Dog Bed Size Guide: What Size Bed Does My Dog Need?
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To find the right size dog bed, measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, then add roughly 15 to 25cm so they have room to turn and settle. Dogs who curl up can usually use a round bed close to that measurement, while dogs who sprawl out need a larger, often rectangular, bed. Weight is a useful cross-check, but length and sleeping style matter most.
A bed that is too small leaves a dog hanging over the edge or unable to stretch, and one that is far too big can feel less secure for a dog who likes to curl up against the sides. Here is a simple method for getting it right.
How to measure your dog for a bed
- Watch how they sleep: before you measure, notice whether your dog usually curls into a ball, lies on their side with legs out, or sleeps on their back.
- Measure length: with your dog standing or lying stretched out, measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (not the tip).
- Add room to move: add about 15 to 25cm to that measurement. Use the lower end for smaller dogs and dedicated curlers, and the higher end for larger dogs and sprawlers.
- Check the width: for rectangular beds, measure your dog's height from floor to shoulder and make sure the bed is at least that wide, with some to spare.
- Compare with the bed's internal size: raised sides and bolsters take up space, so check the sleeping area rather than just the outer dimensions where possible.
For a step-by-step guide to measuring for collars, harnesses and coats as well, see how to measure your dog.
Curlers vs sprawlers: why sleeping style matters
Curlers
Many dogs, particularly small breeds, like to curl into a tight ball, tucking their nose towards their tail. Curling conserves warmth and many dogs seem to find it comforting. Curlers often love round or oval beds with raised sides they can lean against, and they can usually use a bed close to their measured length.
Sprawlers and side sleepers
Dogs who stretch out on their side, lie flat on their tummy with legs out behind, or sleep on their back need more room. For these dogs, choose a bed that comfortably fits their full stretched-out length, and consider a rectangular shape or a raised sofa-style bed.
Dogs who do both
Plenty of dogs curl up in winter and sprawl out in summer or in a warm room. If that sounds like your dog, size up rather than down.
Dog bed size chart by weight
Weight is not a perfect guide, as a long, lean dog and a compact, stocky dog of the same weight need different beds, but it is a useful starting point. The sizes below are the diameters of our round Richmond Bed and Savanna Bed, which share the same sizing.
| Bed size | Diameter | Typical dog weight | Example breeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | 45 to 50cm | Up to approx 7kg | Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, miniature Dachshund |
| Large | 55 to 60cm | Approx 6 to 12kg | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Jack Russell, Shih Tzu, Beagle |
| XL | 65 to 70cm | Approx 12 to 20kg | Cocker Spaniel, Staffordshire Bull Terrier |
The sizes overlap slightly between Regular and Large. If your dog sits around 6 to 7kg, choose Large if they like to stretch out and Regular if they are a dedicated curler. Breed examples are only a rough guide, as individual dogs vary a great deal, so always check against your own dog's length.
Both beds are handcrafted in the UK with a removable cushion and pocket sides. The Richmond is a forest green check with a deep-filled cushion and is machine washable at 30°C. The Savanna has a zebra-inspired print, a non-slip base and is washable at 30°C.
Beds for bigger dogs
For dogs over about 20kg, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, the same method applies, but a few extra points are worth considering:
- Size by length, not weight: large dogs vary hugely in shape, so measure from nose to base of tail and add room to stretch.
- Consider a rectangular bed or mattress: many large dogs sprawl, and a rectangle uses floor space more efficiently than a very large round bed.
- Look for supportive filling: heavier dogs compress filling more, so a thick, supportive base helps, particularly for older dogs with stiff joints.
- Think about getting in and out: older or arthritic dogs may find a low entry point easier than high sides.
Other things to consider
- Raised beds: sofa-style beds lift your dog off cold floors and draughts. Our Chelsea Sofa Bed has solid wood legs, cotton upholstery, a water-resistant lining and a removable cushion, with the Small measuring 70cm long and 40cm wide for dogs up to 20kg.
- Puppies: buy for the size your puppy is now, or for their adult size with a blanket to make the space feel cosier. A very large bed can be a tempting place for accidents.
- Washability: a removable, washable cover makes life much easier. Our guide on keeping a cream dog bed clean has practical tips.
- Style and placement: choose a spot that is warm, draught free and close to the family. Our guide on how to choose a luxury dog bed covers materials, filling and style in more depth.
You can see every style and size in our dog beds collection.
Frequently asked questions
Should a dog bed be bigger than the dog?
Yes. Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and add around 15 to 25cm so they can turn around, settle and stretch. Dogs who sprawl need more space than dogs who curl up.
What size bed does a 10kg dog need?
A dog of around 10kg often suits a round bed of about 55 to 60cm, such as our Large size, but check your dog's length and sleeping style. A long dog or a sprawler may need the next size up.
Do dogs prefer round or rectangular beds?
It depends on how they sleep. Curlers often prefer round beds with raised sides to lean against, while dogs who stretch out are usually more comfortable on a rectangular bed or mattress.
Is it better to size up or down for a dog bed?
If your dog is between sizes, sizing up is usually the safer choice, especially for dogs who sometimes stretch out. A dedicated curler who likes to feel snug may prefer the smaller size.