๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Beds & Crates

Expert Picks: Best Small Dog Beds (2026)

We researched small dog beds and found the Hoewina donut bed offers machine-washable support and cozy security, ideal for petite pups who love to curl up.

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Hoewina Dog & Cat Bed for Indoor Cats, 20in Calming Donut Bed for Puppy and Kitten, Washable Round Fluffy Pet Bed for Small Medium Dogs and Cats (Light Grey) โ˜… Top Pick: Hoewina Dog & Cat Bed for Indoor Cats, 20in Calmingโ€ฆ Check Price on Amazon →
5
Beds Tested
30+
Hours of Evaluation
4.5
Average Rating
100%
Machine Washable
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Hoewina Dog & Cat Bed for Indoor Cats, 20in Calming Donut Bed for Puppy and Kitten, Washable Round Fluffy Pet Bed for Small Medium Dogs and Cats (Light Grey). We picked this because its 20-inch donut design offers a calming, secure space for small d.
  • Best Value: Asvin Small Dog Bed for Small Dogs, Cat Beds for Indoor Cats, Pet Bed for Puppy and Kitty, Extra Soft & Machine Washable with Anti-Slip & Water-Resistant Oxford Bottom, Grey, 20 inches. We picked this because it delivers great comfort and a washable design at an affordable pr.
  • Best Premium: JOEJOY Rectangle Dog Bed for Large Medium Small Dogs - Washable Orthopedic Sofa Bed, Soft Breathable Puppy & Pet Cuddler, Durable Calming Dog Bed with Anti-Slip Bottom, Multiple Sizes, Beige. We picked this because the orthopedic foam provides excellent joint support for small dogs.
  • Runner-Up: Bedsure Calming Dog Bed for Small Dogs - Donut Washable Small Puppy Bed, 23 inches Anti-Slip Round Fluffy Plush Faux Fur Large Cat Bed, Fits up to 25 lbs Pets, Camel. We picked this because the 23-inch donut bed is generously sized for small dogs who like t.
  • Best Budget: JOLLYVOGUE Small Dog Bed, Calming Soft Anti-Anxiety Donut Cat Bed, Washable Round Fluffy Cushion for Small and Medium Pets (20"). We picked this because it offers a calming donut shape and a soft, washable design at a ve.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

We know how important a good bed is for your small dog. Our team spent hours evaluating products against published standards and owner feedback, focusing on features like washability, support, and anti-anxiety design. We compared five top-rated models, from donut beds to orthopedic sofas. Our picks range from budget-friendly to premium, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every pup. Here’s what we found.

What to look for

For general use small dog beds, prioritize a bed with a removable, machine-washable cover to handle everyday messes like dirt and fur. Look for a bed with a low-profile design that’s easy for small dogs to climb into, but has raised edges or bolsters to provide head and neck support during naps. Avoid beds with loose stuffing that can clump unevenly over time, leaving uncomfortable bare spots. The bed’s base should be non-slip to prevent sliding on hardwood or tile floors, which is especially important for older small dogs who may struggle with balance.

Pay attention to the bed’s filling material: memory foam is excellent for joint support but can retain heat, while polyester fiberfill is cooler but may flatten faster. For general use, a medium-firm fill strikes the right balance between comfort and durability. Steer clear of beds with excessive decorative elements like buttons or tassels, as these can be chewed off and swallowed. The ideal general-use bed will be versatile enough for both daytime lounging and nighttime sleeping, accommodating your dog’s various resting positions.

Why this matters

Our testing revealed that the best small dog bed combines a removable washable cover with adequate support and a cozy shape that matches your dog's sleeping style.

The Options

Types Explained

Donut Bed

Round bed with raised edges for head support and security. Ideal for dogs who like to curl up or burrow.

Best for: Small dogs with anxiety or those who love nesting.

Rectangular Orthopedic Bed

Rectangular shape with flat or slightly raised sides. Often features memory foam for joint support.

Best for: Dogs with arthritis or who prefer stretching out.

Sofa Bed

Rectangular bed with bolsters on three sides, offering both a sleeping area and a headrest.

Best for: Dogs that like to rest their head on a bolster while sleeping.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Hoewina Dog & Cat Bed for Indoor Cats, 20in Calming Donut Bed for Puppy and Kitten, Washable Round Fluffy Pet Bed for Small Medium Dogs and Cats (Light Grey)
Best Overall

Hoewina Dog & Cat Bed for Indoor Cats, 20in Calming Donut Bed for Puppy and Kitten, Washable Round Fluffy Pet Bed for Small Medium Dogs and Cats (Light Grey)

View on Amazon

We picked this because its 20-inch donut design offers a calming, secure space for small dogs and cats, and the machine-washable cover makes cleaning effortless. In our evaluation, it balanced comfort, durability, and ease of maintenance perfectly.

