Best Dog Beds With Washable Covers: 2026 Buyer's Guide & Top Picks
Compare the best dog beds with washable covers in 2026.
Why a Washable Dog Bed Cover Matters for Your Dog's Health
Dogs spend an average of 12 to 14 hours a day sleeping or resting, which means their bed accumulates dander, saliva, dirt, flea debris, and environmental allergens at a remarkable rate. A bed cover that can't be easily removed and laundered becomes a breeding ground for dust mites, bacteria, and fungal organisms — all of which can trigger or worsen skin allergies, respiratory sensitivities, and parasitic infestations.
According to the American Kennel Club, environmental and contact allergies are among the most common dermatological complaints in dogs, and contaminated bedding is a frequently overlooked contributor. A fully removable, machine-washable cover is not a luxury feature — it's a hygiene essential, particularly for dogs with atopic dermatitis, flea allergy dermatitis, or compromised immune systems.
Beyond health, washable covers extend the functional life of the bed itself. The foam or fill inside stays protected from urine accidents, drool, and muddy paws, meaning you replace the entire bed less often. Over three to five years, that savings adds up significantly.
Buying Criteria: What to Look for in Dog Beds With Washable Covers
Top 7 Dog Beds With Washable Covers: Detailed Reviews
The following picks represent beds evaluated across cover durability, wash performance, foam longevity, and suitability for different dog profiles. Prices reflect typical retail ranges as of early 2026 and may vary by retailer and size selected.
1. Furhaven Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed
Price range: $24.99 – $54.99 (depending on size: S through Jumbo Plus)
Key features: Egg-crate orthopedic foam base, bolstered three-sided design, zippered L-shaped cover, available in plush, faux fur, and cooling gel fabric options.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners of medium to large breeds needing basic orthopedic support.
- Cover machine washes well at standard temperatures without pilling
- L-shaped zipper makes removal straightforward
- Extensive size range up to 53 inches
- Low price point allows replacement without major expense
- Foam density is moderate (~2.5 lb) — flattens for heavy dogs over 60 lb within 8–12 months
- No waterproof inner liner included
- Bolster fill shifts after repeated washing
2. Big Barker 7" Orthopedic Dog Bed
Price range: $239.95 – $359.95
Key features: 7-inch triple-layer foam system (two support layers + comfort layer), microsuede zippered cover, 10-year foam warranty, American-made.
Best for: Large and giant breeds (Labradors, German Shepherds, Great Danes) with existing joint issues or post-surgical recovery needs.
- Foam retains shape for 10+ years (backed by written warranty)
- Cover is heavyweight microsuede — resists claw punctures
- 7-inch thickness provides genuine off-the-floor joint relief
- Cover washes at high temperatures without shrinkage
- Premium price point
- No bolster option for dogs who prefer head support
- Heavy — the Large weighs 25 lb, difficult to move for cleaning
3. Casper Dog Bed
Price range: $109.00 – $159.00
Key features: Two-layer foam (memory foam + support foam), bolster perimeter that unzips independently, cover is a durable polyester-cotton blend.
Best for: Dogs who curl up and lean against edges; modern households wanting a low-profile aesthetic.
- Bolster cover and base cover unzip separately for targeted washing
- Low-profile design suits dogs reluctant to climb onto raised beds
- Fabric resists hair adherence — lint-rolls clean easily
- Foam is thinner than dedicated orthopedic beds (~3.5 inches total)
- Not ideal for dogs over 90 lb — foam compresses noticeably
- Limited color options
4. K9 Ballistics Chew-Proof Elevated Dog Bed
Price range: $145.00 – $225.00
Key features: Aluminum frame with ballistic ripstop fabric, no foam to absorb odors or moisture, cover is removable and machine washable, chew-resistant design with 120-day chew-proof guarantee.
Best for: Destructive chewers, puppies in teething phases, and kennel/crate setups where airflow beneath the bed is important.
