight,” she says. “Some dogs will end up more comfortable in their crate and it’s best to leave them with that option.”

If you want to eventually transition a puppy out of their crate, opt for a dog bed that fits the space, but will eventually be able to stand on its own, too.

Bed Styles

Elevated: This type of dog bed acts similarly to a hammock and is excellent for pups that need a little extra support due to joint pain. An elevated bed also gives a bit of extra coolness as the air circulates beneath it while your dog rests. Some dogs feel more secure when sleeping on an elevated platform. The downside would be when your dog has trouble stepping up onto the elevated bed due to pain or is too small to comfortably get in and out of the bed.

Cooling: Cooling beds are constructed of either a cooling gel infused into memory foam, a layer of cooling gel over a layer of foam, or another type of breathable material that helps prevent your pup from overheating. Temperature-regulating materials in cooling beds also absorb excess heat from your pet’s body during hot days or nights, so your pup can avoid a heat stroke—a common pet problem during the warmer months. A disadvantage of cooling beds is their price; they tend to be more expensive than other options.

Bolstered: Bolstered beds appeal to dogs because some like to rest their heads on the bolster like a pillow, but also because they are designed to appeal to dogs’ ancestral instincts. The raised border around the sleeping area can take many shapes, from oval to rectangle to square. It gives today’s dogs the same sense of security that wild canines once got when they snuggled against the protective border of their dens. A downside of the bolstered option would be if your dog doesn’t find that raised edge to be as comfortable as others do. 

Sofa: A good dog sofa bed provides many of the same benefits as elevated and bolstered dog beds, coupled with whatever additional perks each particular sofa bed brand brings. For example, memory foam in the sofa bed brings pressure relief for the joints, while cooling properties help cool pups down when hot. Cozy fabrics help them snuggle in for a good rest, and attractive designs blend with home decor. Drawbacks of sofa beds include their price (some are high) and height, if they’re raised too high for your dog to easily get into or out of. 

Crate mat: These provide cushion for your dog while lying inside their crate so that they aren’t lying directly on the hard bottom surface of it. Crate mats are helpful for the comfort of all dogs when left in crates, especially older dogs with joint trouble. Use caution if your dog has anxiety when left in their crate, as crate mats or other cushions may be chewed upon. If your dog ingests certain types of cushion material, it can be extremely dangerous for them. Consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has ingested any type of cushion or crate mat material. 

Orthopedic: These beds are made of dense foam to support dogs with joint problems like arthritis or hip dysplasia. Puppies of breeds known to have these problems as adult dogs can benefit from orthopedic beds being provided early on to prolong their joint health for as long as possible. A potential downside: If the bed isn’t made of a high-quality material, it may compress too much or not provide the level of comfort your dog needs.

A dog lying down on the Pet Fusion Ultimate Dog Bed
Credit:

The Spruce Pets

Foam

Memory foam: Memory foam is wonderful for pet beds since it conforms to your puppy's shape and provides optimal comfort and pressure relief. Growing dogs, senior dogs, and those with joint issues benefit the most from memory foam. With memory foam, lighter and smaller or average-sized pups will have the best fit. Larger or heavier dogs find themselves sinking in too deeply, possibly having trouble getting up quickly. Memory foam also retains heat, so dogs may get overheated on hot days or nights. 

Shredded memory foam: This is more flexible than regular memory foam, so it can be burrowed into, stimulating a natural nesting instinct in your dog while creating a customized cushion for them to rest on at the same time.

Orthopedic foam: This is denser and more supportive, particularly helpful for dogs with joint problems. With breeds prone to ailments such as hip dysplasia or arthritis, getting an orthopedic foam mattress for them as a puppy can help delay or prevent these problems.

Cleaning and Maintenance

There are numerous methods for pet hair removal and cleaning your dog’s bed, so it’s a matter of finding what works most efficiently for your household and your pet’s needs.

