No matter your dog's age or lifestyle, their bed is supposed to be a comfortable haven. It's a place for them to lay their head at night, get some rest, and wake up refreshed for a new day of fun.
For most dogs, their bed is the epitome of security. It's the one place they can go to for safety and solace, making it more than just a random piece of furniture!
While there are many different bed options out there, some of the best offer more protection than what meets the eye.
Waterproof beds are long-lasting, easy to clean, and tough enough to withstand all kinds of messes.
Contrary to popular belief, these beds aren't just for mess-prone canines. Waterproof beds support your pup through thick and thin, serving them throughout their life no matter what kinds of trouble they face.
Are you looking to make an investment that lasts? Check out some of our top picks for the best waterproof dog beds on the market!
7 of the Best Waterproof Dog Beds
1. Brindle Waterproof Orthopedic Pillow Cat & Dog Bed w/Removable Cover
Available in three sizes, this waterproof bed from Brindle is a fantastic option for most. It features a removable cover made of soft, suede-like fabric.
The cover is safe for machine washing. Plus, it features a layer of waterproof protection to prevent messes and spills from seeping into the cushion below.
Speaking of which, this bed sports two different kinds of foam. On the bottom are two inches of high-density foam for support. Up top, there's a memory foam topper that conforms to your dog's every curve.
2. Majestic Pet Palette Heathered Sherpa Bagel Bolster Dog Bed
Next up is this bolstered dog bed from Majestic Pet. It's a burrowing-style unit with huge bolsters. The entire perimeter has high-loft fiber, giving your dog plenty of surface area to lay its head. The bolsters also provide a nesting effect, which is great for overall mental well-being.
A waterproof base of denier fabric ensures that liquid doesn't leak through to the floor. Meanwhile, a layer of cotton twill makes up the machine-washable cover. It's pretty cozy and durable enough to last most messes.
3. PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Cat & Dog Bed w/Removable Cover
Check out this piece of luxury! Spoil your dog with a sofa-like bed that supports every pressure point. A memory foam topper helps alleviate joint pain and makes your dog feel like it's sleeping on a cloud every night. As if that weren't enough, the bed also has polyfill bolsters on all sides.
Inside, the bed utilizes a waterproof liner to protect the foam from spills. Even the covering has extra protection. It's made up of water-resistant and anti-tearing fabric.
4. Jumbo Waterproof Orthopedic Dog Bed with Removable Cover
Don't let the simple design of the jumbo bed fool you. While it appears to be a simple pad, it hides several convenient features. Beneath the removable cover is a thick layer of high-density memory foam. It's an excellent choice for seniors and dogs that suffer from debilitating pain. The foam provides relief and lets your dog sleep like an angel.
Of course, there's moisture protection, too. Inside is a waterproof liner. Outside, the cover is water-resistant. The entire cover is machine washable for good measure as well.
5. SP Waterproof Sofa Lounge Dog Bed
This crescent-shaped model from SP has all the hallmarks of a suitable waterproof bed. A hidden liner inside prevents any moisture from getting into the padding below. However, the exterior cover utilizes a soft faux fur fabric. It's super cozy and can help any dog drift away to dreamland.
Inside, memory foam follows your dog's body contours for ultimate support. There are also some raised bolsters for headrests, allowing your pup to get into the perfect sleeping position. As always, the cover is removable for easy maintenance.
6. PLS Birdsong Ruya Triple-Layer Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed w/Removable Cover
This dog bed is well-designed and features top-notch elements at every turn. In addition to a waterproof liner for added protection, the bed uses human-grade support materials. Three layers of foam keep your pup comfortable. These include a firm base for support, memory foam for contoured conformity, and softer foam on top.
Underneath the bed, you'll find a thin layer of non-slip rubber. It's perfect for keeping the unit in place and stopping accidental sliding.
