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Everything You Need To Fly With Your Dog
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We've identified 11 essentials
We combed through the hundreds of pet products we've tested to find the most useful airline travel essentials—carriers, toys, snacks, and other tools that will put your pet at ease, streamline travel, and take the headache out of that next cross-country flight with your small dog.
The first step to flying with your dog is having a firm sense of the specific pet policies of your chosen airline and flight. The maximum weight allowed for in-cabin pets varies among airlines but is usually around 20 pounds. Your dog must also be up-to-date on their vaccinations and be capable of remaining in a pet carrier for the duration of the flight.
If you have a certified service and/or therapy dog, these rules and guidelines can vary significantly, so it's crucial to inform your airline of a service animal in advance. Typically, your airline will ask for a completed Department of Transportation form, filed in advance of your flight. As one example, here's Delta's version of that form.
But flying with your pet isn't just about knowing airline regulations. Instead, your primary focus should be on minimizing stress for both you and your dog. Having all the right tools at your disposal can make the trip a lot less stressful. And staying calm will help keep your dog calm too.
Best Carrier: Away The Pet CarrierBuy at Awaytravel.Com
We tested 13 airline-approved pet carriers on commercial flights with real pets, and our Best Overall choice is the Pet Carrier from Away. It meets the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), so it's suitable for in-cabin use on most major airlines (you should still always check with your flight provider). It's made to support small pets weighing up to 18 pounds, and its leather and nylon exterior offers structure and stability with enough flexibility to slide into under-seat spaces.
When booking your pet, you will often need to provide the dimensions of your pet carrier. Those limitations typically make soft-sided carriers the more flexible option, since they can more easily fit the allotted under-seat space. Our favorite is The Pet Carrier from Away, because it's got a removable bed, a trolley sleeve for easy carrying, and it's crash test certified by the Center for Pet Safety, so it guard your dog against the bumps and jolts of travel.
The carrier's shape is similar to a gym bag and comes equipped with a shoulder strap and handles for carrying. There are internal and external pockets for stashing documents you might be asked to show, like your dog's latest vaccine record, along with essentials, like wipes and a collapsible bowl for water.
Price at time of publish: $275
Best Travel Bowl: Prima Pets Collapsible Travel Bowl with CarabinerBuy at Amazon.Com
Buy at Chewy.Com
Your pet carrier counts as a carry-on item, so reducing the weight and bulk of other items you need will keep you streamlined. The Prima Collapsible Travel Bowl in a size small easily slides into a pocket of a pet carrier or jacket, and it also comes with a carabiner clip for placement on a leash. It expands to hold up to 1.5 cups which is more than enough at one time for most small dogs who will likely only take a few sips at a time. Before you board you can give your dog water and then find a place that's suitable for them to tinkle. But it's recommended that you limit the amount of water you give a dog on the plane to reduce their need to pee.
Price at time of publish: $9
Best Pee Pads: Bulldogology Premium Puppy Training PadsBuy at Amazon.Com
Buy at Walmart.Com
Many airports in the United States have designated pet relief areas where dogs are allowed to exit their carrier and "freshen up". We recommend packing a few slim puppy pee pads just in case you are at an airport that doesn't offer this amenity or your gate is too far away from the designated pet pee zone. The Bulldoglogy Puppy Training Pads are a reliable choice that quickly absorbs and contains dog pee, making it easy to pick up and dispose of in a nearby trash can. We tested 20 puppy pads in our New York lab and for several months in homes with real dogs, and these pads consistently scored high marks for durability, effectiveness, and ease of use.
Price at time of publish: $45 for 100 pads
Best Travel Wipes: Pogi's Grooming Wipes Travel PackBuy at Amazon.Com
Keep a travel-sized pack of Pogi's Grooming Wipes in the pocket of your pet carrier to quickly clean up any spills—like vomit from motion sickness or a conspicuous dingleberry—and to wipe down paws after they've walked all over the pee-friendly pet relief area. Pogi's Grooming Wipes are free of parabens, sulfates, and alcohol, and gentle enough to use on the face. Each resealable travel-ready pouch contains 20 wipes.
Price at time of publish: $23 for 12
Best Rawhide Treats: Better Belly Original Chicken Liver Knotted BonesBuy at Amazon.Com
Giving your dog a Better Belly Original Chicken Liver Knotted Bone will keep them focused on a tasty treat. The knotted bones in the mini size are each around two inches long so they won't take up a lot of space in the carrier with your dog. The rawhide used to make Better Belly treats has been processed to be easily digestible and they contain no gluten, grain, or artificial colors.
