Best Dog Beds for Outside

When it comes to dog beds outside, do you have visions of a big soggy fiber-filled cloth mess? Or a mud-covered pup pillow that will never come clean? Well, those things could happen if you drag your indoor dog bed into the great outdoors. 

But your fur baby can still be comfy and cozy under the sun or moon, and you don’t need to spend hours cleaning. That’s because we have a shortlist of some of the best dog beds for outside. Whether you’re going camping or just need a backyard retreat for your precious pup, you’ve got plenty of options in all price ranges.

So, let’s start with some of the best dog beds for outdoor use, including two padded models and a pair of elevated options – one even has a sunshade!

1. Carhartt Dog Bed 

It’s like stuffing a pillow inside the famed rugged duck cotton jacket, as the Carhartt dog bed is covered in the same heavyweight cotton fabric. Then, that cloth receives a water-repellent treatment, so a bit of rain or mud won’t turn your pup’s sleeping area into a soggy mess.

The Carhartt dog bed comes in three sizes, two colors and patterns, and your choice of plain cotton or Sherpa top. But the renowned company famous for heavy-duty outdoor products sticks to one pet bed model – a simple 4” mat.

Bottom Line – We like the Carhartt dog bed for outdoor use because of its water-repellent coating. So, take it camping, place it on your patio or in a dog house, and it’s durable and easy to transport. For indoor use, it attracts fur a bit too much for our taste, but cleanup is still super easy with a hand vac and washing machine.

2. FurHaven Deluxe Mattress Indoor-Outdoor Garden Dog Bed

FurHaven is a brand that covers the gamut with dog beds for all breeds, uses, and price points. This particular Indoor-Outdoor Garden Dog Bed is cost-effective yet gives you some options. 

You can choose from orthopedic foam, memory foam, cooling gel foam, or a fiber-filled pillow for the mattress. Regardless of your preference, it’s covered by a removable, durable, water-resistant poly-canvas cover. So, it’s not as soft as Carhartt, but it’ll wick that moisture away and clean up with a damp cloth. 

Bottom Line – The FurHaven Indoor-Outdoor model is a super affordable choice and has all the basics in a simple dog bed for outside. Unfortunately, it’s only available for small and medium breeds up to 35 pounds or so. 

3. Coolaroo Dog Bed

Like FurHaven’s, the Coolaroo dog bed for the outside is an affordable option. But that’s where the similarities end. 

Coolaroo is one of two elevated pet beds we include in this list. And, as you can imagine, a raised bed is handy for outdoor use. It looks like a mini military cot, constructed with canvas stretched over a powder-coated steel frame.

Your fur baby can cover it with mud or drool all over it, and a hose will make it as good as new. 

Bottom Line – It doesn’t get much better than an elevated dog bed for outside use. Coolaroo uses a canvas with tiny holes for airflow, and the steel frame keeps even extra-large dogs off the ground. Plus, this type of pet bed is ideal for aging pups with arthritis or other aches and pains. It’s easier for them to get on and off their bed. So, consider this Coolaroo model for indoor use as well.

4. Disc-O-Bed Elevated Covered Pet Bed for Outside

The Disc-O-Bed Elevated Covered Dog Bed picks up where Coolaroo leaves off, with a removable cover. It’ll keep the sun off your fur baby, so it’s much more comfortable whether they’re sleeping or just hanging out in the backyard.

This particular model is a one-size-fits-all but should work for all but jumbo breeds as it’s nearly 50” long. 

You’ll find that Disc-O-Bed costs about three to four times more than Coolaroo. However, you get the removable cover, slightly easier assembly, and it accommodates up to 200 pounds.

Bottom Line – You might find the higher price of the Disc-O-Bed Elevated Dog Bed is worth it if your pup spends a lot of time outdoors or your family is fond of camping trips. The cover, the elevation, and the cleanup make this model an all-around winner.

Why do pet parents look for unique dog beds for outside?

Devoted pet parents tend to take their fur babies everywhere they go, and that includes camping or simply hanging out in the backyard. Rather than have pups roll around in grass and mud or try to get comfortable on a hard surface, dog beds made for the great outdoors are helpful. Instead of tearing up a plush indoor bed, it’s best to have a dog bed specifically for outdoor use.

Are there dog beds appropriate for both inside and outside?

All dog beds for outside can do double-duty as indoor beds. Some pet parents even prefer to use outdoor dog beds in the house, as they tend to be easier to clean. As a tip, though, if you opt for a covered model, we suggest making sure the canopy is removable

What are the best types of outdoor pet beds?

Two types of dog beds work best outside – elevated and waterproof. Elevated dog beds are small cots. They don’t have cushioning unless you add it as an accessory. Instead, they’re made with rugged canvas stretched over a metal or plastic frame. The structure keeps its user off the ground, and it’s much more comfortable for larger breeds with joint or muscle pain. Cot-style models are also relatively affordable.

Waterproof beds come in all price ranges. But most of them are simple mattress-style pet beds. You’ll find some that are lower profile and roll up to fit in a bag or suitcase. There are also more substantial mattresses, even orthopedic and cooling models, wrapped in a heavy waterproof cover. Regardless of which way you go, they should withstand the elements.

Can I add accessories to an existing dog bed for outside use?

The pet industry has gone wild with all kinds of dog bed accessories, including quite a few that make it much more comfortable for your pup to spend time outside. Some of the best that we’ve reviewed include tents and canopies ideal for elevated beds. You’ll also find heating and cooling mats that can top any existing mattress or structure. A waterproof cover is a must, and if you’re doing some camping or it’s cool outside, add a pet blanket. You can buy one for less than 210.

Tips for Buying the Best Dog Beds for Outside

Easy Clean-Up – An easy-to-clean model is always a good thing. But for outdoor dog beds, it’s a must. Elevated beds can be wiped with a wet cloth or hosed off when things really get icky and sticky. Waterproof covers or beds are also wise choices as they also come clean with a damp rag, or you can pop them into the washing machine and hang dry.

Camping or the Backyard? – Before you buy, think about how heavy-duty of an outdoor dog bed you need. An elevated cot is an excellent choice if you’re going camping. However, if you’re looking for something for your covered patio, an inexpensive waterproof mat might do the trick.

When Portability Matters –  Again, how and where you’ll be using your outdoor dog bed will determine the best options. We suggest a roll-up model or an elevated bed that comes apart easily and without tools if you’re taking things on the road. Think about what will fit in a bag that you can throw over your shoulders.

Add Shade, Warming, or Cooling – Accessories can be just as helpful as the mattress itself when it comes to the best dog beds for outside. Canopies or dog tents can keep your fur baby from burning up under the hot sun. You can also find a variety of warming or cooling pads for mattress liners or toppers.