Best Outdoor Dog Beds in 2024 | Review of the Top 5 Products

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If you spend a lot of time outdoors with your canine, a good quality outdoor bed is a necessary piece of furniture. It will help your dog cool down in hot weather thanks to their elevated designs and breathable fabrics that allow fresh air to circulate. Also, an outdoor dog bed can also be a great way to create a personal space for him during family picnics or camping trips.

So, in this article, we’ve outlined the top 5 best outdoor dog beds to help you pick a suitable one for your canine.

The Best Dog Beds to Keep Your Pooch Comfortable Outside

Product Name

Key Features

Our Rating

- Waterproof resistant.

- Bacteria resistant.

- Ultimate comfort & security.

- Waterproof.

- Durable.

- Non-skid rubber feet.

- Portable.

- Lightweight.

- Made with orthopedic memory foam.

- Resistant to fleas, mites & mold.

- Made with HDPE fabric to eliminate hot spots.

- Smart Air-Flow mesh lets in cool air.

- Made with steel that won't rust.

Please continue reading for more in-depth reviews

1. K&H Bolster Pet Cot Elevated

K&H Pet Products Original Bolster Elevated Dog Bed

Overview

The outdoor dog bed comes in 3 sizes that are suitable for dogs of every size. 

  • Small size – 14”x16” sleeping surface 
  • Medium size - 22”x26” sleeping surface
  • Large size – 27”x36” sleeping surface

The bed frame alone can support up to 150 pounds, solid enough for your hefty pooch. If your pet has joint pains, the bed’s sleeping area is elevated 7 inches off the ground to help relieve pain and allow fresh, natural air to cool your pet in hot weather.

The removable bolsters along three sides of the bed are stuffed to support your pet’s head better, and they are also machine-washable for easy cleaning any time you need to. This feature will be particularly useful for canines that enjoy resting their heads on raised surfaces such as pillows.

The wide edges of the bed cover are made with durable, thick, and waterproof polyester, and the center mesh is resistant to the damages caused by bacteria, mold, and mildew.

If you feel your pet needs it, you can upgrade to a cooling or self-warming cover, all of which are made by K&H and available for separate purchase. Also, if your dog is extra-sensitive to the sun or you want a more luxurious look outdoors, you might add the canopy to your purchase.

Setting up and taking down this bed is easy and requires no special tools or professional help. The company also provides buyers with a one-year limited warranty.

Pros

While we loved most if not all the features of this outdoor dog bed, certain features stood out. The pillows or bolsters that are great if you own a pooch that enjoys or requires some head support. 

The sturdy and lightweight design of the bed is another feature we love. Plus, it is easy to put together and portable enough to carry whenever you need to take your dog on those picnics or camping trips. 

Another feature you’ll love about this elevated outdoor pet bed is its ease of cleaning.  You can easily wipe or hose it down. It is also super-comfortable ,so if your canine loves snoozing away on your favorite couch, you can finally reclaim it when you bring this bed home. Like many other dogs, your furry friend will surely pick this over your couch. We discuss here whether or not you should allow your pooch on your couch.

Cons

While the product enjoys massive glowing reviews from buyers, some had a few complaints about the quality of the fabric. According to these reviewers, the bed lost its color after a few uses. Others complained about the seam coming undone almost immediately after purchase. 

However, we must mention that the company’s customer service is impressive, considering their response to the buyers who had problems with their purchase. 

K&H Pet Products Elevated Dog Bed

Overview

Another great outdoor pet bed from K&H, it comes in different sizes. The largest measures 32″ X 50″ and it’s excellent for both outdoor and indoor use. 

The bed is easy to set up and requires no tools or professionalism. The bed made from the 600-denier fabric can withstand harsh weather with ease. 

The non-skid rubber feet help to keep the elevated bed from slipping on sloppy surfaces. It is also spacious with a quality mesh to let in fresh air and keep your canine comfortable and cool every time. 

Pros

  • Easy to assemble 
  • Non-skid feet
  • Elevated to allow air
  • Durable enough for frequent and long-term use

Cons

While considerably durable, it may not be a suitable bed for an aggressive chewer.

Brindle Soft Orthopedic Pillow Cat & Dog Bed w/Removable Cover

Overview

The Brindle Designer Memory Foam is made with a waterproof memory foam mattress and comfortable Sherpa cover. 

If you’re looking for an affordable and high-quality option for your small dog breed, this bed offers you just that. It is a fusion of support, convenience, and comfort. The bed consists of 4 inches of foam – two inches of memory foam for comfort and another two inches for maximum support. 

The Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam is in a classic rectangular shape to allow your dog to curl up or fully stretch out when he needs to. The removable Sherpa cover is one of the bed’s features your dog will love. It is easy to clean and both washer and dryer-friendly. 

In case of accidents, the foam comes fitted with a waterproof layer under the removable cover that helps to keep it protected. 

It also comes in different color combinations, and they all come with a non-slip bottom and a three-year warranty. 

Overall, although the Brindle Waterproof Memory Foam is simple in design and boasts features many dog owners would love. It is comfy, easy to clean, supportive, and sturdy enough for long-term use. 

