How to choose a dog bed by breed

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and so do dog beds. While there is no substitute for measuring your dog when selecting a dog bed, here is a quick rule of thumb that you can use when trying to size a dog bed:

Extra-small dogs are typically under 10 lbs and include such breeds as small terriers, Chihuahuas, poodle and other miniature and teacup breeds. Most beds designed for extra-small dogs and cats will be around 19” long by 19”wide or smaller. Nesting type beds will have a diameter less than 22 inches.

Small dogs are typically any dog less than 25 pounds. Breeds include most terriers, Dachshunds, Lhasa Apso, small Poodles, Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, Shih Tzu, Whippet, and others. Most beds designed for small dogs will be around 25-30” long by 25-30” wide. Nesting type beds will have a diameter around 25-30 inches.

Medium dogs run 13-21" from the ground to shoulder and weight 30 to 60 pounds. Breeds include Australian Cattle Dog, Cocker Spaniel, Finnish Spitz, Bulldogs, and Keeshond. You will need to choose a nest dog need that's at least 30-35 inches in diameter and a pillow dog bed that is at least 35” long by 35” wide.

Large dogs stand 21-26 inches and weight between 60 to 90 pounds. Breeds include Akita, Chows, Dalmatian, Doberman Pinscher, English Setter, Golden Retriever, and Siberian Husky. They need a nest dog bed that is at least 40-45 inches in diameter and a pillow dog bed that is at least 45” long by 45” wide.

Extra Large dogs stand over 26" and weight at least 90 lbs. Choose a nest dog bed that is at least 50 inches in diameter and a pillow dog bed that is at least 50” long by 50” wide. Some extra-large dog beds are up to 6 feet long and are great for large breeds such as Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Irish wolfhound or households with multiple dogs that like to share beds.

Remember that as you get into the larger breeds it is important to select a sturdy fabric and a frame style that will stand up to your dog's weight. Many dog beds are made with commercial grade materials and can hold up to 200 lbs.

If you plan to measure your dog for a dog bed, here's how to do it:

Measure your dog once standing up; from tip of nose to base of tail and also from floor to shoulders or head. If you will be buying a mattress dog bed, add 6-12 inches. This will give you an approximate width and length for a flat dog bed. Measure your dog another time in his favorite sleeping position; perhaps his length when fully stretched out, or his diameter when curled into a ball. For nest and ball-type beds measure the length of your dog while he is curled up. Measure from the top of his head to the point where his tail meets his hindquarters, and then add 7 to 9 inches. 

The right size dog bed will match or be slightly larger than your measurements. Beds that are too small may not be comfortable for your dog. You want to allow room for growth, if you dog is still growing, and you want to allow room for movement regardless of whether your dog is still growing or if he's already at maximum size.