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| Winner | Canopy | Mat |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| Pet Craft Supply | Floppy Dawg | Bom Garoto |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
All dogs need a cozy place to rest, whether inside or out. An outdoor dog bed is an excellent place to curl up or chill outdoors. However, finding the right one might be more complicated than you think. I have researched the best outdoor dog bed options and selected my favorites to help you decide what might be right for you.
Why Do I Need An Outdoor Dog Bed? 7 Reasons
If your pup spends time outside, giving them an outdoor-appropriate bed for relaxing makes sense. But that isn’t the only reason. Here are a few more:
- Comfort. Outdoor spaces can be rough and uncomfortable, and outdoor beds can make resting outdoors more relaxing.
- Health. Lying on the ground can contribute to poor joint health and hot spots.
- Hygiene. They can keep your pup cleaner than lying on the ground and your home neater.
- Parasites. A bed can help to keep bugs and parasites out of your dog’s fur.
- Safety. Outdoor spaces can be a source of allergies in dogs, such as grass, pollen, sand, dust, and more. It protects your pup against other dangerous items such as lawn feed, de-icers, glass, etc.
- Cool In Summer. The breathable fabrics and the fact that some are up off the ground can help cool off your pup and keep them safe in summer.
- Warm In Winter. Outdoor beds can be a source of heat in cooler months.
Does your pup spend more time indoors than out, and you’re looking for an indoor bed? Although many of my options here are for indoor and outdoor use, you should also check out our article on the best dog beds for every breed.
6 Best Outdoor Canine Beds
Here, I review the best outdoor dog beds and separate them into categories for your convenience. I have chosen the following options based on their quality, comfort, value for money, customer reviews, and our team’s personal experience.
Best Overall Outside Dog Bed: Pet Craft Supply Super Snoozer Dog Bed Review
This indoor and outdoor bed by Pet Craft Supply is an excellent pick. This durable option is UV-treated to prevent fading and is easy to clean. There is extra padding to make it super comfortable, and you can take this portable outdoor pet bed with you on the go. This bed is water-resistant, which helps to protect it from the elements and doggy accidents. It’s also machine-washable for easy cleaning.
The company does not offer a warranty but encourages you to contact them with any concerns. Customers’ main complaint is that it isn’t chew-resistant. If you have an aggressive chewer, it’s important to supervise them when using this bed. This is a highly reviewed dog bed suitable for any season and available in three colors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| For indoor & outdoor use | Not chew-resistant |
| Water-resistant | |
| Made with durable, pet-safe material | |
| Extra padding for comfort | |
| Portable | |
| Machine washable |
Price
- Starts at $45.99
We have a comprehensive guide on the best chew-proof dog beds if you have a persistent chewer.
Best Outdoor Dog Bed With Canopy: Floppy Dawg Elevated Bed Review
Floppy Dawg makes this covered outdoor dog bed, which is my pick for the best outdoor canine bed with a canopy. You can use this bed indoors and outdoors, and it comes in two sizes, each in four colors or designs. The high-quality 1680D Oxford fabric and durable metal frame can hold pups up to 80 pounds. You can take this lightweight, portable bed anywhere, and the canopy is easy to remove.
The elevation and shade help keep your dog cool with air circulation and shelter. This is a bed with a sun canopy, not an outdoor bed with a roof, so you can use it for shade but not as an umbrella. Also, it isn’t UV-resistant, so the canopy may wear out after lots of sun exposure. Some reviews mention that they wish the bed was bigger for their larger or extra-large dog breeds.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| For indoor & outdoor use | Not UV-resistant |
| High-quality fabric | 80-lb max weight |
| Comes with a removable canopy | |
| Durable steel frame | |
| Elevation and shade provide a cooling effect | |
| Portable |
Price
- Starts at
Best Outdoor Heated Dog Bed: K&H Pet Products Heated Deluxe Lectro-Soft Outdoor Dog Bed Review
Made by trusted pet brand K&H, this is what I chose for the best outdoor heated dog bed. If you need a way to keep your pup warm outdoors, this electric heated warming option is made for indoor and outdoor use. It’s thermostatically controlled, and the heating element activates with the weight of your pet reaching 102°F for comfortable warmth. This outdoor electric bed goes into an eco-mode when not in use and meets USA/CA electrical safety standards.
The corded electric pet blanket also has bolsters on every side for comfort. The bottom is thinner so your pup can feel the heat. This bed is not water-resistant, and it has to be near a plug outlet and in a space with shelter for safety. However, you can remove the fleece lining and wash the cover in your machine. This is a great winter bed for dogs and comes with a limited warranty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| For indoor & outdoor use | Not water-resistant |
| Portable | Needs to be used in a covered space |
| The removable cover is machine washable | Requires power |
| Meets USA/CA electrical safety standard | |
| 1-year limited warranty |
Price
- Starts at Check Amazon for availability
Best Outdoor Cooling Dog Bed: Coolaroo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed Pro Review
This elevated option is my favorite choice for the best outdoor cooling dog bed. The newly updated off-the-ground design allows for airflow on all sides and increases comfort. The frame and material are durable, easy to clean, and lightweight. This bed is also flea, mite, and mildew-resistant. However, it isn’t chew-resistant, and although it requires no tools for assembly, it may be hard to construct for some.
