Buying a dog bed online is convenient. You can take your time comparing models, colours, sizes and materials, and the new bed arrives straight at your door. There is just one problem — your dog cannot sit or lie on it beforehand or show you whether the chosen size and construction really suit them.
On screen, two dog beds may look very similar, even though in reality they differ in the size of the sleeping area, type of filling, whether the cover can be removed or the height of the sides. That is why, before buying, it is worth spending a few minutes not only looking at the photographs but also carefully reading the product information.
This does not mean that choosing a dog bed online has to be difficult. You simply need to know which information really matters and what to look for in the product description.
What will you learn from this article? From this guide, you will learn:
- how to check whether a dog bed will be the right size,
- why your dog’s weight alone is not enough when choosing a bed,
- how external dimensions differ from the actual sleeping area,
- how to match the bed’s construction to the way your dog rests,
- what to look for when choosing the filling,
- why a removable cover can make a huge difference in everyday use,
- which information about the material is worth checking,
- what to look for regarding returns and made-to-measure dog beds.
1. Check your dog’s size, not just their weight
One of the most common mistakes when buying a dog bed online is choosing the size solely on the basis of breed or weight. Two dogs weighing 15 kg can have completely different body shapes — one may be short and stocky, while the other is considerably longer and slimmer.
Before buying, it is therefore worth measuring your dog and also observing which position they most often rest in. A dog who usually sleeps curled up may use the available space differently from one who stretches their legs out while sleeping and takes up almost the entire length of the sofa.
In our guide ‘How to choose the right size dog bed? Complete guide’, we highlighted the importance of combining your dog’s measurements with observation of their natural resting position [2]. Bowl&Bone Republic also offers the option of making many models to individual dimensions if your dog falls between standard sizes.
When shopping online, do not therefore rely solely on labels such as S, M, L or XL. One manufacturer’s size L may be completely different from another brand’s L. Always check the actual dimensions given in centimetres.
2. Look at the sleeping area, not just the external dimensions of the bed
This is a detail that is very easy to overlook when shopping online. If a dog bed has high, wide sides, its external dimensions are not the same as the amount of space your dog actually has to sleep on.
From our experience of making dog beds, one of the most common problems when buying online is comparing external dimensions only. With soft-sided dog beds, the actual sleeping area can be noticeably smaller, which is why it is always worth checking both measurements.
Imagine a dog bed that is 80 cm wide. At first glance it may seem spacious, but if the sides take up several centimetres on each side, the central cushion will be considerably smaller. When comparing products, it is therefore worth looking for both the overall dimensions of the dog bed and the dimensions of its internal sleeping area.
This matters from the other perspective too. Before buying, check the place where you intend to position the bed. It should provide your dog with enough space, but it also needs to fit comfortably in the area where it will be used. The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) recommends providing dogs with a comfortable resting place in a quiet part of the home where they can sleep without being constantly disturbed [1].
A useful trick before buying is to mark out the dimensions of the dog bed on the floor using masking tape or lay out a blanket of a similar size. A few minutes spent doing this can give you a much better idea of the product’s actual scale than a photograph viewed on a phone screen.
3. Think about how your dog really likes to sleep
Not every bed has to take the classic form of a sofa with high sides. Dogs have different preferences when it comes to resting, which is why it is worth simply observing them for a few days before making your choice.
A dog who sleeps curled up and often rests their head on a cushion or the side of the sofa may enjoy a more enveloping bed with soft edges. A dog who regularly stretches out to their full length or happily sleeps on the floor may make better use of the large, flat surface of a dog cushion bed or an orthopaedic dog mattress.
Your dog’s age and mobility also matter. The PDSA points out that for dogs who have difficulty getting into a high-sided bed, a flat, well-padded sleeping surface may be more practical; in such cases, the organisation also mentions memory foam as a comfortable option [4].
Before buying, it is therefore worth asking yourself a few simple questions. Does my dog sleep curled up or stretched out? Do they like resting their head on something? Can they easily get into a higher-sided bed? Do they change position frequently? Do they choose soft surfaces, or do they sometimes prefer something more supportive?
Only then should you choose between a classic dog bed, dog cushion bed or orthopaedic dog mattress. The form should be based primarily on your dog’s needs and only then on your own aesthetic preferences.
