As proud dog owners, we want to spend as much time with our dogs as possible. It means not only cuddling up indoors or hanging out in the backyard but also bringing them along on dog-friendly adventures, including beach days and camping vacations. The best relaxation days are spent with your best friend.
If you’re planning on taking your dog’s indoor dog bed for your next outing, think twice. Indoor beds aren’t designed to stand up to the additional wear and tear that comes with outdoor use. To help you switch to something more suited for the situation, we've taken the time to research the best outdoor dog bed for you and your pup. The following guide will discuss the different factors to consider when shopping as well as our top picks.
The Backyard Boss Top Outdoor Dog Bed for 2021
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Why You Can Trust Us
As a dog owner and lover, I regularly travel with my two dogs. Each year we book multiple camping vacations exploring the outdoors and enjoying the peace that comes with unplugging from our fast-paced society. In preparation for these trips, my husband and I have purchased quite a bit of dog gear for our pups. We bought things such as portable dog gates for trips to dog-friendly cottages and hotels, durable waterproof toys for the lake, and, of course, their outdoor dog beds. After all, they deserve to be comfortable on vacation too!
Before choosing the outdoor dog beds that we currently used, we researched many different options. We also asked our dog-owning friends and family to find out what everyone else was using and why. Our dogs had the opportunity to try a couple of different options, showing us what they liked and what they didn't. I've taken my experience and knowledge from this process and used it to put together this guide to help other dog owners during the shopping process.
Best Outdoor Dog Bed with Cover
Portable, washable, and available in 3 different sizes, this dog bed will provide a comfortable place for your pet to relax wherever you may be.
- Portable folding design
- Removable cover pad for easy cleaning
- Durable steel frame
- Not suitable for dogs over 110lbs
- Loose cover pad is susceptible to damage from heavy chewers
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Why We Like It: With a strong, durable powder-coated steel frame and Textilene mesh cot, the KingCamp Folding Elevated Dog Bed is designed to provide a reliable raised bed for your dog at home or on the go.
The folding design works like a traditional camping chair, folding in on itself and packing away into a carry bag with a shoulder strap. The no-slip feet are suitable for use both indoors and outdoors. The bed is available in 3 different sizes, including small (22.4” x 22.4”) for dogs up to 25lbs, medium (30.3” x 30.3”) for dogs up to 40lbs, and large (51.9” x 26.7”) for dogs up to 110lbs.
The elevated design allows for airflow underneath your dog, keeping them cool in the summer months and preventing them from laying on the cold ground when the temperatures drop. A soft removable pad rests on top of the bed for additional comfort. This pad is machine washable for easy cleaning.
Who Should Buy It: Dog owners who are searching for a versatile dog bed that can be cleaned easily will love the removable and machine washable sleeping pad on this elevated bed.
Best Portable Outdoor Dog Bed
This basic portable dog bed is light weight and compact when you’re on the go while providing your dog with a comfortable elevated place to sleep at home, at the campsite, in a hotel or wherever else you may be.
- Portable folding design
- Lightweight design is only 5lbs
- Durable steel frame
- Not suitable for dogs over 95lbs
- No cover or pad for cleaning
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Why We Like It: This portable elevated dog bed was created with travel in mind.
Not only does it fold in on itself like a traditional camp chair and come with a convenient travel bag, but even the largest size of this bed only weighs 5lbs. It makes it an ideal option for travel, such as camping or spending a day on the beach. The bed comes in two sizes: small (24” x 24”) for dogs up to 45lbs and large (47” x 24.5”) for dogs up to 95lbs.
You can clean the waterproof nylon canvas cot by wiping it down with a wet cloth or rinsing it down with a hose. However, it doesn't come apart, preventing it from being machine washable. Elevated off the ground, the bed allows cool air to flow during the summer months, keeping your dog cool while also keeping your dog off the cold ground during the winter months. For additional insulation in the winter, add a sleeping pad on top of the bed.
