Choosing a dog bed might seem simple, but the right bed can make a real difference to your dog's comfort, health, sleep quality and everyday wellbeing.
Whether you have a growing puppy, an active adult dog or a senior companion that needs a little extra support, different dogs have different sleeping needs.
In this comprehensive guide we'll explain what to look for in a quality dog bed, compare the most common styles available in New Zealand, and help you decide which type is best suited to your dog.
Why a Good Dog Bed Matters?
Did you know dogs spend around 12–16 hours sleeping each day, making their bed one of the most frequently used items in your home.
The right dog bed provides:
- Better comfort and less restlessness
- Support for joints and pressure points
- Insulation from cold floors
- A dedicated place where your dog feels secure
- Easier cleaning and improved hygiene
- Better overall health and wellbeing
While every dog is different, choosing a bed that suits your dog's size, age and sleeping style is often more important than simply choosing the most expensive option.
The Main Types of Dog Beds in New Zealand
Donut Beds (also known as Calming Dog Beds)
Donut beds like our Deep Sleep Dog Bed are the most popular in New Zealand. They are often loved as the raised rim helps create a sense of security for your pet. This lets them relax better for a deeper sleep.
Best for
- Dogs that curl up
- Dogs that like raised sides
- Dogs seeking a cosy sleeping space
Pros
- Soft and comfortable
- Warm and cosy
- Creates a secure, nest-like sleeping space
Cons
- May not suit dogs that prefer sleeping completely flat
Orthopaedic Memory Foam Beds
We've noticed a sharp increase in customers searching for orthopaedic memory foam beds in recent years, versus pre 2022. We believe this is because Kiwis are becoming more aware of their dogs joint health, which is where Orthopaedic Memory Foam beds really help.
Best for
- Senior dogs
- Large breeds
- Dogs needing extra support
- Dogs that stretch out
Pros
- Provides even support across the body
- Maintains its shape for longer
- Easy for older dogs to get on and off
Cons
- Usually more expensive than standard filled beds
- May not appeal to dogs that prefer to curl up against raised sides (unless you add 'Rims' like our Rim Cover).
At The Brooklyn, we offer a range of Orthopaedic Memory Foam beds including:
Cooling Beds
Like Orthopaedic dog beds, Cooling Dog Beds have become more popular in recent years. After all, no one wants a bed you can only use for a few months of the year right?
Cooling beds use special foams and fillings to draw heat away from your pet. This is especially important for summer and warmer climates.
Perfect for
- Double-coated breeds
- Summer weather
- Warm climates
Pros
- Helps reduce heat build-up while resting
- More comfortable during warmer months
- Ideal for breeds that naturally run hot
Cons
- May feel too cool in winter (unless you have a reversible inner pad like our Cooling Bed)
- Usually offers less insulation than plush beds
Chew Resistant Dog Beds
No bed is truly chew proof, which is why it is important to watch out for marketing gimmicks. Brands make beds chew resistant by using high strength nylon as the cover on the bed.
This reduces some comfort, but increases durability significantly.
At The Brooklyn, we made our chew resistant dog bed option 2-in-1, so the fluffy topper can keep your dog comfy, while being removable when you're popping out of the house.
How To Choose The Right Size Dog Bed?
We've helped over 100,000 dogs into the right sized bed and the one thing we've learnt over the past 6-years, is it is always better to go bigger than too small.
When choosing a size, you want room for your pet to grow into the bed, and if they've stopped growing, having some extra space is perfect for those warmer months.
When picking a size, we recommend measuring your current dog bed and comparing it to a brands size charts.
Or alternatively, giving your dog a quick measure from nose to tail. This will give you a good idea of how much space they'll need.
Ideally, your dog should be able to
- Curl up comfortably
- Stretch out fully
- Rest without hanging over the edges
Which Bed Is Best For Different Dogs?
Puppies
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, and one of the first things they'll need is a comfortable place to sleep. Puppies can sleep for 18–20 hours a day, so choosing the right bed helps create a space that's both comfortable and familiar.
Most puppies naturally curl up when they sleep, making soft donut-style beds a popular choice. Raised sides provide somewhere to rest their head while creating a cosy, enclosed space that many young dogs enjoy. It's also worth looking for a bed with a machine-washable cover, as accidents are more common during toilet training.
Brooklyn® Deep Sleep Pet Bed
Soft, supportive and designed with raised sides, our Deep Sleep Bed is a great choice for puppies that enjoy curling up in a cosy sleeping space.
- Raised, supportive sides
- Removable, machine-washable covers
- Generously filled for added comfort
- Replacement covers available
Senior Dogs
As dogs get older, they may spend more time resting and can become less comfortable on beds that flatten or provide uneven support. A supportive foam bed can offer a stable sleeping surface while still giving them enough room to stretch out and change positions.