4. Check what is actually inside the dog bed
In a photograph, what we mainly see is the outer material and the shape. Yet a large part of a dog bed’s comfort depends on what we cannot see.
Before buying, carefully check the description of the filling. Words such as ‘soft’ or ‘comfortable’ tell you very little. Far more useful is information about whether the inside contains synthetic down, foam, memory foam, a multi-layer construction or another material, as well as whether the filling can be removed or adjusted.
Within the Bowl&Bone Republic dog bed collection, classic models use fillings designed to provide a soft resting surface, while orthopaedic dog beds use solutions based on foam mattresses. The current collection includes both standard and orthopaedic bed options [3].
It is also worth being cautious about the word ‘orthopaedic’ itself. It should not be the only reason for choosing a particular bed. Check how the mattress is actually constructed, how many layers it contains and which materials are used.
Bowl&Bone Republic orthopaedic models use a two-layer construction comprising a supportive base and a layer of memory foam that adapts under the influence of the dog’s body weight and temperature [5].
If your dog has diagnosed joint, spinal or mobility problems, it is also worth discussing the choice of bed with a veterinary surgeon. A dog bed can improve resting comfort, but it is not a treatment for a medical condition.
5. Check the material and do not rely on the photograph alone
A product photograph can show the colour very well, but it is much less effective at conveying texture, softness or durability. When shopping online, the fabric description is therefore just as important as the photograph.
First of all, check what the cover is made from and whether the manufacturer provides information about the materials used. With products that your dog uses every day, it is also worth looking for material certifications where the manufacturer states that these apply. Selected Bowl&Bone Republic dog beds use fabrics certified to OEKO-TEX Standard 100, and this information is provided on the relevant product pages [6].
Think about your dog’s everyday habits too. A short-haired dog may have different preferences when it comes to sleeping surfaces from a dog with a very thick coat. It also matters whether your dog often comes back from walks with wet paws, sheds heavily or likes to dig and ‘arrange’ their sleeping area before settling down.
And there is one more thing: the colour on a screen will not always look exactly the same in real life. Monitor or phone settings, the lighting used when taking the photograph and the product’s surroundings can all slightly affect how a colour appears. If matching a particular shade to your interior is especially important to you, it is worth checking whether the manufacturer provides additional photographs or more information about the fabric.
6. Check whether the cover can be removed and how it should be washed
A dog bed is one of those products that can look perfect on the day you buy it, but its true practicality only becomes apparent after a few weeks of use.
Hair, dust, grains of sand, saliva and moisture brought in on paws all mean that a dog’s bed needs regular cleaning. The PDSA points out that cleaning a dog’s bedding regularly helps reduce the accumulation of hair and keeps the resting area clean [7]. Before buying, therefore, check:
- whether the cover is removable,
- which elements can be washed,
- whether they can be machine washed,
- which washing temperature the manufacturer recommends,
- whether the filling sits inside a separate cover,
- whether the entire bed is easy to put back together after washing.
All current Bowl&Bone Republic dog beds have removable covers, and care instructions are provided with the products [3]. On specific models, removable covers are used both on the sides and on the central section of the bed.
This is one of the features worth paying particular attention to when shopping online. A beautiful dog bed that turns out to be very complicated to clean may, after a few months, be far less practical than a model designed with regular everyday use in mind.
7. Check whether the description tells you more than ‘premium’ and ‘comfortable’
When buying a dog bed online, you cannot touch the material, inspect the stitching or see inside the product. The level of detail in the description therefore matters.
A good description should answer specific questions: where was the product made, what is the cover made from, what filling does it contain, can it be taken apart for washing, what are its exact dimensions and are additional options available? If the manufacturer uses terms such as ‘orthopaedic’, ‘memory foam’ or ‘certified fabric’, it is worth looking for a more detailed explanation.
Pay attention to the photographs too. Do you see only one perfectly styled image, or is the product also shown from different angles? Can you see the inside of the bed, the zip, cushion and overall proportions? A photograph of a dog using the bed can help you judge its scale, but remember that the size chart should still be your most important point of reference.
At Bowl&Bone Republic, dog beds are designed and made in European Union, and product pages include information about construction, materials, dimensions and care. Many models can also be made to individual measurements.
