A dog bed cover can help extend the life of your dog's favorite sleeping spot and make it easier to keep clean.
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10 Best Dog Bed Covers
Updated on Jul. 22, 2024
Does your dog regularly mess up their bed? If they track in dirt, leaves and unidentifiable grime, you probably clean it often. A dog bed cover—and a dog wash station—can help. These covers slip over your dog’s bed, are easy to remove and wash and can extend the bed’s life by taking the brunt of your pup’s antics.
When shopping for a dog bed, consider the material. “Look for bed covers made from sturdy, high-quality materials that handle regular use and washing,” says pet nutritionist David D’Angelo. “This is especially important for dogs who scratch or dig at their beds.”
Options like canvas and nylon are often the most durable, while faux fur or fleece covers are more comfortable. Ensure the bed fits your dog and the cover easily slips over it. When in doubt, size up. It’s better if the cover is too big or too small.
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Best All-Around
Milliard Waterproof Non-Slip Dog Bed Cover
The top-rated Milliard Dog Bed Cover offers pretty much everything you could ever want in a dog bed cover, for an affordable price. It’s made from a plush, cozy fabric that your dog will love, and it’s waterproof to protect the bed underneath. This cover comes in four sizes. It even has a non-slip bottom to keep the bed in place on hard floors.
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Best Patterns
Molly Mutt Dog Bed Cover
If you want lots of choices, the Molly Mutt Dog Bed Cover is the way to go. There are several rectangular and round cover sizes to choose from, as well as dozens of patterns, including everything from pretty floral prints, geometric motifs and quirkier dog bed design options like a collage of constellations.
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Best Scratch-Resistant
Lands’ End Rectangular Canvas Dog Bed Cover
Many dogs love to dig in their beds, and the Lands’ End Canvas Dog Bed Cover will help to minimize the damage from your dog’s nails. The rectangular cover is available in four sizes and three colors. The tightly-woven twill fabric is designed to hold up against any scratching your dog might do in their sleep.
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Best Water-Resistant
Molly Mutt Armor Water-Resistant Liner
Does your dog have accidents on their bed once in a while? You can protect the inner bedding with the Molly Mutt Armor Water-Resistant Liner, which comes in rectangular and round sizes. While not the prettiest cover out there, the liner helps block liquids from seeping into the bed. You could always use it underneath a second, more attractive bed cover.
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Best for Camping
Amofy Pet Bed Mat
If your dog is outdoorsy, consider adding the Amofy Pet Bed Mat to your gear checklist. It features a water-resistant top layer and slip-proof bottom and a handy drawstring storage bag. It’s also machine washable. This mat is perfect for giving your dog a special spot in your tent.
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Best for Pillows
Dogbed4less Do It Yourself Pet Pillow Covers
You can turn old pillows into a dog bed with the Dogbed4less Do It Yourself Pet Pillow Covers. This product comes with a waterproof inner liner as well as an outer cover that’s available in canvas, micro-suede and other fabric options. The covers are available in two sizes. Both can accommodate two bed pillows to make a comfy sleep spot for your dog.
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Best Customized
Furlap Custom Dog Bed Duvet Cover
The Furlap Custom Dog Bed Duvet Cover can be personalized with your dog’s name for a one-of-a-kind bed. The zipper-free canvas cover comes in multiple sizes to suit any dog breed. And you can choose what color you want their name to be, ranging from basic black to sparkly hot pink.
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Best for Travel
PetSafe Happy Ride Car Cuddler
When you travel with your dog, you want them to be comfortable without destroying your car seats. The PetSafe Happy Ride Car Seat Cover is the answer. Available for bench and bucket seats, this micro-suede car seat cover is easy to install and machine washable. PetSafe also offers a seat belt safety tether that can be used with this seat cover. A seat belt for your dog will help them stay safe, too.
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Best for Furniture
Mambe Waterproof Furniture Cover
If your pet mostly sleeps on your bed or sofa, you can protect your furniture with the Mambe Waterproof Furniture Cover. The American-made cover comes in various sizes for a sofa or bed, and you can choose from four reversible colors. It’s made from soft micro-fleece with a waterproof inner membrane. And it comes with a lifetime guarantee.
