Quick answer: Measure your dog lying down, from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, then choose a bed with a sleeping area a little longer than that so they can stretch and turn. Dogs who curl up suit round beds; dogs who sprawl suit larger, rectangular beds and mats. For a crate, measure the crate floor, not the dog. If in doubt, size up.
A bed that looked generous in the photo can turn out to be a squeeze once your dog is actually in it. Getting the size right is mostly about two things: how big your dog is when lying down, and how they like to sleep.
This guide explains how to measure, which shapes suit which sleepers, and how to size a crate mat, with the real dimensions of our beds and mats to compare against.
How to measure your dog for a bed
- Wait until your dog is lying down in their usual sleeping position, or ask them to lie down for a treat.
- Measure the length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. If your dog likes to sleep stretched out, measure them stretched out.
- Measure the width across the widest point while they are lying down, including legs if they tend to stick out.
- Add a little extra room so your dog can turn around, stretch and settle comfortably.
- Compare with the sleeping area, not just the outside measurements. Beds with raised sides or bolsters have a smaller usable space than their overall size suggests.
If your dog falls between two sizes, the larger one is usually the safer choice. A bed that is slightly too big is rarely a problem; one that is too small often goes unused.
Which bed shape suits how your dog sleeps?
Curlers
Dogs who sleep curled into a ball, nose to tail, often like a round bed with a raised rim to lean into. The Round Plush Pet Bed has a soft faux-fur donut shape and comes in four sizes: 40 x 40 cm, 50 x 50 cm, 60 x 60 cm and 70 x 70 cm. It suits small dogs and cats, and it is washable.
Sprawlers
Dogs who sleep on their side with their legs out need more length and width. Look at roomier beds or flat mats in the larger sizes. The Flannel Pet Sleeping Mat goes up to XL (79 x 60 cm) and XXL (89 x 68 cm), and also works on the sofa or in the car boot.
Leaners
Some dogs like to rest their head or back against something while they sleep. A sofa-style bed with raised sides gives them that support. The Dog Sofa Bed has a generous sleeping space and a soft, warm cushion for the colder months, in sizes M to XXL. Check the size chart on the product page against your measurements before you order.
How to size a crate mat
For a crate, measure the inside of the crate floor rather than your dog, and choose a mat that covers it without bunching up at the edges.
- The Washable Dog Crate Mat comes in 45 x 90 cm or 60 x 120 cm, with an anti-slip base, and suits medium to large dogs.
- For smaller crates, carriers and baskets, the Flannel Pet Sleeping Mat starts at XS (32 x 25 cm) and runs through S (49 x 32 cm), M (61 x 41 cm) and L (69 x 52 cm).
If your dog travels in a crate in the car, the same measuring rule applies. Our guide to travelling with your dog by car covers what else to pack.
Do dogs need a different bed in summer and winter?
Many owners like to change things a little with the seasons. In winter, a cushioned bed away from draughts and cold floors gives your dog a warm spot to settle. In summer, some dogs prefer to stretch out on a lighter surface.
The Dog Cooling Mat is a lightweight mat designed for warmer days, which you can lay on the floor, a sofa or inside an existing bed. It comes in five sizes, from XS (40 x 30 cm) to XL (100 x 75 cm), and suits dogs and cats.
Washing and everyday care
A washable bed or mat is easier to keep fresh, especially through the muddy months. Shake out loose hair outdoors before washing, and keep a spare mat in rotation so your dog always has a clean, dry place to sleep. A reusable pet hair roller helps between washes, and our muddy-walk checklist has tips for keeping hair out of the washing machine.
Frequently asked questions
Should a dog bed be bigger than the dog?
Yes, a little. The sleeping area should be slightly longer than your dog's nose-to-tail measurement when lying down, so they can turn around and stretch out comfortably.
What size bed does a puppy need?
Puppies grow quickly, so many owners use a washable mat at first and choose a bed for their adult size later. Your breeder or vet can give you an idea of how big your puppy is likely to grow.
What kind of bed suits an older dog?
A bed that is easy to step on to, with low sides, is often easier for older dogs to use. If your dog is stiff or has joint problems, ask your vet what kind of support would suit them.
Can cats use these beds?
Yes. The round plush bed, flannel mat and cooling mat are all suitable for cats as well as dogs.
You can browse all our beds and mats in the Beds & Comfort collection.