Price should not be considered separately from this information either. Two dog beds that look similar may differ in their construction, quality of fabric, removable covers, method of manufacture or type of filling. Only when you compare similar specifications does the price itself become genuinely meaningful.
8. Check the returns policy before buying — especially for a made-to-measure dog bed
When shopping online, it is easy to assume: ‘if something is wrong, I will simply send it back’. In most standard online purchases made by consumers, there is indeed a right to withdraw from a distance contract. For online purchases within the European Union, consumers generally have 14 days to withdraw from the contract without giving a reason [8]. This does not, however, mean that the same rules apply to every product.
The law provides an exception, among others, for non-prefabricated goods made to the consumer’s specifications or intended to meet their individual needs. This can be relevant when you order a product that is being made specifically to the measurements you have provided [8]. That is why before ordering a made-to-measure dog bed, you should check the shop’s terms and conditions and the rules applying to that particular order especially carefully. Do not wait until the product has already arrived.
It is also worth checking the cost and process of returning a standard product, the order fulfilment time and how to contact the seller. The fact that you are buying online should not mean buying ‘blind’.
Is a more expensive dog bed always better?
No. Price alone does not guarantee that a product will be right for a particular dog. However, comparing dog beds solely on price would be equally misleading.
If one bed has a removable cover, clearly described filling, the ability to adjust or replace certain elements, certified fabric and is made locally in a small production run, while another simply offers a similar appearance, you are no longer comparing two identical products. When buying, it is therefore worth asking a different question: what exactly am I getting for this price, and are these features my dog actually needs?
Sometimes a simpler dog bed will be the ideal choice. In other cases, it may be worth paying more for a solution that is easier to clean, fits your dog better or can be used for longer.
What if none of the standard sizes fits?
Not every dog fits perfectly into a size chart. Sometimes the smaller bed is already too tight, while the next size up takes up considerably more room than you need. The problem may also be caused by an unusual space in your home — for example, an alcove, an area underneath the stairs or a specific gap between pieces of furniture.
In such cases, a made-to-measure dog bed can be a good solution. Bowl&Bone Republic can make many models to individual dimensions, allowing the size of the bed to be adapted both to your dog and to the place where it will be positioned [9].
Before placing such an order, however, it is worth measuring everything twice. Accuracy matters most when a product is being prepared according to individual specifications.
Choosing the best dog bed online takes more than simply looking at it
The photograph matters. After all, a dog bed often sits in the living room, bedroom or home office and becomes a permanent part of the interior. There is nothing wrong with caring about its colour, texture and style too.
The problem only begins when appearance becomes the sole selection criterion. Before clicking ‘buy’, go back to our eight points. Check your dog’s size and the way they sleep. Compare the external dimensions with the actual sleeping area. Think about the construction. Read what is inside. Check the material, washability, quality of the product description and returns policy.
Those few minutes can determine whether, after opening the parcel, you simply think ‘that looks nice’, or whether several weeks later you are still saying: ‘that really was a good choice’.
For more inspiration on comfortable rest for your dog, visit Bowl&Bone Republic. In our dog bed collection, you will find classic beds, orthopaedic models and different types of resting spaces designed and made in European Union. You can also read our guide to choosing the right dog bed size and our article about made-to-measure dog beds.
– the Bowl&Bone Republic team
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the article –
Buying a dog bed online? 8 things worth checking before you buy
How do you choose the right dog bed size when buying online?
It is best to measure your dog and take into account the position they most often sleep in. You should not base your decision solely on weight, breed or labels such as S, M or L, because sizing can vary between manufacturers. Always check the actual dimensions given in centimetres [2].
Should a dog bed be bigger than the dog?
It should give your dog enough space to comfortably adopt their natural resting positions. Dogs who like to sleep stretched out need particularly generous sleeping space. However, it is worth avoiding automatically choosing the largest model available and instead matching the size to the individual dog.
How should you measure a dog before buying a bed?
The most practical approach is to measure your dog while they are resting or standing naturally and compare this measurement with the dimensions of the sleeping area. It is also worth observing whether your dog sleeps stretched out or more often curls up.
What should you look for when buying a dog bed online?
The most important things to check are the dimensions, actual sleeping area, construction, type of filling, material, whether the cover can be removed and washed, the level of detail provided by the manufacturer and the returns policy.
Is a removable dog bed cover important?
