Quick Answer: Dogs need a flat or bolstered bed sized to their shoulder width plus 12 inches, while cats prefer elevated or enclosed spaces where they feel hidden and secure. Senior pets of both species benefit from orthopaedic foam that supports joints. The most important features are washable covers, appropriate size, and a foam density that does not flatten after a few months.
In This Guide
Reading Time: 10 minutes
How Cats and Dogs Sleep Differently (And Why It Matters for Beds)
We spend a lot of time thinking about human sleep at Mattress Miracle. But we also know that for many Brantford families, "the whole family" includes a Labrador on the couch or a tabby cat on the pillow.
Dogs sleep about 12 to 14 hours a day. Puppies and senior dogs need more, sometimes 16 to 18 hours. Cats sleep 12 to 16 hours, with seniors stretching that to 18 or even 20 hours. That is a lot of time on a sleep surface, which is exactly why the bed matters.
But here is the thing most pet owners miss: cats and dogs do not sleep the same way, and they do not want the same bed.
Sleep Cycles: Pets vs Humans
Dogs cycle through sleep stages faster than humans. They spend about 10% of their sleep in REM (the dreaming phase), compared to 25% for humans. This means dogs wake and reposition more frequently, which is why a bed that holds its shape through repeated shifting matters more than you might think. Cats, meanwhile, spend a large portion of their sleep in light dozing. They are ready to spring into action at any sound, which is why they gravitate toward beds that feel safe and enclosed.
Dog Bed Types and When to Use Each
There is no universal "best dog bed." The right choice depends on how your dog sleeps.
The Stretcher (Flat Mattress Beds)
Large dogs who sleep on their side with legs fully extended need a flat, spacious bed with no raised edges. Think of it as a mattress pad on the floor. Golden retrievers, German shepherds, and Great Danes are classic stretchers. A bed that is too small forces them to hang off the edge, which defeats the purpose.
The Curler (Bolster and Donut Beds)
Dogs who curl into a ball sleep best in beds with raised edges they can tuck their nose against. The bolster provides a sense of security and a chin rest. Smaller breeds, anxious dogs, and dogs who have always curled up often prefer this style. The Western Home calming donut bed is a popular example in Canada.
The Leaner (Three-Sided Bolster Beds)
Some dogs want the bolster support on three sides but prefer an easy entry point. This works well for older dogs who have trouble stepping over high edges. The open front gives them access without the joint strain of climbing into a bed.
The Floor Dog (Elevated/Cot Beds)
Elevated cot-style beds keep your dog off cold floors in winter and provide airflow underneath in summer. Great for Canadian homes with hardwood or tile floors that get cold from October through April. Brands like Coolaroo and K&H make durable options available in Canada.
Watch Before You Buy
Before spending money, observe how your dog sleeps for a few nights. Do they stretch out or curl up? Do they lean against furniture? Do they seek out cool tile or warm carpet? Their natural preference tells you exactly what bed shape they need. A $150 orthopaedic bed is wasted money if your dog is a curler and you bought a flat mattress.
What Cats Actually Want in a Bed
Cats are particular. You already know this. But their bed preferences are rooted in genuine instinct, not just feline attitude.
Elevated Beds
Cats feel safest when they can see the room from above. Window perches, cat trees with sleeping platforms, and wall-mounted shelves with cushions all tap into this instinct. An elevated bed near a sunny window is, for most cats, the single best investment you can make.
Enclosed / Cave Beds
Many cats prefer beds with a hood or cave-like structure. The enclosed space mimics a den, reducing stimulation and helping them feel hidden from potential threats (even if the only threat in your Brantford home is the vacuum cleaner). Enclosed beds are especially good for anxious cats and multi-cat households where each cat needs a private retreat.
Heated Beds
Cats are drawn to warmth. Self-warming beds (lined with Mylar or thermal materials) reflect body heat back to the cat without electricity. Electric heated pads are an option for senior cats or in particularly cold Canadian homes, but make sure they have an auto-shutoff and a chew-resistant cord.
The Cardboard Box
We have to be honest. Many cats prefer a $2 cardboard box to a $60 designer bed. A study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science found that shelter cats given cardboard boxes showed significantly lower stress levels than those without. If your cat loves a box, let them have the box. You can always put a soft blanket inside.
Dorothy, Sleep Specialist: "We joke that everyone in the family deserves a good sleep surface, including the cat. But honestly, when a customer tells me their dog is restless at night and pacing, I ask about the dog's bed before I ask about the owner's mattress. Bad sleep is contagious in a household."
