Dog’s are part of our family and as such when the temperature drops we worry that they might get cold, especially at night. One solution to this is to purchase a heated dog’s bed, but with so many different types and styles available, how do you know where to start? Our panel of pet lovers and dog experts have compiled a list of the 5 best heated dog beds to get you started.
The Best Heated Dog Bed
The Self-Warming Lounge Sleeper Pet Bed by K&H Pet Products is a unique way to keep your dog warm and comfortable throughout the night. It is even made from two layers of fabric. Plus, the first captures heat from your dog, acting as insulation, while the second layer reflects that heat back to your dog while they relax on the bed. The bed itself is stuffed with polyfill made from recycled bottles and is covered in plush microfleece. Additionally, the bolsters that surround the sides of the bed provide an added sense of security for your pet pooch. The lower front bolster makes it easy for even older dogs to enter and exit the bed, while the non-slip base ensures it stays still. Finally, the whole bed is machine washable and tumble dryer safe.
The bed is self-warming so does not require electricity
Available in small, medium, and large sizes
The bed is easy to keep clean, machine washable, and dryer safe on a no heat setting
Covered in plush microfleece for added comfort
- Brand: K&H Pet Products
- Model: 100213053
- Weight: 1.65 Pounds
Does not require electricity
Easy to keep clean
Bolsters of a sense of security as well as additional comfort
Easy access provided by lower front bolster
The bed starts to cool as soon as your dog is not on it producing heat
May not be suitable for colder climates where your dog needs to warm up before they start producing the heat necessary for the bed to work effectively
Not suitable for outdoor use
If you want to provide instant and consistent heat for your dog while they relax on their bed, then the Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Pet Bed by K&H Pet Products may be what you are looking for. The bed contains a 6-watt removable MET listed heater that heats the bed to your dog’s normal body temperature when they are in it and maintains a low level of heat when they are not in the bed. Finally, the bed is surrounded by 2” thick foam walls, providing your pet pooch with a sense of safety and security and the exterior cover and pillow sleeping surface are removable and machine washable.
The 6-watt heater maintains the bed at optimal body temperature
Thermostatic controls mean that the bed can be keep warm at a lower temperature when your dog is not present
Removable and washable cover and sleeping pillow
Available in small, medium, and large sizes
- Brand: K&H Pet Products
- Model: 1913
- Weight: 3.80 Pounds
Thermostatically controlled for optimum temperature
Stays warm when you pet is not in it
Removable and washable cover and pillow
Heater can be removed during the warmer months
Requires electricity
Not suitable for outdoor use
This is the ideal bed for pets who spend time outside of the main home. The Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Bed by K&H Pet Products is thermostatically controlled using a low wattage heater and comes complete with a steel wrapped cord to ensure your dog’s safety. The durable mat is made from orthopedic foam covered in a waterproof PVC. It comes complete with a washable soft fleece cover to ensure your dog’s comfort at all times.
Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
Available in small, medium, and large sizes
Waterproof PVC exterior
Thermostatically controlled to provide the optimal temperature for your dog
- Brand: K&H Manufacturing
- Model: 1080
- Weight: 2.50 Pounds
Low wattage heater is cost effective
Suitable for use in temperatures to -20 degrees
Includes removable and washable soft fleece cover
Cable is steel wrapped for safety
Requires electricity
Not suitable for dogs with a tendency to chew or destroy items
The Petmate Aspen Pet Self Warming Beds use the same technology found in space blankets to heat your dog’s bed. It is lined with a layer of material that reflects your dog’s own body heat back to them. The foam filled bed has raised walls to provide a secure and comfortable experience and is lined with faux lambs wool plush for added comfort. The non-skid bottom ensures that the bed does not move when your dog is entering or exiting it, adding to its safety and appeal.
