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15 Best Calming Dog Beds

↯ Key takeaway points

  • Calming dog beds provide a sense of security for anxious dogs while they rest, and often have raised edges and soft fabrics.
  • The most crucial feature is comfort, with secondary considerations including durability, material, size, shape, and a non-slip bottom.
  • A calming dog bed can help alleviate anxiety and promote restful sleep, but it is important to identify underlying triggers and consult with a vet or professional trainer if necessary.
  • It is important to choose a bed based on your individual dog's needs and habits, from the size and shape to the material and cleaning requirements.
Written by Jay
BsC (Hons) Animal Behaviour & Welfare graduate with a passion for advocating for misunderstood animals.
Practicing small pets and equine veterinarian and junior teaching assistant in Veterinary Medicine.
Published on
Friday 14 May 2021
Last updated on
Thursday 18 May 2023
best-calming-dog-beds
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If your pup struggles to get a good night’s sleep, this has likely brought you to search for a calming bed for dogs. But what exactly makes a dog bed “calming”? Which types of calming beds for dogs are best for your furry friend? And just how useful is a calming dog bed?

The best calming beds for dogs are soft, secure, water-resistant, and non-slip. All of these qualities also support your dog’s confidence as they climb into bed for the night. Ready to find out about our top picks? Read on with us today!

15 Best Calming Beds for Dogs

Calming beds for dogs come in all shapes and sizes. But which ones stand above the rest? And which one suits your unique pup best? Overall, the best calming beds for dogs will be soft, feature raised edges, have some water resistance, and be non-slip as well. All of these qualities come together to make your dog’s sleep as comfortable and safe as possible.

Our Top Pick: Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Cat and Dog Bed

Best Friends by Sheri’s Calming Donut Bed is our top pick, as well as many pet parents’ top pick! This dog bed is available in 15 colors and five sizes, so it’s very versatile. You’re sure to find a version of the donut bed that meets your dog’s needs. With its water-resistant and dirt-resistant base, this bed stands above many others. It’s also machine-washable.

Product NameBest FeatureStyleRating
Best Friends by Sheri Donut BedWater and dirt-resistantDonut5.0
PetFusion Ultimate Dog BedOrthopedic designBolster4.9
Bedsure Calming Dog BedSuper plush fillingDonut4.8
Friends Forever Coco Donut Attached hoodCave4.7
WAYIMPRESS Calming Dog Bed Machine-washable & dryer-safeDonut4.6
Friends Forever Memory FoamOne-year warrantyBolster4.5
SlowTon Calming Dog BedSturdy non-slip baseDonut4.4
Furhaven L Chaise Dog BedsComes with blanketBolster4.3
Majestic Pet Bagel BedHigher bolster edgesDonut4.2
Active Pets Plush Calming Dog BedSuper soft designDonut4.1
15 Best Calming Dog Beds

1. Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Cat and Dog Bed

Best Friends by Sheri’s Calming Donut Bed boasts some of the highest ratings on Amazon to date. This dog bed is available in 15 colors and five sizes, while also available with a blanket, too. This bed’s round shape is ideal for pets who love to curl up to nap. The raised rim of the bed provides a sense of security whilst also providing head and neck support, while its soft filling provides joint pain relief. Cozy and flexible, this bed is also finished with a water-resistant and dirt-resistant base to prevent messes from reaching your floors. Furthermore, its removable shell (of the M-2XL sizes) is machine-washable. The entirety of the small bed is machine-washable. Overall, this premium dog bed allows your furry friend to be instantly enveloped in premium, soft, and luxurious comfort.

The most common critical reviews are about the “shag” look of the bed rather than its usefulness. Some customers also say that the bed loses its fluffy look after two washes. Other customers say that there isn’t enough padding in the center of the bed where their pet lays down. Overall, however, the bed is widely regarded as one of the best calming, comfortable dog beds on the market.

