Why Your Dog's Bed Needs a Washable Cover
Dogs spend up to 14 hours a day sleeping. That's 14 hours of drool, dirt, fur, and dander soaking into whatever they're lying on. If your dog's bed doesn't have a removable, washable cover, you're essentially asking your dog to sleep on a bacteria farm.
Over 4,400 people search for "dog bed with cover" every month, and thousands more search for "washable dog bed" and "dog bed with removable cover." The demand is clear — pet owners want beds they can actually keep clean.
The Problem With Most Dog Beds
The average dog bed traps allergens, dust mites, and bacteria within weeks. If your dog goes outside, add mud, pollen, and grass to that list. For dogs with allergies (which affect roughly 10-15% of all dogs), a dirty bed can trigger scratching, hot spots, and ear infections. The solution isn't washing the entire bed — that's impractical for large beds that don't fit in a home washing machine. The solution is a bed with a removable, machine-washable cover that you can unzip and throw in the wash every week or two.
What Makes a Great Washable Dog Bed?
After testing dozens of dog beds, we've identified the key features that separate great washable beds from mediocre ones.
First, the zipper quality matters more than you'd think. Cheap zippers break after a few washes, and a broken zipper means the cover won't stay on. Look for heavy-duty zippers — ideally hidden or recessed so your dog can't chew on them.
Second, the cover material should be durable enough to withstand 50+ wash cycles without pilling, fading, or losing its shape. Canvas, microfiber, and heavy-duty polyester blends hold up best. Avoid thin cotton covers — they feel nice but deteriorate quickly.
Third, consider the fill material underneath. Orthopedic memory foam is the gold standard for dogs with joint issues. It distributes weight evenly, supports pressure points, and doesn't flatten over time like polyester fill.
Fourth, non-slip bottoms prevent the bed from sliding across hardwood or tile floors. This is especially important for older dogs or dogs with mobility issues who might struggle to get onto a moving bed.
Orthopedic vs. Standard Dog Beds
If your dog is over 5 years old, a large breed, or has any joint issues, go orthopedic. Standard beds with polyester fill flatten within months, leaving your dog sleeping on what's essentially a thin blanket on the floor. Orthopedic beds with memory foam maintain their shape for years.
The difference is especially noticeable for breeds prone to hip dysplasia (German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Bulldogs) and arthritis (common in any dog over 8 years old). An orthopedic bed supports the joints, reduces pressure on sore areas, and helps your dog get better quality sleep — which directly impacts their energy, mood, and overall health.
What Size Dog Bed Do You Need?
The most common mistake is buying a bed that's too small. Your dog should be able to stretch out fully without any part of their body hanging off the edge. To find the right size, measure your dog from nose to tail tip while they're lying in their natural sleeping position, then add 6-12 inches.
For quick reference: Small beds (24-30 inches) work for dogs up to 25 lbs like Dachshunds and French Bulldogs. Medium beds (30-36 inches) fit dogs 25-50 lbs like Beagles and Cocker Spaniels. Large beds (36-42 inches) suit dogs 50-80 lbs like Labs and Golden Retrievers. Extra-large beds (42+ inches) are necessary for dogs over 80 lbs like Great Danes and Mastiffs.
How Often Should You Wash a Dog Bed Cover?
For most households, washing the cover every 1-2 weeks is ideal. If your dog has allergies, goes outside frequently, or sleeps with you and then on their bed, weekly washing is better. Use hot water (at least 130°F) to kill dust mites and bacteria. Avoid fabric softeners — they can irritate sensitive dog skin and reduce the fabric's moisture-wicking ability. Tumble dry on medium heat or air dry.
Our Top Picks at CatDogra
We designed our entire bed collection around the washable cover principle. Every CatDogra bed features a removable, machine-washable cover with a heavy-duty hidden zipper.
Orthopedic Dog Bed — Our bestseller with 102 five-star reviews. Thick memory foam base with a plush removable cover. Available in 4 colors and sizes S to 2XL. From $36.24.
Large Dog Sofa Bed — All-season comfort with bolster edges for head support. Premium chenille fabric. From $44.99.
Plush Round Pet Bed — Donut-style calming bed with raised rim. Perfect for anxious dogs who like to curl up. Our most affordable option at $24.99.
All beds include free US shipping on orders over $50 and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
