Choosing a Bed for an Older Dog

A good bed for an older dog is supportive, warm, easy to get in and out of, and placed out of draughts. Look for a deep, cushioned base, low or soft sides your dog can step over without effort, and a cover you can wash easily. If your dog seems stiff, sore or reluctant to lie down, speak to your vet, as a bed can add comfort but is not a treatment.

Below we cover what to look for and how to set up a comfortable sleeping spot for a senior dog. For more on beds and the home, see our complete dog beds and home guide.

Why an older dog's bed matters more

As dogs age, their bed often becomes one of the most used things in their life. Dogs Trust notes that older dogs can show signs of joint stiffness after strenuous exercise and recommends making sure they have a comfy bed to sleep on. PDSA suggests raising dog beds from the floor and out of draughts, while making sure beds are comfortable, warm and supportive.

It is also worth knowing that changes in how your dog moves, settles or sleeps can be a sign of something your vet should check. PDSA recommends regular check-ups at least every six months for older dogs, or more often if your vet advises, and Dogs Trust describes twice-yearly check-ups as essential for an ageing dog.

What to look for

A supportive, deep base

A thin cushion on a hard floor offers little comfort. Look for a deep-filled cushion that does not flatten completely when your dog lies on it. Press down on the middle with your hand: if you can feel the floor easily, it is probably too thin for an older dog. Some owners choose memory foam or orthopaedic-style beds; if your dog has a diagnosed joint condition, ask your vet what type of support they recommend.

Easy access

Getting in and out should take no effort. For many older dogs, that means low sides or one open edge they can walk straight onto. High, firm walls that need a step or a hop can put dogs off using the bed at all. If you prefer a raised bed to keep your dog off a cold floor, check that the step up is comfortable for them, and watch for hesitation.

Room to stretch

Sleeping habits can change over the years, so measure your dog lying in the position they now use most and allow some extra space. Our dog bed size guide explains how to measure.

Warmth

PDSA notes that puppies and older dogs may need extra help staying warm in colder weather. A bed with soft sides to lean against, placed away from doors and cold floors, will help. A washable blanket adds an extra layer in winter. Keep the bed near warmth rather than against a radiator, so your dog can move away if they get too hot.

Easy to wash

Older dogs may have the occasional accident, and a bed that is hard to clean quickly becomes unpleasant. A removable, machine washable cover makes life easier. Our guide on how often to wash a dog bed has a simple routine.

Floor or raised?

There is no single right answer for older dogs. A floor bed with soft, low sides is simple to step into. A raised bed keeps your dog off cold floors and draughts but needs a step up. Think about your floors, how your dog moves and where they like to rest. Our guide to raised vs floor dog beds compares the two in detail.

Setting up the space

• Keep it in the same place. Older dogs, especially those losing their sight, cope best when furniture stays where it is. Dogs Trust advises keeping furniture in place and avoiding leaving objects in their path.
• Close to the family. A bed in the room where everyone spends time means your dog does not have to choose between comfort and company.
• Grip underfoot. On polished wood or tiled floors, a rug around the bed gives your dog something to push off from when getting up.
• Think about stairs and steps. If your dog sleeps upstairs, consider whether a bed on the ground floor would be easier. Dogs Trust mentions ramps as a way to help older dogs manage stairs or the car, and PDSA suggests ramps around doorways so dogs can get outside to the toilet more easily.
• Water nearby. Keep a water bowl a short walk from the bed.
• More than one bed. A second bed in another room saves your dog moving around the house to find a comfortable spot.

Beds from our range that may suit

The Richmond Bed is handcrafted in the UK with a deep-filled removable cushion and soft pocket sides your dog can lean against, and is machine washable at 30°C. The Savanna Bed has the same shape with a non-slip base, which helps on hard floors, and is also washable at 30°C. Both come in Regular, Large and XL sizes. Before you buy, check the height of the sides against how easily your dog steps in and out. Browse all our dog beds.

Signs it may be time for a new bed, or a vet visit

Look out for a cushion that has gone flat or lumpy, a dog who has started lying on the floor beside the bed, or one who circles for a long time before settling. A new bed may help. But if your dog is stiff when getting up, struggles with stairs, seems restless at night or shows any change in behaviour, book a check with your vet. Dogs Trust asks owners to let their vet know at the first sign of behavioural changes.

For more on choosing well, read our guide on how to choose a luxury dog bed.

Frequently asked questions

What type of bed is best for an older dog?

A supportive, deep-filled bed that is easy to step into, warm and out of draughts. If your dog has a joint condition, ask your vet which type of support they recommend.

Should an older dog have a raised bed?

It can help keep them off cold floors and away from draughts, but the step up must be comfortable. Some older dogs find a floor bed with low, soft sides easier.

Do older dogs need help staying warm?

PDSA notes that older dogs may need extra help staying warm. Keep the bed away from doors and cold floors and add a washable blanket in winter.

When should I talk to my vet about my older dog's sleep?

If your dog is stiff, restless at night, reluctant to lie down or showing any change in behaviour. Regular check-ups are also recommended for older dogs.