How to Choose the best Dog Beds For Crates in 2025

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Dog Beds For Crates: Making Their Den a Cozy Sanctuary

A dog crate is a home, and every home needs a comfortable bed. While the crate itself provides the security and structure, quality dog beds for crates transforms them into warm, inviting sanctuaries. Choosing the right bed goes beyond just finding a soft surface; it’s about providing comfort, ensuring safety, and making their personal space a place they genuinely love to be. A great bed can be the final piece of the puzzle in making your dog’s crate a true den.

Choosing the Perfect Bed for Their Den

Finding the right bed means considering your dog’s unique needs, habits, and stage of life. The perfect bed should not only be comfortable but also practical for you as a pet owner.

The Importance of Fit

The bed you choose should fit snugly inside the crate, with minimal excess room. A bed that is too large will bunch up, which can be a chewing hazard, while one that is too small won’t provide adequate comfort.

Dog Bed For Chewers

For puppies and dogs who are active chewers, a plush, fluffy bed is a recipe for disaster. Chewing can damage the bed and, more importantly, can lead to your dog ingesting the stuffing, which can cause serious health problems. For chewers, consider a durable, rip-resistant canvas pad or a simple, vet-approved mat.

Beyond the Basics: Orthopedic & Cooling Pads

For senior dogs or those with joint issues, an orthopedic crate bed with memory foam can provide crucial support and comfort. On the other hand, for dogs in warmer climates or those with thick coats, a cooling pad can help regulate their body temperature and prevent overheating in their enclosed space.

The Best Materials for Easy Cleaning

Let’s face it: accidents happen. A crate pad for dogs should have a removable, machine-washable cover. Waterproof liners are also a fantastic feature that protects the foam inside from messes and spills, making cleanup a breeze.

When to Skip the Bed Entirely

For the first few weeks of crate training, especially for a puppy, it may be best to use a simple, old blanket or no bedding at all. This helps you avoid ruined beds and prevents your puppy from associating the crate with a place where they have accidents.

For more information on crate types and training tips, check out our comprehensive guide The Ultimate Guide to Dog Crates.

What type of bed should I put in a dog crate?

Choose a bed that is the right size and type for your dog’s age, chewing habits, and any health concerns. For most dogs, a flat, durable crate mat is ideal, as it won’t take up too much space and allows for movement. However, puppies need chew-resistant, washable beds, while older or joint-problem dogs may benefit from orthopedic or supportive memory foam beds

Is it good to put a dog bed in a crate?

Yes, it’s good to put a bed in a dog’s crate because it provides comfort, makes the crate a more positive and den-like space, and is especially important for older dogs or those with joint issues. When selecting a bed, choose one that is durable, easy to clean, and appropriate for your dog’s age and habits, such as a chew-proof bed for puppies.

Do dogs prefer crates or beds?

Dogs’ preference between a crate and a bed depends on the individual dog’s personality, breed, and the environment, as both options offer different benefits like a den-like sense of security from a crate versus the freedom of a bed.A properly set up crate can provide a comfortable, safe space, especially for house-training, while a bed offers more freedom and comfort for dogs who enjoy more space to stretch out or snuggle.

What is the best bedding for a kennel?

The best kennel bedding depends on the kennel type (indoor/outdoor) and your dog’s habits, but generally, materials like cedar or pine shavings, shredded paper, and specially designed waterproof dog beds are recommended for warmth, cleanliness, and durability. Avoid straw or hay due to potential parasites, and be cautious with old blankets or towels, especially with puppies, as they can pose ingestion and blockage risks.