How to Choose the Right Bed for Your Dog or Cat

When my French Bulldog cross Hugo curls up for a nap — which, let's be honest, is most of the day — he has very specific requirements. He likes to be warm, slightly enclosed, and ideally within eyeline of wherever I am. Finding the right bed for him took a bit of trial and error. And when we welcomed our Maine Coon Duke and most recently our rescue cat Kiara into the family, I quickly learned that what works for one pet is completely wrong for another.

If you're trying to figure out which bed is right for your dog or cat, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why the Right Bed Actually Matters

It's easy to think a bed is just a bed — a soft surface for your pet to sleep on. But the right bed does a lot more than that. It supports your pet's joints, regulates their body temperature, reduces anxiety, and gives them a safe space that's entirely their own.

For rescue animals especially, having a dedicated, comfortable sleeping spot can make a huge difference to how quickly they settle into a new home. When Kiara first came to us, having her own cosy bed in a quiet corner gave her somewhere to retreat to while she found her feet. It became her safe space almost immediately.

A good bed is an investment in your pet's wellbeing — and it doesn't have to cost a fortune to make a real difference.

Step 1: Know Your Pet's Sleeping Style

Before you look at any beds, watch how your pet sleeps. This is the single most important factor in choosing the right one.

The Curler

Some dogs and cats curl up tight into a ball when they sleep, tucking their nose under their tail. If your pet does this, they'll feel most comfortable in a donut or nest-style bed with raised edges. The raised sides give them something to rest their head on and create that snug, enclosed feeling they're naturally seeking.

Hugo is a classic curler. He gravitates towards beds with a raised rim every single time — it makes him feel secure, which is especially common in rescue dogs who've had uncertain starts.

The Sprawler

Other pets — Duke being a prime example, as Maine Coons are famously dramatic sleepers — like to stretch out completely. A long, flat plush bed with plenty of surface area is what they need. A nest bed will frustrate a sprawler; they'll just hang off the edges.

The Burrower

Some pets, particularly anxious or nervous animals, like to get underneath things. Tunnel beds, hooded beds, or beds with a blanket attached are perfect for burrowers. If your rescue cat or dog seems to prefer hiding under blankets or furniture, a burrowing-style bed could be transformative.

Kiara, still finding her confidence after her rescue, spent her first few weeks preferring to sleep under a blanket rather than on top of anything. A hooded bed gave her the security she needed while still being a proper, comfortable sleeping space.

Step 2: Get the Size Right

A bed that's too small is uncomfortable. A bed that's too large can feel exposed and unsettling, particularly for anxious pets.

As a general rule:

• Measure your pet from nose to tail when they're in their natural sleeping position
• Add around 20–30cm to that measurement for a flat bed
• For nest or donut beds, the internal diameter should be large enough for your pet to turn around comfortably

For French Bulldogs like Hugo, a medium-sized nest bed works perfectly. For a large Maine Coon like Duke, you'll want something generously sized — Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds and need the space to match.

Step 3: Consider the Material

The material of a pet bed matters more than most people realise — both for your pet's comfort and for your own sanity when it comes to cleaning.

Plush and fleece beds are soft, warm, and great for pets who feel the cold. They're ideal for short-haired breeds like French Bulldogs, older pets, and small dogs. The downside is they can attract pet hair and may need washing more frequently.

Memory foam bases are excellent for older pets or those with joint issues. If your dog is a senior or has arthritis, a memory foam bed can make a significant difference to their comfort and mobility.

Waterproof liners are worth considering if you have a puppy still in training, an older pet with incontinence issues, or simply a dog who comes in muddy from walks regularly.

Always check whether a bed is machine washable before you buy. With pets, it's not a question of if the bed will need washing — it's when.

Step 4: Think About Placement

Where you put the bed matters as much as the bed itself. Pets are creatures of habit and comfort, and the right location can make the difference between a bed that gets used constantly and one that gets ignored.

• Dogs generally want to be near their people. A spot in the living room or bedroom where they can see you is ideal.
• Cats often prefer elevated spots or quiet corners away from foot traffic. Kiara's bed is tucked into a corner of the spare room — quiet, slightly hidden, and all hers.
• Avoid draughts — cold air from doors and windows can make even the cosiest bed uncomfortable.
• Multiple beds are worth considering if you have a multi-pet household or a large home. Hugo has one downstairs and one in the bedroom — because apparently one bed is never enough.

Step 5: Factor In Your Pet's Age and Health

A puppy's needs are very different from a senior dog's. And a rescue animal settling into a new home has different needs again.

Puppies need beds that are easy to get in and out of (low sides), machine washable (accidents happen), and not so expensive that you'll be heartbroken when they chew it. They'll likely outgrow their first bed quickly too, so don't over-invest at this stage.

Senior pets benefit from orthopaedic or memory foam bases that support ageing joints. If your dog is slowing down on walks or seems stiff when they get up, their bed could be contributing to the problem.

Rescue animals often benefit from beds with raised edges or enclosed designs that provide a sense of security. The transition to a new home can be overwhelming, and having a dedicated, comfortable space helps them decompress and settle faster.

Our Bed Recommendations at Wobblefox Pets

We've curated our beds collection with all of the above in mind. Here's a quick guide to what we stock and who it's best for:

• Cozy Nest Pet Bed — perfect for curlers and small breeds. The raised edges and plush interior make it ideal for dogs like Hugo or cats who love to feel snug.
• Long Plush Cat Bed — designed for sprawlers like Duke. Generous length, ultra-soft material, and machine washable.
• Soft Plush Pet Bed — raised rim design with an ultra-plush interior. Great for anxious or rescue pets like Kiara who need that extra sense of security.
• Plush Pet Bed — a versatile everyday bed with a non-slip base. Suits cats and dogs of all sizes.
• 2 In 1 Round Tunnel Cat Bed — perfect for burrowers and cats who like to hide. Two beds in one.

Browse our full Beds collection here

A Final Note on Rescue Pets

If you've recently adopted a rescue animal, be patient with the bed situation. Some rescues take weeks to feel comfortable enough to use a bed properly — they may sleep on the floor next to it, or drag the bedding out rather than sleeping in it. That's completely normal.

Give them time, keep the bed in a consistent spot, and let them come to it on their own terms. Kiara took almost three weeks before she started sleeping in her bed regularly. Now she's in it most of the day.

The right bed, in the right place, at the right time — it makes all the difference.

At Wobblefox Pets, we believe every pet deserves a proper place to rest — especially the ones who've had a rough start. Browse our pet beds collection to find the perfect fit for your dog or cat.