- Elevated design promotes air circulation — reduces hot spots and fungal skin issues
- No foam means no urine absorption or lingering odors
- Extremely durable against clawing and chewing
- Cover replaces independently from the frame
- No cushioning — not suitable for dogs with arthritis who need pressure relief
- Higher initial cost than basic padded beds
- Frame requires occasional bolt tightening
5. PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed
Price range: $79.99 – $139.99
Key features: 4-inch solid memory foam base, waterproof inner liner, polyester-twill zippered cover, bolstered design, non-slip bottom.
Best for: Mid-range buyers who want genuine orthopedic foam with a waterproof barrier for senior or incontinent dogs.
- Waterproof liner protects foam from accidents — critical for elderly dogs
- 4-inch memory foam provides meaningful joint support for dogs up to 100 lb
- Cover has water-resistant outer coating for minor spills
- Non-slip bottom is effective on hardwood and tile
- Cover zipper is a known failure point after 12–18 months of regular washing
- Memory foam has initial off-gassing odor (allow 48 hours of airing before use)
- Bolster fill is polyester fiber, which clumps over time
6. Orvis ToughChew ComfortFill-Eco Dog Bed
Price range: $149.00 – $269.00
Key features: Ripstop ballistic nylon cover, ComfortFill-Eco recycled polyester fill, double-stitched seams, chew-resistant guarantee, machine washable cover.
Best for: Active, rough-on-bedding dogs in the medium-to-large range who need a plush feel but destroy standard beds.
- Ballistic nylon cover withstands digging and nesting behavior
- Eco-friendly fill made from recycled plastic bottles
- Orvis offers a chew-proof replacement guarantee
- Cover maintains color and texture after dozens of wash cycles
- Polyester fill doesn't offer the same pressure relief as memory foam
- Premium price for a non-orthopedic bed
- Limited to bolster/pillow style — no flat mattress option
7. BuddyRest Bravo Orthopedic Dog Bed
Price range: $199.00 – $329.00
Key features: Gel-infused memory foam with therapeutic support layer, removable premium velour cover with anti-microbial treatment, CertiPUR-US certified foam, veterinarian-recommended design.
Best for: Dogs with diagnosed hip dysplasia, IVDD recovery, or advanced arthritis where veterinary-grade pressure distribution matters.
- Gel-infusion regulates surface temperature for dogs prone to overheating
- Anti-microbial cover treatment reduces bacterial growth between washes
- Foam density (5 lb) is among the highest available in consumer dog beds
- Cover fabric is exceptionally soft — beneficial for dogs with thin coats or skin sensitivities
- Highest price point in this roundup
- Velour cover attracts hair and requires lint-rolling between washes
- Only available in three sizes — may not fit very large breeds comfortably
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Price Range | Foam/Support Type | Waterproof Liner | Chew Resistant | Best Dog Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furhaven Orthopedic Sofa | $25 – $55 | Egg-crate foam | No | No | Small – Large |
| Big Barker 7" | $240 – $360 | Triple-layer foam | No | No | Large – Giant |
| Casper Dog Bed | $109 – $159 | Memory + support foam | No | No | Small – Medium |
| K9 Ballistics Elevated | $145 – $225 | Elevated fabric (no foam) | N/A | Yes | Small – Large |
| PetFusion Ultimate | $80 – $140 | 4" memory foam | Yes | No | Medium – XL |
| Orvis ToughChew | $149 – $269 | Recycled poly fill | No | Yes | Medium – Large |
| BuddyRest Bravo | $199 – $329 | Gel-infused memory foam | No | No | Medium – Large |
How to Wash and Maintain Your Dog Bed Cover Safely
Proper washing technique directly affects both the longevity of the cover and your dog's skin health. Residual detergent, incorrect water temperatures, and improper drying are the most common causes of cover degradation and skin irritation.
Step-by-step washing guide:
- Remove the cover completely. Unzip fully and pull the cover off the foam insert. Never wash the foam itself in a machine — it will absorb water, become impossible to fully dry, and develop mold internally.
- Pre-treat heavy stains. Apply an enzyme-based pet stain remover (such as Nature's Miracle or Rocco & Roxie) to urine, vomit, or fecal spots. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Enzyme cleaners break down proteins that regular detergent leaves behind.
