Heated dog beds can come in handy during the colder months.
Not only can the best heated dog bed keep your pup warm and comfortable, but it can also benefit puppies and older dogs who suffer from arthritis and stiff joints.
Even if your canine is healthy, they deserve a heated dog bed to sleep on to keep themselves cozy on cooler days!
We’ve reviewed dozens of heated dog beds, and below are our top 9 picks in 2023.
| Product | Warmth | Our Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish Cuddler Dog Bed | 4.5 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
| K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Lounge Sleeper Dog Bed | 4.5 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
| K&H Pet Products Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Pet Dog Bed | 4.8 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
| K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pet Crate Pad | 4.0 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
| K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Pad | 5.0 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
| Petmate Aspen Pet Self-Warming Beds | 4.0 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
| RIOGOO Pet Heating Pad | 4.3 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
| Snuggle Safe Pet Bed Microwave Heating Pad | 4.5 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
| Snoozer Cozy Cave Pet Bed | 4.5 out of 5.0 stars | Check Here |
1. Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish Cuddler Dog Bed
Our top pick for heated dog bed
Key Features:
- High bolster walls
- Waterproof bottom
- Non-toxic pet-safe materials
- AirLOFT fibers
There’s a good reason the Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish Cuddler Dog Bed is one of the most popular heated dog beds on the market.
It has a high wall that wraps around your fido to give them a sense of security. Combined with its higher rear bolster wall to help ease joint pain and provide extra head, neck, and orthopedic support. Not to mention, the bottom is waterproof and non-slip to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort.
This self-warming heated dog bed is made of non-toxic pet-safe materials and filled with AirLOFT fibers, which can keep its loft 3 times longer than the recycled fibers found in many other dog beds. What’s more, it is machine washable and dryer friendly!
PROS
- High overstuffed walls provide your dog with a sense of security and extra support to lean against
- Waterproof bottom
- Self-warming, which means it doesn’t need electricity to provide warmth
- Machine washable
- Dryer friendly
CONS
- Only for dogs up to 35 pounds
2. K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Lounge Sleeper Dog Bed
A heated dog bed that self warm
Key Features:
- Unique two-layer fabric
- Elevated sides
- Premium polyfill
- Non-slip bottom
- Lowered front
The K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Lounge Sleeper Dog Bed is another popular self-heating dog bed that can keep your pup warm and cozy through the night without using electricity.
It features a unique 2-layer fabric that helps retain and radiate the heat back to your dog, with raised sides to provide an added sense of security. The sides and bottom are stuffed with premium polyfill made from recycled bottles to achieve optimal comfort and thickness. Not only that, but it is also non-slip and has a lowered front, which allows senior dogs to enter and exit with ease.
Did you also notice it has a super-soft sleeping surface? Don’t let that fool you. It is very durable and can stand up to digging and scratching. Additionally, this dog bed is machine washable and tumble dryer safe, making cleaning an effortless task.
PROS
- The unique two-layer fabric helps retain your dog’s body heat
- Elevated sides give your fido a sense of security
- Has a non-slip bottom for stability
- Provide warmth without using electricity
- Machine washable
- Dryer friendly
CONS
- It’s a bit too thin for dogs with orthopedic issues
3. K&H Pet Products Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Pet Dog Bed
Thermostat heated dog bed for both large and small dogs
Key Features:
- Electric heated dog bed
- Six-watt removable MET listed heater
- Thick foam walls
- Lowered front
- Thermostatically controlled
Prefer something that can deliver consistent heat for your four-legged friend? Check out the K&H Pet Products Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Pet Dog Bed.
It contains a 6-watt removable MET listed heater to ensure your pup’s comfort. And when they are not in bed, it will emit a small amount of heat to keep the sleeping surface warm. Plus, its thick foam walls can give your dog a secure feeling and the lowered front design to allow for easy access.
And what makes this heated dog bed stand out is that it is thermostatically controlled, meaning it will automatically respond to the temperature changes to provide optimal warmth. It is also pretty easy to clean as the cover and pillow sleeping surface are removable and machine washable.