Price at time of publish: $15 (pack of 26)
Best Toy: KONG Classic Dog ToyBuy at Amazon.Com
Buy at Chewy.Com
Give your dog a treat and a puzzle game all in one by placing a Kong Classic Dog Toy in their carrier. The x-small size version of this rubber toy is 2.5 inches long and 1.4 inches at its widest point. It can be filled with bite-sized dog treats, your dog's favorite kibble, and a variety of dog-friendly foods, but we suggest avoiding peanut butter on a plane just in case someone on board has a severe peanut allergy.
Price at time of publish: $9 (extra small)
Best Calming Chew: Zesty Paws Advanced Calming BitesBuy at Amazon.Com
Buy at Chewy.Com
What We LikeMade with organic ingredients
Soft texture
No artificial flavors, preservatives, synthetic colors, grain, corn, or soy
The Advanced Calming Chews from Zesty Paws are made with organic ingredients and come in three dog-friendly flavors–turkey, peanut butter, and bison. Each soft chew contains chamomile, melatonin, hemp seed powder, and forms of L-theanine and ashwagandha, all of which are believed to have calming properties and will help keep a dog relaxed.
We recommend giving your dog half a chew several weeks before your flight to see how they react. If there are no adverse reactions, you can gradually increase to one full treat, which is the maximum recommended for dogs under 25 pounds.
Price at time of publish: $33 (90 chews)
Flavors: Turkey, peanut butter, bisonQuantity: 90 chewsActive Ingredients: hemp seed powder, chamomile, valerian root, passionflower, L-theanine, ginger root, ashwagandha, L-Tryptophan, magnesium citrate
Best Blankets: Cloud Island Muslin Swaddle BlanketBuy at Target.Com
What We Like100 percent cotton
Machine washable
Thin and breathable
If you want to make your dog's carrier more comfortable, we recommend adding a Muslin Swaddle Blanket from Cloud Island. These blankets are made out of soft woven cotton that's breathable and machine washable. The dimensions are only 47 by 47 inches and the thin blanket can easily be folded up without adding too much bulk to the limited space within a carrier.
Price at time of publish: $20
Dimensions: 47 x 47 inchesFabric: Cotton
Best Treat Pouch: Wild One Treat Pouch Kit in BlackBuy at Wildone.Com
What We LikeCarried as a shoulder bag, cross body, or fanny pack
Internal divider and compartment for poop bags
The exterior is made with recycled nylon
The Dog Treat Pouch from Wild One has a compartment for poop bags and divided space inside to carry treats, your phone, and a few other small essentials, like hand sanitizer and your ID. It can be carried in three styles: crossbody, shoulder, and fanny pack, to suit your traveling setup and keep you hands-free. It can also be clipped to your pet carrier or placed inside your second carry-on item (like the State Kane Double Pocket Large Backpack) to keep you and your pet within the confines of your two-item carry-on limit.
The exterior is made with recycled nylon and comes in a variety of colors with seasonal releases occurring throughout the year. The bag can be spot cleaned with soap and water and features a magnetic closure for easy access.
It's available alone or in a "kit" that comes with a bag of organic, baked dog treats.
Price at time of publish: $48 (kit)
Dimensions: 8.63 x 0.75 x 6.25Colors: Black, lilac, blush, moss, orchid, moonstone, spruce, cocoa, limeade
Best Reusable Bags: Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Snack BagBuy at Amazon.Com
Buy at Walmart.Com
What We Like What We Don't LikeStasher Silicone Reusable Snack Bags are a convenient and eco-friendly choice for carrying snacks your dog enjoys. We recommend choosing one color that is dedicated to your dog to help keep you organized while traveling (and so you don't accidentally eat a dog treat).
These machine-washable bags are made out of food-safe silicone. They pinch together to easily seal closed and come in a variety of sizes. We recommend the snack size (7.5 x 4.5 inches) or the Go Stasher Bag with a carabiner (5 x 8.5 x 1.5 inches). The Stasher bags are durable and designed to last a long time without any punctures, but they cannot stand up to doggie teeth so be sure to keep them out of reach.
Price at time of publish: $10
Dimensions: 7.5 x 4.5 inchesColors: Aqua, lavender, pink, raspberry, blueberry
Best Clips: Rifle Paper Co. Lively Floral Binder ClipsBuy at Riflepaperco.Com
What We LikeFirm clasp
Colorful
Compact design
Bringing a few binder clips (2-4) always comes in handy when traveling with a dog on a plane, and we have found that a colorful variety, like the Margaux Binder Clips from Rifle Paper Co., is easier to spot. While many treats come in resealable bags, they are often unreliable, especially when you are juggling several things at once and in a stressful airport situation.
A binder clip can help you keep things readily available, like your dog's latest vaccination records and rabies tag, within an internal pocket of your backpack. And binder clips, as opposed to chip clips or clothesline pins, hold together more securely and have an efficient streamlined design.
