8 Best Calming Dog Beds For Anxiety (Updated for 2023)

One fun fact about dogs is that they are warm and snuggly, a factor that makes them viable for cuddle sessions at night with humans. As much as we all love to get warm cuddles, it is important that we let our dogs sleep in their bed for your long-term comfort and theirs as well.

People who have little or no knowledge about making them comfortable during sleep might think that buying calming dog beds is a waste of money. The truth is that they need to sleep in nice cozy beds to promote their health status as humans do.

In this article, we’ll learn more about calming dog beds and their benefits. We will also discuss what you should consider when choosing the right dog bed. 

Best Calming Dog Beds For 2023: Our Top 3 Picks

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Is A Calming Dog Bed?

Calming dog beds are typically dog beds specifically created to provide extra warmth and comfort to dogs whenever needed.

The material used to craft these beds and their shapes is customized to match the dog’s body, providing a soothing space that immediately calms their nerves. In turn, it helps your dog relax and gives it a sense of belonging, security, and comfort. 

Additionally, the calming dog beds present a soft low heat foam interior specially designed to imitate your dog’s body temperature, giving him a feeling of being next to someone.

The soft foam interiors not only make your canine buddy sink into the bed to make them feel like they are being cuddled but also relax their body to relieve any joint or muscle pains. 

There are several styles and designs of calming dog beds in the market, and they all have unique features that aim to calm your dog in all ways possible.

Canine experts believe that when a dog sleeps on a hard surface, they remain semi-alert, but they get to a deeper state of doggy-dream delight when they are in a soft and comfortable place.

Types And Designs Of Calming Dog Beds

Several dog bed designs and types are available in the market, which means it is up to you to pick one that best suits your dog. Your choice should be influenced by your dog’s conditions, such as if the dog has a chronic illness or experiences joint pains or if the dog chews their bed. 

On that note, we also made a list of boxer dog beds to make things easier for you.

There are no set designs that have been explicitly selected, but we have put together a list of the most rated dog bed designs. They are as follow:

• Pillow Bed: Pillow beds are also referred to as cushion beds. They are characterized by even flat surfaces that are not raised on the sides. These beds are perfect for all dog sizes, even the large ones.
  Most pillow dog beds are rectangular and mimic mattresses, even though circular and square models are also available. A pillow bed is a great choice and can provide the needed comfort for your dogs regardless of their size.
  
• Sofa Bed: As the name suggests, sofa beds are designed to imitate a standard sofa’s actual shape and style. The surfaces of these sofas are cushioned, with one or two raised arms for the dogs to place their heads.
  Most dogs feel comfortable in sofa beds because they provide all-rounded security such that the dog cannot fall off while sleeping. The sofa beds may also come with pillows for extra comfort and decoration of the dog’s bed.

Here are the different types of calming dog beds.

• Self-Warming Dog Bed: Heated beds are as handy for dogs with joint issues and arthritis as orthopedic dog beds. Heat is usually used to relieve joint and muscle pains in humans, which applies to dogs.
  The heat bed will help relax the aching joints by soothing them and alleviating pressure points that develop all over the body. Heated beds need a source of electricity to power them, and most are designed with several heating settings, so you can choose one that suits your dog’s condition best.
  
• Orthopedic Bed: Orthopedic beds are specifically made to provide pressure point relief for dogs with joint pain or arthritis. They usually are thicker and dense to offer comfort to dogs with prominent bone structures and thin ones.
  Your veterinary doctor will recommend orthopedic beds for your dog if diagnosed with any chronic bone illness. Additionally, elderly dogs need such beds because they are more likely to experience joint issues than younger dogs.
  
• Kennel Dog Beds: Kennel dog beds usually suit kennels and crates of different shapes and sizes. Some are actually shaped like kennels and are best for dogs who prefer to stay in their kennels. Go over the dog kennel for truck bed list we created for you.
  
• Raised Dog Beds: These are raised off the floor and could be standard, nest, or orthopedic beds.  The frames are usually made using wood, metal, plastic, or wicker.
  
• Donut Bed for Dogs: These provide a pillow-soft rim or edge around the bed where dogs can place their heads when sleeping. They are typically round, designed in a donut shape.
  
• Nest Dog Beds: These are more or less like donut beds but are deeper. Most dogs find these beds exceptionally cozy.
  
• Standard Dog Beds: These resemble cushions or pillows and lack rims or edges.  They are designed in many shapes, materials, sizes, and colors.
  
• Bolster Dog Beds: These are dog beds with edge support or padding on the sides. The pads could be all over or on one side of the bed.
  
• Cave-Style Dog Bed: A cave-style dog bed is just a standard bed with a sloped roof that acts as a blanket.

Read More: Under Bed Blockers for Pets. The perfect way to stop pets from creating a mess.