PROS
- Six-watt removable MET listed heater means a low operating cost
- Thick cushioned bolster walls give your dog a secure feeling
- Lowered front allows for easy access
- Thermostatically controlled for optimal temperature
- Machine washable
CONS
- Not suitable for chewers or dogs who are destructive
- A bit pricey
- Requires electricity
4. K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pet Crate Pad
An excellent self-warming dog pad for use in a crate
Key Features:
- Self-warming materials
- Slit corners
- Microfleece top
- Non-slip bottom
If you want a heated dog bed that can keep your canine warm in their crate without the use of electricity, then consider the K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pet Crate Pad.
It features slit corners to provide a good fit in crates and a self-warming technology that can capture your furkid’s body heat and radiate the warmth back to them. Made with your dog’s comfort in mind, it has a soft microfleece top and a non-slip bottom, preventing it from sliding around.
This flat pad is also machine washable and comes in 6 different sizes. So, there should be no issue finding one that fits any crate.
PROS
- Great for dogs who sleep in crates
- No electricity needed
- Doesn’t slide around
- Available in six different sizes
- Machine washable
CONS
- It’s too thin compared to most heated dog beds
5. K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Pad
Waterproof electric orthopedic pet heating pad for arthritic dogs or outdoors
Key Features:
- Electric heated dog bed
- Certified by MET
- Thermostatically controlled
- Orthopedic foam
- Waterproof PVC exterior
- Five-and-a-half-foot steel wrapped cord
If your dog loves to sleep outside, you would probably want to look into the K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Pad.
It is another thermostatically controlled heated bed, meaning it will never exceed your pooch’s body temperature. In other words, you don’t have to worry about your dog getting overheated. This bed is made of orthopedic foam, covered in a super-soft, waterproof, and durable PVC fabric, which achieves a great combination of comfort and durability.
For your dog’s safety, the 5.5-foot cord is steel wrapped. It also includes an extra-soft, removable, and machine washable fleece cover.
PROS
- Certified by MET, meaning it is safe
- Thermostatically controlled for optimal temperature
- Comfortable for most dogs
- Durable
- The cable is steel wrapped for safety
- Includes a removable and machine washable soft fleece cover
CONS
- Not suitable for chewers or dogs who are destructive
- Expensive
- Requires electricity
6. Petmate Aspen Pet Self-Warming Beds
Faux lambswool self-warming bed for dogs
Key Features:
- Heat-reflective Mylar
- Overstuffed bolster walls
- Soft faux lambswool
- Non-skid bottom
The Petmate Aspen Pet Self-Warming Bed uses the same technology as most self-heating dog beds, with a Mylar interior layer that radiates your dog’s body heat back to them.
It has overstuffed bolster walls to provide additional support for your pup’s head, neck, and back, and the sleeping surface is lined with soft faux lambswool for added comfort. Plus, a non-skid bottom to ensure it will stay put.
This self-warming dog bed is also very lightweight, making it a great option if you travel a lot with your four-legged friend.
PROS
- Doesn’t require electricity
- Lightweight
- Raised sides to provide added comfort and security
- Non-slip bottom prevents the bed from sliding around
CONS
- The faux lambswool interior will attract lots of hair
- Needs to be hand-washed, making it relatively hard to clean
7. RIOGOO Pet Heating Pad
Electric indoor warming mat with adjustable temperature and auto-off function
Key Features:
- Auto power off
- Adjustable heat level
- Time setting
- Seven-layer protection structure
- IP68 waterproof PVC material
- Stainless steel chew resistance cord
Prefer to use an electric warming pad that allows you to increase or decrease the temperature for your pup? Then, the RIOGOO Pet Heating Pad may be what you are looking for, with an adjustable heat setting between 80-130°F.
It has seven layers of protection structure with a UL-approved heating wire to ensure your furry friend’s safety. Equipped with a temperature sensor on the inside to prevent your pup from getting overheated, plus a 1-12 hours heating timer that will automatically switch off itself for added security.
Additionally, the polyester cover is removable to allow for easy cleaning. It also comes with a chew-resistant cord and offers a 1-year guarantee.