Who Should Buy It: If you're looking for a lightweight, portable dog bed for your outdoor travels, the Carlson Pet Products Portable Pup Bed is a great option.
Best Outdoor Dog Bed for Large Dogs
This highly durable dog chew proof dog bed is designed to provide a comfortable bed for dogs up to 200lbs including highly destructive dogs and heavy chewers.
- Comes with 120-day Chew Proof Armored Warranty
- Can support giant breeds 200lbs +
- No cover or pad for cleaning
- Doesn’t fold up for travel
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Why We Like It: The K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Giant Elevated Dog Bed was designed to support the extra abuse that comes from larger dogs or those who tend to chew on or attempt to destroy their beds.
The frame is made from chew-proof aluminum construction supporting a cot made from ripstop ballistic fabric. If your dog does manage to damage the bed, it is backed with a 120-day Chew Proof Armored Warranty. The bed is available in 5 different sizes, including small (29” x 18”) for dogs up to 25lbs, medium (35” x 22”) for dogs 25 to 65lbs, large (41” x 27”) for dogs 55 to 90lbs, x-large (47” x 29”) for dogs 75 to 130lbs and giant (50” x 33”) for dogs 94 to 200+lbs.
The sizing was created with standard crate sizing in mind, fitting the crate snuggly to keep your dog comfortable without leaving space for paws to slip down the side. It’s easy to clean with a waterproof membrane, simply wipe dirt, mud, and moisture off with a damp cloth or rinse it down with a hose. For travel or storage, unscrew the legs from the bed.
Who Should Buy It: The K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Giant Elevated Dog Bed is an excellent choice for giant breed dog owners and those with dogs that have destructive tendencies.
Best Waterproof Outdoor Dog Bed
Designed with camping in mind, this waterproof travel bed rolls up in seconds with a handle for easy carrying while providing a comfortable, padded place for your dog to sleep on the go.
- Made from waterproof ripstop material on top and waterproof non-slip material on the bottom
- Backed by Kurgo Lifetime Warranty
- Not elevated, sits on the ground
- Fabric design is not recommended for heavy chewers
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Why We Like It: Designed with outdoor travelers in mind, the Kurgo Waterproof Portable Outdoor Dog Bed is filled with a Polytech fill similar to a standard sleeping bag.
On the top of the bed is a quilted, waterproof Microtomic ripstop material in your choice of Chili Red or Seaglass. However, the bottom is supported by a waterproof Rufftex non-slip material. It allows your dog to relax comfortably on any outdoor terrain. When it’s not in use, roll the bed up like a sleeping bag. A hidden zipper pocket is built into the bed for easy storage of small items.
The bed is available in both medium (27” x 36”) and large (36” x 48”) and has no maximum weight limit. If it needs to be cleaned, throw it in the wash on a gentle cycle and hang dry. Kurgo is a well-known brand in the outdoor travel community and backs all of its products with a lifetime guarantee.
Who Should Buy It: Dog owners searching for a comfortable, durable dog bed for travel without the additional bulk of an elevated bed frame should consider the Kurgo Waterproof Portable Outdoor Dog Bed.
Best Outdoor Dog Bed with Canopy
With a large sun canopy and breathable elevated bed design, this outdoor dog bed will keep dogs cool on sunny days.
- Large shade canopy can be taken off when not in use
- Easy, tool-free assembly
- No cover or pad for cleaning
- Doesn’t fold up for travel
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Why We Like It: This elevated bed is easy to assemble, with no tools required, including a removable shade canopy.
When the bed is not in use, take it apart and store it away in the included carry bag. The bag also makes it easy to take the bed on the go for your beach day trips or camping vacations. The bed is available in both large (36” x 30”) for dogs up to 100lbs and x-large (48” x 36”) for dogs up to 120lbs. However, there is no smaller size available for those who are limited on space.
The 1680D Oxford fabric shade canopy extends over the full length of the bed, and the breathable mesh material allows for air to flow under the bed, creating a comfortable place for your dog to sleep during the heat of summer. For cleaning, wipe the bed down with a damp cloth or rinse it down with a hose, allowing it to air dry.