Soft faux lamb’s wool exterior and foam fill
Uses space blanket technology to reflect heat back to your dog
Available in five different sizes
Raised sides to provide comfort and security for your dog
Non-slip bottom ensures the bed stays still
- Brand: Petmate
- Model: 598557
- Weight: 1.65 Pounds
Does not require electricity
Retains its shape while offering comfort and support
Comfortable, soft interior
Non-skid bottom
The bed starts to cool as soon as your dog is not on it producing heat
May not be suitable for colder climates where your dog needs to warm up before they start producing the heat necessary for the bed to work effectively
Not suitable for outdoor use
If your dog has a dogloo or indigo house, then the Lectro-Soft Igloo Style Heated Dog Bed by K&H Pet Products is the perfect addition to that house. The half moon shaped dog bed is specifically designed to fit in and cover half the floor surface of such houses, giving your dog warmth when required, but also space to move off the bed if they want to. The bed is made from orthopedic foam, with a soft, waterproof PVC exterior. It is heated using a thermostatically controlled heater, so it never exceeds your dog’s normal body temperature. The bed also has a removable and washable fleece cover to add to your dog’s comfort.
Specially designed half moon shape bed idea for using in dogloo or indigo houses
Suitable for use indoors or outdoors in garages, kennels, basements, or porches
Thermostatically controlled to ensure the right temperature for your dog
Available in small, medium, and large sizes
- Brand: K&H Pet Products
- Model: 100212945
- Weight: 2.85 Pounds
Can be used in temperatures to -20 degrees
Thermostatically controlled
Includes removable and washable soft fleece cover
Cable is steel wrapped for safety
Igloo not included
Not suitable for dog’s that chew or are destructive
Requires electricity
This donut-shaped wonder is all your dog needs to get through the colder seasons. Altogether, the Friends Forever Donut Bed has an array of features that will make you a believer. It happens to be made of premium synthetic plush fur and is fitted with a raised rim. Not only does this provide some extra security, it equally amps up the heat. It should be noted that this is a self-warming dog bed and as such, there’s no heating element within.
Read here our detailed Best Friends by Sheri Pet Bed Review.
Made from top-notch synthetic plush fur
Great support
Machine & dryer-friendly
Comfy & breathable
Holds up to 25lbs
- Brand: Friends Forever
- Model: PET63DU5235
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
Sides act as a boundary
Durable base
Soft & comfy
Perfect size
Depreciates after washing
Limited traction
All-around quality control
Available in a total of three sizes, this heated dog mat is a force to contend with. For cat-lovers who nurture feral and outdoor cats, the K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Heated Outdoor Pet Bed is the best. The dog pad itself is warmed up by an internal thermostat. But fret not, it only heats up to your canine companion’s normal body temperature. Even better is the fact that it doesn’t use up a whole lot of electricity; a typical win-win situation.
Bonus fleece cover
Made with orthopedic foam
Has a steel wrapped cord
Has an internal thermostat
3 sizes
- Brand: K&H
- Model: 100539738
- Weight: 4.6 pounds
Low wattage
Sturdy base
Easy to set-up
Good value for money
Retains odors
Short plug cord
No cushioning
Here’s another self-warming dog bed that’s sure to keep the cold at bay. If you’ve ever experienced the warmth of a space blanket, then you’ll understand what the AmazonBasics Warming Pet Bed is all about. Thanks to faux sherpa fleece coating, it is able to use your dog’s body heat to its advantage. This is also a great option for mutts who are a bit destructive when it comes to wires and the rest.
Suitable for cats and dogs
faux sherpa fleece coating
Not machine-friendly
Slip-resistant bottom
Corduroy Base
- Brand: AmazonBasics
- Model: DF2018203M
- Weight: 3.4 pounds
Works without electricity
Retains body heat
Superior construction
Cleans easily
The cover isn’t removable
Droopy sides
Traps odors
Now here’s a well-thought-out product from top to bottom. Yes, the RIOGOO Pet Heating Pad uses electricity, but there’s an array of features in place to ensure your pet’s safety. At the forefront, it has 7 layers of protection to guard against any electricity-related accidents. It even switches off automatically in the case that you forget to turn it off. On the front of comfort, it may not be memory foam, but it’s a winner. It’s soft, comfortable and a whole lot more.
Suitable for cats and dogs
Uses UL-approved heating wire
Temperature sensor embedded
Chew-resistant cord
7-layer protection
- Brand: RIOGOO
- Weight: 1.2 pounds
Automatically powers off
Easy to clean
Removable cover
Portable
Doesn’t get warm enough
Questionable cord quality
Chemical smell
This product totally eliminates the need for a dog pad with a removable heater. It does a great job of keeping your dog warm only when he/she is actually on the bed. The K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Bed also has a comfy bolster all roundabout. Typically, it’s used outside, and even better is the fact that’s the thermostat within does not overheat. So, it is completely safe for pets, it even meets both US and Canadian safety standards.