Pros

  • Available in 15 colors
  • Available in 5 sizes
  • Comes with or without a blanket
  • Raised rim offers comfort and support
  • The premium filling provides ample comfort
  • Machine-washable and dryer-safe

Cons

  • Fibers may lose their look after washing
  • Occasional issues with a lack of filling in the middle

2. PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

PetFusion’s Ultimate Dog Bed is a must for anxious pups. This premium dog bed is available in three colors and four sizes, so you’re sure to find a bed that meets your pup’s needs. Inside this bed is four inches of memory foam to reduce joint pain, and on top of this is a waterproof inner liner to protect the bed from accidents. Moreover, this bed is unique for its firm base, raised edges, and generous bolster filling, which provides comfort for nervous dogs who need a secure place to sleep. Another unique aspect of this calming dog bed is its modern look while also being affordable. Lastly, the bed features a removable and washable cover, so your pup doesn’t ever need to rest in an unclean bed!

However, the main concern with this pet bed among critical reviewers is its lack of fireproof quality. This dog bed appears to be particularly sensitive to heat, with one reviewer stating that the base partially melted in high temperatures, and another stating that placing this bed in the same room as a fireplace led to a fire. Also, do not place this dog bed near any heat source.

Pros

  • Available in three colors
  • Available in four sizes
  • Raised edges and bolster filling offer comfort and security
  • Modern aesthetic
  • Removable and washable cover

Cons

  • Not fire retardant

3. Bedsure Calming Dog Bed for Medium Dogs

Bedsure’s Calming Dog Bed is ideal for pets who love to curl up to sleep and relax. This dog bed is available in five colors and five sizes, so you’re certain to find a version that meets your and your dog’s needs! This bed’s raised edges provide a sense of security while also offering joint and muscle pain relief. Filled with air loft microfiber, this plush and fluffy round dog bed also brings extra comfort to your furry friend. It also features a non-slip base to keep it stable, which is especially important for nervous dogs. Lastly, this dog bed is machine-washable, so it’s great for dogs who are prone to accidents.

The most common critical reviews note that the cushion insert is not attached to the bed. This also allows some dogs to use it as a chew toy. Other dogs may kick it out as they sleep or dig before laying down.

Pros

  • Available in five colors
  • Available in five sizes
  • Raised edges provide a sense of security
  • Microfiber filling for extra comfort
  • Machine-washable
  • Non-slip base

Cons

  • The cushion insert is removable

4. Friends Forever Coco Donut Dog Bed

Friends Forever’s Luna Donut Dog Bed is a must for nervous pups. This bed is unique for its soft, plush hood that provides a place for your pooch to rest away from noise and light. When your pup is feeling anxious, this dog bed provides warmth and security with its raised rim and comfy hooded cover. Its plush faux fur is soft and breathable, while its super-supportive filling offers relief from joint and muscle pains. Moreover, this bed is machine-washable and dryer-safe, too, making it very easy to clean and maintain.

However, the most common complaints in critical reviews are regarding the bed’s durability. Some beds appear to sink down in the middle after a few uses, while others rip easily.

Pros

  • Available in five colors
  • Available in three sizes
  • Features a hood cover
  • Raised rim offers extra security
  • Supportive filling for joint support
  • Machine-washable and dryer-safe

Cons

  • Some issues with bed durability

5. WAYIMPRESS Calming Dog Bed for Small Dog & Cat

WAYIMPRESS’ Calming Dog Bed is made with premium plush materials to provide an ultra-soft, warm, and cozy resting place for your anxious pooch. This calming dog bed features a raised rim to provide head and neck support while also offering a sense of security. As well as this, this calming dog bed is machine-washable and dryer-safe, so it’s easy to clean and maintain too. Lastly, WAYIMPRESS’ Calming Dog Bed is available in nine colors and three sizes – so you’re sure to find a pick that matches your décor!

Most critical reviews note that some beds come with less stuffing than others. The other negative reviews say that the color is not as vibrant as pictured, as well as the fact that the bed struggles to stay in shape after a few uses.