Top 8 Picks For The Best Calming Dog Bed

Below is a list of 8 calming dog beds that users have rated as the best in the market. Use them to guide you on what you should pick when buying a calming dog bed for your canine buddy.

Best Friends by Sheri

Nothing shows love to your dog more than giving them a place they can lay to rest, and that is what Best Friends by Sheri do. This dog bed is one of the oldest in the market and has been used by pet owners since time immemorial.

With the Best Friend by Sheri calming dog bed, your pup will get better sleep. With its self-warming effect, their health status will also improve especially if they have joint aches.

The carefully crafted doughnut cuddler is designed using durable vegan nylon and stuffed with airsoft fibers, enabling your canine buddy to get in a comfortable position at any time.

In addition, with the water and dirt-resistant bottom, this calming dog bed will prevent any messes from getting to your floor. And in case it happens, you can easily clean it on a washing machine.

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

• Support your pet’s joints and muscles.
• Helps pets sleep better by providing head and neck support
• Easy to wash and maintain
• Keep them warm all night long
• Free from harsh chemicals, dyes, flame retardants

Cons:

• Complaints that the material can wear easily after washing

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Active Pets Plush Calming Dog Bed

There is no better bed for pets that are always on the move than the Active Pets Plush Calming Dog Bed. It comes in three sizes to fit all dog breeds of all sizes.

This doughnut dog bed provides your furry friend with a calm environment where they can nap whenever they want to.

One thing for sure is that the Active Pets’ Plush Calming Bed can help ease anxiety symptoms and ensure they get incredibly comfortable sleep. 

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

• The perfect bed for travel – lightweight and easy to transport
• Machine washable and dryer safe
• Keep your pet safe and comfortable – Create a soothing environment for your pet
• Complaints that material can wear easily after washing
• Available in different sizes – from small to large dogs

Cons:

• Stuffing on the inside is not as thick as other brands

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Related Article: If you are love traveling with your pup, then you might want to bring a travel dog bed with you.

MixJoy Orthopedic Dog Bed

If your canine buddy has a joint or muscle disease, you might want to get this for them. The comfortable MixJoy Orthopedic Dog Bed has deep wall beds that offers an excellent place for your dog to ease up in comfort and style.

MixJoy Orthopedic Bed features a high-loft, recycled polyester fiber filling made with pet-safe materials. It has a nest-like design that allows your dog to curl up and snuggle all day while providing orthopedic and joint support.

This easy-to-wash dog bed has a non-slip bottom that prevents dirt from messing your floor. MixJoy Orthopedic Dog Bed is available in different colors and sizes and is suitable for all dog breeds.

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

• Keep your pet warm and comfortable
• Machine washable for easy care
• Multiple colors to match any home or room décor
• Portable and easy to care for
• Quality material – comfort faux fur and antislip 

Cons:

• Padding is not as comfortable as other brands

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Bedsure Waterproof Dog Bed

Bedsure Waterproof Dog Bed is one of the few dog beds with the capacity to offer such services to you and your dog. It has a multifaceted design that can fit into any room décor since the material used to create it blends in quickly.

This Bedsure Comfy Pet Bed presents a flat surface and a generally rectangular shape that allows your dog to stretch or curl up while resting.

Additionally, it has a removable cover that you can wash and dry in a washing machine whenever you feel it needs cleaning.

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

• Dog bed is waterproof – perfect for anxious dogs
• Easy to clean – bed has a removable and machine washable cover
• Non-skid bottom – prevents slipping or accidents
• Keeps your dog comfortable and clean
• Perfect for indoors or outdoors

Cons:

• Complaints that not 100% waterproof as liquid can leak through the Zipper part

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Bangtop Dog Bed

Bangtop dog bed is a sofa-shaped orthopedic dog bed providing comfort to dogs with underlying joint or muscle conditions. The soft fabric provides a non-toxic surface where your dog can lay on, especially when experiencing joint or muscle aches.

The Bangtop Dog Bed has raised rim that gives a sense of security to your dog as it keeps them from falling off the bed while sleeping.

The multifunctional Bangtop Dog Bed features a rigid non-slip nylon surface on the base and a waterproof material on the top to help reduce messes. 

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

• Waterproof with a non-slip base
• Machine washable for easy cleaning
• Made with quality environmentally friendly materials
• Designed for comfort – reduces the strain on joints and bones
• Easy to use, transport and perfect for small and medium sized dogs

Cons:

• Complaints about quality of material and wear resistant

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Kroser Deluxe Dog Bed

The Kroser Deluxe Dog Bed is a special one that comes with a reversible pillow to ensure your dog is as cozy as possible. By reversible pillow, we mean that the dog bed’s central pillow has two sides.

The first one is with soft warming plush, a perfect material for dogs during the cold season. The other one is with quality breathable canvas, a material ideal for the hot season.

