Best Dog Beds for Rescue Dogs

Rescue dogs often come from challenging backgrounds and may have experienced a lot of stress or anxiety, and still might. So, it’s essential to provide them with a comfortable place to rest and relax while also designating a consistent spot on which they can rely. That’s why the best dog beds for rescue dogs are invaluable.

There are many different types of dog beds available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your new fur baby and situation. If your new pup suffers from anxiety, then you should consider a bed specifically designed to promote calm. There are also beds made from softer materials that can provide extra comfort levels and cuddlers that will feel like a warm hug. 

If you’re wondering what dog beds for rescue dogs are and which to buy for your situation, we’ve got some suggestions for the best.

1. L.L.Bean – Plush Cuddler 

It’s the closest thing to nuzzling up against other pups, as L.L.Bean’s Plush Cuddler is a big ball of fur. When your new, beautiful rescue dog climbs into the middle, the outer walls rise to cocoon them in super soft material.

The cover is machine washable in case there are any oopsies. But the downside is there’s no inner liner. So, you might want to buy something to protect the cushion, at least while your new fur baby is getting used to a new home.

Bottom Line – We mentioned that some dog beds for rescue dogs feel like a warm hug. The L.L.Bean Plush Cuddler is one of them. It’s one of the best for small, medium, and even some larger breeds. They’ll have a super comfy place to call their own.

2. Casper Dog Bed

If you have a Casper mattress on your bed, you know how supportive it is, with alternating supportive and cooling layers. Casper’s dog bed doesn’t have quite as many, but the mattress is still dual-layered, featuring Visco elastic memory foam and polyurethane support foam. 

But it’s not just the supportive mattress and support bolsters encircling the bed that makes this particular option a good one for rescues. A special feature is a unique cover that provides a little digging area in the middle. If your new pup is experiencing anxiety trying to get used to a new home and family, it’s helpful to have a place to release it. 

Bottom Line – It’s a bit of an investment, but the Casper dog bed works for rescue dogs on day one or day 1,001. This particular pick is a solid bed that should last several years, whether your fur baby digs, paws, or gnaws at the sides. And, even if your new family member doesn’t need orthopedic support, it’s always helpful to have a quality mattress, especially for larger breeds.

3. Nest Bolstered Dog Bed

The Nest Bolstered Dog Bed for rescue dogs is similar to L.L.Bean’s Plush Cuddler. Nest’s has a near-identical structure but is made of cotton canvas instead of the soft fur from L.L.Bean. For pups needing comforting (although who doesn’t need it?!), this bed will conform to their body when they lay down in the middle.

Nest is an eco-friendly producer. So, you don’t have to worry about toxic materials should your new furry friend decide to try to gnaw on the sites. Plus, the surrounding bolsters do more than provide a little hiding place, as they’re ideal for pressure point support.

Bottom Line – You can get a second opinion from an actual “Nestologist,” but we think most rescue dogs would absolutely adore this Nest bolstered dog bed. The downside is that it won’t accommodate jumbo breeds. Additionally, cleanup is a bit odd, as you need to pop the whole bed in a washing machine. It doesn’t come with a removable cover. 

4. Snoozer Cozy Cave Covered Dog Bed

You could consider this Snoozer Poly Cotton Rectangle Cozy Cave Covered Dog Bed with Removable Cover (whew, that’s a mouthful!) to be in the category of calming dog beds for rescue dogs.

It’s lined with super soft Sherpa that feels amazing on your pup’s skin. Plus, it’s got a removable cover made with the same material. Fur babies can burrow under the blanket or poke their heads out of the open area. Or, if they’re not a fan of a roof over their heads, take the cover off, and you’ve still got a soft bed with a sturdy bottom cushion.

Bottom Line – It’s nice to have the options that this Snoozer Cozy Cave dog bed provides, especially if you don’t know what to expect with your new arrival. No matter how you use it, you get a quality sleeping spot. And, as a bonus for you, the mattress is stuffed with poly cedar that minimizes pet odors. 

What are some of the best types of dog beds for rescue dogs?

When you’re bringing home a rescue dog, it’s helpful to have a designated sleeping spot that will make them feel safe, supported, and comforted. Some of the best models that’ll accomplish that feeling of security include donut-style or bolstered dog beds. They give pups a place to curl up and hide away while getting used to their new homes.

Do calming beds for rescue dogs come in all sizes?

Yes. You can find at least a few brands of calming beds, even for the largest rescue dogs. However, most super snuggly models are made for small to medium breeds. So, we suggest looking at brands like L.L.Bean and FurHaven, as their catalogs include large, extra-large, and even jumbo options.

Are there special features I should look for in a dog bed for a rescue dog?

Every dog is different, of course. But three consistent features are handy, regardless of breed. The best dog beds for rescue dogs should be easy to clean, include sidewalls or bolsters for support, and be made from a super soft material. If you find a bed that ticks off the first two boxes, we suggest adding a soft blanket on top.

What’s the best type of dog bed for rescue dogs who scratch or bite?

When you’re shopping for your new furry friend who has a habit of scratching, digging, or biting, we suggest spending a little more than you might have planned to get a dog bed with heavier material. Casper and Serta have solid structures that are scratch-deterrent, and Casper even has a pawing area built into its dog bed. If you’ve adopted a more giant breed that chews through most anything in its path, then an elevated dog bed, like those by Kuranda, features canvas stretched over an aluminum or PVC frame – not much to chew there!

Tips for Buying the Best Dog Beds for Rescue Dogs

The Breed Comes First – Regardless of the special features that can be comforting to rescue dogs, your dog bed choice needs to accommodate their size. It’s easy to find any kind of bed for small and medium pups. But if you’re bringing home a German shepherd or relatively large retriever, measure your fur baby from nose to tail, so they’re sure to fit in their new bed. Keep in mind that larger dogs don’t curl up as much as little ones, too.

Prepare for Anything – Even a well-trained dog might have the occasional accident, especially in the first few days of moving into your home. So, a dog bed with a waterproof cover and inner liner is a wise choice. Or, do a little prep work with a temporary liner and washable cover.  

Soft and Comforting –  When we typically say “material matters,” we’re referring to thicker covers that won’t wear and tear as easily. But with the best dog beds for rescue dogs, you’re targeting a soft material, like Sherpa or fake fur.

Accessorize – If you buy a bed that’s not as soft as you’d like, you can also throw a blanket on top. And, if you have a simple mattress-style dog bed for your rescue dog who needs pressure point relief, buy some bolsters or roll up a blanket for joint support.