The cover is removable, which helps with transportation, making it an ideal dog bed for travel. It comes in three colors and three sizes, and the largest has a 100-pound maximum weight. You can hose down or spot-clean this bed. These beds can be used in dog crates, too; just be sure to measure dimensions for compatibility. It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| For indoor & outdoor use | Not chew-resistant |
| Water-resistant | 100lb max weight |
| Breathable high-density polyethylene material | |
| Durable steel frame | |
| Portable & easy to clean | |
| 1-year fabric warranty against UV degradation |
Our Experience With Coolaroo Dog Bed
I use a raised bed like this for my older dog Daisy. She is larger, a Pitbull Labrador mix, and has some joint pain. This bed allows her to sit up off the floor and is very comfortable. It fully supports her weight, takes the pressure off her joints, and she does not get sweaty from lying on the ground, nor does she get dirt and debris in her coat. It is very sturdy and has lasted her several years. Overall, this keeps her cooler, cleaner, and more comfortable. We use it inside and outside, and she likes to hide her toys underneath to keep them safe.
– Danielle DeGroot, Rescue Dog Parent & Writer For Canine Journal
Price
- Starts at $47.55
We also have a guide on the best elevated dog beds for more off-the-ground choices.
Best Waterproof Outdoor Dog Bed: BarkBox Outdoor All-Weather Dog/Cat Bed Review
If you need a waterproof outdoor dog bed, I recommend this one by BarkBox. It is also an excellent outdoor memory foam bed for canines. The durable 600D Oxford weather-resistant fabric, waterproof cover, and zipper keep moisture out and help make it easy to clean by wiping it down. You can use this outdoor waterproof pet bed inside or outside, and it’s durable and portable.
The memory foam mattress inside the cover comes vacuum-packed and takes 72 hours to inflate to about three inches thick. Unfortunately, some complain that the mattress may not fully inflate. The gel memory foam helps your dog regulate temperature and comes with a free BarkBox toy. This bed supports dogs weighing up to 65 pounds and may be too thin for larger breeds.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| For indoor & outdoor use | Foam thickness is not ideal for large breeds |
| Waterproof cover and zipper | Some complaints about the liner not being waterproof |
| Heavy-duty and durable | |
| Portable | |
| Easy to clean with a removable cover |
Price
We have a specific guide on the best orthopedic dog beds for supportive sleeping options.
3 Things To Consider When Buying An Outdoor Dog Bed
There are three main things to consider when finding the best outdoor dog bed for your pup.
1. Your Dog’s Size
The size of your dog plays a huge role in this decision. It needs to be large enough for them to lie on comfortably, considering their preferred sleeping position. If you have two dogs that like to lay together, like mine, you’ll need a larger size for them both.
2. The Temperature Of Your Outdoor Space
You might need outdoor bedding for winter vs summer. You also might need an outdoor dog bed with a canopy if your space is very sunny. If your area is hot, maybe an outdoor cooling bed will suit you best. The outdoor bedding material you choose can also help heat or cool your pup.
3. Additional Dog Bed Accessories
Some dog bed accessory options include outdoor dog pillows, outdoor replacement covers, or bedding for an outside dog kennel. You can even get an outdoor canine wicker bed to match your outdoor furniture. Consider what dog bed accessories you need, and ensure the bed you pick accommodates them.
More Outdoor Gear For Your Pup
If you’re looking to make your yard more Fido-friendly, we have a host of guides to help you achieve this. First, why not consider a GPS dog collar to help keep track of your pup or the SpotOn GPS fence collar to help keep Fido contained? We have a guide on the best dog water fountains to ensure they have constant access to fresh water. Finally, be sure to visit our article on creating a safe backyard habitat for your pup and other wildlife.
Do you use any of these outdoor dog beds? Do you have another outdoor dog bed you think I should consider for my review? Let us know in the comments below.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Emma is a dog mom to two rescue dogs, Bonkers and Chips. Her dogs enjoy lazing around on their elevated dog bed in the warmer summer months. But, unfortunately, it doesn’t get much usage in the rainy U.K. Before joining the Canine Journal team, Emma was a full-time dog walker and sitter. She is passionate about sharing her decades of knowledge and experience with other dog parents to help them live harmoniously with their dogs. Emma works with a dedicated team to ensure Canine Journal is a current and well-trusted online dog resource.