Pros

  • Available in nine colors
  • Available in three sizes
  • Machine-washable
  • Dryer-safe
  • Raised rim to provide a sense of security

Cons

  • May offer less filling
  • Some issues with the color not matching the pictures

6. Friends Forever Memory Foam Orthopedic Dog Bed Lounge Sofa

Friends Forever’s Orthopedic Dog Bed guarantees your anxious pooch a solid night’s sleep. With its plush polyfill bolster filling and its raised rim, your dog is offered exceptional comfort. This bed features a water-resistant liner, so if your anxious pup is prone to accidents, this bed will hold up to their messes. Its removable cover is also machine-washable. Friends Forever’s Orthopedic Dog Bed is also covered by a one-year warranty. Lastly, this bed is available in four colors and four sizes.

The most common critical reviews note the bed’s smell. For whatever reason, this dog bed also appears to give off a “chemical” or “musty” scent that stays strong even after washing. Others debate the waterproof quality of the bed.

Pros

  • Available in four sizes
  • Available in four colors
  • One-year limited warranty
  • Raised rim for extra security
  • Machine-washable

Cons

  • Some issues with the bed’s scent
  • May not hold up to frequent accidents

7. SlowTon Calming Dog Bed for Small Medium Large Dogs Cats

SlowTon’s Calming Dog Bed is designed with your anxious pup in mind. This calming dog bed is filled with premium PP cotton, and the surrounding raised rim comfortably supports your pet’s neck to relieve soreness in the spine. As well as this, the base of the bed is made with non-slip dot fabric, allowing your dog to quickly jump into bed firmly and safely. Additionally, the soft and fluffy artificial fur fabric guarantees your dog a quiet and comfortable sleep. Lastly, this calming dog bed is available in four sizes and seven colors.

Among critical reviews, the most common issue is the bed’s shape and durability. Some customers say that the bed loses its shape after just a few uses, while others say that there is little stuffing inside the bed to support their pets.

Pros

  • Available in four sizes
  • Available in seven colors
  • Machine washable
  • Dryer safe
  • Filled with PP cotton

Cons

  • May not hold its shape well
  • Not as durable as some other beds

8. Furhaven Orthopedic, Cooling Gel, and Memory Foam Bed

The Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed is an excellent choice for nervous dogs. This bed features an oversized blanket top as well as a cozy nestling and burrowing space for your pooch. The interior sleeping surface comes with soft, plush berber fabric, while the exterior is wrapped with easy-care suede. Moreover, these materials are gentle on the skin for enhanced snuggling comfort. Also, the bed comes with a removable, machine-washable cover for your convenience. Furthermore, unique to this product is its 90-day warranty for material defects.

There are few critical reviews for the blanket top variety of this dog bed. However, some customers note the weaker stitching on other variants of the bed.

Pros

  • Available in three colors
  • Available in five sizes
  • Cooling gel foam option available
  • Memory foam option available
  • Orthopedic foam option available
  • Comes with an attached blanket hood

Cons

  • Not suitable for destructive chewers
  • Some weaker stitching reported

9. 40″ Blue & Sherpa Bagel Bed By Majestic Pet Products

Majestic Pet’s Poly-Cotton Sherpa Bagel Dog Bed is a must for pups who enjoy the comfort of a secure bed. This dog bed offers complete, comfortable construction for maximum comfort. It is made with durable but soft cotton and polyester that it easy to maintain and clean. Its high loft polyester filling is warm and soft, while its waterproof denier base protects your home from accidents. Most importantly, this dog bed is also designed with a round bolster to hug your pet as they sleep, giving a warm and calming effect.

However, some customers say that the quality of this dog bed is inconsistent between orders. On some occasions, the bed may arrive with more or less filling, while others will arrive larger or smaller than before. Others also report that the beds do not match the advertised sizes.

