Best Dog Beds for Puppies

It’s undeniable that all puppies have the cuteness factor. They’re snuggly, soft, and lovable. But, like our gorgeous human babies, they can be unpredictable, especially at bedtime. So, if you’re in the market for the best dog beds for puppies, you have a few decisions to make based on breed, habits, and whether you’ve decided to use a crate or not.

No worries, though, as we’ve got you covered here with our picks for the all-around best dog beds for puppies. We also include some shopping tips to save you some money and frustration.

1. Casper – Best for Pawing Pups

You might be familiar with Casper from its line of people beds, but the brand produces some of the best dog beds for puppies (and dogs up to 90 pounds). There’s only one model, and it features bolsters surrounding a supportive sleeping area. The excess material in the middle takes this bed to the next level, encouraging pups to paw and dig without any damage.

Bottom Line – Casper is a pricier choice for fur babies. However, depending on your breed, you could go up a size and have the perfect dog bed for years to come. The Casper dog bed features a double-layer mattress for support, bolsters on all sides for comfort and security, and that one-of-a-kind pawing area in the middle.

2. Nest Bedding Bolstered Pet Bed – The Snuggly Choice

Take a glance at the Nest Bedding Bolstered dog bed, and you’ll wish it came in larger sizes so you could snuggle up in it. It’s one of the comfier choices, providing puppies with a place of their own that feels safe and secure.

We like that that Nest Bedding steers clear of dyes or harmful chemicals because pups can be unpredictable, and you never know if they’ll try to take a bite. The one downside to the Nest dog bed is the lack of covers. Instead of removing fabric, you pop the entire thing in the washer.

Bottom Line – You can’t get much cozier than the Nest Bedding bolstered pet bed. It’s like a cloud for your baby doggo. It’s not as expensive as Casper, but Nest is still an investment. So, this particular option is best for smaller breeds that will get good use out of it for at least a few years.

3. FurHaven Self-Warming Convertible Cuddle Pet Bed and Mat – Most Versatile and Affordable

FurHaven covers the gamut with dog beds for puppies at different price ranges and various features. However, we’re highlighting the FurHaven self-warming convertible model as it ticks off quite a few boxes for the best beds for young dogs.

Instead of a dog bed for puppies with a mattress and removable cover, this is a simple mat with soft faux fur on one side and suedine on the other. But what takes it to the next level is the addition of buttons and loops so you can configure the best layout for your baby doggo. For example, button up all four sides, and you’ve got a little nest bed.

Bottom Line – Not only is this FurHaven cuddle mat one of the most affordable options for dog beds for new puppies and small to medium dogs, but it has unique features that you might appreciate. The faux fur creates a self-warming mat, while the suedine provides cooling properties. You can easily use this in your puppy’s crate or take it on the road.

4. Kong Cuddler – Durable and Oversized

Don’t be fooled by the name, as the Kong Cuddler isn’t a donut-style bed. Instead, it’s more like a sofa-style with three sides of bolsters and a super soft middle. We like this particular brand as it uses heavier-weight fabric and has a slip-resistant bottom.

The Cuddler isn’t chew-proof, but the cover will deter most new puppies and small dogs, except those strong-minded fur babies. So, if you’ve got a teething puppy, this might not be the best choice.

Bottom Line – The Kong Cuddler doesn’t have a unique feature that stands out from the rest. However, it’s a well-made soft and cozy bed for puppies that’s in the low to mid-price range. Plus, its generous size should accommodate your young dog for quite a while.

What are the most important features of dog beds for puppies?

While you’ve got optional features to consider depending on your pup, we want to highlight safety first. Puppies are unpredictable, so stick with a brand that doesn’t use harmful chemicals or dyes. Self-warming beds or mats are ideal for new puppies or short-haired youngsters. Just be sure to opt for self-warming instead of electric models, which we usually don’t recommend, even for older doggos. We also suggest waterproof features and machine washable covers.

Does a dog bed for new puppies have to be soft?

Puppies don’t fit into one mold, so soft isn’t necessarily a prerequisite. You’ll find that some are just fine with the floor and prefer it to a soft squishy surface. Others want to feel protected and would rather have a soft donut-style bed or small cozy area to curl up in at bedtime. Keep an eye on your new puppy for clues. If they curl up on the floor, then a mat might be all you need. But if they’d rather be on the sofa or a comfy chair, then go for the squish factor. The same advice applies to whether or not you use a crate mat.

Do you have dog bed recommendations for teething puppies?

When you’ve got a teething puppy, their new (and maybe expensive) bed could quickly turn into a chew toy. You’ve got a few options, though. Elevated beds might not be the most comfortable for some puppies, but they are chew proof. Another option is to try a flatter mat rather than a foam-filled mattress. Consider the brand as well, though. For example, Casper designed its only dog bed model to be long-lasting. It features material in the middle for pawing (and maybe, biting?), but the sides should hold up to a bit of gnawing here and there.

What is a calming dog bed for young dogs?

The term calming describes a dog bed for puppies or older dogs that provides some comfort and security. Some calming dog beds have warming properties, like the FurHaven cuddle mat we featured. Other beds with the same label are donut-style or might have a blanket or makeshift fabric-style roof attached. Nest Bedding is an excellent brand for calming-style options, as is Casper with the fabric designed for pawing and scratching.

Tips for Buying the Best Bed for Puppies

Accidents happen – The cute factor might be important to you when shopping for a dog bed for your new little one. But style needs to cross with function when you’ve got pups in training. At the very least, look for machine washable covers. But, you could take it a step further with a brand like Brentwood that features removable covers and waterproof liners.

Sometimes smaller is better – After dogs pass the puppy stage, we advise doggie parents to go bigger with beds when they’re in doubt. That’s not always wise advice for new puppies, though. Newborns like to feel safe and secure. If they’re not sleeping with their furry brothers and sisters, donut beds and other styles with bolsters can be the best choices. Most new puppies will snuggle up and want to feel protected on all sides. So, in that case, a mattress-style or oversized dog bed isn’t going to cut it.

Go green – Non-toxic isn’t an option for the best beds for young dogs. You never know what they’re going to do, especially in the middle of the night when no one is watching. We recommend selecting a brand that prioritizes safety with no harmful dyes or chemicals, extending to the filling or mattress as well as the cover.

You might need to experiment – Expect to be surprised as a new parent, as not all fur babies are alike. Some new puppies want to be all warm and snuggly, so they’ll appreciate a thick mattress or donut-style bed. But others don’t mind the nice cool floor. So, you could spend quite a bit on a beautiful new dog bed only to have your little one snub it. Pay attention to their behavior patterns before you buy them a bed and, when you’re in doubt, choose a retailer with a generous return policy.