Who Should Buy It: If you're shopping for a dog bed to help keep your dog cool while lazing in the sunshine or visiting the beach, this is a great option.
Best Elevated Outdoor Dog Bed
A classic design, this elevated pet bed will keep your pet comfortable and cool while also avoiding the pressure points that are bothered by many traditional dog beds.
- Easy assembly with no additional tools needed
- Durable powder-coated steel frame
- Not suitable for dogs over 100lbs
- No cover or pad for cleaning
- Doesn’t fold up for travel
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Why We Like It: Made from breathable high-density polyethylene, The Original Elevated Pet Bed by Coolaroo provides your dog with a comfortable place to sleep. It also works to lower the risk of hot spots and ease pain by minimizing impact to the pressure points and joints of the body.
It's also safer for the environment, using 100% recyclable lead- and phthalate-free fabric and carrying the GREENGAURD certification. You can easily clean it by wiping it down with a damp cloth or rinsing it with a hose before allowing it to air dry.
There are three different sizes available, including small (34.75” x 22.75”) for dogs up to 50lbs, medium (42” x 25.5”) for dogs up to 75lbs, and large (51” x 31.5”) for dogs up to 100lbs. The bed is easy to assemble with all necessary tools required included. If you wish to travel with the bed, it'll need to be broken down and reassembled at your location.
Who Should Buy It: Dog owners searching for a comfortable elevated bed for their dog from a reliable and trusted company should consider these classic beds from Coolaroo.
Best Outdoor Dog Bed with Heater
Capable of heating up to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, this soft and comfortable bed will keep your dog warm regardless of the weather.
- Internal thermostat to control temperature of the bed
- Backed by 1-year limited warranty
- Requires access to AC power
- Largest size available is too small for giant breeds
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Why We Like It: The K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed was designed with outdoor use in mind, using durable and water-resistant material.
It's a suitable choice for use on the porch, balcony, in a barn, garage, or your dog’s doghouse. In addition to the bed, the company also includes a soft fleece cover for additional comfort. The bed requires access to an AC power outlet to use the heating option, using a 5.5’ steel wrapped cord to prevent your dog from chewing the cord causing injury. It uses an internal thermostat to control the temperature, heating up to 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
This heated bed is available in 3 sizes, including small (14” x 18”), medium (19” x 24”), and large (25” x 34”). While these sizes will offer a suitable option for most dog breeds, large and giant dog breed owners may find that the largest size isn’t large enough for their dog to lay comfortably.
Who Should Buy It: The K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed is a great solution for dog owners shopping for a product to help keep their dog comfortable while laying outdoors during the cold winter months.
The Difference Between Indoor Dog Beds and Outdoor Dog Beds
Image Credit: Kurgo on Amazon
If you’re considering using an indoor dog bed in the backyard this season, think twice. While the two are both made to give our pets a comfortable place to sleep, there are some important differences between the two options.
Dog beds that are designed for the indoors are often thick, plush beds with soft or furry covers. These beds are more likely to absorb moisture from the area around them, which isn’t a big concern sitting on your living room carpet. However, that can quickly lead to musty odors or even the development of mold outdoors.
Outdoor beds, on the other hand, are designed to withstand the elements. They are usually made from a water-resistant or water-repellent material that avoids absorbing moisture, odors, and bacteria from exposure outdoors. Many outdoor dog beds are elevated, allowing air to circulate beneath your dog and the hot or cold ground below. They are also built to withstand more abuse and may even pack up conveniently for camping and other outdoor travel.
What to Look for When Choosing an Outdoor Dog Bed
Image Credit: Shed Happens
Size
Always check the recommended maximum weight for a bed, especially an elevated one. If your dog exceeds the recommended weight, it could lead to damage to the bed or even injury as the bed itself gives way beneath your dog. Consider also the way that your pup usually sleeps. A dog that tends to stretch out might be more comfortable with a long and then rectangular bed, while a dog that always curls up into a ball may need something bigger.