PROS
- The heating element is UL approved
- Has a temperature sensor inside to prevent overheating
- The cover is removable and machine washable
- Backed by a 1-year guarantee
CONS
- While it has an auto-off function to ensure safety, some owners find that it is a pain having to keep turning it back on after it powers off itself
- Requires electricity
- Not suitable for destructive chewers
8. Snuggle Safe Pet Bed Microwave Heating Pad
Microwavable dog bed warmer
Key Features:
- Non-electrical, microwavable heating pad
- Non-toxic gel
- Fleece cover
- Made in the UK
Don’t feel like picking a self-warming heated bed as you don’t know if it will be enough to keep your canine warm, or worry that you will see an uptick in your electricity bill if choosing an electric-based heating dog bed? Then, consider the Snuggle Safe Pet Bed Microwave Heating Pad.
This heating pad contains a non-toxic and harmless gel called Thermapol. Instead of relying on your dog’s body temperature or electricity to generate heat, it will give off safe and soothing warmth for up to 10 hours after being heated in the microwave.
The heating times vary depending on your microwave’s power output. Also, note that leakage can occur if overheated, and the Thermapol can become dangerously hot, so make sure to read the instructions.
PROS
- Suitable for newborn, convalescent, and elderly dogs
- Very convenient
- Able to stay warm for up to 10 hours in cold weather without any electrical elements
CONS
- Not ideal for chewers
- Have to wait for the pad to cool down completely before reheating
9. Snoozer Cozy Cave Pet Bed
Well-insulated heated bed for small dogs
Key Features:
- Poly cotton exterior
- Sherpa interior
- Cedar and poly filling
- Machine washable and dryer safe cover
Does your dog love burrowing under their blanket when winter comes? If so, then the Snoozer Cozy Cave Pet Bed would be a great option.
This hooded dog bed has a sherpa interior that wraps around your furkid, filled with a mixture of cedar and poly to provide warmth and added comfort. Also, there’s a thin, concealed rod that will keep the hood raised to allow for easy entry and exit, and can be removed through the small opening at the mouth of the hood.
Cleaning it is a breeze as the cover is removable, machine washable, and dryable!
PROS
- Great for dogs who love staying under the blankets
- Doesn’t require electricity
- Envelopes your pup in sherpa fabric to keep them warm
- Raised hood makes it easy for your dog to enter and exit
- The cover is machine washable and dryable
CONS
- Expensive
- It’s a bit too plush, which makes the sleeping area very close to the top enclosure, meaning your dog may not have a lot of space to move around, especially if you have a large size breed
The Advantages of Using Heated Dog Beds
The most apparent advantage of a heated dog bed is that it can keep your four-legged friend warm and comfortable during the colder months, ultimately preventing them from catching a chill. However, heated dog beds are especially needed and beneficial to puppies, older dogs, and dogs with orthopedic problems.
Here is why:
1. Puppies
Puppies are not very good at regulating their body temperature due to the simple fact that they don’t have mature thermoregulatory mechanisms. Plus, they have more skin surface area in relation to their body mass, which causes them to give off more heat and makes them feel colder.
2. Senior Dogs
Like puppies, elderly dogs can’t regulate their body temperature very well, making them more vulnerable to the effects of cold temperatures.
3. Dogs with Orthopedic Problems
Orthopedic problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia can be extremely painful for dogs. The heat emitted from a heated dog bed can help relax their tight muscles and relieve joint pain and stiffness.
Types of Heated Dog Beds : Self-warming vs. Electric
Heated dog beds come in many different designs, and here are some of the most common ones:
- Bolster. Made with the traditional dog bed design in mind, it has a padded bottom, where the heating element or heat reflective material is placed, with raised sides to give your four-legged friend a sense of security. It is mainly for indoor use and is an excellent option for dogs who love to sleep with their head lying on pillows.
- Flat Pads. Flat pads, on the other hand, feature a thin, flat layer of cushion. They don’t take up lots of space, have no cushioned walls, and usually come in a wide range of sizes, making them a perfect option for use in crates or confined spaces.
- Outdoor Heated Beds. Compared to bolster and flat pads, outdoor heated dog beds are more durable. Typically have a sturdy and waterproof exterior made of PVC fabric to ensure they can stand up to the elements.