Orthopaedic Beds for Senior Pets
This is where pet beds overlap with what we do at Mattress Miracle. The same principles that apply to a human with arthritis or joint pain apply to a senior dog or cat: you need pressure relief, support, and a surface that distributes weight evenly.
When to Switch to Orthopaedic
- Your pet is over 7 years old (large dogs) or over 10 (small dogs and cats)
- They have been diagnosed with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or joint issues
- They are slow to get up from lying down
- They avoid jumping onto furniture they used to access easily
- They seem stiff after resting
What to Look For
Orthopaedic Pet Bed Checklist
- Memory foam or high-density foam core: Look for at least 4 inches of foam. Egg-crate foam distributes weight better than flat foam. Cheap beds use polyester fill that flattens in weeks.
- Low entry point: Senior dogs with joint pain struggle to step over high bolster edges. Look for beds with a lowered front or no front lip.
- Removable, machine-washable cover: Senior pets are more prone to accidents. A waterproof liner under the cover protects the foam core.
- Non-slip bottom: A bed that slides across hardwood floors is useless for a dog with limited mobility.
- CertiPUR-US foam (if available): Same certification used in human mattresses. Means the foam is free of harmful chemicals. Your pet's nose is inches from the surface for 14+ hours a day.
A Note on Veterinary Guidance
If your senior pet has been diagnosed with a joint condition, ask your vet about bed recommendations. Some vets recommend heated orthopaedic beds for dogs with severe arthritis, as warmth can reduce joint stiffness. Others suggest avoiding beds that are too soft, as they can make it harder for a pet to stand up. The right balance, like with human mattresses, is supportive but not rigid.
Sizing Guide: Getting It Right
A bed that is too small is uncomfortable. A bed that is too large can feel insecure (especially for cats and small dogs who like to feel enclosed).
Dog Bed Sizing
Measure your dog from nose to tail base (not tail tip) while they are lying in their natural sleeping position. Add 12 inches to get the minimum bed length. For width, measure shoulder to shoulder and add 12 inches.
| Dog Size | Weight | Bed Size | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 25 lbs | 24" x 18" | Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu |
| Medium | 25-50 lbs | 30" x 24" | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Border Collie |
| Large | 50-80 lbs | 36" x 28" | Labrador, Golden Retriever, Husky |
| Extra Large | 80+ lbs | 42" x 32"+ | German Shepherd, Great Dane, Mastiff |
Cat Bed Sizing
Most adult cats fit comfortably in beds 15 to 20 inches in diameter. For enclosed beds, make sure the opening is large enough for your cat to enter without squeezing. Larger breeds like Maine Coons may need 22-inch or larger beds.
Washability and Durability: What Actually Lasts
Pet beds get dirty. There is no getting around hair, drool, dirt tracked in from outside, and the occasional accident. The single most important practical feature is a removable, machine-washable cover.
What Survives the Washing Machine
- Canvas and heavy cotton covers: Durable, wash well, dry quickly. Best for dogs who do not chew.
- Microfibre/polyester covers: Resist stains, dry fast, but can trap hair. Good for cats.
- Waterproof liners: Essential under the cover for senior pets or puppies. Protects the foam core from soaking through.
What Does Not Last
- Polyester fill (polyfill) beds: These flatten within weeks to months. Fine as a temporary bed, but do not expect long-term support.
- Beds without removable covers: If you cannot remove and wash the cover, the bed becomes unhygienic fast. Avoid these entirely.
- Cheap memory foam: Low-density foam (under 3 lb/ft cubed) compresses permanently. You pay less upfront and replace more often. It is the same trade-off as cheap human mattress toppers.
For Brantford Pet Owners
Canadian winters are hard on pet beds. If your dog comes in from the snow with wet paws and flops onto their bed daily from November through March, you need a bed with a waterproof liner and a cover you can wash weekly without it falling apart. Canadian-made beds from brands like BeOneBreed (based in Montreal) are designed with our climate in mind and are available at most Canadian pet retailers including PetSmart, Pet Valu, and independent pet shops in the Brantford area.
Canadian Brands and Where to Buy
Canadian-Made or Canadian-Based Brands
- BeOneBreed: Montreal-based. Known for orthopaedic and calming beds. Available at PetSmart Canada, Pet Valu, and Amazon.ca.
- Canada Pooch: Toronto-based. Primarily known for apparel but has a growing bed line.