Weather-Resistance and Durability
Outdoor dog beds are designed to stand up to the elements. It means they are durable, can handle ongoing exposure to the sun’s damaging rains, and sit outdoors during heavy rainfall without fear of damage.
If the bed folds up or is assembled, check if the connection points are all strong and capable of withstanding ongoing use. It includes your dog regularly climbing onto the bed, as well as being assembled and broken down multiple times if you plan on using the bed for travel. You want to choose a bed that is durable enough and will at least last the season, if not for years to come.
Ease of Cleaning
An outdoor dog bed is going to get dirty. Whether your dog has been swimming before diving into the bed, smelling like a wet dog, or digging in the mud before naptime, you want to have a bed that’s easy to clean. When searching for an outdoor dog bed, look for a cot-style bed that can be hosed down or with a removable cover that you can throw in the washing machine.
Orthopedic Beds
If your dog is large and suffers from arthritis or is recovering from an injury, search for an orthopedic bed. These beds are designed to provide your dog’s bones and joints with extra support while avoiding pressure points and creating a comfortable place to lay down. They are also higher off the ground than a standard bed to make it easier to get in and out of bed. An orthopedic bed is also a wise preventative choice for dog breeds that are prone to conditions like hip dysplasia.
Cooling/Heating
The temperature indoors highly impacts your dog's comfort. Luckily, some beds offer cooling or heating properties, providing your dog with the perfect spot to curl up regardless of the weather.
Cooling beds often have a pressure-activated gel inside that relies upon a chemical reaction when the dog sits or lays down on the mat. The bed offers a cooling sensation until the dog gets back up again, removing the pressure and allowing it to recharge.
Another less common type of cooling mat uses evaporative cooling technology to cool down your dog. To make it work, you soak the bed in water. The water then absorbs your dog's heat, evaporating and leaving your pet feeling cooler and refreshed.
Self-heating dog beds work by absorbing your dog’s body heat and then radiating it back to them as they sleep. For dogs that have the freedom to spend more time outdoors in the winter months, there are also heated beds that use AC power to maintain a specific temperature. Pair this with a secure privacy fence, wireless fence, or invisible dog fence, and your winter-loving dog can enjoy crisp winter air for hours comfortably.
Portability
Many outdoor dog beds are meant for the backyard and keep your dog comfortable when you’re on the go. These camping beds or camping cots come in one of two styles. The first includes a series of poles that are assembled, stretching the cot bed in the middle. Second works like a standard camp chair by folding upon themselves before sliding into a carrying bag.
How We Picked
An online search for outdoor dog beds will return hundreds of results, leaving us with an overwhelming number of products to consider. We started to narrow down this list by choosing only the products that delivered a high value, looking at factors such as durability, portability, variety of sizes, ease of cleaning, and level of comfort. It involved looking at the products in detail, researching the features of each option, and comparing them carefully.
From that point, we looked at the customer reviews for a better idea of how each bed performed in regular daily use. Combined with our experience and the experience of the rest of the Backyard Boss team, it allowed us to select the seven different outdoor dog beds that we believe are the best fit for each of the specific situations that we had identified.
The Best Outdoor Dog Bed for Your Dog Is...
When choosing the best bed for your dog, you need to start by considering your dog’s size and preferences. You want to choose one that is large enough that your dog can stretch out comfortably. However, some dogs will find a bed that is too big to be overwhelming. Additionally, you need to pay attention to how your dog reacts to different options. Many dogs will love the comfort provided by an elevated bed, but some beds aren’t as comfortable with the feel of being elevated off the ground.
Looking at the options that we have shared in this guide, the product that stood out was the KingCamp Folding Elevated Dog Bed. We loved the fact that this bed was portable, easy to clean with the removable cover pad, available in many sizes, and built with a durable steel frame. It is sure to provide your dog with a comfortable place to nap, regardless of where you may be.
Feature Image Credit: Shed Happens