What Size Dog Bed Does My Dog Need? Measuring Guide by Breed
Share
Most dog beds are returned for one reason: they're the wrong size. The label says "Large", the dog is a Labrador, and yet he's hanging off the edge. This guide shows you how to measure your dog in under a minute, what the sizes on our beds mean, and which style suits the way your dog actually sleeps.
How to measure your dog for a bed
You need two numbers.
- Length: with your dog lying on their side in their normal sleeping position, measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (not the tip). Add 15–20cm.
- Weight: check it against the bed's stated weight limit, especially for raised beds and orthopaedic foam.
That first number is the internal sleeping length you need. Watch out for beds that only list outer dimensions: a 90cm donut bed with a thick bolster can have a sleeping area of just 60cm. Every bed on this site lists both.
If your dog curls up tightly, you can use the lower end of the range. If they sprawl on their back with legs in the air, go up a size.
Dog bed sizes explained
Sizes vary between brands, but this is a reliable starting point for the beds we stock.
| Bed size | Internal length | Dog weight | Typical breeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 50–60cm | Up to 10kg | Chihuahua, Dachshund, Yorkshire Terrier, Pug |
| Medium | 65–75cm | 10–20kg | Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, French Bulldog, Border Terrier |
| Large | 80–95cm | 20–35kg | Labrador, Golden Retriever, Staffie, Springer Spaniel |
| Extra Large | 100–115cm | 35–50kg | German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Boxer, Husky |
| XXL | 120cm+ | 50kg+ | Great Dane, Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dog |
Breed is only a guide. A big Cocker and a small Labrador can need the same bed, which is why we always say measure first.
Which style of dog bed?
Calming donut beds
Round, with a raised faux-fur rim the dog can tuck into. Best for dogs that curl up, small breeds, and anxious dogs. Because of the rim, size up if in doubt. Shop calming dog beds.
Orthopaedic and memory-foam beds
Flat mattresses, usually 8–12cm of foam, with a low front edge. Best for senior dogs, large breeds and any dog with hip or joint stiffness. Measure for full stretched-out length. Shop orthopaedic dog beds.
Raised and cooling beds
A mesh or fabric platform on a frame, which keeps air moving underneath. Best for summer, hot rooms, hard floors and dogs that run warm. Check the weight limit. Shop raised dog beds.
Sofa-style and bolster beds
A rectangular cushion with a padded rim on three sides. The all-rounder for dogs that like to rest their head on something. Most have removable, machine-washable covers.
Waterproof and crate beds
Wipe-clean or chew-resistant, sized to fit standard crates. Best for puppies, muddy dogs and the car. Shop waterproof dog beds.
Three mistakes to avoid
- Buying by breed name alone. Measure. It takes a minute and saves a return.
- Ignoring the rim. On donut and bolster beds, the sleeping area is much smaller than the overall size.
- Choosing a high-sided bed for an older dog. If they struggle to step over the edge, they'll sleep on the floor next to it. Choose a low-front orthopaedic bed and add steps or a ramp if they sleep on your bed.
Dog bed size FAQs
Should a dog bed be bigger than the dog?
Yes. Add 15–20cm to your dog's nose-to-tail-base length so they can stretch, and go up a size if they sleep sprawled out.
What size bed for a Labrador?
Most Labradors need a Large bed with an internal length of 80–95cm. Measure to be sure; some need Extra Large.
What size bed for a Cockapoo?
Usually Medium (65–75cm internal). Smaller toy Cockapoos may fit a Small.
Can two dogs share a bed?
Only if the bed is at least the combined measured length of both dogs. An XXL mattress works for two medium dogs that like to sleep together.
Ready to choose? Browse all dog beds, every one listed with its internal sleeping dimensions and weight limit, with free tracked UK delivery and 30-day returns.