Unfortunately, this dog bed is only available for extra-large breeds that measure up to 110 lbs. On the brighter side, it has a detachable cover that is machine washable. Since the bed is vacuum-sealed, the manufacturer requests that you set it aside for at least 24 hours to get to its full status.

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

• Machine washable covers for easy cleaning
• The dog bed is stylish and comfortable
• The central pillow is reversible, soft, and warm
• The bed is made of soft materials – ideal for dogs with sore joints

Cons:

• Complaints about zipper quality and bed not keeping its original shape

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Nonofish Anxiety Dog Bed

Nonofish Anxiety Dog Bed is suitable for medium to small dogs and provides outstanding support and comfort when sleeping. The faux fur dog bed helps dogs release anxiety by giving them ample soft space for resting when going for outdoor activities like camping.

Additionally, the Nonofish Dog Bed is orthopedically tested therefore suitable for dogs with arthritis or joint and muscle ache problems.

It has a detachable cover that you can wash by hand or using a machine then dry naturally or in the machine under low heat.

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

• The bed is easy to clean – just throw it in the washing machine and dryer
• The soft, fluffy material will make your pet dog feel cozy and comfortable
• The bed is waterproof, making it ideal for use indoors or outdoors
• Durable and long lasting – made with quality materials
• The bed is available in different colors, for easy matching with your room’s décor

Cons:

• Complaints about the support it offers your pup

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Midwest Homes for Pets Plush Dog Bed

The Midwest Plush Dog Bed has a versatile design that will fit into any room décor since the material used to create it blends in quickly.

The Bedsure comfy pet bed presents a flat surface and rectangular shape that allows your dog to ease out or curl up while resting.

This dog bed is not recommended for dogs with underlying bone structure conditions like arthritis or muscle pains. 

Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

• Soft, plush bed for added comfort
• The perfect size for small breeds of dogs and cats
• Machine washable and dryer friendly
• Stylish design matches your home decor
• Comes with a 1 year warranty

Cons:

• Complaints that stuffing is too thin

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Why Do Dogs Need The Right Bed?

If you are a dog owner, there is a high likelihood that you and your pet would mostly spend your lazy days on the couch or your bed. As much as it is considered fun, making this a habit might cause more harm than good to your dog. 

Here are different reasons for getting a calming pet bed. 

1. Improves The Dog’s Health

Structural health should concern you if you are a dog owner of any breed, whether a Chihuahua or a German Shepherd. Dogs that sleep on a flat hard floor are more likely to suffer from dysplasia, arthritis, or other structural health issues, especially if they’re more than seven years old.

Getting a calming dog bed can help reduce their risk and protect your dog if the condition occurs. 

Structural health complications are dangerous because they can shorten your dog’s lifespan, something you might want to prevent. There is nothing more important than having your dog for as long as possible. So, keep this in mind as you decide whether to purchase a dog bed or not. 

Consult your veterinary doctor to check if there are already complications. Ask for advice about the best options for your dog. A healthy dog is a happy dog. Allowing them to sleep in a comfy calming pet bed helps. 

2. Your Dog Deserves Their Own Space

It gets to a certain age or time when your dog needs their own space to enhance character development. Spending time with your dog is not advisable. As experts have confirmed several times, dogs need their own space as much as humans do. Dog beds offer space where they can relax and be more of a dog. 

Once you have the right bed, it is best to put it in a separate room, making it the dog’s own room.

3. It Keeps Them Off Your Furniture

Even though most dog owners allow their dogs on the furniture, it would be better to stay off them. The furniture’s longevity will get affected as dogs can be destructive sometimes.

Similarly, the furniture might get dirty or covered with fur, and you will be forced to clean them often. Some pet owners do not mind all these, but it is time to get your dog a calming bed if you do.

With a calming dog bed, you can quickly reduce the odor left behind by your dog as they will spend most of the time in the bed. Besides, it is easier to clean. There are also dog beds specifically created to help minimize dog odor which is a plus if you need such.

Train your dog early enough to use the calming dog beds at all times so you can get an easy time when cleaning your home.

4. It Provides Comfort And Nesting

Many dogs would prefer a bed that offers comfort over a hard flat floor or carpet, especially one easy to get into and out of. If your dog suffers from joint pain, arthritis, is old, or is overweight, they might find it challenging to get comfortable on hard surfaces.

A dog’s comfort is important as it dictates how their day is going to get. Furthermore, a calming dog bed will help calm the dog of all the pain it is going through.

Letting your dog sleep on the floor with their own bed and not beside you gives them the impression that you’re the pack leader and need to be respected. 

How Do Calming Dog Beds Work?

Science claims that calming dog beds work when all the parts required are present. When puppies are born, they are used to being next to a warm, furry body. In this case, their mother and siblings. With this, they feel safe and secure even if their eyes are still shut.