For senior dogs, it is also worth considering how easy the bed is to get on and off, whether the cover can be removed for washing, and whether the inner foam is protected from moisture.
Brooklyn® Memory Foam Pet Bed
A supportive, low-profile bed designed for dogs that prefer a flatter sleeping surface and consistent support while resting.
- Supportive memory foam construction
- Low-profile design for easier access
- Removable, machine-washable cover
- Waterproof inner liner
Large Dogs
Larger breeds place significantly more pressure on a dog bed than smaller dogs, so choosing a bed that provides both support and durability is important. Look for a bed with a supportive foam base that won't flatten quickly, enough room for your dog to fully stretch out, and raised sides if they enjoy resting their head while they sleep.
Brooklyn® Memory Foam Bolster Bed
Combining supportive memory foam with raised bolster sides, this bed gives larger dogs plenty of room to stretch out while still providing a comfortable place to rest their head.
- Supportive memory foam base
- Raised bolster sides for head and neck support
- Large sleeping surface for bigger breeds
- Removable, machine-washable cover with waterproof liner
Small Dogs
Smaller dogs often prefer warm, enclosed sleeping spaces where they can curl up and feel secure. Because they don't place as much pressure on the filling, plush donut-style beds can provide plenty of comfort while the raised sides offer somewhere to rest their head.
Many small breeds also enjoy sleeping tucked into corners or enclosed spaces, making a bed with supportive bolsters a popular choice.
Dogs That Sleep Curled Up
Many dogs instinctively curl up when they sleep. This position helps them conserve body heat and creates a sense of security, which is why beds with supportive sides are often a popular choice.
When choosing a bed for a dog that likes to curl up, look for raised edges they can lean against, enough space to change positions comfortably, and supportive materials that won't flatten over time.
Brooklyn® Nest Dog Bed
Combining supportive bolsters with a spacious sleeping area, the Brooklyn Nest Bed is ideal for dogs that enjoy curling up while still having room to stretch out and change positions.
- Raised bolsters for head and neck support
- Supportive orthopaedic foam base
- Spacious design for multiple sleeping positions
- Removable washable cover with waterproof liner
Dogs That Stretch Out
Some dogs prefer to sleep with their legs fully extended rather than curled into a ball. For these dogs, choosing a bed with a generous sleeping surface and consistent support can help them comfortably change positions throughout the night.
A flatter bed also allows larger breeds to spread out naturally, while raised edges or optional bolsters can still provide somewhere to rest their head when they want a little extra comfort.
Brooklyn® Memory Foam Pet Bed + Rim Cover
The Memory Foam Bed provides a spacious, supportive sleeping surface for dogs that love to stretch out, while the optional Rim Cover adds raised edges for dogs that occasionally like somewhere to rest their head.
- Large, open sleeping surface
- Supportive memory foam construction
- Optional Rim Cover for added head support
- Removable washable cover with waterproof liner
What Makes a Quality Dog Bed?
No matter which style you choose, there are a few features worth looking for:
- Machine-washable covers – Easier to keep clean and fresh.
- Supportive filling or foam – Helps the bed keep its shape over time.
- Water-resistant inner liner – Protects the inner filling from accidents and spills.
- Durable stitching – Especially important for larger or more active dogs.
- Spare covers available – Extends the life of the bed and makes cleaning more convenient.
- The right size – Your dog should be able to curl up and stretch out comfortably.
Common Mistakes People Make
With so many options available, it's easy to focus on colour or price and overlook the things that make the biggest difference to your dog's comfort. Here are some of the most common mistakes pet owners make when choosing a dog bed.
Buying the Wrong Size
One of the biggest mistakes is choosing a bed that's too small. Your dog should be able to curl up comfortably, but also stretch out fully if they prefer sleeping that way. When in doubt, measure your dog while they're lying down and compare it to the manufacturer's size guide.
Choosing a Bed Based on Price Alone
While budget is important, the cheapest option isn't always the best value. A bed that loses its shape quickly or needs replacing after a short period may end up costing more over time than a well-made bed designed to last.
Forgetting About Washability
Dogs bring dirt, fur and the occasional muddy paw inside, so a removable, machine-washable cover can make keeping their bed clean much easier. It's also worth checking whether replacement covers are available if the original becomes worn.
Not Considering Your Dog's Sleeping Style
Some dogs naturally curl up into a ball, while others prefer to stretch out across the entire bed. Choosing a style that suits the way your dog sleeps can make a noticeable difference to their comfort.
Ignoring Your Dog's Age and Needs
A playful puppy, an active adult dog and a senior dog don't always need the same type of bed. Taking your dog's size, age and mobility into account can help you choose a bed that's better suited to them now and as they grow older.
Replacing the Bed Too Late
Even quality dog beds won't last forever. If the filling has flattened, the foam no longer provides support, or the cover is showing significant wear, it may be time to consider replacing the bed.