Price at time of publish: $12 (set of eight)
Dimensions: 2.5 inchesColors: Multiple
What To Consider When Flying With a Dog Carry On LimitsMost airlines allow two carry-on items per passenger, and a pet carrier will count as one of those carry-on items. We recommend checking your luggage and using a backpack as your second item, like the State Kane Double Pocket Large Backpack.
Within the backpack, you can have a smaller bag inside, like the Dog Treat Pouch from Wild One, with any essential items you might want handy while on the plane (earbuds, phone, snack, treats for your dog, etc.) that you can pull out and keep in the pocket compartment.
The pet carrier will take up the space you are allotted under the seat in front of you, and your second carry-on will go overhead. You can always pull stuff out of your overhead item during the flight, like a laptop or tablet.
Your Dog's Energy LevelIf your dog is high-energy, then you should make sure you have time to take them for a walk or have them play at a dog park before you make your way to the airport. Your dog will be pretty restricted to their carrier for the duration of your time at the airport and on the plane, so it's best if they are ready for a nap.
Frequently Asked QuestionsCan my dog sit on my lap on an airplane?
No, for most domestic flights a small dog traveling inside the main cabin must remain in their carrier and stowed under the seat in front of you. Should the plane encounter turbulence, having your dog on your lap could lead to injury.
Can I purchase a plane ticket to have my dog sit in a seat?
No, most domestic airlines have rules against purchasing a plane seat ticket with the intention of having a dog use the seat.
Do airports have dog-friendly areas?
Some airports are more accommodating to the needs of our canine friends. We recommend checking the official websites of the airports you and your dog will be visiting to see if they offer designated pet relief areas and where they are located.
Why Trust The Spruce Pets?The Spruce Pets has tested hundreds of pet products, using a combination of lab data, human volunteers, and animal testers, who are often happy to try out the latest toy or treat. This roundup of flight essentials pulls from a variety of product tests, including our thorough test of airline-approved pet carriers.
This roundup was written by Anna Mejorada, a writer for The Spruce Pets, who shares her home with a happy pomeranian named Gidget. When Gidget was a puppy, a good friend gave them a light pink Kong Classic Dog Toy. It successfully helped redirect Gidget's gnawing away from the wall molding. Mejorada is now delightfully devoted to helping humans discover and select the most favorable products for their pets.
Read Next: The 17 Best Dog Toys of 2023
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The Best Dog Beds, According To Rigorous Testing
Comfort, support and a place to call home: The best dog beds provide all three of these necessities for our furry best friends, which is why pet parents often take their time deliberating between top-of-the-line options. Over the course of a month, I set out to test the highest-rated dog beds on the market, gathering a curated selection of bestsellers and putting them through their paces with real-life, dog-approved testing. Ultimately, I—or rather, my French bulldog, Ozzie—determined that the best option on the market today is the Casper Dog Bed, in part due to its incredibly thoughtful design, durable materials and superior coziness. Of course, I also identified the Lesure Pet Calming Flower Bed as a worthwhile value pick, the Orvis ToughChew ComfortFill-Eco Bolster Dog Bed for aggressive chewers and the Fable Bed as an ideal dog crate bed.
Over the course of a month, I set out to test the highest-rated dog beds on the market—with a little ... [+] help from my pup, of course.
Illustration: Forbes / Image: RetailerThe following is a list of all of the winners from my testing process:
As I tested, observed my dog and interviewed multiple experts in the field, I began to home in on several main criteria that, when combined, seem to make for the best dog beds. They are as follows: A dog bed should be supportive and comfortable; its materials should be durable enough to withstand scratching, biting and occasional accidents; and it should be able to be easily laundered or cleaned (removable covers are a big plus). Bonus points are awarded to beds that blend seamlessly into human décor. I'm pleased to say that all of the beds acknowledged above offer some degree of each—if not all—of these criteria.
MOST POPULAR
Type: Bolstered rectangleSizes: 3Colors: 3Outer material: Polyester microfiber, nylon and olefin weaveInner material: Memory foamWashable cover: Yes
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Don't just think of this option as a dog bed; it's a veritable dog mattress. My overall winner is the platonic ideal of a high-quality dog bed, and it's obvious that the brand, Casper, thought through every detail of this product. No surprise there: Casper is a beloved brand for human mattresses, and it's clear they imparted some degree of that know-how into the design of their pup products. In fact, this bed is made with the same memory foam Casper uses in their other mattresses, with two layers of squishy, supportive foam that ensure your dog will never "sink through" to the hard floor underneath. The bottom half of the bed, meanwhile, is a textured weave that provides additional support and aesthetic intrigue; the top half is a suede-like microfiber that's soft to the touch. Admittedly, I found myself thinking that this bed might be slightly better-looking had it been designed with a taut, pulled-tight top, but I ultimately discovered that the excess material is a feature: It's there to mimic the sensation of pawing at loose earth, and it all but guarantees that your dog will have less of an inclination to, well, tear the whole thing to pieces. The bolstered sides here are also a plus, and they're designed at an ideal height—not so high that they'll crook your dog's neck at an odd angle, but lofted just enough to cradle and support their head.
