Elevated dog beds are increasingly popular among pet parents who are looking for a dog bed with exceptional durability, comfort, and protection from the cold or hot and dirty floor. But you have to beware as there are plenty of knockoffs in the market promising you heaven when it comes to durability, strength, and comfort yet fail miserably in their delivery. To help you avoid such traps we’re sharing with you the 15 best-raised dog beds we’ve researched on with the help of pet parents like you, our friends in the veterinary profession, and our experts in the field.
The 15 Top-Rated Raised Dog Bed
1 K&H Pet Products Original Bolster Pet Cot Elevated Dog Bed
- Can hold over 150lbs
- Non-skid rubber feet
- Removable and washable bolster pillow
- Mold and mildew resistant 600-denier nylon fabric
- Waterproof mesh center
- No-tool assembly
The strong and durable K&H Pet Products Original Bolster Pet Cot Elevated Bed is ideal for keeping your pet pooch cool during the summer months. The 600-denier nylon fabric is bacteria, mildew, and mold resistant. The fabric is also waterproof and easy to keep clean. The mesh center allows air to circulate while the removable and washable bolster pillow provides comfort and security for your dog.
The raised dog bed features non-skid rubber feet for extra safety and to protect your floors when the bed is used indoors. Assembling the bed is simple and requires no tools, and once up, it can be used just as easily outdoors; giving your dog somewhere comfortable to lay whatever the weather.
2 AmazonBasics Raised Cooling Dog Bed
- Offers 7” ground clearance
- Reduces pressure on joints
- Breathable mesh design
- Washable
- Simple to assemble
- Available in 5 different sizes
The AmazonBasics Elevated Cooling Pet Bed is designed to provide comfort for your pet by taking the pressure off their joints while they relax and sleep. The mesh design allows air to flow freely, keeping your pet cool even during the warmest months. The dog cot bed can be washed with tap water and is easy to assemble with just a few simple tools. Available in five different sizes, making bed suitable for dogs of all sizes.
3 K&H Pet Products Elevated Dog Bed
- Constructed of 600D waterproof fabric material
- Non-skid fully-rubberized feet
- Requires no tools for assembly
- Comes with 12-month limited warranty
- Maximum weight limit: 150 pounds for the extra-large version
One of the most trusted names in pet accessories especially beds is K&H Pet Products. They’ve got toys, beddings, travel products, and a whole lot more for your dog, cat, poultry, and even exotic pets. You can always rely on K&H to deliver exceptionally high-quality products like their Original Pet Elevated Pet Bed that is constructed of super-durable yet ultra-comfortable 600-denier fabric material. The same material is treated with superior waterproofing technology so it is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
You can also add a few other accessories like canopy, self-warming pet cot, cooling pet cot, and even replacement covers. Sadly you’d have to purchase these separately. The K&H Original comes with a mesh panel center which is guaranteed to repel mold and mildew while also protecting against moisture buildup and odor-causing bacteria. The only downside is that you’d have to shell out a Ulysses Grant to get one for your dog.
Read here our ultimate article on the Best Waterproof Dog Beds.
4 Coolaroo Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed
- Sleeping surface constructed of high-density polyethylene
- Resistant against mold, mildew, fleas, and mites
- Powder-coated and strong yet lightweight steel frame
- Portable, easy to clean and maintain design
Gale Pacific is especially known for creating a variety of dog beds that are precision-crafted for superior strength and durability without sacrificing doggie comfort and safety. Its Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed with Knitted Fabric is one of the most loved raised dog beds on the planet primarily because of its reliably sturdy steel frame that has been finished in powder black coating. The coating is a requirement as it provides a slippery surface for insects, critters, and organisms like fleas, mites, mildew, and mold from ever reaching the sleeping surface located some 7 inches off the ground.
All materials used in the design and construction of the Coolaroo are guaranteed to be completely safe and free from any chemical that might harm your dog or any other pet that might want to use the bed for cooling or even for warming purposes. And with a really friendly price that is less than three Alexander Hamiltons.