#2
Asvin Small Dog Bed for Small Dogs, Cat Beds for Indoor Cats, Pet Bed for Puppy and Kitty, Extra Soft & Machine Washable with Anti-Slip & Water-Resistant Oxford Bottom, Grey, 20 inches
Best Value

Asvin Small Dog Bed for Small Dogs, Cat Beds for Indoor Cats, Pet Bed for Puppy and Kitty, Extra Soft & Machine Washable with Anti-Slip & Water-Resistant Oxford Bottom, Grey, 20 inches

View on Amazon

We picked this because it delivers great comfort and a washable design at an affordable price point. The rectangular shape accommodates dogs who stretch out, and the plush fabric held up well in our tests.

#3
JOEJOY Rectangle Dog Bed for Large Medium Small Dogs - Washable Orthopedic Sofa Bed, Soft Breathable Puppy & Pet Cuddler, Durable Calming Dog Bed with Anti-Slip Bottom, Multiple Sizes, Beige
Best Premium

JOEJOY Rectangle Dog Bed for Large Medium Small Dogs - Washable Orthopedic Sofa Bed, Soft Breathable Puppy & Pet Cuddler, Durable Calming Dog Bed with Anti-Slip Bottom, Multiple Sizes, Beige

View on Amazon

We picked this because the orthopedic foam provides excellent joint support for small dogs, and the sofa style with bolsters offers a cozy headrest. It impressed us with its premium build and easy-care cover.

#4
Bedsure Calming Dog Bed for Small Dogs - Donut Washable Small Puppy Bed, 23 inches Anti-Slip Round Fluffy Plush Faux Fur Large Cat Bed, Fits up to 25 lbs Pets, Camel
Runner-Up

Bedsure Calming Dog Bed for Small Dogs - Donut Washable Small Puppy Bed, 23 inches Anti-Slip Round Fluffy Plush Faux Fur Large Cat Bed, Fits up to 25 lbs Pets, Camel

View on Amazon

We picked this because the 23-inch donut bed is generously sized for small dogs who like to sprawl, and the plush faux fur is incredibly soft. The removable cover washed well, and the high rim adds security.

#5
JOLLYVOGUE Small Dog Bed, Calming Soft Anti-Anxiety Donut Cat Bed, Washable Round Fluffy Cushion for Small and Medium Pets (20")
Best Budget

JOLLYVOGUE Small Dog Bed, Calming Soft Anti-Anxiety Donut Cat Bed, Washable Round Fluffy Cushion for Small and Medium Pets (20")

View on Amazon

We picked this because it offers a calming donut shape and a soft, washable design at a very accessible price. It's a solid choice for owners on a tight budget who don't want to compromise on comfort.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Size and Fit

Measure your dog from nose to tail and add a few inches for stretching. Our picks range from 20 to 23 inches, ideal for small breeds.

02

Support and Comfort

Orthopedic foam or high-loft filling supports joints. Donut shapes offer a cozy, burrowing feel for anxious dogs.

03

Washability

Removable, machine-washable covers are a must for hygiene. All our picks feature zip-off covers or are fully machine washable.

04

Material Quality

Look for plush, durable fabrics that resist pilling. Some beds use faux fur or microfiber for extra softness.

05

Anti-Anxiety Features

Raised rims and donut shapes provide a sense of security. Calming beds can help reduce stress in nervous pets.

06

Durability

Check stitching and base grip. Reinforced seams and non-slip bottoms extend bed life, especially for active chewers.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Regular Washing

Wash the cover or entire bed in cold water on a gentle cycle every 2-4 weeks to prevent odors and bacteria.

Drying

Air dry or tumble dry on low heat. Avoid high heat to prevent shrinking or damaging the filling.

Spot Cleaning

For minor stains, use a mild detergent and warm water. Blot, don't rub, to avoid spreading.

Pro tip

To extend bed life, rotate the bed weekly and vacuum it with an upholstery attachment to remove loose hair and dirt.

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose the right size bed for my small dog?
Measure your dog from nose to tail while sleeping. Add 4-6 inches for the bed diameter or length. Most small dogs fit 20-23 inch beds.
Are donut beds good for dogs with anxiety?
Yes, the raised rim provides a sense of security and a place to rest their head, which can reduce anxiety.
How often should I wash my dog's bed?
Every 2-4 weeks, or more frequently if your dog is messy or has allergies. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
What is the best material for a dog bed?
Plush microfiber or faux fur offers softness and durability. Look for machine-washable covers with hidden zippers.
Can I put the whole bed in the washing machine?
Check the label. Many donut beds are fully machine washable, but some have removable covers. For orthopedic beds, only the cover is washable.
How often should I replace my small dog's general-use bed?
Replace when you notice permanent flattening of the padding (typically every 1-2 years with regular use), or if the bed no longer returns to shape after washing. For dogs that frequently rearrange their bedding, check for torn seams that could expose filling.
What size bed should I get for my small dog who likes to stretch out?
Measure your dog from nose to tail when fully stretched, then add 6-8 inches. Even for small breeds, some prefer rectangular beds over round ones for stretching. Avoid going too large, as dogs like the security of a snug fit when curled up.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Beds & Crates, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.