Before you begin washing the fabric, Gail Wolfe, DVM, of Bennett Road Animal Clinic, suggests using a pet or lint brush to get hair off of it. For this task, basic lint rollers are usually pretty affordable and easy to use, or you can purchase a pet hair removal device or a specially designed pet hair vacuum cleaner to help things along if you’ve got especially furry friends. Of course, most of the smaller attachments on your home vacuum cleaner should work well, too.

First and foremost, you should follow the manufacturer's instructions on cleaning the bed, says Dr. Wolfe. Some beds are fully machine-washable, so you can put them right in the washing machine, either on their own or with a few other soft items. Other beds have removable covers that you can remove and put in the washing machine. The bed should also come with instructions on whether it can be put in the dryer or not, and this is important to follow to ensure you maintain its shape. Some beds will need to air-dry overnight. Other beds are meant to be spot-cleaned, which you can do with an enzymatic spray or soap and water.

If you need to release compressed foam, especially when it’s been in a cold environment, try allowing the foam to warm up a little by turning up the heat or starting up a space heater. Heating pads or electric blankets may help to expand the foam, too. You can also attempt to increase air circulation in the room or use a handheld steamer to fluff up compressed foam.

What to Avoid

One of the best ways to find a dog bed that suits your puppy is to know what to avoid. The experts we consulted strongly suggested avoiding beds with stuffing and anything your puppy can bite off and possibly ingest.

Since many dog beds include zippers, it’s important to monitor your puppy the first time you introduce them to a bed so that you can start learning their habits. Some puppies are more prone to chewing, shredding, and digging than others. If you notice your puppy biting one area of the bed, you can try using a no-chew spray or redirecting to a teething toy. Stuffing is important to avoid because if your puppy does tear through the bed, stuffing pieces can be more easily ingested than thicker alternatives.

FAQ
  • Do puppies need a dog bed?

    A dog bed is a luxury, says Semel. “Your dog would likely do fine with a blanket, towel, bath mat, or pile of laundry.”

  • How do I train a puppy to sleep in a dog bed?

    Semel recommends letting your puppy take the lead to see which surface they are most comfortable sleeping on, which could mean testing out multiple beds. “It’s great to train a dog to go to bed or a place during mealtime, but a dog should choose the type of surface they like to sleep on,” she says.

  • Should I put a dog bed in my puppy’s crate?

    “If your goal is to transition them from a crate to a dog bed, put dog beds in the crate,” says Dr. Filos. Some dogs will be more comfortable with a dog bed they can snuggle into, while others will prefer a cooler surface or just a blanket.

    However, Dr. Filos notes that if a dog bed is too small, it could absorb urine and potentially delay training. ”Opt for a puppy bed that fits the exact space of the crate to avoid any urine or defecation accidents that they can scooch away from to avoid lying in their mess,” she says.

  • What size should a dog bed be for a puppy?

    “I generally recommend buying a bed that is slightly larger in circumference than the dog in a curled position,” says Dr. Filos. However, your dog may have an unexpected preference, says Semel. “I’ve seen Great Danes like smushing into a bed meant for a retriever and maltipoos loving that same size bed,” she adds.

    Take their lead and remember that bigger is often better. “Don't worry if your puppy is tiny; get [a bed] that's going to fit when they're older,” says Semel.

Why Trust The Spruce Pets

Rebecca Shinners is a writer for The Spruce Pets with over a decade of experience. She recently raised her first puppy, a cavapoo named Gemma, who is now 1.5 years old, giving her first-hand experience with crate training and separation anxiety. After destroying multiple dog beds, Gemma climbed into the Sherpa Faux Fur 3-in-1 Pet Bed on a Pottery Barn shopping trip and suckered her mom into buying it for her. She has slept in it every day since.

Rebecca consulted with Shelby Semel, dog trainer and founder of Shelby Semel Dog Training, and Dawn Filos, DVM, a practicing small animal veterinarian for over 31 years.

A previous version was written by KJ Callihan, who has been writing for The Spruce Pets since 2021. KJ consulted Gail Wolfe, DVM, of Bennett Road Animal Clinic. Dr. Wolfe has been a practicing veterinarian for over 50 years.

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