5 Kuranda Chewproof Raised Dog Bed
- Easy to clean and lightweight yet durable PVC frame
- Orthopedic sleeping platform
- Made of abrasion-resistant and chew-proof Cordura
- Maximum weight capacity: 100 pounds for large variant
Unlike the other 4 raised dog beds in this list, Kuranda’s Chewproof Dog Bed is unique for a number of reasons. First, it is the only one that uses high-strength, durable PVC in the construction of its frame instead of the more conventional metal or steel.
Second, its sleeping surface is constructed of Cordura, a brand of fabric that is well-known for its resistance against scuffs, tears, and abrasions giving the Kuranda an amazing chew-proof and scratch-proof design
Third, the sleeping surface is also designed to be exceptionally flexible, minimizing the application of pressure on the bony prominences on your dog’s body. Fourth, it is designed specifically for indoor use. If you need something for the outdoors, you’d better get the aluminum variant. Lastly, the Kuranda is quite expensive costing you 3 Coolaroos or 3 AmazonBasics elevated dog beds or about two K&H Originals. On the bright side, it’s tough and very easy to clean and should be a great addition to any room in your home.
6 Paws & Pals Raised Dog Bed
- Comes with an easy-to-assemble, durable, and sturdy metal frame
- Rip-resistant, comfortable, and breathable mesh panel
- Easy to clean and takes very minimal space for storage
- Maximum weight capacity: 88 pounds for large variant
For the price of less than an Andrew Jackson bill, you can already give your pet the Paws & Pals OxGord Travel Gear Approved Portable Elevated Bed. The OxGord is one of the best raised dog beds especially for folks who are looking for a more practical approach to cooling or even warming their pets in different times of the year. The only thing that you might not totally agree with Paws & Pals is that it has a maximum weight limit of 88 pounds for its large variant.
Other brands of the same size category can take at least 100 pounds. Nevertheless, because of its compact design and easy-to-assemble and disassemble construction, this is the dog cot that you can bring anywhere with you so your pet will have the most comfortable rest in its existence. The Paws & Pals can be easily cleaned with a simple wipe, too. If you have a below 88-pound dog and you don’t want to spend more than an Andrew Jackson bill, the Paws & Pals is an awesome choice.
7 Floppy Dawg Just Chillin’ Elevated Dog Bed
- Elevated dog bed with removable sun canopy
- Steel frame
- High quality 1680 denier Oxford fabric mesh
- Lightweight and portable
- Available in medium and large
- Easy to assemble
The steel-framed Floppy Dawg Just Chillin’ Elevated Dog Bed is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. The removable shade canopy helps shelter your dog from the sun and provides a sense of safety, security, and privacy for your pet while they are sleeping. The base of the bed is made from high quality 1680 denier Oxford fabric; the breathable mesh improves airflow to your pet and helps to keep even the fluffiest pets cool all summer long.
The elevated dog bed is available in medium and large to suit most pets and is easy to assemble. The bed is designed to be lightweight and portable, making it easy to move to different positions in your home or yard as required.
8 PETMAKER Raised Dog Bed
- Lightweight and portable
- Carrycase included
- Non-slip rubber feet, steel frame, and central mesh panel
- Improves airflow to your pet
- Can be washed with cold water and air-dried
- Available in 4 different sizes
The weather resistant PETMAKER Elevated Pet Bed is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. The lightweight and portable bed includes non-slip rubber feet to ensure that the bed stays in place when your dog enters or leaves the bed. The cot-style bed can be placed anywhere and comes complete with its own carry case so you can take it with you whether you are out for the day or traveling for longer periods.
The raised bed includes a mesh center panel to improve airflow, keeping your dog cooler during the warmer months. The frame is coated steel to provide strength and durability, and the bed can be hand washed in cold water to keep it looking and smelling fresh. Available in four different sizes, it is suitable for most breeds and sizes of dog, guaranteeing them a more comfortable and cooler sleep.
9 Best Choice Products Raised Cooling Dog Bed
- Foldable raised mesh cooling bed
- Durable and lightweight
- Suitable for pets up to 99lbs
- Removable sun canopy is included
- Comes complete with a travel bag
- Some assembly is required
If you are looking for a raised dog bed that is lightweight but built to last, then the Raised Mesh Cot Cooling Dog Bed by Best Choice Products might be just what you need. The elevated bed includes three mesh panels in the sleeping base, allowing air to circulate and cool your pet even on the warmest days.