During the long testing period, Ozzie preferred this bed second only to my eventual best value pick, the Lesure Pet Calming Flower Bed. So why did the Casper win in the end? Well, I did have to consider the fact that Ozzie had been accumulating his scent in the Lesure Pet bed longer (it was the first one I had him try out). The Casper bed may well have been his first pick had he been introduced to it sooner. From a human perspective, I also noted the superior construction and durability of this bed. While it did show dirt a bit more easily than some of the other options I tested, due to the lighter sand colorway of the microfiber I chose, there was an obvious trade-off: The removable cover is incredibly easy to clean. I washed it in my washing machine and laid it flat to dry, and it legitimately came out like new.
Lastly, I want to note that the unboxing of this bed is an experience in itself. It comes with assembly instructions printed on faux doggy newspaper print (trust me, you've got to see it to fully appreciate it), and it even includes a surprise toy that Oswald loved. (Unfortunately, he promptly tore it to pieces.) And of course, in terms of aesthetic, the Casper Dog Bed can't be beat. It's simple, clean-lined and just textured enough. That tiny blue Casper tag on the side of the bed is even a nice touch that's bound to start conversations with any future houseguests, and I know I'd personally be happy to display this bed right in our living room.
It's safe to say Ozzie enjoyed his time on the Casper bed (and the surprise toy that came with it).
Caroline MullenType: DoughnutSizes: 4Colors: 6Outer material: Polyester sherpaInner material: Polyester fillWashable cover: No
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Did I mention Ozzie loved this bed? As I mentioned, it didn't ultimately win my best overall designation because it was obvious to the (human) eye that the construction and durability of Casper's model was a little more robust—and this bed doesn't offer a removable cover, either. Still, I do have to admit that this was clearly his personal favorite. It cradled him with cushy, bolstered sides and a round interior, and—despite my qualms about that nonremovable cover—it's since become his go-to, everyday bed. If you, too, have a younger or more easygoing dog, I'd have to recommend this under-$50 model. With Ozzie's gentle nature, I know this bed will stand up to years of naps. And while the soft, teddy material might snag on sharper nails, during Ozzie's personal use, the fabric has remained soft and intact.
Of course, the biggest plus here is the affordability of the bed, which ships quickly from Amazon and is nearly $100 less than my top pick from Casper. While the lack of a removable cover might deter some, the manufacturer has a solution: They say it's fine to toss the entire bed in the machine for a wash, and that it can even be tossed in the dryer on low. (That said, I found it difficult to get the entire bed in a small apartment washing machine, and I found that I had to run it through a few cycles, adjusting it each time, to make sure the entire thing got cleaned. What's more, I chose to air-dry the bed because I couldn't imagine it holding up well in the dryer, despite what the manufacturer claimed.)
With those caveats and adjustments, though, the bed stayed—and continues to stay—in excellent shape. After air-drying, the fabric reverts beautifully back to its original softness, and the polyester fill stays neatly in place. I'll add that the bed is pretty difficult to stain in the first place; dirt and liquid tend to roll off of its synthetic fibers, and my experience with Ozzie has proven to me that the rough texture of the sherpa material is able to hide a great deal of wear and tear.
Last but not least, there's no denying how adorable this bed is. If you've got a similarly modern or whimsical style in the rest of your home—or if you're just excited about the opportunity to play things up in this one piece of furniture—then this is the bed for your dog. There are fun pink, blue, lilac and green colorways to choose from alongside more neutral camel and gray options. All are pretty irresistible.
I may not have been able to try out the Lesure option myself, but based on Ozzie's behavior, I'd ... [+] quickly use the word "comfy" to describe it.
Caroline MullenType: Bolstered rectangleSizes: 4Colors: 3Outer material: Ripstop nylon with micro velvetInner material: Polyester fillWashable cover: Yes
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If you've got a rambunctious puppy on your hands—or perhaps an older dog who still likes to rip and destroy for fun—then this is the bed for your household. There are few options that are as sturdy; in fact, during durability testing, the bed showed virtually no signs of wear. What's more, since the primary focus of the bed is to withstand tough chewers, Orvis (the manufacturer) actually offers a refund if your dog ends up chewing through the cover. Given the higher price tag here, it's certainly a relief to hear about this "insurance" policy.
Another deterrent to chew-happy pups: There's no cording on the seams here. That's a common aesthetic add-on for dog beds, and more frequently than not, it becomes an immediate target for curious chewers; here, that's no problem. Finally, the zipper is low-profile—another key feature that will help to turn your dog's destructive attention away.