7. Better World Pets Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed w/Removable Cover
The Better World Pets bed is available in several sizes and colors. It's on the simpler side as far as design goes. However, the manufacturers went above and beyond for comfort and protection.
Memory foam provides all the support your dog needs. It's one of the best sleeping surfaces out there. Plus, it never loses its shape! The waterproof cover has a protective liner, a fuzzy exterior fabric, and a uniform shape. It's machine washable and also includes a non-slip layer underneath for peace of mind.
Best Outdoor Waterproof Dog Beds
Dog Helios Aero-Inflatable Outdoor Waterproof Dog Bed
Does your dog sleep outside? Whether you're roughing it under the stars during a camping trip or creating a cozy permanent spot at home, this bed from Dog Helios has you covered. It's an inflatable bed that's lightweight, durable, and super easy to clean.
The bed uses a rubber-like material, so it's naturally waterproof. Water slides right off for easy cleaning. For extra convenience, this bed has highlighted stitching and a uniformly flat shape that's easy to move or compress at a moment's notice.
FurHaven Deluxe Oxford Orthopedic Indoor/Outdoor Dog & Cat Bed w/ Removable Cover
Here's another outdoor waterproof dog bed worth considering. This one is from FurHaven and features a more traditional design scheme. It has orthopedic egg-crate foam padding inside. It provides plenty of support and mimics the feeling of a conventional canine mattress.
However, the cover protecting the foam core is made for harsh weather! It's a double-coated poly-canvas material. The fabric resists water penetration and is easy to clean with a simple hose-down. You can easily remove the cover to expose the raw foam. Even after a heavy rain, it should be as dry as a bone!
Best Separate Waterproof Dog Bed Liner
4Knines Waterproof Dog Bed Liner
If your dog already has a bed it loves, this bed liner can add the extra protection you need. It's designed to fit basic rectangular beds of various sizes. To use it, all you have to do is insert your dog's existing bed or mattress. Secure everything in with the durable zipper, and you have a waterproof unit that's ready for action! You can even add another fabric or fur-lined cover for some extra comfort if you want.
The liner's material protects against moisture, mites, and allergens. Despite its waterproof nature, the fabric is surprisingly soft and doesn't rustle.
What Makes a Dog Bed Waterproof?
Product manufacturers make pretty bold claims about their goods all the time. Those in the pet industry are no different, so you've likely seen "too good to be true" marketing at some point.
Whether it's "chew-proof" or "indestructible," few rarely fit the bill and meet the expectations manufacturers put in place.
So, where do waterproof beds fit into the mix? What exactly does a waterproof bed do, and how does it work?
Thanks to all that marketing mumbo jumbo, there's a lot of confusion out there about waterproof beds. Let's clear some things up.
Related: Best Chew Resistant Dog Crate Pads & Beds for Heavy Chewers
Water-Resistant Vs Waterproof
Firstly, there's a big difference between water-resistant and waterproof. A water-resistant bed offers ample protection, but the design elements have their limits.
For example, you might see bed covers with a water-repellant treatment.
The treatment does a fine job of keeping moisture at bay temporarily, but it's not going to hold back all messes all the time.
Waterproof beds, on the other hand, can provide long-term protection.
But, it's not in the way that most think.
Many believe that waterproof beds are nothing more than standard beds covered in non-porous fabrics. While those products indeed exist, they don't make very good beds for your furry friend!
Not only is impenetrable fabric uncomfortable, but it's also loud every time your pup switches positions. As a result, rubber or tarp-covered beds are more uncomfortable than they're worth.
Waterproof dog beds work a little differently.
Instead of covering the entire sleeping surface with plastic-like fabric, they feature a thin layer. It's usually on the underside of the standard cover material, giving your dog the best of both worlds.
The bed provides protection and prevents leaks from soaking through to the stuffing. But, it doesn't take away from the comfort of the bed cover in any way.
Does Your Dog Really Need One?
Let's face it: Dogs are filthy creatures! They love to get into muck and track in all kinds of dirt. They enjoy nothing more than wallowing in the mud.