The bed comes with a removable sun canopy so that you can let your dog enjoy relaxing outdoors while knowing that they are safe from the sun. The steel-framed bed folds easily and comes complete with its own travel bag so that it can be taken anywhere with you. The bed is suitable for pets up to 99lbs and does require some assembly.
10 GigaPet Raised Bed For Dogs
- No assembly required
- Safely holds up to 100lbs
- Strong, durable steel frame and polyester sleeping surface
- U-shaped legs for balance and stability
- Folds for storage and transportation
- Comes with heavy-duty storage bag
If you are looking for a simple, no assembly raised bed, then the GigaTent Elevated Pet Cot with Steel Frame is perfect for your needs. The bed raises your pet 8 inches off the floor, meaning they can rest comfortably on a clean surface away from dirt and dust. The durable, heavy-duty bed has a tubular steel frame and U-shaped legs that distribute your dog’s weight evenly to ensure balance and stability. The sleeping surface is made from durable polyester and designed with your dog’s comfort in mind.
The bed requires no assembly and comes with its own travel/storage bag. When you want to move the bed, simply fold in the legs and fold the bed in half. It is suitable for use indoors and outdoors and can be washed or wiped clean.
11 K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Elevated Dog Bed
- Made with chew proof ripstop ballistic fabric
- Designed to fit into most standard dog crates
- Includes a waterproof membrane
- Improves airflow and offers orthopedic support
- Pre-assembled
- Easy to wash
If you are looking for an elevated dog bed that can be used with a dog crate, then the K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Elevated Dog Bed might be just what you are looking for. The chew proof bed is made from ripstop ballistic fabric; it is indestructible, making it ideal for persistent chewers. The design does not contain any Velcro, zippers, or other materials or parts that would encourage chewing. It is designed to fit into most standard crates, improving your dog’s comfort and providing overall orthopedic support as well as increased airflow.
The bed arrives pre-assembled, only requiring the legs to be screwed in, which can be done without tools. The bed surface includes a waterproof membrane, while the densely woven material resists hair, dirt, and grime. It can be cleaned with a damp cloth or even the garden hose when necessary.
12 Veehoo Cooling Raised Bed
- Made from Textilene fabric with a central mesh panel
- Powder-coated steel frame
- No-tool assembly
- Non-skid rubber feet
- Lightweight, strong, and durable
- Breathable, waterproof, heat resistant, and features UV stabilization
The Veehoo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed for Summer allows your dog to sleep comfortably whatever the weather. The central mesh fabric improves airflow and keeps your dog cool in the summer while being raised from the floor removes the need to lay on cold surfaces in the winter. The bed surface is made from Textilene fabric, which is breathable, waterproof, heat resistant, and features UV stabilization.
The frame is made from powder-coated steel, which provides durability, strength, and stability. The bed is easy to assemble, requiring no tools. It is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for camping trips and days out. The non-skid rubber feet increase the bed’s stability and ensure that it remains in place when your dog exits or enters the bed.
13 FurHaven Reinforced Elevated Dog Bed
- Mesh base with soft stitching
- Resistant to mold, mildew, allergens, mites, fleas, and dander
- Easy to assembly pin and hole system
- Can be hand washed with mild soap
- Available in 4 different sizes and a range of colors
Available in multiple colors and four different sizes, the Furhaven Pet Dog Bed is suitable for most sizes and breeds of dog. The mesh base provides improved airflow to your pet pooch, and the stitching is designed with the needs of your dog’s nose and paws in mind. The mesh material is durable and resistant to mildew, mold, fleas, mites, dander, and other allergens. The bed is easy to assembly, with the pin and hole system adding to its sturdiness and providing a more comfortable sleep for your pet. The bed can be hand washed with mild soap and left to air dry.
