For seasoned dog owners, you may be well aware that a waterproof dog bed is an absolute necessity when it comes to keeping your stress levels low and dogs’ comfort high. Whether you’re looking into finding a pee-proof dog bed for the older canines in your life or wanting to give your pup a comfortable place to sleep after walkies by finding a bed with a waterproof liner, this article is for you.
Below, we get into the best waterproof dog beds and water-resistant dog beds on the market, today. On top of this, our buying guide will help you decipher which options work best for you, including what you should look for in your beds and the added benefits they might feature. Read on, to discover everything you need to know!
The Best Waterproof Dog Bed
This much-loved premium waterproof dog bed has a fantastic range of features that will ensure the comfort, security and cleanliness that your pup needs. With a gel infused, temperature regulating, memory foam mattress, a full range of sizes on offer and an easily removable and washable cover, this bed will prove the perfect support for any pup.
Breathable
Temperature regulating
High quality materials
- Brand: DogBed4Less
- Model: small medium orthopedic 35X20X4 Inch
- Weight: 7.1 pounds
Loved by many for its perfect multi-density cushioning for senior joints and easy to remove and clean cover, this waterproof bed will give you your money’s worth! Durable, comfortable, washable, sturdy and with a 3-year guarantee, you can purchase this bed knowing you’re getting everything you need for years of doggy comfort.
High density foam
Durable
Breathable
- Brand: Brindle
- Model: BRSSRS22PB
- Weight: 2.9 pounds
Raised up from the ground for easy temperature control, this super strong, easily accessible elevated bed allows your pup to be outside in the fresh air, whilst still being supported and comfortable. It’s easy to clean nylon fabric is also resistant to mildew and mold, making it the right bed for the job!
Raised bed for greater comfort
Mold and mildew resistant
Tool-free assembly
- Brand: K&H Pet Products
- Model: 100213499
- Weight: 9.8 pounds
Especially loved for its orthopedic design to help sooth those aching joints, this bed has proved perfect for senior dogs who may struggle to find that sweet spot when settling for a nap. And with a non-slip base, and washable waterproof cover, you know they will be well looked after.
Dual layer inner materials
Spare covers also available
CertiPUR certified
- Brand: Milliard
- Model: DB-M
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
Offered in a full range of sizes, this orthopedic mattress utilizes shredded memory foam to create a soft, padded and supportive place for your dog to sleep. On top of that, if your pup struggles with incontinence, there is also a soft waterproof removable cover that can be machine washed when an accident occurs and a 1-year guarantee for added security.
Very thick for greater comfort
Anti-slip base
1-year guarantee included
- Brand: Better World Pets
- Model: DbGrBkLg
- Weight: 10 pounds
This wonderful cuddle bed has proven to be especially loved for its cozy and comforting padded design, with thick fluffy sides that give the illusion of being wrapped up safe and warm, it has shown to reduce anxiety and help to calm many pups. Even with all its padding, this bed also comes with a washable cover for easy cleaning.
Machine washable
Portable mattress
Ideal for medium dogs
- Brand: BarkBox
- Weight: 1.8 pounds
Made with additional support around the sides to keep your dog safe and secure when sleeping, this bed uses orthopedic technology to provide an extra comfortable place for all pups to rest. With an easily removable cover that can be machine washed and an additional waterproof protector, it has everything your dog will need for a good night sleep!
Orthopedic
Machine washable covers
Extra side support
- Brand: The Dog’s Balls
- Weight: 3.4 pounds
FurHaven has developed the ideal combination of comfort and durability. The orthopedic quilted bed comes with a built-in three-sided bolster which provides the perfect head support to keep your dog comfortable, without impeding access to their bed. The egg-crate foam used in this bed also allows for airflow and temperature regulation whilst helping relieve your pup of any joint discomfort as they rest. It is available in six colors and two styles, as well as being offered in five sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your dog’s size and personality. The cover for the FurHaven quilted bed is also easily removable and machine washable, so any accidents can be quickly cleaned away.
Available in six colors and two styles.
Available in five sizes to fit any dog breed.
Three-sided bolster provides support and comfort.
Cover is removable and machine washable.
- Brand: Furhaven
- Model: 25501011
- Weight: 7 Pounds
What to Look for in a Waterproof Dog Bed
Material
Commonly you’ll find that the best waterproof dog bed utilizes nylon or polyester, which consists of tightly woven materials that help to stop any seepage. For some, you might find that this is placed as the main cover for the bed – effectively stopping any problems before they start, such as pee getting into the memory foam. Unfortunately, because of their sealed nature, they can be a lot tougher to wash, when you need to clean the bed.