Unfortunately, most dogs are too simple to realize that bringing that mess to bed is a big no-no.
Your pup will jump into bed soaking wet or covered in grime without missing a beat.
Related: Why do Dogs Pee on Your Bed?
Unfortunately, all those gross liquids can soak into the bed's foam and stuffing. There, it'll continue to fester and rot. Even plain water will cause trouble.
It can foster mold growth, turning a once comfortable oasis into a significant source of unwanted smells. As if the mess problem wasn't enough, moisture can cause some severe heating and cooling issues.
High-quality foam and insulation can do a lot to manage your dog's temperature as they sleep. During cool nights, it'll soak up body heat to provide warmth. Meanwhile, stuffing can keep things cool by improving air ventilation and circulation.
When liquid muddies up the works and gets stuck in the soft material, it eliminates the bed's temperature-managing benefits.
Your pup might overheat and find it difficult to get dry at all.
Ultimately, all dogs can benefit from a waterproof bed. It keeps messes at bay and removes a lot of frustrating headaches on your end!
Dogs that suffer from incontinence issues and frequent accidents have the most to gain from waterproof beds.
New puppies have weak bladders.
They're unable to hold their urine very long, leading to chronic housebreaking issues as they're young.
Unfortunately, incontinence can rear its ugly head in adult dogs, too. Seniors often develop problems holding things in. Certain diseases and health conditions can exacerbate the situation even more.
A waterproof bed helps to mitigate long-term issues. Instead of letting bodily fluids ruin the bed with awful smells, you can take advantage of the waterproofing features to clean things up quickly.
With only a small amount of maintenance, your dog's bed can be good as new in no time.
Related: Do Dogs Really Need a Bed?
Key Considerations When Choosing the Best Waterproof Dog Bed
Now that you know the basics of what a waterproof can bring to you and your dog's life, let's go over some of the other details.
A dog bed plays a big part in your pup's everyday routine. Only the very best will do! To ensure that you're getting the right unit, keep an eye out for the following features.
Overall Design and Style
We're not talking about colors and prints here! Dog beds come in a wide variety of styles that serve many different purposes.
For example, you might come across donut-style beds for nesting, orthopedic beds to soothe the joints, or elevated beds to improve air circulation around your pup's body.
What's suitable for your pooch will depend on their health and lifestyle needs. Pay attention to their daily habits, and don't be afraid to try out new designs.
Generally, older dogs benefit from extra-thick padding, memory foam, and raised bolsters. Meanwhile, smaller pups usually enjoy heated beds or those with layers for burrowing.
Size
Size is an important factor you can't ignore. Your dog's bed should fit them comfortably without any issues at all. Take a few measurements that focus on your dog's sprawled-out length.
A well-fitted bed will accommodate all sleep styles.
Most manufacturers offer a bevy of sizes. While they usually utilize simple size markers like small, medium, and large, exact measurements and recommendations are available, too.
Find a model that fits the numbers you took earlier to ensure that your dog fits comfortably.
Materials
The materials used to cover the bed dictate two crucial elements: Comfort and durability. Frilly and lightweight materials might provide the most comfort, but there's a balancing act to ensure longevity.
We always recommend sticking to tougher materials like polyester, suede, twill, and canvas.
Ideally, you should choose an option that will hold up well to frequent washings without losing coziness.
Stuffing Quality
The quality of the material inside the bed matters, too. Generally, cheaper beds use loose-fill or polyester batting. There's nothing wrong with those materials at first. But, they can lose their shape and stop providing support over time.
If you want to provide a bed that maintains its shape, choose a dense foam. Memory foam is also available for dogs that need extra joint support.
Conclusion
There you have it! Hopefully, you have a better idea of what to look for and how a waterproof dog bed can make things easier for you and your dog.
These beds are a worthy investment you won't regret. Check out one of our top picks and see for yourself!
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