Of course, durability isn't the only reason to love this bed. Its three-sided bolster is also especially helpful for cradling the heads of older dogs (or acting as a backrest). And because an entire side of the bed is left open, it's a great choice for any dogs who have trouble lifting their legs in and out of bed. Meanwhile, though the bottom cushion is made from polyester fill—a typically less-supportive material—I found it to be quite springy. That's another reason why this bed was so easy for Ozzie to jump in and out of.
The last feature worth noting here is the fact that the entire bed is machine-washable. Just zip the cover off for a wash, or throw both parts in for a spin—it's your choice. I did find that while the cover was incredibly easy to clean, the inner portion took some extra time to dry. Still, it retained its shape beautifully and didn't clump up like some polyester filling is prone to do. I also appreciated that the neutral chevron fabric I chose blends in with most styles of décor, and the subtle pattern can hide years' worth of set-in stains should you not be able to get them out. Oh, and as a bonus, it's monogrammable in nine different thread colors (for just $20 extra).
More than one pup got a kick out of the cozy Orvis model—and for good reason.
Caroline MullenType: Flat rectangleSizes: 3Colors: 6Outer material: N/AInner material: Shredded memory foamWashable cover: Yes
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Crates are meant to be happy hideaways for your dog, but that can only be true if they're equipped with a super-comfortable bed. This particular option is a winner: It boasts squishy, supportive comfort in a compact silhouette, and it's precisely the right size for most standard crates. (In fact, it fits perfectly inside Fable's own crate, a delightfully modern option made from bentwood and clear acrylic or metal.) Filled with shredded memory foam, it's most similar to a human pillow—and while I didn't find it to be as soft as some of the other beds I tested, it had so many other great features going for it.
For starters, the Fable bed is made of a stain- and water-resistant material that's perfect for accident-prone puppies, and it's actually UV-resistant, too, so it's a great option for an outdoor dog bed as well as a crate bed. (Just be sure to bring it inside to protect it from the elements when not in use.) While the bed does lack bolstered sides, it makes up for this in durability. Its tightly woven fabric showed absolutely no signs of wear during my testing process.
Finally, this bed is simple and straightforward to clean. Because both the interior and exterior can be thrown in the machine, it's a cinch to clean up—but note that Fable recommends hanging the bed to dry. For my testing purposes, I ended up draping the cover over a chair and flipping the interior cushion frequently while drying; eventually, I fluffed the memory foam back up before reinserting it into the cover. The verdict? It cleans beautifully and looks great after the fact.
Type: Bolstered rectangleSizes: 4Colors: 3Outer material: Cotton-poly twillInner material: Memory foamWashable cover: Yes
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I could hardly believe how soft, squishy and supportive this bed was. Suffice it to say that if I were a dog, I know I'd love sleeping on this option. No, its bolstered sides aren't as firm as some of the other beds I tested, but that's actually a plus in this case: The bed is consequently capable of cradling the heads and necks of older pups without any unnecessary stiffness. The conforming memory foam base gently supports the tired limbs of older pups, too.
Note that because the bed outer is made from a soft, malleable cotton-polyester blend, it does tend to hold on to dirt and hair. For that reason, I'd recommend coordinating its colors with your dog's fur; that'll help prevent the constant appearance of pet hair. (The brown colorway is also a great option for frequently muddy paws.) And don't worry too much about older, clumsier or more skittish dogs tripping up on this bed: It comes complete with a nonslip grip, so you can rest assured it won't go sliding across the room.
PetFusion recommends machine-washing the cover and even states that it can be tumbled dry, and I'll admit—I was skeptical. The cotton-poly construction doesn't always fare so well with that sort of treatment. But it worked just fine. Though it came out of the wash a little wrinkled, that, to me, wasn't a major con.
Aesthetically, this might not be your best bet if you're looking to turn heads and receive compliments from houseguests. But if you're hoping to support an older pup or a bigger dog, it's an excellent choice—and it receives rave reviews from dog owners for good reason.
Suffice it to say that if I were a dog, I know I'd love sleeping on this PetFusion bed.
Caroline MullenType: Bolstered rectangleSizes: 3Colors: 42Outer material: Cotton-poly twill, sherpaInner material: Polyester fillWashable cover: Yes
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If the name Luxe Bagel Bed hasn't already reeled you in, this bed's standout good looks and soft sherpa base surely will—as well as my personal recommendation. The outer cover here is made from a cotton-poly twill, so it's a soft, textured material that feels human-grade in terms of coziness. In other words, let's just say I certainly wouldn't mind if my own couch throw pillows were made from this material. The tufted inner cushion is reversible, to boot, so it can either match the pattern of the outer bed or flip over to reveal a super-soft faux sheepskin. And both covers here can be removed for machine-washing, after which the brand recommends tumbling dry with no heat or leaving it to line dry.