If puppies don’t feel their little mother or siblings around, they start panicking and become anxious. As the fur-babies grow older, they never lose this sense of touch and belonging. This is where calming dog beds come in. When dogs lie on a calming bed, they get the same feeling of safety they had while they were young. 

Therefore, a calming dog bed needs to be soft with faux to duplicate the same situation. Raised sides help them feel like they are lying next to their mother and the premium inner filling makes them feel surrounded. If the dog bed has all these features, your dog will feel calm every time they lay on their bed.

Fuzzy Blankets Versus Calming Dog Beds

Fuzzy blankets work the same purpose as throw blankets as they provide extra warmth for your dog. Dogs are naturally capable of warming themselves without a blanket as they have fur and their bodies quickly adapt to changes in temperature.

Unlike calming dog beds, fuzzy blankets are unnecessary unless you live in a region that experiences extra cold weather conditions.

There is no harm in getting a fuzzy blanket for your dog, even if your region does not get very cold. If anything, it will provide more comfort and warmth for your dog, especially at night when it is chilly.

Fuzzy blankets only provide extra warmth, therefore, they cannot replace calming dog beds. However, you can combine the two to give your dog the best home they can get.

Replacing a calming dog bed with a fuzzy blanket would be the same as getting rid of your mattress so that you can sleep with a blanket only. If you don’t like it, don’t do the same for your dog.

Symptoms Of Chronic Lack Of Sleep In Dogs

Like humans, dogs need to sleep for a stipulated number of hours. They need to sleep for not less than 12 hours for them to have a productive day and a strong immune system.

Many problems might arise if your dog does not get enough sleep, which you might want to avoid. Dogs are social sleepers and will often try to sleep when we do. 

While there is not enough evidence or research pointing towards sleep deprivation in dogs, most of the symptoms that sleep-deprived humans go through are the same for dogs.

For instance, a sleep-deprived human would be moody, disoriented, easily distracted, and forgetful, similar to the symptoms of chronic lack of sleep in dogs.

Therefore, if your dog has the above symptoms, it is best to get them evaluated by a doctor to determine if they suffer from any chronic lack of sleep condition. After diagnosis, the veterinarian will recommend the best solutions to alleviate the problems.

What To Consider When Buying Calming Dog Beds?

There are important factors that go into buying a good calming bed: size, quality, budget and comfort

Budget

Some calming beds are much more expensive than others and may not necessarily be better.

When you are budgeting for a calming bed, it is important to consider the price range of beds that will not only fit your budget but also be right for your pet.

At the lower end of the market, expect to pay about $20 – $40. For this price, you can typically get a pretty basic bed that’s more of a mat than anything.

Middle range beds are about $60 – $80. These beds would typically be more comfortable and have some sort of cushioning on the bottom, which makes them better for older dogs or dogs with arthritis.

Top-of-the-line calming beds can cost up to $120+ depending on the size and materials used. However, these beds are usually not needed and can get very pricey depending on what you’re looking for.

Size

When considering the size of a calming bed, it’s important to consider your dog’s breed and size. Some dogs have bigger sleeping styles than others so they may fit better in large beds while some don’t even need a big bed.

Also, consider where you will be putting the calming bed and if it’s going in a room that already has furniture.

Quality

Just like with price, there is often a direct correlation between quality and price.

It is important to note that just because something costs more doesn’t mean it is of better quality. Higher prices are often associated with materials used, name brands, and other things that contribute to quality without necessarily making something better.

Always be sure to check reviews when buying a calming bed online because it may not always be the best of the best even if it looks like it is.

Be sure to also read reviews on sites like Amazon.com to see if people have had issues with tearing, leaking, etc.

Look for things like stitching, seams, and materials used to make sure you are getting a good quality product that will last.

Comfort

Last but not least, comfort is extremely important. Comfort can play a big role in how well your dog sleeps which also plays a big role in their behavior.

A happy and comfortable dog is generally less likely to misbehave or have accidents around the house so it is very important that they are comfortable enough to sleep through the night.

It is also important to consider the position your dog sleeps in. Most dogs sleep on their stomachs or by curling up into a ball so make sure that you are choosing something that is cushioned but not too plush.

If you are looking for more comfort, look for materials like memory foam or similar materials used in human beds.

A calming dog bed that keeps your pup cool, comfortable, and relaxed is the key to a happy and healthy pup.

Related Article: If you are looking for a dog ramp for high bed, we have also curated a list of the best ones. Check it out!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

You will agree that there is nothing more relaxing and rejuvenating than a good night’s sleep. On average, dogs need to between 12- 18 hours of sleep in a day, depending on how old the dog is. For a dog to get good sleep for all those hours, lying on a comfortable surface, preferably a dog bed, is necessary.

Having their own bed allows them to relax whenever they want. That being said, ensure you purchase a comfortable calming dog bed for your canine buddy if you want them to have better health conditions.