The most usual dog beds that we see in the market, be it brick and mortar or online, is a soft cushion that is usually round where you dog can curl up on. This specific type of dog bed is called a Donut Bed. Aptly named for its shape and how your dog would look like a cute doughnut when they curl up while sleeping.
Other types of dog beds are the following: Orthopedic beds, pillow or cushion beds, bolster bed, and even a heated dog bed.
These beds have specific uses and can benefit your dog in a variety of ways. But we’re here to talk about a specific one. And that is the Elevated Dog Bed.
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Benefits of an elevated dog bed
An elevated dog bed is different from other types of beds simply because it is raised from the floor. You would think that this feature doesn’t have anything to do with your dog’s comfort, but think again. Here are some of the benefits a raised dog bed can provide your dog:
Ventilation
Elevated dog beds have enough space under the bed where air can flow freely. Add that with a breathable mesh fabric and it will give the best ventilation a dog bed could give to your precious pet. They are pretty much the best type of dog bed for the summer season or when you live in areas with hot and humid climates.
Support
Elevated dog beds doesn’t only provide ample ventilation, it also gives your dog sufficient support while laying down. It’s like the difference between sleeping on a mattress versus a futon. A raised dog bed lessens the pressure that they will exert when they use a bed that lays flat on the floor. This will be beneficial for their joints and hips as they grow older.
Easy to maintain
Although there are different types of raised platform dog beds, most common elevated beds are usually made with durable steel frames and a waterproof mesh cot. These you can clean up with just soap and water. Some are even a “no-assembly” type, lightweight enough that you can bring it anywhere. Camping trips are a lot more fun for your dog with these types of dog bed in tow.
More luxurious types of raised dog beds like furniture-types with upholstery, as well as raised beds with stairs installed, will need more care when being cleaned.
Features to look for in an elevated pet cot
Size of Bed
The size of the bed is important of course. Although a dog is okay to let a bit of their extremities extend beyond the dog bed, it shouldn’t be so much that they’re just hanging about. Double-check the product’s size chart to see which size is suitable for your dog. Most companies provide a variety of dog bed sizes to fit your pet.
Dog Breed/Sleeping Position
There might be raised pet beds that are too high for smaller dog breeds to jump on, or too low that a big, heavy dog will make the cot sag and touch the floor.
Your dog’s favorite sleeping position can become a factor to consider as well. Those who love leaning their heads on something or curling up while sleeping might like bolsters around their bed.
Medical Condition of Dog or Age
Elevated beds might be great for senior pups with arthritis or hip dysplasia, but you should still think if the height would put more stress on your pet’s body. They would need strength and effort to get on the cot and this might put more pressure on their joints. You can check out orthopedic dog beds if you think that it will be more suitable for your dog, instead.
Portability/Storage
If you don’t have enough time to assemble and disassemble a dog bed, then there are perfectly durable elevated beds in the market that are also foldable. They don’t need any assembly and may even come with a carrier for storage and portability.
Indoor or Outdoor Use
Although most elevated dog beds are made with waterproof materials, there are some more luxurious types that are similar to human furniture – just downsized a lot more to fit a dog’s build. These furniture type dog beds are not suitable for outdoor use, since they are made with plush fabric.
The usual frame and mesh cot design, however, are perfect for outdoor and indoor use. If they’re also foldable or easy to disassemble, then they’re perfect for outdoor camping and hiking with your dog.
Durability
Tubular wire and iron frames are common materials used for an elevated dog bed. They are durable and can bear the weight of large breeds. But you should still consider other factors like chew proof materials or weather resistant features, for active dogs and those who are aggressive chewers.
Best Elevated Dog Beds of 2019
Basic, No Hassle Wire Frame Bed – Coolaroo Original Elevated Pet Bed
Coolaroo is known for its pioneer engineering with the Original Elevated Pet Bed. They started the trend of the durable, easy to maintain bed for dogs with a suspended platform that increases airflow, making it a comfortable and cool place for your dog to sleep on!
This elevated pet bed is the most basic design in the market but still gets the job done excellently. The suspended mesh is 8” off the ground with a round-edged wireframe for safety. The height is easy enough for smaller dogs to get on, but maybe not so much for senior dogs or dogs with mobility difficulties.
The Coolaroo Original Elevated Pet Bed is an easy pet cot to assemble. You just need some screwdriver to tighten up the screws, and maybe a helping hand to fit the lightweight and powder-coated steel frame together. The cot itself is made from durable and high-density polyethylene fabric mesh that is extremely breathable suitable for hot climates.
Key Features:
- Easy to assemble and no hassle pet cot
- Elevated 8” from the floor; easy to access by all dog sizes
- Breathable and high-density mesh cot for warm climates
- Comes in a variety of sizes for any dog breed
- Every part is lightweight, you can easily bring this with you on trips
- Easy to wash and maintain
- Can be a raised outdoor dog bed
Cons:
- Not for dogs with extreme chewing and digging habits
- Will sag over time
Foldable Pet Bed with Carrier Bag – GigaTent Elevated Pet Cot
If you travel a lot with your dog, then you will love GigaTent’s Elevated Pet Cot. This pet bed doesn’t need any assembly and just need to be unfolded to be in use. It has foldable legs that are comfortably tucked in when not in use, making it easy to slip into the carrier bag included with the bed!