It's safe to say that this was my top pick aesthetically, but it's still important to note that some of the more design-forward patterns here are lighter in color and can therefore show stains more easily. If your pet often comes inside with muddy paws, you might want to stick to one of the darker colors—or opt for one of my other picks instead. Of course, even if you do choose a prone-to-staining colorway, you'll be pleased to discover that Majestic Pet sells outer covers and inserts separately. So should you want—or need—to change things up, you won't have to shell out for an entirely new bed. I personally loved the Anderson Check pattern, which comes in six beautifully muted gingham colorways, but if solid color suedes or boho arrows are more your speed, Majestic Pet covers those bases, too. And for homes with multiple dogs (or those who just love a monogram), you can get personal by adding an embroidered monogram; there are a whopping 12 different fonts and 14 colors available.
Type: Flush bolstered rectangle with removable cushionSizes: 3Colors: 3Outer material: Cotton-poly canvasInner material: Molded foam, polyester fiberfillWashable cover: Yes
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Made of a tightly woven cotton-poly canvas, it likely comes as no surprise that this bed turned out to be a highly durable, stain-resistant option. The cover on both the top cushion and base can be zipped off and washed right in the machine, which I found incredibly convenient, though the brand does recommend line-drying to prevent shrinking (that's pretty standard advice for a material like this, though). Whether you've got a puppy and are looking ahead to months' worth of messy potty training or are dealing with a mud-obsessed older dog, I'd say this is your best bet for stain-resistance. Ozzie certainly put this bed through its paces, and I had to launder it multiple times. The good news: It came out clean and retained its shape after every trip to the washer, and I loved having that peace of mind.
Of course, stain-resistance isn't the only plus here. The bed also boasts a sleek molded base and three go-with-everything color options that design-minded parents will also appreciate. For me, a big upside to the design is that it didn't stand out in our home. Had Ozzie not eventually ripped the toggles off in a fit of puppy rage (note that even for him, this fit was unusually frenetic), we might even have continued using it as our primary dog bed.
How I Tested The Best Dog BedsI allowed Ozzie to try out each of these beds for the better part of a week, at least. To gauge supportive features, I took note of how supportive each bed appeared to be for him, noting whether he sank in to the point of laying on the floor or whether he was instead held aloft. I also made sure to assess whether his head appeared to be properly cradled by the included bolster, if available. Fill materials do play a large part in support, so it was unsurprising that most of the beds with conforming memory foam rated higher than ones with standard polyfill.
In terms of comfort, I paid close attention to how often Ozzie retreated to the bed of the moment. Was it a cozy place to relax, or was it somewhere he actively avoided? Finally, to assess durability, I not only observed Ozzie's own antics, but also repeatedly raked a dinner fork against each bed to mimic nail scratches and teething—and in quite a vigorous fashion, mind you. Afterward, I took note of which beds remained in good shape and which ones tended to snag. I also deliberately rubbed potting soil onto the covers of each bed—a sacrifice I knew needed to be made for testing purposes. Then, I washed each of them according to the manufacturer's instructions and took note of how well they retained their shape, fill balance and overall softness after washing.
How To Choose A Dog Bed Support And ComfortAs I mentioned, the support level of each bed is directly linked to the materials it's made from—and the way in which those materials are positioned. Some dog beds, for instance, have a bolster around the outside to cradle the dog's head; others are made with memory foam (like human mattresses) and classified as "orthopedic" for their ability to support joints, particularly in older dogs. Some beds are elevated, like a sleeping cot, to allow air to pass under in hot climates. And finally, there are the beds that are simple and flat—best for using in a crate. Veterinarian Dr. Henry Durga recommends beds with bolsters above all else. His reasoning? These nifty sides can keep the dog on the bed—and they're just preferable for most pups. As far as material, for large breeds, he recommends memory foam. That said, it can overheat quickly. "The recommendation would be a bed with a cooling or breathable material," he says. "These dogs tend to go to the floor instead and develop hygromas—the body deposits fluid cysts at the elbows most commonly to relieve pressure on the bone or joint."
In terms of comfort and preference, Dr. Durga points out that every dog is different, but "most of the time, large breed dogs like Labs and retrievers and even bulldogs like to be sprawled out and kept cool, while a lot of small breed dogs like Chihuahuas and Malteses or Yorkies tend to want soft and cuddly beds." He also advises owners of particularly destructive dogs to steer clear of polyfill beds, as these beds can look and feel like toys, thereby encouraging ripping and chewing tendencies.