Pros

  • Available in four sizes
  • Available seven colors
  • Machine-washable
  • Waterproof base
  • Bagel design to keep your pup secure
  • Premium polyester filling provides support

Cons

  • Inconsistent quality
  • Possible sizing issues

10. Active Pets Plush Calming Dog Bed

Active Pets’ Plush Calming Dog Bed creates a calm, soothing environment for any dog. This cozy, soft, and plush dog bed is ergonomically designed for your dog’s comfort. Its round shape helps your pup to curl up and burrow, while the raised rim offers extra security and neck support. It’s also lightweight and folds easily for hassle-tree transport. The heavy-duty plastic cloth base is also anti-slip, so your dog will feel more secure if they need to get to bed quickly. Lastly, this calming dog bed is available in four colors and three sizes.

However, some critical reviews note the lack of stuffing in the bed. Others say that the bed lacks firmness, partly due to the lack of stuffing.

Pros

  • Available in three sizes
  • Available in four colors
  • Machine-washable
  • Lightweight and foldable
  • Anti-slip base

Cons

  • Possible lack of stuffing

11. Casper Dog Bed, Plush Memory Foam

Casper’s Dog Bed is designed for your dog’s behavior. Its soft top but durable microfiber material allows your pup to dig before laying down. As well as this, its raised foam bolsters help your pup feel safe and sheltered. Moreover, this dog bed is machine-washable and easy to clean. Unlike some other dog beds on our list, this calming dog bed is more likely to keep its shape due to its fortified construction.

One of the main recurring critical reviews regards the odor of the bed. Some customers also say that the memory foam insert gives off a “chemical” odor that multiple washes cannot remove.

Pros

  • Available in three sizes
  • Available in four colors
  • Raised foam bolsters
  • Keeps its shape well

Cons

  • Some customers said it’s hard to clean
  • Zipper breaks easily

12. BarkBox Dog Bed, 2-in-1 Memory Foam Donut Cuddler Dog and Cat Bed

BarkBox Dog Bed, 2-in-1 is made with vegan fur and a memory foam mattress to support your pup’s wildest dreams. This bed is machine-washable as well as water-resistant, so you can easily combat your dog’s accidents while keeping their bed looking and smelling fresh. Unique to this dog bed is the free toy included! Lastly, this dog bed comes in three sizes and two colors.

However, the main issue reported in critical reviews is the durability of the zip. Some pet parents also say that the zipper falls apart within weeks. Also, others say that there isn’t enough stuffing in the bed to provide enough comfort.

Pros

  • Available in three sizes
  • Available in two colors
  • Machine-washable and water-resistant
  • Memory foam insert for ultimate comfort
  • Free toy included

Cons

  • Some issues with zipper durability
  • May not be enough filling in some beds

13. Furhaven Ultra Plush Curly Faux Fur Oval Dog Bed

Furhaven Pet Beds Oval Cuddler Supportive Dog Bed features soft, wraparound foam walls to provide security and comfort to your pup. This snug, enclosed nestling space is also water-resistant to protect against floor spills and accidents. As well as this, its cut-out entrance makes the bed more accessible to smaller and elderly dogs. Lastly, this dog bed comes with a 90-day warranty against material defects.

However, most critical reviews claim that the material is “cheap” and does not hold up to repeated use. Also, others say that the material “sheds” and leaves small fluff pieces around the area.

Pros

  • Available in 21 colors
  • Available in five sizes
  • Machine-washable
  • Foam walls offer security

Cons

  • 90-day warranty for material defects
  • Durability issues

14. MFOX Calming Dog Bed for Medium and Large Dogs

MFOX Calming Dog Bed is made with durable nylon and luxurious faux fur. Its super-soft filling supports your dog’s joints, while its raised outer rim provides neck and head support. The deep crevices also create a secure feeling for your anxious dog, allowing them to curl up and dig as they please. As well as this, the entire bed is machine-washable and dryer-safe.

Some dog beds in this range may arrive smaller than advertised. So, we recommend going one size up for your dog. Others may be soft and snuggly, but not durable in the center.