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Best for Travel
VIEWPETS Bench Car Seat Cover
Wet, dirty dogs can make a mess of your car, which is why the VIEWPETS Bench Car Seat Cover is a popular purchase for so many pet owners. The cover is designed for a bench-style back seat. Its quilted fabric is durable and waterproof, helping to protect your vehicle from scratches, dirt and stains.
What to Look for When Buying Dog Bed Covers
There’s a lot to consider when shopping for dog bed covers—here are some of the most important factors:
Material Quality
- Durability: “Look for bed covers made from sturdy, high-quality materials that can withstand regular use and washing,” says D’Angelo. This is especially important for dogs who scratch or dig at their beds. Durable materials like canvas, denim or ripstop nylon are good options.
- Chew-Resistant Fabrics: “Ballistic nylon, ripstop fabrics and Kevlar offer the best chew resistance,” says D’Angelo. However, no material is 100% chew-proof for determined chewers.
- Tear-Resistant: Opt for tightly woven fabrics with a high thread count. A denser weave makes the cover more resistant to tearing and ripping.
- Breathable Fabrics: Bamboo and cotton wick away moisture and are best for breathability.Â
- Sensitive Skin: For dogs with allergies or sensitive skin, opt for organic cotton, bamboo or microfiber.
Waterproof and Water-Resistant Properties
“A high-quality polyurethane laminate (PUL) is the gold standard for waterproof liners,” says D’Angelo. “It’s durable, flexible and effectively blocks moisture.”
Waterproof and water-resistant properties protect your dog bed from moisture and boost its durability and resistance to dirt, dust and grime. However, these features may raise the price, reduce environmental friendliness and affect the material’s comfort.
Ease of Cleaning
Size and Fit
- Proper Fit:Â The right size cover is crucial for your dog’s comfort. “A cover that’s too big bunches and creates an uneven surface, while one that’s too small slips off,” says D’Angelo. Measure your dog’s bed and compare it to the cover’s dimensions.
- Exact Dimensions: Measure the bed’s length, width and depth. For beds with bolsters, measure from edge to edge. Choose the larger option and adjust for a snug fit if between sizes.
- Secure Fit: Covers with elastic edges or straps under the bed provide a secure fit. Elastic edges contour to stay in place, while straps allow for tightening to the bed’s shape. “A combination of elastic and straps offers the most reliable fit,” says D’Angelo.
Environmental Impact
To ensure eco-friendly materials, look for third-party certifications such as B Corp, The Global Organic Textile Standard or Leaping Bunny.
Pet-Specific Considerations
“For older dogs or those with joint issues, covers with extra padding or orthopedic foam inserts add support and comfort,” says D’Angelo. While the bed impacts your pet’s health more, consider the cover’s material—some are easier to grip, which is helpful for older dogs.
Why You Should Trust Us
Sean Tirman, Content Updates Editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this piece. Sean has written shopping guides since 2016 and is a former associate editor at Gear Patrol.
How We Found the Best Dog Bed Covers
We scoured the market for the best dog covers, focusing on quality materials, solid construction, reliable brands and more. We consulted with our expert, drew from our staff’s experiences and analyzed customer reviews to ensure we recommended only top picks. We then narrowed down the options to a final collection representing the category’s pinnacle.
FAQ
What material is best for dogs to lay on?
Several materials work well for dog beds. Memory foam offers support and comfort, especially for older dogs or those with joint issues. Cotton is soft and breathable, making it a versatile choice. Fleece and sherpa are warm and cozy—perfect for dogs who love to snuggle. Hypoallergenic options like organic cotton, bamboo or microfiber suit allergy-prone pups, as they don’t trap allergens.
What is the best type of bed for a dog to sleep on?
The best bed depends on your dog’s needs. Orthopedic beds with memory foam support dogs with arthritis or aging joints. Pillow beds provide soft, cushiony support for most dogs. Bolster beds offer security, while donut beds are ideal for smaller dogs who like to curl up. Consider your dog’s size, age, health and sleeping style when choosing a bed.
Do dogs like enclosed dog beds?
Many dogs enjoy enclosed beds that provide a den-like sense of security and warmth, especially anxious dogs or those who like to burrow. The enclosed space often makes them feel safe and cozy. Smaller dogs tend to like these beds, too. However, preferences vary, so observe your pet’s behavior. Some may prefer more open beds.