- Bowsers: Vancouver-based. Premium beds with designer fabrics. Higher price point but excellent durability.
- Chilly Dogs: Edmonton-based. Outdoor and rugged pet products, including elevated beds for cottage and camping.
Where to Shop
| Retailer | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| PetSmart Canada | Widest in-store selection, orthopaedic options | $30-$200 |
| Pet Valu | Canadian brands, staff recommendations | $25-$150 |
| Amazon.ca | Reviews, selection, fast shipping | $20-$250 |
| Costco Canada | Budget large-breed beds (seasonal) | $30-$80 |
| Wayfair Canada | Premium and designer beds | $50-$300+ |
Where to Put the Pet Bed
Placement matters almost as much as the bed itself.
- Away from drafts: Not beside exterior doors or under air vents. In Canadian winters, a cold draft across the floor can make even a good bed uncomfortable.
- Away from high-traffic areas: Pets need to feel safe while sleeping. A bed in the middle of a hallway will be avoided.
- Near their human: Most dogs and cats sleep better when they can see or hear their family. A bed in the bedroom or living room gets more use than one tucked in a corner of the basement.
- Multiple beds: If your home has multiple floors, consider a bed on each level. Your pet gravitates to different spots at different times of day.
Brad, Owner, 40+ years of experience: "At Mattress Miracle, we believe good sleep is for the whole family. We have had customers come in for a new mattress and mention that their dog sleeps on the old one. That is not the worst idea, actually, as long as the mattress still has some life in it. But a dedicated pet bed with the right foam density is a better long-term solution for both the dog and your back."
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an old human mattress or pillow as a pet bed?
You can, but it is not ideal. An old mattress may have lost its support, and the materials may harbour dust mites and allergens that affect your pet. A dedicated pet bed with a washable cover is more hygienic and provides better support for your pet's body weight and sleeping style.
How often should I replace my pet's bed?
Replace the bed when the foam no longer springs back, the cover is permanently stained or torn, or your pet avoids using it. For polyfill beds, this is often within 6 to 12 months. Quality memory foam beds can last 3 to 5 years with regular cover washing.
My cat ignores every bed I buy. What am I doing wrong?
Probably nothing. Cats are famously selective. Try placing the bed in a spot your cat already sleeps (not where you want them to sleep). Put a worn T-shirt of yours inside for familiar scent. If they still ignore it, try a different style. Some cats simply prefer a cardboard box or a sunny windowsill, and that is okay.
Are heated pet beds safe?
Electric heated beds designed specifically for pets (with chew-resistant cords, auto-shutoff, and low wattage) are generally safe. Never use a human heating pad for pets, as these can get too hot and cause burns. Self-warming beds that reflect body heat are the safest zero-risk option.
Does Mattress Miracle sell pet beds?
We do not sell pet beds directly, but we know a thing or two about foam, support, and sleep surfaces. If you are shopping for a human mattress and wondering about your pet's sleep too, Talia is happy to chat about the principles that apply to both. Visit us at 441 1/2 West Street in Brantford or call (519) 770-0001.
Sources
- Kinsman, R., et al. (2020). Sleep duration and behaviours: a descriptive analysis of a cohort of dogs up to 12 months of age. Animals, 10(7), 1172. doi.org/10.3390/ani10071172
- Vinke, C.M., et al. (2014). Will a hiding box provide stress reduction for shelter cats? Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 160, 86-93. doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2014.09.002
- ASPCA. (2024). Pet Sleep FAQs. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. aspcapetinsurance.com
- Zoetis Petcare. (2024). Should Your Dog or Cat Sleep in Your Bed? zoetispetcare.com
- PetMD. (2026). Best Orthopedic Dog Beds, Recommended by Vets. petmd.com
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
We are located at 441½ West Street in downtown Brantford. Free parking available, wheelchair accessible. Our team does not work on commission, so you get honest advice based on your needs.
Mattress Miracle — 441½ West Street, Brantford, ON — (519) 770-0001
Hours: Monday–Wednesday 10am–6pm, Thursday–Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 12pm–4pm.
Good sleep is for the whole family. When the humans in your house need a better mattress, Talia can help you find something that keeps everyone rested, two-legged and four-legged alike.
Shop This Topic at Mattress Miracle
Popular picks at Mattress Miracle:
- Restonic's ComfortCare Dalton & Albany
- Whitney double-sided bamboo mattress
- Somnia 3.0 neck support pillow
Or shop our mattress collection in our Brantford showroom.