Pros

  • Available in nine colors
  • Available in four sizes
  • Durable nylon and faux fur material
  • Deep crevices offer extra comfort
  • Machine-washable and dryer-safe
  • May be smaller than advertised

Cons

  • Some customers are having issues with the stuffing coming out everytime their dog lies down

15. BEAUTYHB Calming Dog Bed and Cat Bed

BEAUTYHB Calming Dog Bed is comfortable, fluffy, and soft to guarantee your nervous dog a good night’s sleep. The bed is made with high-quality faux fur, while the interior is filled with soft PP cotton. Its base is also equipped with non-slip silicone to ensure your pet’s safety and security. The bed is machine-washable, but the manufacturer recommends hand washing instead.

However, some pet parents say that there isn’t enough filling in the bed, and some are able to feel the floor through the center.

Pros

  • Available in four sizes
  • Available five colors
  • Machine-washable
  • High-quality faux fur finish
  • Donut shape for security

Cons

  • There may be a lack of filling

What are Calming Dog Beds?

Calming dog beds are beds that provide a sense of security to your dog. Dogs, by their nature, are anxious. This is because they are always scanning their surroundings for threats. Therefore, they are always looking for a safe place to rest. A place where they can remain safe from attacks. Calming dog beds also called ‘anxiety beds’, appeal to this need for security.

Moreover, most such beds have raised edges, giving a dog the sense of protection he craves. Most of these beds are also extremely soft and comfortable through the use of soft fabrics. In short, these beds provide dogs a safe, warm, and comfy place to rest.

what-are-calming-dog-beds
Choose a bed that will bring a sense of security to your dog.

We’ve asked the team at Original Calming Bed for their opinion on what really matters when choosing a calming bed for your dog, and here is what they told us:

A calming dog bed is an excellent natural way to help your furry buddy cope with anxiety. But there are many calming beds in the market, and picking one could be difficult. The most crucial feature in a calming bed is comfort.

Look for a calming bed that will provide warmth, support, and that soft touch – almost like a parent’s hug. Calming beds made from orthopedically supportive materials like light polyester should be on the top of your list. The material should also have excellent fatigue resistance to provide relief for aching joints and muscles. Also, look for beds that have a snuggly top. It’s what your furry buddy needs to forget about all his fears.

Original Calming Bed

Benefits of Using a Calming Dog Bed

The most obvious benefit of providing your dog with a calming bed is that it helps to alleviate any anxiety that they might be feeling before bedtime. Your dog needs to feel safe and secure when they sleep. If your dog cannot rest peacefully at night, its anxiety heightens and can lead to behavioral issues later on.

Remember, a calming dog bed is simply a tool to reduce anxiety, but will not eliminate it entirely. It’s important to assess why your dog is anxious around bedtime. Do other family members wake your dog up frequently? Is your dog given a routine so that they know when to go to bed? Are they taken out to empty their bladder before being taken to bed? If in any doubt about your dog’s behavior, it’s always best to consult with a professional trainer or a veterinarian for advice.

What to Look For in a Calming Bed for Dogs

The best calming dog beds will have extra inner padding, raised edges, and a soft texture to maximize the feeling of comfort and calm in your dog whilst also reducing feelings of anxiety.

Durability

As anxious dogs may be prone to destructive chewing, it’s important that their beds are able to withstand some of the behavior. Unfortunately, many calming dog beds are made with soft materials for your dog’s comfort, so some will not hold up to aggressive chewing. Some calming dog beds come with extra components such as hoods, so it’s important that the bed can withstand frequent uses or this addition becomes useless very quickly.

Material

You know your dog best, so you know what materials are right for them. Although plush faux fur may look pleasing, an anxious dog who is prone to accidents may not fare well with this softer type of bed. Furthermore, this type of dog would do best on a bed with water-resistant and dirt-resistant material. The same applies if your dog likes to dig and scratch before curling up to sleep. On the other hand, if your dog is soothed by soft materials, the softest beds may be the best option for them. As always, make sure to keep in mind what materials are safe for your dog.