The bed itself is elevated 8” from the floor and can be easily accessed by all dog breeds. The frame of GigaTent’s cot is made from durable tubular steel, which can bear up to 100lbs. The frame has a u-shaped design that distributes weight evenly so your dog is supported no matter their position on the bed. It is easy to maintain as well, and you can use it indoors or outdoors.
The bag included has a shoulder strap so you can easily bring it on hikes, camping, and any outdoor activity with your precious four-legged friend!
Key Features:
- Raised 8” off the ground; easily accessible for any dog breed
- No assembly required! You only need to unfold the bed and it’s ready to be enjoyed by your dog
- Rounded frame prevents accidents and keep it steady even when bearing heavy weights
- Has a carrier bag included for portability
- Easy to clean and maintain dog bed
- Can be used for outdoor and indoor use
- An elevated cooling pet bed with its breathable material
Cons:
- There are gaps along the bed where your dog’s paw might get caught on
- No locking system to keep it folded
Portable and Cushioned Pet Bed – Paws & Pals Elevated Pet Bed
For the comfiest outdoor pet bed in the market, you have to see Paws & Pals’ Raised Cot! This foldable pet bed uses a very soft cushion instead of the usual mesh bed. This cushion is made from waterproof and durable oxford cloth. It is extremely breathable and is suitable for outdoor use. The folding frame makes it easy to bring anywhere you want, keeping your pup comfortable no matter what environment they will be staying in.
Paws & Pals’ Elevated Dog Bed has a carrying bag to make it easy to lug around. The frame can be folded with or without the cushion. Plus, there are also Velcro included with the cushion that you can attach to the straps of the frame to keep it in place, if you prefer keeping them together.
Key Features:
- Comfortable and breathable oxford cloth bed
- Metal frame with plastic feet to keep it in place
- Foldable and no-assembly frame
- Easy to clean through handwashing with soap and water (has to be air-dried)
- Has carrying pouch so you can take the bed wherever, also makes storage easier
Cons:
- Brand new units will have a strong “plastic” smell to it
- Not for aggressive chewers or diggers
Easy to Maintain Elevated Dog Bed – AmazonBasics Elevated Cooling Pet Cot
AmazonBasics’ elevated dog bed is as simple as it gets. A durable and easy to assemble iron frame is paired with highly breathable PVC mesh for a comfortable cot suitable for all seasons. The mesh cot is waterproof and can be cleaned with water and soap. The very small gaps between the PVC fabric makes for maximum ventilation to keep your pet cool especially during summertime. The iron frame is steady and sturdy, although you need tools to assemble it. No need to worry about important parts because everything you need is included in the set.
The waterproof mesh is great for indoor or outdoor use, so you can bring this on hikes and camping with your pets.
Key Features:
- Simple and easy to maintain pet bed
- Breathable mesh hammock with waterproof qualities
- Easy to assemble iron frame that is sturdy and long lasting
- All the tools you need are included in the package
- Great for outdoor or indoor use
- Lightweight materials
Cons:
- Size chart might be confusing for first time owners
- Not for chewers and diggers
Elegant and Generously Cushioned Pet Bed – Enchanted Home Pet Extra Plush Snuggle Bed
If you feel that your dog deserves a royal treatment, then this ultra-plush snuggle bed from Enchanted Home is the best choice. They provide this beautiful, upholstered dog bed equipped with full-loft cushions. What a luxurious sleeping space for your regal pup!
This dog bed from Enchanted Home is designed like a miniature sofa perfectly sized for your dog. Its shape is good for dogs who love curling up while resting or sleeping, so it might not fit a dog who loves stretching out their limbs. Although this is only an indoor dog bed, its elevated construction and plush cushioning makes it a cozy sleeping spot for any pet. There’s even a storage pocket included for all of your dog’s favorite toys!
Key Features:
- Luxurious and plush elevated bed for pampered pups!
- Upholstered bed with full-loft cushions
- With storage pocket for keeping your dog’s favorite toys close
- Ultra-soft and comfy, also great decor for your living room
- A removable cover that can be hand washed
Cons:
- Cushion might be a little too firm for some dogs
- Suitable for leaners and curlers only
Comfortable Pet Cot for Indoor/Outdoor Use – K&H Pet Products Original Bolster Pet Cot
If you want a more ergonomic pet bed than the usual mesh cot, then you should try K&H Pet Products’ Original Bolster Pet cot. This breathable dog bed includes a soft but firm bolster if your dog likes to lean their heads on something while sleeping.
This elevated pet bed from K&H Pet Products upgrades the standard elevated pet cot of AmazonBasics and Cooleroo. It has a mesh hammock for maximum ventilation, perfect for hot climates and outdoor use. It has a no-tool assembly feature that is convenient and easy to disassemble as well. It is made from lightweight materials so you can bring this with you wherever you and your pet may go.
K&H’s elevated pet cot is 7″ in height with bolsters included and can bear up to 150 lbs. of weight. It’s also machine washable and can include a canopy for keeping your dog off the harsh rays of the sun.
Key Features:
- Elevated cot bed with comfy bolsters
- Breathable mesh hammock that can hold up to 150 lbs. of weight
- No-tool assembly and disassembly
- Machine washable and easy to maintain
- Perfect for indoor or outdoor use
- For dogs who love leaning their heads on something while sleeping
- Can include a canopy
Cons:
- Can be a bit squeaky and make noise when your dog repositions itself on the bed
- Not for aggressive chewers or diggers