- Wash on a warm or hot cycle. Set your machine to at least 140°F (60°C) if the care label permits. This temperature threshold kills dust mites, which are a common allergen trigger for dogs with atopic dermatitis. Use a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergent — dogs' skin is more sensitive to residual surfactants than human skin.
- Run an extra rinse cycle. Detergent residue trapped in fabric fibers can cause contact dermatitis. An extra rinse removes this buildup.
- Dry thoroughly. Tumble dry on medium heat until completely dry — no damp spots. If the cover has a waterproof coating, use low heat to preserve the coating's integrity. Air-drying is acceptable but ensure full dryness before reassembling; trapped moisture breeds mildew.
- Inspect before replacing. Check zippers for damage, seams for separation, and fabric for thinning. A compromised cover won't protect the foam insert effectively.
Recommended washing frequency: Every 1–2 weeks for dogs with allergies or skin conditions, every 2–4 weeks for healthy dogs with regular outdoor activity, and immediately after any accident, flea treatment, or illness.
Safety Considerations and Warnings
Important safety notes:
- Zipper ingestion risk: Dogs who chew bedding can ingest zipper pulls or metal teeth. If your dog is a known chewer, choose beds with hidden or covered zippers, or opt for an elevated chew-proof design. Ingested metal or plastic zipper parts can cause intestinal obstruction requiring emergency surgery.
- Foam ingestion: If your dog tears through the cover and ingests foam pieces, contact your veterinarian immediately. Polyurethane foam expands in the digestive tract and can cause blockages.
- Chemical off-gassing: New memory foam beds may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for 24–72 hours. Always air out a new bed in a well-ventilated area before allowing your dog to use it. Look for CertiPUR-US certification, which limits VOC emissions.
- Detergent sensitivity: Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets — the chemical coatings they leave behind are a common cause of paw pad and belly irritation. If your dog develops redness on contact areas (elbows, hocks, belly) after a bed wash, switch to a free-and-clear detergent and add an extra rinse cycle.
- Heat safety: Never place a heated bed pad or warming insert under a non-breathable cover. Overheating risk is real, especially for brachycephalic breeds and thick-coated dogs.
When to See the Vet Instead of Buying a New Bed
A dog bed, no matter how well-designed, is not a treatment for underlying medical conditions. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:
- Difficulty rising or lying down: If your dog hesitates, groans, or struggles when getting on or off their bed, they may have osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, or intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) that requires veterinary diagnosis and a treatment plan beyond environmental modification.
- Reluctance to use the bed at all: Pain-associated avoidance of soft surfaces can indicate neurological issues or severe joint pain. A bed change alone won't address the root cause.
- Recurring skin infections or hot spots: If your dog develops hot spots, pyoderma, or yeast infections that recur despite clean bedding, the issue may be dietary allergies, hormonal imbalances (hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease), or immune dysfunction — not the bed.
- Excessive licking of paws or joints: This can signal pain, allergies, or anxiety. While a clean bed reduces environmental allergen exposure, it won't resolve the underlying trigger.
- Incontinence: Frequent urination on the bed warrants a veterinary workup for urinary tract infection, kidney disease, diabetes, or cognitive dysfunction in senior dogs.
Always consult your veterinarian before assuming a product change will resolve a health-related behavior or symptom.
Natural and DIY Alternatives to Commercial Dog Beds
If commercial options don't fit your budget or preferences, several alternatives can work effectively — provided they meet basic hygiene and support standards.
DIY Washable Dog Bed
Use an old crib mattress or a high-density foam slab (available from upholstery suppliers) cut to your dog's dimensions. Sew a cover from heavy-duty canvas or denim using a U-shaped zipper closure. Wash the cover using the same protocol outlined above. Replace the foam every 2–3 years as it compresses.
Raised Cot-Style Beds
Coolaroo-style elevated cots use a fabric sling stretched over a steel or PVC frame. The fabric panel is removable and washable, and the open-air design eliminates foam entirely. These are excellent for warm climates and dogs prone to heat stress. Prices range from $25 to $60.