It is a very practical feature because it makes it easier to keep your dog’s resting area clean on a regular basis. Before buying, it is also worth checking the washing instructions and which parts of the cover can be removed.
What is the best filling for a dog bed?
There is no single filling that is best for every dog. The right choice depends on the dog’s age, size, preferences and individual needs. For a dog with mobility difficulties, a well-padded, flat sleeping surface or a solution incorporating memory foam may also be worth considering [4].
Is it worth buying an orthopaedic dog bed for a healthy dog?
A good-quality supportive surface can also be comfortable for a healthy dog, but the word ‘orthopaedic’ alone should not determine your choice. It is worth checking the actual mattress construction and the materials used. If your dog has health problems, the choice of bed is best discussed with a veterinary surgeon.
Are high-sided dog beds suitable for every dog?
No. Some dogs enjoy cosy, enveloping beds and being able to rest their head against the sides, while others prefer a large, flat surface. A high entrance may also be less comfortable for a dog with mobility problems.
Can you return a dog bed bought online?
For standard online purchases, consumers generally have 14 days to withdraw from the contract [8]. There are, however, statutory exceptions, including products made according to the consumer’s individual specifications, so the terms applying to a made-to-measure dog bed should always be checked before ordering.
Can you return a made-to-measure dog bed?
A product made to individual specifications may fall under an exception to the standard right of withdrawal [8]. Before placing an order, you should read the individual retailer’s terms and conditions and the sales conditions applying to made-to-order products.
Can the colour of a dog bed look different in real life from the photograph?
Yes. The way colours appear depends, among other things, on the screen, its settings and the lighting in which the photograph was taken. If a particular shade is especially important to you, it is worth looking at several photographs and carefully reading the fabric description.
Is it worth buying a dog bed based only on reviews from other customers?
Reviews can be helpful, but they do not replace checking the dimensions, materials and construction. A dog bed that is perfect for one dog may not suit another, so reviews are best treated as additional information rather than the main selection criterion.
This article is intended as general guidance. If your dog has a musculoskeletal condition, chronic pain, mobility problems or is recovering from illness or surgery, it is worth consulting a veterinary surgeon when choosing an appropriate resting place.
Sources and inspiration used to write the article
Buying a dog bed online? 8 things worth checking before you buy
- People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) – materials concerning canine sleep and creating a calm, comfortable resting place.
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/dogs-and-sleep-our-top-tips-for-your-furry-friend - Bowl&Bone Republic – ‘How to choose the right size dog bed? Complete guide’ – guidance on measuring your dog, sleeping positions and choosing the right bed size.
https://www.bowlandbone.com/how-to-choose-the-right-size-dog-bed-complete-guide/ - Bowl&Bone Republic – ‘Dog beds’ – information about construction, removable covers and the current types of dog beds available.
https://www.bowlandbone.com/dog-bed/ - People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) – materials concerning the choice of bedding for dogs with mobility difficulties, including flat sleeping surfaces and memory foam.
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/degenerative-myelopathy-dm-in-dogs - Bowl&Bone Republic – materials concerning the construction of orthopaedic dog beds and mattresses, including the use of a supportive base and memory foam layer.
https://www.bowlandbone.com/which-dog-bed-should-you-choose-for-a-puppy-so-it-will-still-suit-them-once-they-are-fully-grown/ - Bowl&Bone Republic – product information concerning fabrics certified to OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
https://www.bowlandbone.com/dog-bed-classic-pink/ - People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) – guidance on regularly cleaning a dog’s bedding.
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/removing-pet-hair-from-around-the-home - Polish Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) – the right to withdraw from an online contract and exceptions concerning products made according to the consumer’s specifications.
https://prawakonsumenta.uokik.gov.pl/prawo-odstapienia-od-umowy/terminy-odstapienie/
https://prawakonsumenta.uokik.gov.pl/prawo-odstapienia-od-umowy/wylaczenia-prawa-do-odstapienia/ - Bowl&Bone Republic – ‘Made-to-measure dog bed — is it worth it? Pros, cons and practical tips’ – information concerning individually tailored dog bed dimensions.
https://www.bowlandbone.com/made-to-measure-dog-bed-is-it-worth-it-pros-cons-and-practical-tips/ - Bowl&Bone Republic – the team’s experience in designing and making dog beds and other resting spaces for dogs in European Union.
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