14 HDP Padded Napper Elevated Dog Bed
- Designed for pets up to 30lbs
- Padded bed surface with removable cover
- UV and water-resistant
- Powder-coated, rust-resistant frame
- Easy to assembly
- Ideal for use in small spaces
The HDP Elevated Napper Cot Space Saver Pet Bed is the ideal answer for owners looking for a comfortable raised bed that can be placed in small spaces. Designed for pets up to 30 pounds, the dog cot bed is made from heavy-duty water-resistant Oxford polyester and has a powder-coated, rust-resistant frame. The bed is ideal for traveling and can be assembled easily in a short space of time. The UV and water-resistant cover is removable for cleaning, and the bed is padded to provide additional comfort for older pets and those with joint issues.
15 Internet’s Best Elevated Pet Bed
- 600 denier polyester cover
- Steel frame with PVC pipe legs
- Non-skid rubber feet
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight, durable, and strong
- The medium bed can hold up to 100lbs
The Internet’s Best Dog Cot protects your pet from cold and dirt floors as well as providing a cool place to sleep during the summer months. The bed’s breathable mesh improves air circulation, keeping even the fluffiest pet cool and relaxed. The bed surface is made from 600 denier polyester, while the frame is steel, and the legs are made from PVC pipe. The result is a strong, durable, and lightweight bed that is designed to last. It is finished with non-skid rubber feet that provide stability. The bed cover can be washed with water and mild soap to keep it looking and smelling fresh and clean.
Best Raised Dog Bed: Buying Guide
Whenever you want to buy something for your pet there are a few considerations that you really have to think about. The same is true with buying the best raised dog bed for your pet. Our buying guide should help you make that decision a lot better.
Take a look at our guide on Pet Teepee Bed.
Why Should I Get an Elevated Dog Bed?
One of the most fundamental questions that pet parents have about raised dog beds is whether their pets really need one. This is especially true if their dog seems really comfortable in its plush and super-comfy pet bed. But there are actually many reasons why you may want to get your dog an elevated bed. Here are some of them.
Raised Dog Beds Cool and Warm Different Breeds of Dogs All-Year-Round
Different dog breeds have different thermoregulation needs. For example, dogs that are naturally bred for cold weather environments are very easy to overheat in hot environments, especially in the summer. On the other hand, dogs that have very thin coats or those that are single-coated will typically feel very cold in a cold environment such as inside an air-conditioned room or during the winter.
Elevated beds help both kinds of dogs by facilitating the movement of air. When it is super hot outside, the space between the ground surface and the sleeping surface of raised beds allows for greater circulation of air. This has a cooling effect on your dog so they don’t overheat. Likewise, when it is too cold, the elevated platform moves the body of the dog away from the cold floor. This allows the dog to keep its warmth, preventing it from chilling.
Check out our article on the Best Heated Dog Beds.
Raised Dog Beds are Chew Proof, Almost Indestructible
Elevated dog beds do not have stuffing or filling that needs to be protected by sewing fabric panels together. These seams are weak points in a dog bed, making it especially susceptible to chewing and utter destruction. Elevated beds are virtually indestructible dog beds since their frames are mostly made up of metal, steel, or even high-strength PVC. The sleeping surfaces are also made of materials that are tough and durable and are proven to be less appealing to dogs to chew on.
Raised Dog Beds Are More Comfortable, Especially for Dogs With Joint Problems
Since the sleeping surface is actually suspended in the air it doesn’t cause undue pressure on the joints of your dog. While an orthopedic dog bed will serve the purpose, it doesn’t come with the cooling or warming capabilities of elevated dog beds.
Raised Dog Beds Are Easier for Older Dogs to Move in and out of an Elevated Dog Bed
If senior dogs especially those with joint problems will use a standard dog bed, getting up and lying down will be especially difficult because of the distance that their joints will have to travel towards and from the floor. An elevated dog bed puts the joints only a bit higher than the sleeping surface, closing the gap between the bed and the joints making it easier for senior dogs to move in and out of their bed.
Read here our review of Dog Joint Supplements.
Raised Beds Help Prevent Skin Conditions
Mold and mildew are known to grow in closed areas where there is very minimal airflow. These microorganisms can get in contact with your dog’s skin causing irritations and inflammation. Elevated dog beds can prevent such conditions from happening because of the open design of the sleeping surface. Additionally, the panel is made of mesh fabric guaranteeing excellent air circulation.