Durability And Stain-ResistanceMost dog beds are made with polyester or cotton-poly blend fabrics, thanks to the superior durability of these materials. While polyester is often demonized in clothing for not being as breathable as natural materials, it actually works quite well in this application. "Polyester lends itself to feeling cool and comfortable to the touch," says Sean Cormier, chair of the textile development and marketing department at the Fashion Institute of Technology. "The long, hairlike fibers weave into a material that's cooler, silkier-feeling and more comfortable." During his tenure as the director of textile quality at Sure Fit, a brand that manufacturers protective couch covers for pets, Cormier found that polyester and heavy cotton weaves (like denim) were the most durable, affordable options that can stand up to years of scratching, biting, laundering and pet debris. The main issue with polyester, he points out, is that it can retain oily stains, which are tough to remove. "In this case, I'd recommend a bed that's marked as antimicrobial for odor control and that has a stain-repellent coating to keep difficult stains from penetrating the product."
Ease Of CleaningAll parts of a great dog bed should be able to go in the washing machine—they do, after all, get gunked up from all the dirty paws and sticky toys that come their way. The best beds I tested were those that have zip-off covers, which I could easily pop in the wash. I also appreciated beds that didn't change shape or shrink after laundering.
AestheticLike anything you bring into your home, a dog bed should coordinate with your style without sacrificing on comfort and functionality for your pup. "So many places are making attractive pet gear," assures Andi Morse, founder of boutique interior design firm Morse Design. "You don't have to settle for bulky, unattractive items." Indeed, all of the beds I tested are ones I'd happily display in my home, with neutral, easily coordinated colors, textured materials and filling that holds its shape.
My ExpertiseI've thoroughly tested and researched a variety of products for shopping guides and reviews during my journalism career. The list includes dishwasher detergents, bedsheets, mattresses, spray cleaners, brooms and more. I've written review and shopping content for brands such as The Strategist, Domino, Insider Reviews and Real Simple, as well as several other tested stories for Forbes Vetted.
For this piece, I worked in tandem with my French bulldog, Oswald, to spend a whole month feeling, scratching, sniffing, laundering and sleeping on dog beds. Together, we noted ease of setup, durability, comfort and washability (okay, I did most of the work—it's true). I also spoke to the following experts to add to my knowledge:
If the bed has a removable cover, separate the interior and exterior for laundering and pretreat any set-in stains with your favorite stain remover. "Durable polyester and cotton-poly blend fabrics can be washed using regular detergent and a normal machine cycle," says Hannah Yokoji, brand director at The Laundress, who recommends "laundering most durable fabrics using warm to hot water for a deep clean." Just keep in mind that Dr. Durga recommends dye- and perfume-free laundry detergent for dogs with sensitive skin. Some manufacturers recommend drying dog bed covers on the tumble-dry low setting, and Yokoji recommends adding a set of wool dryer balls in with the cover to "help prevent clumping and reduce static while making drying more efficient." To be on the safe side, you can always hang or lay flat to dry so as not to compromise the structure of the cover with excessive heat.
For beds that don't have removable covers, spot-clean with a stain remover as soon as possible after you see a stain—this will give you the best chance of getting it completely gone. Blot with a wet rag and allow it to dry, repeating these steps until the stain comes out. Alternatively, you can use an upholstery cleaner (like the Bissell Little Green) with an enzymatic cleaner (like Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator) to suck stains and smells out of the fabric. Just be sure to load the machine with cold water, as hot water can reactivate unpleasant urine odors. If you're not able to machine-wash the filling portion of the bed, consider leaving it outside in a sunny spot for a few days, as the fresh air and sun will help any odors to naturally dissipate.
What Is The Most Durable Dog Bed?As my testing process continued, it became clear: The Orvis ToughChew ComfortFill-Eco Bolster Dog Bed is the best choice for those optimizing for durability. Of course, it's not your only option. If you have a dog that's prone to tearing beds apart, Dr. Durga suggests choosing a bed that doesn't look or feel like a typical toy, and avoiding polyfill that is easily destroyed. "Training is the most important key in teaching them where they can and cannot urinate," he says. "If they are persistent, you can use bitter apple spray to deter them from biting or licking the bed."
How Can I Incorporate A Dog Bed Into My Existing Décor?Instead of treating a pet bed as a singular item, Morse suggests incorporating it into the design of your home by choosing a color tone that coordinates with your space. Neutrals are a great option, since most people will ideally want their dog's bed to blend into a room and not be noticeable, but if you're more of a maximalist, Morse also recommends looking for attractive patterns that match the rest of your home (say, a cottage-y plaid or beachy stripe). Monograms are also an easy way to add a crisp and custom touch to a dog bed, making it look a little less utilitarian and a little more luxe—I'd suggest a classic serif typeface like Times New Roman or Garamond over something cartoonish like Comic Sans. In terms of shape, Morse prefers round beds for smaller dogs, but rectangular beds are more functional for larger dogs, as they lay flatter and fit more easily into standard rooms.
