Best Dog Beds for Medium Dogs

Do you have a dachshund? A basset hound? How about a cocker spaniel, border collie, or one of a long list of terriers?

If so, then your pup is considered to be a medium-sized dog. And, it can be a bit tricky to narrow down the best sleeping options, as medium covers a broad range of breeds, each with different needs.

We’ve done our homework, though, researching and sleep testing dozens of options. It wasn’t easy, but we’ve narrowed our list to the top four best dog beds for medium dogs. And, we’ve got some other shopping tips for you, too!

1. Big Barker Headrest Orthopedic Pillow Bed – The Most Supportive

Big Barker’s headrest orthopedic pillow bed is like a mini-me version of yours. It’s a 7” mattress-style model with a built-in pillow on one end. The generous size provides plenty of room for your not so little fur baby to stretch out and get comfortable.

While you’re paying more for the mattress itself, we like the microfiber cover. It’s one of the few that’s both machine washable and dryable. So, you’re not spending an entire day waiting for your pup’s bed to drip dry.

Bottom Line – Big Barker beds are relatively expensive. Nevertheless, this one is designed specifically for dogs recovering from surgery or suffering from hip dysplasia, arthritis, or neck pain. It is possible to find similar lower-priced models that aren’t as supportive. However, a quality bed can do wonders for dogs with health problems or for keeping them at bay.

2. Kirkland Mattress-Style Round – A Universal Choice

The Kirkland 42” round dog bed for medium dogs is a Costco product and is one of the best all-around choices. The shape provides even the largest mid-sized breeds with plenty of room to stretch out and roll around.

We’ve reviewed quite a few mattress-style dog beds and find that the ones that cost less tend to sag in the middle the filling shifts to one side. However, Kirkland uses two inner chambers for the filling to keep everything evenly distributed. You might pay slightly more, but it’s worth it in the long run.

Bottom Line – It’s not too big, not too small, and priced just about right. The Kirkland mattress-style round will work for most mid-sized dogs. But, if your pup has arthritis or needs some neck or joint support, we suggest opting for an orthopedic mattress. Kirkland also has a pillow top orthopedic (36” x 40”) that’ll run you about $30 more.

3. Carhartt – Durable Indoor-Outdoor Model

In 1889, Carhartt introduced its recognizable heavy cotton duck jacket, ideal for work or play. This fabric was later repackaged as a dog bed decorated with the same trademark, perfect for outdoor-loving medium dogs.

The Carhartt dog bed is nothing fancy or extraordinary with its simple pillow-like design and neutral color options. What it is, though, is portable and durable. Water-repellent fabric protects the one-piece mattress, and the seams are double-stitched. Whether you use it inside, outside, in the back seat of a car, or a tent, it will hold up to wear and tear.

Bottom Line – The Carhartt’s bed is a simple yet functional dog bed for medium dogs. Although it’s more expensive, the company stands behind its products with a generous return policy and warranty. This product is a good choice for outdoor pups or outdoor adventurers. However, the fabric is not fur-repellent. A simple cot-style bed for outdoor use, like one by Kuranda, is a viable alternative if you have a heavy shedder in the family. 

4. Brentwood Runyon – Eco-Friendly Luxury

The name might be familiar, as Brentwood Home is known for its eco-friendly mattresses and bedding for us. But the brand also extends to two of the best dog beds for medium dogs. The Griffith is a simple orthopedic mattress-style option. But we want to showcase the Runyon as it’s also an orthopedic-style option but feature-filled.

To start, the Runyon has a double-layered, combination orthopedic and memory foam mattress. Then, the sofa-style design caters to aching necks and joints, with its side bolsters providing plenty of support. The furniture-grade fabric holds up to quite a bit of pup abuse. But a few accidents here and there won’t destroy the bed, as there’s a waterproof liner protecting the mattress, and the cover is machine washable.

Bottom Line – There’s a lot to like about the Brentwood Runyon. Even dogs that don’t need orthopedic support can still benefit from it. Plus, it’s an attractive addition to your home as the small sofa looks like a miniature piece of furniture. While Brentwood is considered a luxury brand, it’s easier on the wallet than the Barker orthopedic option.

What breeds are considered to be medium-sized dogs?

There are quite a few breeds that fall under the medium designation. You’ll find that medium dogs weigh between 30 and 55 pounds and usually top out at 27” tall. Examples of medium dogs include border collies, basset hounds, poodles, whippets, old English sheepdogs, dachshunds, and terriers like the bull, wire fox, black Russian, and Tibetan.

Are there dog beds for medium dogs who sleep outside?

Today’s pet providers consider all shapes and sizes of dogs as well as their habits, and that includes outdoor pups. Whether your fur baby has a doghouse or you want something for your camping trip, a few models are best. We recommend elevated beds that look like mini cots. They keep your dog off the ground and are easy to clean, as you just need a hose. Another option is a simple mattress or pillow-style bed with a proper cover that’ll withstand some rain and mud. Carhartt has a model with a water-repellent coating.

What dog beds are appropriate for medium dogs with arthritis?

Some medium dog breeds are prone to joint problems or arthritis, and the proper bed can go a long way toward alleviating pain and discomfort. If your pup needs some extra support, we recommend styles with orthopedic mattresses and at least one bolster for neck or leg pain relief.

I have a medium-sized dog who sheds. Do I have any low-maintenance dog bed options?

When you’ve got a dog like a border collie, you’re already vacuuming, sweeping, and yielding a lint brush every day. You could take all of that hair and build yourself a new fur baby! So, if you’re considering buying a dog bed for a medium dog who sheds (and sheds), low maintenance is a priority.

One of the best options is a simple, no-frills, elevated bed without a cushion or mattress. Coolaroo has a cot-style model with canvas stretched over an aluminum frame. The canvas doesn’t hold onto fur. But, you can easily run a handheld vacuum over it or take it outside and hose it off any time it needs a refresh.

How do I know what size dog bed to buy for medium dogs?

Because the “medium” designation doesn’t narrow the field down considerably, you’ll want to take a few measurements. It’s helpful to know how long and tall your pup is, so measure from toe to tail and then from the floor to the top of the head. Once you have those dimensions, you can easily match them to any of the best dog beds for medium dogs.

Be sure to consider the size of the actual sleeping area if you’re shopping for a mattress with bolsters or sidewalls. And, when in doubt, go up a size. Most medium dog breeds prefer the room.

Tips for Buying the Best Dog Beds for Medium Dogs

Location, Location – Due to the wide variety of dog beds available for medium-sized pups, you want to narrow your search as much as possible. Will it be used both inside and outside? How important is portability? Carhartt makes water-resistant pillow-style beds your pet will love, whether it’s in the backyard, the car, or a tent.

When in Doubt, Buy Bigger –Before you jump in and buy a bed for your fur baby, take measurements of their height and length. Then you know how big of a sleeping area you need. If you’re on the fence, though, we suggest going up a size as most medium pups like to stretch out or roll around instead of curling into a tiny ball.

Orthopedic Mattresses and Bolsters – Many dog beds for medium dogs have some orthopedic features, like mattresses or bolsters. Even if your pup is young or hasn’t shown signs of discomfort, it never hurts to plan. And, who couldn’t benefit from a more comfortable night’s sleep, right?

Medium Dogs Aren’t Small Dogs – Some pet owners consider their medium dogs as small breed and opt for donut-style or cuddler beds made for the little ones. While it’s possible to find a few of those snuggly options, we recommend upsizing. Remember that much of the sleeping space is devoted to bolsters, sidewalls, or other accents.