These heated dog beds generate heat through a few different methods depending on the brand. Some are battery-operated, while some need to be microwaved. However, most heated dog beds work by using your dog’s body temperature (self-warming) or electricity (electric).
Self-warming heated dog beds
This type of dog bed is made of heat-reflective materials and works by capturing your dog’s body temperature and radiating the heat back to them. The benefit of using it is that it can keep your canine warm without using electricity, which also means it won’t raise your utility bills. Plus, it is safer as there’s no electrical power cord that they can chew.
On the flip side, your dog will take longer to feel the heat, and as soon as they leave the bed, it will cool down again since it relies on your dog’s body temperature to work.
Electric heated dog beds
An electric heated dog bed, on the other hand, has a heating element positioned in the base, which can heat up very quickly. The high-quality one is usually thermostatically controlled to help maintain the temperature at an optimal level, and as a result, more comfortable for your furry friend.
The concern, though, is that it poses a risk of electric shock. So, this type of heated bed is not suitable for dogs who tend to chew and destroy things. And it is crucial to choose the ones that are certified by MET.
Best Heated Dog Beds Buyers’ Guide : Important Factors to Consider
1. Your Dog’s Sleeping Style & the Bed Shape
Regardless of how comfortable the bed is, your canine will never use it if they don’t like it, which is why it is vital to consider their sleeping style and the shape of the bed. If your dog sleeps stretched out on the tummy, or on the back with all four paws up in the air, then you would probably want to pick a flat heated bed like the K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pet Crate Pad and K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Pad.
But if they usually sleep on their side and rest their head on a pillow, perhaps the ones with bolster walls such as the Best Friends by Sheri OrthoComfort Deep Dish Cuddler and K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Lounge Sleeper may be a better option. Likewise, if they love sleeping under the blankets, then maybe the hooded heated bed like the Snoozer Cozy Cave Pet Bed is a better choice.
2. Indoor vs. Outdoor
Next, you will have to decide whether you will be using it indoors or outdoors. When winter comes, it can become too cold for your pooch at night. So, the self-heating bed probably won’t be enough to keep them warm, especially if they sleep outside unless you get them a winter dog house.
3. Size
And obviously, the bed needs to be able to accommodate your dog. Make sure the size is just right, not too big or too small to ensure that your fido can get the full benefit of the heat, especially if you are getting the one that self-warms.
4. Heat Source: Electric vs. Self-warming
As mentioned earlier, there are two types of heated dog beds, electric and self-warming. Both are great, but it may be a better idea to choose the electric-based heating bed if your dog doesn’t have the habit of digging, chewing, or destroying items, as it will stay warm even when your pup is not present.
5. Safety
If you decide to go for an electric heated dog bed, look for the ones that include a thermostat like the K&H Pet Products Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper and K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Pad so that the temperature doesn’t go too high. And make sure it has been rigorously tested and passed the electrical safety standards (MET Certified).
6. Non-slip base
A non-skid bottom is particularly important for dogs with mobility issues. The reason being is that it can keep the bed from moving when they step in and out, ultimately preventing them from slipping and causing additional pain.
7. Easy to Clean
Remember, your dog is sleeping on it every day. So, it is imperative to keep it clean and bacteria-free to prevent them from getting sick. And picking the ones that are machine washable and tumble dryer safe would be a better idea.
Best Heated Dog Bed FAQ
Are electric heated dog beds safe for dogs?
Yes, electric heated dog beds are safe for dogs. But if your furry friend loves chewing or has destructive behavior, you would want to avoid this type of bed. Also, make sure to inspect the power cords for defects, look for cracking, fraying, and other signs of wear to ensure their safety.
Do self-warming heated dog beds really work?
Yes, self-heating dog beds work. They are made of heat-reflective materials that can capture your dog’s body temperature and radiate the warmth back to them. That said, it will take longer for them to feel the heat compared to an electric heated dog bed.
What other beds are good for arthritic dogs?
Orthopedic beds like the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed are also good for dogs with arthritis. They usually have a solid, supportive memory foam base to alleviate the stress on your fido’s achy joints and stiff muscles to ensure a more restful sleep.