They may also be used as an additional layer beneath a washable cover to protect the mattress from any spills or leakage that may occur. This helps to keep the main bulk of the bed nice and fresh but often requires frequent washing in the machine. That said, they are generally designed in a much more washer-friendly way, with removable covers, for example.
Durability
As with most things that are in constant contact with dogs, the durability of an item is absolutely key. As well as being tough enough to withstand the general wear and tear that comes with regular use, waterproof beds will need to be able to maintain their cover if your dog is feeling a little destructive that day!
They should also be able to cope with regular wipe downs and rinses in the washing machine, so the stitching needs to be just as tough as the main bulk of the material. It also helps if the color is able to remain consistent with a regular wipe down. While this isn’t essential, it’s definitely nice to have dog beds that keep their unique design – especially when good quality beds can cost a fair amount, so you definitely don’t want to have that sullied with stains.
Size
Naturally, the size of the dog beds should be taken into account when looking into your next purchase. For toy breeds and smaller dogs, a bed that is low to the ground and smaller in size, with low sides, is best for the comfort of your pet.
Read here our article on the Best Dog Beds for Small Dogs.
However, larger dogs and giant breeds will naturally need a bed that is much longer and wider. On top of this, it is more comfortable for them to be able to have a raised bed – especially if they have medical problems such as arthritis. Raised sides will also give them a more comfortable place to rest their heads, and those sides will likely also need to be waterproof if they like to get muddy on their walks.
Features
Like all new products, the features each one holds can provide additional value for money, as well as give your dog the best place to sleep. One such feature is based on the materials, in that, a memory foam mattress will be able to contour to your dog’s body and create a greater sense of comfort when they need to sleep.
Another great example of this is the breathability of the materials, particularly for those who live in warmer climates. The best dog beds will remain comfortable in both hot and cold weather, by adding a level of breathable material or a gel that allows for a consistent temperature being imbued into the mattress.
It can also help if the bed has an easy-to-clean function, such as a removable cover which will allow you to quickly and easily maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of your beds. These should also be doubled-up with the ability to machine wash the cover, or you may need to spend more time hand washing the covers after an accident or particularly muddy walk. If you are looking for more options, check out our guide on couch covers for dogs.
Why Do Dogs Need a Waterproof Bed?
A waterproof dog bed can be needed for a variety of reasons, dependent on age, medical history, and the type of walks they enjoy. Most commonly they are required for dogs that may struggle with their joints or hindquarters, and as a result, may have incontinence or an inability to reach the back door in time if they feel the need to urinate.
Unfortunately, these pups are more likely to soil their bed, which can be time-consuming and awkward to clean, if they are not waterproof. So, getting a water-resistant or waterproof cover can help to speed up the process of cleaning, whether that’s a quick spot-check or a good wash required after an accident.
Other reasons may include simply wanting a bed that can withstand use from a dog that spends a lot of time outdoors. If you’re a big fan of taking your dog out on your adventures, then it’ll be no secret that your pup can quickly become murky. After these long walks, it’s not unheard of to hose down or bathe your dog.
Waterproof beds are ideal for a messy dog as they can provide a comfortable place to rest after a long walk (and their subsequent bath), without the worry of mold and mildew forming due to the constant damp created. A water-resistant dog bed can often hold the additional properties of being resistant through its antimicrobial design, giving you greater peace of mind.
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Pet Beds
Whilst a waterproof dog bed cover or a water-resistant dog bed may share many of the same properties, a waterproof bed provides a higher level of protection against accidents, spillages, water, and any other fluids that may find their way onto them. For those who want the added protection for their dog but want a more comfortable inner layer, it can also be worth considering a waterproof dog bed liner.
Meanwhile, water-resistant beds will still provide a high level of protection for your dog, which can be extremely helpful in the event of minor accidents. These are generally easier to put in the washing machine, as they are created to be more flexible. So, if you have a large waterproof dog bed or want the best waterproof dog beds that are also more accommodating to your cleaning needs, these are rare occurrences then a water-resistant bed could be the one for you.
Sources:
- Cynthia Foley, The Best Orthopedic Dog Beds, Whole Dog Journal
- Gina Spadafori, How to Choose the Perfect Bed for Your Dog, VetStreet