Getting A Dog Taught Me To Love The Outdoors All Over Again
This article originally appeared on Outside
I was on a Backpacker winter gear testing trip when I knew I was ready. It was five days of skiing and camping in Oregon's Wallowa Mountains. Cotton candy sunsets and perfect corn turns punctuated the long skins, sticky snow, and frigid nights. There was plenty to be blissful about: great food, cheerful company, and a snow-blanketed mountain range seemingly to ourselves. And yet my favorite part of the trip? Our guides' two golden retrievers, who accompanied us on every tour.
Luna and Sadie rode shotgun into our basecamp on their owners' snowmobiles. They trotted alongside us on every ascent, and when it was time to descend, they barrelled down each pitch with such displays of joy that I fell instantly in love.
I grew up with dogs, and have always known I'd have my own some day. But having just turned 25, my future felt too uncertain to make such a long-term commitment. Luna and Sadie, though, flipped a switch in me. They were the perfect adventure pups: playful, obedient, and complete rippers on the snow. Plus, nothing is better than a warm puppy snuggle on a winter night in camp. As soon as we got back to town I turned on my phone and began scrolling rescue sites. I didn't want just any dog; I wanted one who would love to play outside as much as I do.
Six months later, Juno came home. She was an 8-week-old border collie mix. Throughout my search for the right pet, I'd been adamantly opposed to the idea of a herding dog; too much energy, I thought. But as soon as I saw her photos, in which she looked simultaneously like an innocent stuffed animal and a little maniac, I knew she was mine.
Few of my friends had dogs. They're too much work. It would hold me back, they'd say. Like many 20-somethings living in Boulder, Colorado, we spent every winter weekend on skis and every summer one on the trails. After-work hours were for bike rides or climbing sessions. We could decide on Friday afternoon to make a spontaneous trip to Moab or Crested Butte and be in the car by 5. Would getting a dog change all that?
Juno's homecoming brought a wave of joy into my life. She was adorable, fun, and remarkably well-behaved. We bonded right away. But on my second Saturday with her, I got my first dose of FOMO. My boyfriend and roommates were all out riding bikes and doing non-puppy-friendly activities. It was a gorgeous fall day, and I was home--something I was unaccustomed to.
So I called up a friend and we planned a last-minute hike to nearby Lake Isabelle. Juno, then too young to walk more than a few minutes on her own, rode in a makeshift carrier we rigged with a daypack and towels. As soon as we arrived at the alpine lake and I let her out to explore, my FOMO melted away. Late afternoon sunlight sparkled off the water. The little ball of fluff awkwardly clambering over the talus had stolen my heart. I wasn't on my bike or on a spontaneous overnight, but I was experiencing a new brand of beauty.
The author and Juno on her first hike. (Photo: Erica Givans)
Juno has been in my life for a little over a year now, and I've fully embraced the "my dog is my personality" mentality. Even as ski season ramped up, I didn't experience an ounce of regret about adopting a puppy. Every morning, she'd greet me by baring her puppy teeth into a little smile. She quickly became beloved by all my friends, who spoiled her with new toys and Starbucks pup cups. And while I may have had to cut a few backcountry tours short to race home to her (and her signature full-body wiggling greetings), life with a dog has given me a whole new perspective on time spent outside.
Rain or shine, the first thing I do every morning and the last thing I do before bed is step outside for a walk, whether I like it or not. I've stood under the stars more nights this year than I ever have, even if from the sidewalk outside my house. I gained an appreciation for the nature outside my doorstep and for the early-morning sunlight I'd normally sleep through. Juno and I have stopped to observe countless squirrels, and we never miss a chance to walk through the community garden and sniff the flowers. Thanks to Juno, I also got to know my neighbors. She encourages me to get up from my desk at least once every day just to appreciate the fresh air.
The weekend warrior mindset values quality over quantity--go epic every weekend, then white knuckle it through the workweek until Saturday rolls around again. But with Juno, I've learned to treasure the small moments outdoors every single day.
We recently moved to a new town in a state I'd never even visited before. Thanks to Juno's exercise needs, I've discovered miles of enchanting local trails that I would have otherwise overlooked for the mountains a few hours away. With her, any random Tuesday lunch break can become an adventure. When I'm tempted to lie on the couch and watch TV, she encourages me to grab the leash instead. We're both better for it.
Having a dog doesn't mean I have to sacrifice my time outdoors. In fact, it's been the opposite: I'm lucky that she loves to be on the trails as much as I do, and watching her explore nature adds a new dimension to adventures that I never thought possible. At only a year old, Juno's driven across the country with me five times. She's gone rafting, skiing, backpacking, and swimming. Big trips might require a little more planning, but it's worth it to have my best friend by my side. And as soon as she learns not to bite bike tires, we'll swap out afternoon walks for trail rides. By adopting a dog, I didn't lose out on outdoor
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