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What Are the Best Materials & Fabrics for a Dog Bed? (Facts, & FAQ)

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

cockapoo in its bed

There are many different types of dog beds that you can choose from, including cushioned, indoor, raised outdoor, or one that mimics other furniture in your house. Depending on the style you’re interested in, there are different materials and fabrics that work best.

Read on below to find out more!

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Indoor Dog Beds

Indoor dog beds are the most popular style of dog bed, and are typically what you think of as a “dog bed” in a home. They are usually cushioned and lie flat or have a rounded edge to keep your dog cozy and comfy all night. Popular fabrics are faux fur, polyester, microfiber, and suede.

1. Faux Fur Dog Bed

Bessie and Barnie

Faux fur can make a dog feel like they’re cuddled up with another dog. It makes them feel cozy and at home. You can use Sherpa or long fur. However, it can be difficult to clean faux fur, and they are usually not machine washable.

SAVFOX Plush Calming Dog Beds, Donut Dog Bed for...
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2. Polyester Dog Bed

dog in a polyester bed
Image Credit: Pixabay

Polyester can refer to different types of fabrics, but they are usually inexpensive and warm options. Polyester traps heat and is usually soft enough to feel comfortable.

PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed, Orthopedic Memory...
  • PREMIUM COMPONENTS: (i) SOLID 2.5 inch MEMORY FOAM base for superior overall comfort, reduced joint...
  • PEACE OF MIND: (i) Certi-PUR-US Memory foam. NO mercury, lead, formaldehyde, phthalates, & ozone...

3. Microfiber Dog Bed

belgian shepherd puppy in microfiber bed
Image Credit: Pixabay

Microfiber is easy to clean and is usually inexpensive. Microfiber allows your dog to stay comfortable without overheating during the night.

My Doggy Place - Ultra Absorbent, Soft Comfort,...
  • Soft Comfort: The Ultra Soft Chenille Microfiber Bed massages and supports your pup
  • Clean: The Microfiber material of this dog bed dries really quickly

4. Suede Dog Bed

dog lying in suede bed
Image Credit: Pixabay

Suede can be difficult to clean. Any stain will remain there, including drool marks or dirt from your dog’s paws. Suede can feel nice, but it is not the best option for a dog bed.

Friends Forever Small Dog Bed, Orthopedic Dog Sofa...
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Outdoor Dog Beds

Dogs who stay outside will usually have an outdoor dog bed to keep them comfortable, but even if your dog sleeps inside at night, they would still probably appreciate a bed outside so they don’t have to lay on dirt and grass, especially if the ground is damp or muddy. Outdoor dog beds are usually elevated and do not utilize soft material like indoor dog beds do.

1. Metal Frame Dog Bed

dog in BabyLand Metal Pet Bed Dog Lounge Sofa with Thick Cushion White

Sometimes, outdoor dog beds are simply made of metal. They are elevated and made of stainless steel or another metal that is anti-rust. You can amp up a metal frame by adding a cushion on top; just make sure that it’s weather-proof.


2. Shade Cloth Fabric Dog Bed

Frisco Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed
Featured Image Credit: FurHaven, Chewy

Another type comes with a thin, UV-protected shade cloth fabric, similar to the fabric you’d find on human-grade outdoor lounge chairs, as they do not overheat in the sun and do not remain wet if rained on.

Kuranda Elevated Indoor Bed - Walnut PVC - Large -...
42 Reviews
Kuranda Elevated Indoor Bed - Walnut PVC - Large -...
  • ORIGINAL CHEWPROOF BED AND STILL THE BEST - Designed in Maryland in 1995. Patent #US5992348. Still...
  • BEST DESIGN - Oversize rails (larger than all competitors) protect fabric in frame. Orthopedic...

3. Anti-rip Fabric Dog Bed

Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed

Another good option is anti-rip fabric. Dogs constantly climbing up on the material with their sharp claws can cause tears quickly, so fabric designed to ward against that may be a good option.

Niiyoh Mighty Dog Bed (Orthopedic) with Super...
19 Reviews
Niiyoh Mighty Dog Bed (Orthopedic) with Super...
  • Good for LIGHT to MODERATE chewers. For heavy chewers, please check out our Mega Mat instead.
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4. Vinyl Dog Bed

groenendael dog sleeping in vinyl bed
Image Credit: Pixabay

Vinyl is another material often used on outdoor dog beds because it dries quickly and is durable. It often comes paired with a mesh design in the center to allow for water drainage.

Petmate Doghouse Pad for Large Barnhome II and...
  • Finish your dog's Petmate Doghouse with a comfortable pad
  • Made with durable, moisture repellent vinyl covers and replaceable foam padding, each is custom fit...

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Furniture-Like Dog Beds

This third style of bed is more aesthetically pleasing and blends into the décor of the house. Unlike regular indoor dog beds, furniture-like dog beds are harder to distinguish from regular household furniture. These often take the form of stools, couches, or chairs. These types of dog beds are used more for lounging rather than sleeping and are typically better suited for smaller, well-behaved dogs who do not drool much.

1. Faux Leather Dog Bed

dog in Long Rich Luxury All Sides Faux Leather Rectangle Pet Bed

Faux leather is smooth, so it doesn’t collect dog hair, but it is stylish enough that it doesn’t give off the feeling of a regular dog bed. Make sure that it is faux leather rather than real leather because real leather will not withstand scratches or stains from dogs constantly jumping up on it.

Happycare Textiles Luxury All Sides Faux leather...
  • Both exterior and interior are PU Leather, Height quality leather have the pet bed Great hand feel...
  • Classic Rectangle design is suitable to put anywhere,

2. Microsuede Dog Bed

Laifug Orthopedic Memory Foam Extra Large Dog Bed

Microsuede is a smooth, beautiful fabric. However, it can be difficult to clean and will show off stains. If choosing microsuede, opt for a darker color, as a lighter color will highlight any dirt or stains.

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Conclusion

These different types of dog beds work for different types of dogs. Cushioned, indoor beds are suited for almost every dog type. Outdoor dog beds are good for dogs who spend a lot of time outside but may not be the best option for small dogs or puppies, as the elevated design may be difficult for them to climb up on.

Furniture-like beds are good for small, well-behaved dogs who do not spend much time outdoors and do not have sharp claws or drool much. Furniture-like beds are more for fashion than function and can be easily destroyed if not used carefully.

Depending on your needs and the type of dog and home you have, you can utilize any or all of these different dog beds. Your dog will love having options to nap on all over the house.

Before you go, check out our reviews and top picks for the


Featured Image Credit: Pixabay

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