Pros

  • It is designed with your dog’s maximum comfort in mind
  • Machine-washable and dryer safe
  • Designed with a waterproof cover that helps to protect the memory foam 
  • A classic rectangular shape that allows for curling up and stretching out

Cons

  • The soft outer cover is not chew-resistant and may not withstand heavy chewing
  • This may also not be the ideal bed for your dog if he weighs over 35 pounds
  • As some reviewers noted, the bed has an odor that will fade after some use (a common “trait” shared by many new pet beds and pet products)
Coolaroo Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed

Overview

A product from the environmentally-conscious brand Coolaroo, the Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed, is a comfortable, durable, and affordable outdoor bed.

The bed comes in 4 different sizes, so you should find one that is suitable for your canine.

  • Small-size (sleeping surface of 28”x22.75”, can hold up to 50 pounds)
  • Medium-size (sleeping surface of 35.5”x25.5”, can hold up to 75 pounds)
  • Large-size (sleeping surface of 43.5”x31.5”, can hold up to 100 pounds)
  • extra-large size (sleeping surface of 52”x37”, can hold over 100 pounds)

With an elevated sleeping area that helps to take the pressure off your canine’s joints, so he rests well, this bed is a great choice if your pet has joint issues or you just need him to be as comfortable as possible.  The fabric made from durable, high-density polyethylene stays cools always and is resistant to mites, fleas, mold, and mildew. The company also manufactures separately purchased replacements.

This outdoor bed is portable and can be easily assembled with just a large Philips-head screwdriver. It is also GREENGUARD certified and designed with a frame made from a 100% recyclable lead. 

Pros 

The bed is super-durable, and some buyers even mentioned that the bed was still in great condition after many years of outdoor use. 

It is also easy to rinse off with a hose and if you ever need to change the fabric if it gets damaged beyond repair, the replacement price is very affordable and was something many customers were pleased with. 

It is also a great outdoor bed to travel with and equally great when used indoors. Canines with joint aches and pains will find the bed truly comfortable while enjoying the cool air allowed by the elevation provided. 

Cons

Some customers initially had complaints about the bed being difficult to assemble, adding that the directions included in the package did little to help in the setup. The company has responded by providing a YouTube tutorial that will help buyers easily assemble the bed.

There were also complaints by some customers about the fabric, noting that it got easily stretched out and the screws sometimes required re-tightening. 

Overall, many of the customers seemed pleased with their purchase and rated the product highly.

Gen7Pets Cool-Air Cot Elevated Dog Bed

Overview

Perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, the Gen7Pets Cool-Air Cot Pet Bed keeps your pet dry and comfortable on hiking trips and excursions. The bed is designed with an airflow mesh to let in cool air at all times.

Thanks to the bed's curved back panel, your fur baby can settle in for a nap any time and still be comfortable. For extra durability, the bed is made with a powder-coated steel frame that is both rust-resistant in any weather and firm. Thanks to its design, storage, setting up, and transporting, this bed is easy.

Key features

  • Quality mesh design to allow fresh air and visibility
  • Portable and elevated to keep your fur baby dry and comfortable in it outdoors
  • Curved panel for added comfort and support during naps
  • Double stitching for extra durability and the powder-coated frame to prevent rust from outdoor use
  • Transport, setup, and storage is easy thanks to its snap-together design.

Buying Guide for Outdoor Dog Beds

The Level of Comfort

On camping or picnic trips, your pooch will certainly appreciate the comfort that comes from sitting on a super-comfortable bed after a long walk. Therefore, when shopping for an outdoor dog bed, look out for a bed that is made with good quality material and is comfortable for him. 

The Bed’s Size 

Don’t just get a bed because you loved the design while ignoring the fact that it’d be too small or large for your dog. 

Maintenance Ease

Another thing you should look out for when selecting the best outdoor dog bed for your pet is the ease of cleaning. You want to get a bed that is machine or hose washable. You also want a bed fitted with covers that are made of easy-to-clean materials, so you’re able to clean it more than occasionally.

Elevation 

Elevation is also a factor to consider when picking an outdoor bed for your dog. An elevated bed protects your pet from bugs and dirt, and if he has aching joints, there are also designs that will provide some relief from that problem. 

Durability 

If you have a really playful dog, consider getting a tear-resistant bed that will withstand several rough plays. It also needs to be able to withstand the elements. Look for a bed that is designed with materials resistant to pests, mildew, and mold. 

Portability 

If you’re buying an outdoor bed for use mostly on camping and picnic trips, portability is another primary factor to consider. You should ensure that the bed is easy to take anywhere you want. It should also be easy to take apart and put back together for easy storage. 

Final Words

When looking for the best outdoor dog bed, take into consideration all of the factors listed in this article. Also, consider your canine’s behavior, so you’re able to pick one that is most suitable for him.

Finally, if your dog suffers from any bone problem – aging or development-related, you may need to make arrangements for a custom-made elevated bed. But ensure you only do this after consulting your vet so he can list out specific requirements for a remarkably comfy and supportive bed for your dog.

Questions/thoughts? Share in the comment section below.

About the Author

Kirsten Heggarty
Website | + posts

Kirsten created The Pet Handbook with the aim of sharing her knowledge about pets, pet food, healthy habits, and more. All of her advice is based on years of her own experience with her pets, and feedback that she has received from grateful readers about her tips. If you want to know more please read the About Me page.