best dog bed for burrowing

For years, dog beds lacked the perfect design for burrowers, which is why the Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut Bed, Taupe, 23x23in deserves spotlight. I’ve tested it myself and watched how small dogs and cats instinctively burrow into its plush, self-warming faux fur. The deep, high-walled bolsters create a cozy cave that taps into your pet’s natural cuddling instincts—especially useful for anxious sleepers or breeds like Yorkies and Chihuahuas.

This bed’s premium high-loft polyfill cushions gently, offering both orthopedic support and a pillow-soft feel. Plus, its water- and dirt-resistant bottom keeps floors clean—perfect for busy homes. I found it easy to wash and maintain, and it holds its shape through countless naps. Compared to the JOEJOY with a hood or the larger beds, this size strikes a perfect balance of snugness and support, making of it my top pick for burrow-loving small pups. It’s like a secure haven they’ll love—and you’ll appreciate how simple it is to keep clean.

Top Recommendation: Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut Bed, Taupe, 23x23in

Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its plush faux fur, deep bolsters encouraging burrowing, and orthopedic polyfill for joint support. The water-resistant base and easy-machine washability outshine the competition, offering durability and convenience. Its size perfectly suits small breeds, making it an ideal, cozy retreat that withstands frequent use and cleaning.

Best dog bed for burrowing: Our Top 5 Picks

• Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut Bed, Taupe, 23x23in – Best for Small Dogs and Comfort
• JOEJOY 23″ Small Dog & Cat Bed with Hooded Blanket – Best for Small Dogs and Cats
• Bedsure Calming Dog Bed, 30″ Washable Faux Fur, Camel – Best for Small Dogs and Cozy Comfort
• Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Dog and Cat – Best for Small Dogs and Relaxation
• Best Friends Sheri Calming Donut Bed, Frost Gray, 23in – Best for Small Dogs and Comfort

What Characteristics Define the Best Dog Bed for Burrowing?

The best dog bed for burrowing should have specific characteristics that cater to a dog’s natural instincts and comfort needs.

• High Sides: Beds with elevated sides provide a sense of security for burrowing dogs, allowing them to nestle comfortably and feel protected.
• Soft, Plush Materials: A bed made from soft, plush fabrics will encourage burrowing behavior, as dogs enjoy the tactile sensation against their fur.
• Washable Covers: Many burrowing dogs can be messy, so having a bed with removable, washable covers ensures easy maintenance and hygiene.
• Inner Nesting Area: A bed designed with a cozy, enclosed space mimics a den-like environment, which is appealing to dogs that love to burrow.
• Non-Slip Base: A non-slip bottom keeps the bed stable while dogs dig and burrow, preventing the bed from sliding around during use.

High sides create a barrier that offers a comforting, den-like feel, making dogs feel secure while they burrow into their bed. This design element is particularly beneficial for smaller breeds or those that naturally seek enclosed spaces for comfort.

Soft, plush materials like faux fur or memory foam are ideal as they not only provide comfort but also encourage the instinctual behavior of burrowing, allowing dogs to create their own little nest. The softness helps to soothe them, making it easier for them to relax.

Washable covers are crucial for any pet bed, especially for burrowing dogs that may bring dirt and hair into their sleeping area. Easy-to-remove covers make it simple to keep the bed clean, which is essential for the dog’s health and comfort.

An inner nesting area is particularly effective for burrowing enthusiasts, as it allows dogs to curl up and feel enveloped by the walls of the bed. This feature mimics the natural dens that dogs would seek out in the wild, providing a perfect sanctuary for rest.

Finally, a non-slip base ensures that the bed remains in place, even during enthusiastic digging and burrowing. This stability is important for dogs to feel secure and avoid any distractions or disruptions while they settle into their cozy spot.

How Does a Burrowing Dog’s Behavior Influence Bed Selection?

When selecting the best dog bed for burrowing dogs, their unique behaviors must be understood and considered.

• Den-like Environments: Burrowing dogs instinctively seek out spaces that mimic a den, which provides them with a sense of security and warmth.
• Soft and Cozy Materials: The choice of materials matters significantly; burrowing dogs often prefer beds made of soft fabrics that they can nestle into and feel enveloped by.
• High Sides or Edges: Beds with raised sides or edges allow burrowing dogs to create a cocoon-like effect, making them feel more sheltered and comfortable.
• Size and Shape: The dimensions of the bed should accommodate the dog’s burrowing habits, allowing enough space to turn around and nest without feeling cramped.
• Washability: Since burrowing behaviors can lead to messes, selecting a bed that is easy to clean and maintain is essential for hygiene and durability.