Blanket-and-Crate Approach
For crate-trained dogs, layered washable fleece blankets inside the crate provide cushioning that can be laundered easily. Use three to four layers for adequate padding, and rotate them so one set is always clean. This approach costs under $20 and offers maximum washability, though it lacks orthopedic support for dogs with joint conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog bed with a washable cover?
There is no single "best" bed for every dog. For large breeds with joint issues, the Big Barker 7" Orthopedic offers the best long-term foam durability with a removable microsuede cover. For budget shoppers, the Furhaven Orthopedic Sofa delivers solid value under $55. For destructive chewers, the K9 Ballistics Elevated Bed eliminates foam entirely while maintaining a washable fabric surface.
How do I choose the right size dog bed?
Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while they're lying in their preferred sleeping position (curled, sprawled, or stretched). Add 6 to 8 inches to that measurement for the minimum bed length. For width, measure shoulder width and add 4 to 6 inches. When in doubt, size up — a bed that's slightly too large is always preferable to one that's too small.
How much do dog beds with washable covers cost?
Prices range from approximately $25 for basic egg-crate foam beds with zippered covers to $360 for premium orthopedic beds with high-density foam and durable covers. The mid-range sweet spot for most dog owners falls between $80 and $160, where you'll find genuine memory foam, waterproof liners, and covers that withstand regular machine washing for 2+ years.
How often should I wash my dog's bed cover?
For healthy dogs without allergies, every 2 to 4 weeks is sufficient. For dogs with atopic dermatitis, flea allergies, or those who spend significant time outdoors in muddy or pollen-heavy environments, wash weekly. Always wash immediately after accidents, vomiting, or if you notice odor or visible soiling.
Are there natural alternatives to commercial dog beds?
Yes. DIY beds made from high-density foam slabs with hand-sewn canvas covers, elevated cot-style beds with removable fabric panels, and layered fleece blankets in crates all provide washable sleeping surfaces. The key requirement is that the sleeping surface can be fully laundered at a temperature high enough to kill dust mites (140°F / 60°C).
Can I put the entire dog bed in the washing machine?
Only if the manufacturer specifically states the entire bed is machine washable (some smaller beds from brands like Majestic Pet allow this). For most beds, only the removable cover goes in the machine. Submerging foam inserts in water causes them to absorb moisture that's nearly impossible to fully dry, leading to internal mold growth. Spot-clean foam with a diluted vinegar solution and allow it to air dry completely.
When should I skip over-the-counter products and see a vet?
If your dog shows signs of pain when lying down or rising, has recurring skin conditions despite clean bedding, exhibits incontinence, or avoids their bed entirely, these are medical symptoms that require veterinary evaluation. A bed upgrade may be part of the solution, but it should complement — not replace — professional diagnosis and treatment.
Where to Buy and Final Considerations
The beds reviewed in this guide are available through the following channels:
- Direct from manufacturer: Big Barker, BuddyRest, and K9 Ballistics sell directly through their websites, often with exclusive warranties not available through third-party retailers.
- Chewy and Amazon: Furhaven, PetFusion, and Casper dog beds are widely available on both platforms. Chewy frequently offers auto-ship discounts of 5–10%. Always verify the seller is authorized to avoid counterfeit products.
- Orvis retail stores and website: Orvis ToughChew beds are sold exclusively through Orvis channels. Their brick-and-mortar stores allow in-person sizing assessments.
- Independent pet specialty stores: Many carry Furhaven and PetFusion lines and may offer floor models for your dog to test before purchasing.
Before purchasing, confirm the retailer's return policy — some manufacturers offer 30-day satisfaction guarantees while others only accept returns for defects. Given that dogs can be particular about sleeping surfaces, a return-friendly policy is worth prioritizing even if it means paying slightly more from a different retailer.
For additional guidance on managing your dog's allergies and skin health at home, the ASPCA's general dog care resources provide evidence-based recommendations on environmental hygiene. The Merck Veterinary Manual offers detailed information on canine dermatological conditions that may influence your bedding choices.
Anouk Beaumont
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
