As a pet owner, you know that your furry companion's comfort is a top priority. You may have noticed them curling up in tight spaces or seeking out soft blankets to create a nest. This instinct to feel secure is why the doughnut dog bed has become such a popular choice. Its unique circular design with raised edges provides a sense of safety and warmth, making it an excellent calming dog bed for anxious pets.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? This guide is designed to help you understand the key features to look for in a round pet bed. We will explore what makes a great bed and share our top recommendations to help you find a comfortable, practical and durable resting place for your dog or cat.
Choosing the right bed involves more than just picking a colour. Consider these practical points to ensure you are getting a bed that both you and your pet will appreciate.
The primary appeal of a fluffy dog bed is its texture. Look for beds made with soft, long-plush fabrics that are gentle on your pet's skin and nose. The filling is just as important. A quality bed will be filled with materials like PP cotton that offer a good balance of softness and support, holding its shape over time and providing gentle relief for joints.
Let's be practical: pet beds get dirty. A washable dog bed is not just a convenience; it's essential for hygiene. The most practical designs feature removable covers or cushions with hidden zippers. This allows you to easily machine wash the exterior, keeping your pet's sleeping area fresh and clean without the hassle of trying to fit a bulky bed into your washing machine.
An often-overlooked feature is the base of the bed. A non-slip dog bed is particularly important for households with smooth flooring like wood or tile. Beds with rubber nubs on the underside prevent sliding, which provides stability for senior pets who may be unsteady on their feet or for energetic dogs who tend to jump into their beds with enthusiasm.
We have reviewed the specifications of several popular models to bring you a selection of doughnut beds that stand out for their design, materials and practical features.
Why It Stands Out: This bed offers a fantastic balance of plush comfort and practical durability. The 4 cm long plush fabric is designed to be soft and inviting while resisting shedding, and the generous 20 cm thick PP cotton filling provides ample support for a restful sleep.
Pros:
Who is it for? This 70 cm bed is an ideal choice for owners of small to medium-sized dogs (up to 17 kg) who want a stylish, comfortable and easy-to-maintain sleeping solution.
Why It Stands Out: With its generous 100 cm diameter, this bed is built for larger pets or multiple smaller ones who enjoy cuddling together. Its key feature is the removable central cushion, which makes machine washing exceptionally straightforward for a bed of this size. The high, supportive bolsters create a secure feeling, making it a great anti-anxiety cat bed or dog bed.
Pros:
Who is it for? Perfect for owners of larger dog breeds, or for households with multiple pets that like to share. Its easy-clean design makes it a practical choice for those who need a large but manageable bed.
Why It Stands Out: This model packs all the key features of its larger counterparts into a compact, 60 cm frame. It uses the same soft, 4 cm long plush fabric and supportive PP cotton filling, making it a cosy retreat for the smallest members of your family.
Pros:
Who is it for? This bed is designed specifically for cats and small dog breeds (up to 5.5 kg). It’s an excellent option for those who want to provide a secure, high-quality doughnut bed with a small footprint.
While a doughnut bed is a fantastic choice for many pets, every animal has unique preferences. If you're looking for a different shape, material or style, there are many other options to explore.
Discover a wider variety of beds, from orthopaedic mattresses to enclosed houses, in our full Pet House category.
Calming beds, including the doughnut style, are designed based on an animal's natural instinct to seek shelter. The raised, cushioned rim of a round pet bed mimics the feeling of being in a den or snuggling against their mother and littermates. This can create a sense of security, which may help reduce anxiety and encourage more restful sleep for some pets.
The best way to ensure a good fit is to measure your pet while they are in their typical sleeping position. If they like to curl up, measure their diameter. If they stretch out, measure their length. Compare these measurements to the bed's inner dimensions. As a general rule, it's better to choose a slightly larger size to give them room to adjust comfortably. Always check the manufacturer's weight recommendations as well.
For hygiene, regular cleaning is important. The easiest beds to clean are those with removable, machine-washable covers or cushions. Always follow the care instructions on the product label. Typically, you would wash the cover in cold water on a gentle cycle and then air dry or tumble dry on low. Fluffing the bed after washing helps restore its shape and softness.