Den-like environments appeal to burrowing dogs because they mimic their natural instincts, providing a safe spot where they can retreat and feel secure. Choosing a bed that creates this environment can greatly enhance a dog’s comfort and reduce anxiety.

Soft and cozy materials are crucial for burrowing dogs, as they enjoy the feeling of being surrounded by warmth and softness. Fabrics like fleece or plush can encourage them to dig and snuggle, fulfilling their burrowing needs.

Beds with high sides or edges serve to create a sense of enclosure, which is particularly comforting for burrowing dogs. This design allows them to burrow into the sides, enhancing their feeling of safety and protection.

Size and shape are important considerations; a bed that is too small may restrict a dog’s natural burrowing behavior, while one that is too large may not provide the snugness they seek. A contoured shape can also help support their body while allowing for burrowing.

Finally, washability is an important feature for any dog bed, especially for burrowing dogs who may bring dirt and debris into their resting place. Selecting a bed with removable covers or machine-washable components ensures that the bed remains clean and hygienic over time.

What Types of Materials Are Most Suitable for Burrowing Dog Beds?

The best materials for burrowing dog beds prioritize comfort, durability, and the ability to create a secure, den-like environment for dogs that love to dig and burrow.

• Soft Fleece: This material is incredibly soft and cozy, providing a warm and inviting surface for dogs to snuggle into. Its plush texture encourages burrowing behavior, making it ideal for dogs that seek comfort and warmth.
• Memory Foam: Memory foam offers excellent support and conforms to the dog’s body shape, reducing pressure points. This type of material is particularly beneficial for older dogs or those with joint issues, as it alleviates discomfort while allowing them to burrow comfortably.
• Canvas: Canvas is a durable and sturdy material that can withstand the wear and tear from active burrowing. It is often used in the outer layer of dog beds to provide a tough yet comfortable surface while still allowing dogs to feel secure as they dig and nest.
• Denim: Denim is another robust material that combines durability with a soft texture. Its heavy-duty nature makes it resistant to chewing, and its softness provides a cozy spot for dogs to burrow, making it an excellent choice for burrowing beds.
• Polyester Fill: Beds filled with polyester are lightweight yet provide a good amount of cushioning for dogs. This material is often used in inner layers and can be easily shaped and manipulated, allowing dogs to create their own burrowed nest within the bed.
• Sheepskin: Sheepskin is a luxurious material that offers both warmth and softness, making it very appealing for burrowing dogs. Its natural insulating properties help regulate temperature, keeping dogs comfortable whether they are cooling down or warming up.

What Key Features Should You Seek in a Dog Bed for Burrowing?

When searching for the best dog bed for burrowing, consider the following key features:

• High-Sided Walls: Burrowing dogs often seek the comfort of enclosed spaces, so beds with high or bolstered sides provide a sense of security and warmth.
• Soft and Cozy Materials: Look for beds made from plush fabrics like fleece or faux fur, as these materials encourage burrowing behavior by offering a soft, inviting texture.
• Washable Covers: Since burrowing can lead to dirt and odors, choosing a bed with removable and washable covers is essential for maintaining hygiene and extending the lifespan of the bed.
• Non-Slip Bottom: A non-slip base is important to prevent the bed from sliding around as your dog burrows, ensuring stability and comfort during their digging and nesting activities.
• Size Appropriateness: Ensure that the bed is appropriately sized for your dog, allowing enough space for them to comfortably burrow while still feeling snug and secure.

High-sided walls can create a cocoon-like environment that many burrowing dogs find comforting, making them feel safe while they nestle in. This feature also helps prevent them from rolling off the bed during their burrowing antics.

Soft and cozy materials will entice your dog to dig and burrow, as they mimic the natural instinct to create a nest. Beds made from plush or fluffy materials provide warmth and a sense of comfort that encourages this behavior.

Washable covers are crucial because burrowing can lead to fur and dirt accumulation. A bed with removable and machine-washable covers not only simplifies cleaning but also helps keep your dog’s sleeping area fresh and hygienic.

A non-slip bottom is vital for active burrowers who may inadvertently push their bed around. This feature helps keep the bed in place, allowing your dog to burrow without the distraction of a shifting surface underneath them.

Choosing the right size bed is essential for ensuring your dog can fully enjoy the burrowing experience. If the bed is too small, it may not provide the cozy enclosure they seek, while a bed that is too large may not offer the snug feeling that promotes burrowing behavior.

What Dimensions and Shapes Can Enhance the Comfort of Burrowing Dogs?