Size

As you search through the many calming dog beds on the market, you may find that sizes can be a little misleading. Be sure to read the specifics for each. For example, some manufacturers might offer a wide range of sizes, but then you may find that an extra large bed can only fit a 70 lbs dog. Be sure to check the reviews as well, as sizing issues will become apparent among critical reviews. It’s also important for a calming dog bed to be a suitable size for your dog, as many of these beds are designed to “hug” your dog whilst they rest.

It’s also helpful for calming dog beds to be versatile and small enough to take with you on the go. Also, smaller dog beds are sometimes foldable and can be stored in the car. This makes them ideal for long road trips to help your pup’s car anxiety.

Easy to Clean

Particularly anxious dogs may be more prone to accidents. So, it’s best to stick with a dog bed that will hold up to any accidents your furry friend might have. Some suitable dog beds will be waterproof, while others will be machine-washable and dryer-safe for a quick and easy clean. You know your pup best, so be sure to stick with a bed that will hold up to their proneness to accidents. Also, a nervous dog who is not prone to accidents may do well with a soft faux fur bed. An anxious dog who is prone to accidents, however, will quickly stain and dampen a softer bed, and as such may do better with a bed that features a water-resistant liner and removable cover.

Shape

Calming dog beds come in many shapes and sizes. The best shape for your dog depends on their size. For example, a donut-shaped dog bed will be ideal for smaller breeds. This type of bed features raised sides all around to create a nest-like environment. Meanwhile, bolster beds for larger breeds typically provide raised edges on three sides, providing your dog with a sort of pillow. These edges give your dog something to rest on whilst they snooze, providing a better sense of security. Other calming beds offer a “cave”-like environment with a hood or blanket attachment, allowing them to burrow and hide.  

Non-slip Bottom

Your dog needs to feel safe and secure in their bed, so a non-slip bottom is paramount. If your dog runs to their bed or scratches it before laying down, it’s important that their bed doesn’t make sudden movements that could make them uneasy. A bed that slips and slides about on the floor will not help to ease your dog’s worries around bedtime!

Calming Dog Beds: FAQs

Have any more questions or concerns about the best calming dog beds? Feel free to check out our Frequently Asked Questions for more details. If in doubt about the best bed for your nervous dog, it’s always good to ask your vet or trainer for advice.

Do dogs like calming beds?

For particularly anxious dogs, a calming dog bed is often a very welcome addition to their bedtime routine. Many nervous dogs seem to appreciate the extra security and comfort that a calming dog bed offers. However, calming dog beds are not for all dogs! Some dogs prefer having plenty of space to stretch out, feeling at ease when asleep. Others will prefer to sleep on floors or on blankets.

Why are donut beds calming for dogs?

The theory behind the donut bed design is that the deep, soft filling of the bed emulates the feeling of being comforted by another during sleep. The round design of the donut bed also supports your dog’s natural curled-up sleeping position, further providing protection and security to your pup.

Do the anxiety dog beds work?

While calming dog beds can be a useful tool in managing your dog’s anxiety, they are not by any means a cure. You must be sure to find out what is causing your dog’s underlying anxieties. If in doubt about your dog’s behavior, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer. Your dog may benefit from specialist conditioning training or medication to manage their anxiety at home.

Where should a dog bed be placed in a house?

The ideal place for your dog’s bed is somewhere quiet, away from foot traffic, and somewhere that they can settle. This is especially important if your dog is of a more nervous disposition. You don’t want your dog to be disturbed by noise or traffic, especially if they struggle to sleep.

What can you do for dogs with anxiety?

To get to the bottom of dog anxiety, it’s important to identify your dog’s triggers. Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety, for example, while others are anxious around other dogs or in specific situations. These are all situations that a professional trainer can aid you with. And, if your dog’s case is particularly severe, your vet may recommend medication alongside training. It is important that you don’t overwhelm your dog by exposing them to their triggers deliberately as “exposure therapy” – this only risks traumatizing your dog further.

The best calming dog beds are super soft, water-resistant, easy to clean and offer a sense of security to your pooch.

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