Check out our latest guide on Dog Stairs for Bed.
How to Pick the Right Raised Dog Bed
Now that you know why an elevated dog bed can be great for your pet, it’s time to look at how you can pick the right one for your hound.
Right Size
Always measure the size of your dog to have an idea of the correct size of the elevated dog bed you’re going to get. To know the size of your dog, run a tape measure from your dog’s snout all the way to the base of its tail. This is the minimum size of a dog bed that you will need in terms of its length. If you’re not sure, it is always better to get the next size.
Read here our detailed guide on the Best Dog Beds for Small Dogs.
Durable
From the frame up to the sleeping area, the materials used should be tough and durable. Typical frame materials are made of steel or metal although some come with PVC. It is also important to look for reinforced or rounded corners as these can definitely increase the lifespan of the bed. The mesh fabric should also not extend into the corners to prevent your dog from latching onto it to chew.
Comfortable
Mesh panels are a standard in elevated dog beds. However, for optimum breathability, you should always go for those with high-density polyethylene as this material is well-regarded for its ability to prevent hot spots while increasing overall comfort for your dog.
Easy to Clean
Most raised beds are very easy to clean. Most only require hosing down while others with removable sleeping surfaces can be washed thoroughly in a washing machine. If you have to clean your dog bed it is important to use a cleaning agent that is safe for pets.
You may also like our article on the Best Washable Dog Beds.
Teaching Your Dog to Use a Raised Dog Bed
You may have bought the sturdiest, toughest, most comfortable, and most durable elevated dog bed in the market that is more than capable of accommodating your pet’s weight, but if you don’t train it on how to use it then you will still be seeing your dog sleeping on the floor or even cuddled up next to you on your bed. Like everything else in the dog world, training your dog to use an elevated bed requires perseverance, patience (lots of it), and consistency. You don’t want to issue a command one night and then use another the following night. Here’s how you can teach your dog to use elevated dog beds.
The “Up” Command
Always start by teaching your dog the “up” command. In teaching the “up” command, you can bring your pet at the foot of an object that has an elevated platform such as the first step on your stair or even an overturned box. The important thing to remember is to use a platform upon which your dog can be taught how to jump onto it. So the platform should be sturdy, stable, and able to hold your dog’s weight.
Issue the command “up”, show your dog a treat, and move it on the elevated platform. Your pet’s natural reaction will be to stand up on its two hind legs and try to reach for the treat with its nose. You’ll need to move the treat further away so that your dog will move its entire body onto the platform. Once it’s on the elevated platform, give the treat, and praise. You should repeat this over and over. What you want is for your dog to associate the word “up” to go on top of an elevated platform to receive its treat.
Find out more about Dog Treats.
The “Down” Command
All dogs should already be trained to respond to the “down” command. This is important since your dog will have to assume the down position in preparation for sleep.
The “Bed” Command
Once your dog has fully understood the meaning of the command “up”, you may want to start training it to respond to the command “bed” or “bedtime” or “night night”, whichever you want to use. The goal here is to teach your dog that it’s already time for bed. Using the same training technique of issuing the command, enticing your dog to follow the treat, and then giving your pet its treat if it accomplishes the task successfully, you can ensure that your dog will be going straight to bed on command.
Put the Three Together
You can now start training your dog on how to properly use the elevated dog bed. First issue the “bed” or “night night” command. Your dog should go instantly to the foot of its bed. Give its treat and reward it with extra praises. Next, issue the command “up”. Your dog should jump onto the bed, give its treat, and praise. Lastly, issue the “down” command. Your dog will now assume a sleeping position. Again be consistent in your training and always use positive reinforcement. Now practice.
Elevated bed dogs may not have fancy designs or fluffy stuffing, but they sure can offer your dog the kind of comfort that will put to shame even the plushiest dog bed you can find. And with these 15 best raised dog beds we featured, you can bet your hound will be having the most comfortable sleep all year round.
Sources:
- Your Guide to Dog Beds, WebMD
- Gina Spadafori, How to Choose the Perfect Bed for Your Dog, Vetstreet
- Victoria Schade, How to Find the Right Dog Bed for Your Pup’s Needs, PetMD