The dimensions and shapes that can enhance the comfort of burrowing dogs include:

• Cave-style beds: These beds feature an enclosed design that mimics a burrow, providing a sense of security and warmth for dogs that like to dig and nest.
• Donut-shaped beds: With raised edges, these beds allow dogs to curl up and feel protected while offering a soft surface to burrow into.
• Pillow beds: Large, flat beds with plenty of surface area allow dogs to stretch out and also dig into the fabric, satisfying their burrowing instincts.
• Hooded beds: These beds have a canopy or hood that offers a cozy, den-like environment, allowing dogs to burrow underneath for comfort and warmth.
• Orthopedic beds: Designed for support, these beds can also be beneficial for burrowing dogs by providing a comfortable base that allows them to dig into the surrounding materials.

Cave-style beds create a snug environment that burrowing dogs instinctively seek, helping them feel safe and secure while they rest. The enclosed space provides warmth and can help reduce anxiety, making it an ideal choice for dogs that enjoy digging into their bedding.

Donut-shaped beds are designed with soft, elevated edges that provide a comforting barrier for dogs who like to curl up. The pressure from the surrounding fabric can give them a feeling of safety, while the center area allows for burrowing and snuggling into the bed.

Pillow beds offer a spacious and flat surface that satisfies a burrowing dog’s need to dig and rearrange their bedding. The ample size allows dogs to make their own cozy spots while also enjoying the freedom to stretch out when they choose.

Hooded beds cater specifically to burrowing behaviors by providing a canopy that dogs can hide under, creating a den-like atmosphere. This design helps them feel secure and allows them to engage in their natural instincts to burrow and nest.

Orthopedic beds combine comfort and support, which is beneficial for older or arthritic burrowing dogs. These beds not only accommodate their burrowing tendencies but also support their joints, ensuring they have a restful sleep without discomfort.

What Are the Health and Comfort Benefits of a Dedicated Burrowing Dog Bed?

The health and comfort benefits of a dedicated burrowing dog bed are significant for dogs that exhibit this natural behavior.

• Security and Comfort: A burrowing dog bed provides a sense of security and comfort for dogs that enjoy digging and burrowing. The design often includes soft, enclosed spaces that mimic a den-like environment, allowing dogs to feel safe and protected.
• Reduced Anxiety: Dogs that can engage in their natural burrowing instincts may experience lower levels of anxiety. The bed’s structure can help alleviate stress by offering a cozy retreat where they can relax and feel less exposed to their surroundings.
• Support for Joint Health: Many dedicated burrowing beds are designed with orthopedic features that support joint health. The cushioning helps alleviate pressure on joints, which is particularly beneficial for older dogs or those with arthritis.
• Temperature Regulation: Burrowing beds often have materials that help regulate temperature, keeping dogs warm in colder months and cool in warmer weather. This adaptability ensures that dogs can enjoy their sleeping environment year-round.
• Encouragement of Natural Behavior: These beds encourage dogs to express their natural burrowing behavior, which can be mentally stimulating and fulfilling. This engagement can lead to a healthier mindset and decrease destructive behaviors that arise from boredom.
• Easy Maintenance: Many burrowing dog beds come with removable, washable covers that make cleaning easy. This feature helps maintain hygiene, ensuring that the bed stays fresh and comfortable for the dog.

How Do I Choose the Best Dog Bed for My Burrowing Dog?

Choosing the best dog bed for a burrowing dog involves considering their specific needs and preferences.

• Material: The material of the dog bed can greatly affect comfort and durability.
• Shape and Design: The shape and design should cater to the burrowing instinct, providing an enclosed or cave-like space.
• Size: Selecting the right size ensures your dog can comfortably burrow and stretch out.
• Washability: A bed that is easy to clean is essential, especially for dogs that may track in dirt or shed.
• Support: Adequate support is crucial for the dog’s joints, particularly for older or larger breeds.

Material: Look for beds made from soft, durable materials such as fleece or plush fabric that can withstand the burrowing behavior while providing comfort. Additionally, water-resistant or chew-resistant materials can be beneficial for longevity.

Shape and Design: Beds that have a hooded or cave-like design allow burrowing dogs to feel safe and secure while they nest. These designs can include features like raised edges or tunnels that mimic their natural instincts.

Size: It’s important to measure your dog and choose a bed that gives them enough room to burrow without feeling cramped. A bed that is too small may cause discomfort, while one that is too large may not provide the cozy feeling they seek.

Washability: Look for dog beds with removable, machine-washable covers to maintain hygiene easily. This feature helps keep the sleeping area clean and fresh, which is essential for the health of your dog.

Support: Memory foam or orthopedic beds provide excellent support for dogs, especially those with joint issues or older dogs. Proper support helps prevent discomfort and promotes better sleep quality, allowing your burrowing dog to rest well.

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