Bolstered on each side
Removable fleece cover
For indoor and outdoor settings
5.5-inch cord
Internal thermostat
- Brand: K&H Pet Products
- Model: 1099
- Weight: 9 pounds
Soft and comfy
Low power consumption
Offers orthopedic support
Has a steel-covered cord
Bolsters aren’t stuffed
Durability is a concern
Cover shrinks over time
Best Heated Dog Bed Buying Guide & FAQ
There are of course numerous ways to keep your dog warm at night, from blankets to having them in your bed. But, there are disadvantages to many of them, including the risk of your dog overheating. A high-quality heated dog bed reduces this risk and many others. In this part of the buying guide we look at the key benefits of a heated dog bed, the factors you should consider when buying one, and other questions that such beds may raise.
You may also like our article on Best Dog Blankets.
The Advantages of Heated Pet Beds
The main advantage of a heated pet bed is that it keeps your dog warm and comfortable on cold nights. This makes them more likely to use their own bed and less likely to want to share their bed. It also gives you peace of mind that they are happy, comfortable, and less likely to catch a chill. However, there are also several other health benefits from such beds, particularly for pet pooches with existing medical conditions. These advantages include:
- Heated dog beds provide relief for arthritis
Arthritis can be extremely painful for humans and pets alike. It is a joint disease that can either inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Symptoms of the former include swelling (inflammation) and joint pain. Symptoms of non-inflammatory joint disease include degeneration of the joints, pain, and stiffness. A heated dog bed can help to soothe your dog’s stiff joints and loosen tight muscles. A high quality heated bed that includes an orthopedic base can also provide support for the whole body, giving a more comfortable sleep.
- Heated dog beds soothe hip dysplasia pain
Hip dysplasia occurs when your dog’s ball and socket joint in the hip does not fit together properly. When this happens, the ball can slip from the socket causing wear and tear on the joint above what normally occurs as part of the aging process. This causes difficulty walking and standing and results in increased amounts of pain for your pooch. The heat generated from a heated dog bed can help to relieve the stiffness and pain associated with the condition.
- Heated dog beds reduce back pain
When combined with an orthopedic pillow or base, a heated bed can support dogs that have medical problems with their spines or have undergone a spinal injury. Heat helps to stop the muscles that support the spin from contracting and spasming, making movement easier and reducing pain and difficulty moving.
Read here our detailed guide on the Best Orthopedic Dog Beds.
- Heated dog beds support senior pets
A heated bed can improve circulation and improve flexibility, which can support senior dogs and help them to stay more mobile, reducing the risk of injuries and age-related joint conditions.
Take a look at our article on Dog Stairs for Beds.
Factors to Consider in Heated Dog Beds
The type of heated dog bed you choose depends on the main reason for needing the bed and where it will be placed. A dog with one of the medical conditions considered previously will have different needs to one that needs a little extra warmth in their kennel. However, there are some key features to look for that help you to make the right decision for your pet regardless of the main reason for the purchase.
- Size
As with any dog bed, you need to ensure it is the right size for your four-legged friend. If it is too small, then your dog is not going to be comfortable and is unlikely to use the bed. However, if it is too big, then they may not get the full benefit of the heat. This is particularly true of beds that self-warm as they only reflect back the heat your dog creates.
Check out our guide on the Best Dog Teepee Bed.
- Heat source
Heated dog beds are generally either self-warming or use a low-wattage heater to create the right temperature for your dog. There are many benefits to both, however, if you are choosing one with a heater, ensure that it is thermostatically controlled so that your dog does not overheat.
- Safety features
Thermostats are only one safety feature to look for in heated beds that include a heater. Heaters should be thoroughly tested and reach the required safety standards for use in a pet bed. Also, check that the cable is chew-resistant and that the heater is covered with a waterproof cover to avoid moisture getting into the heating element. All the materials included in the bed should also be fire retardant.
- Non-slip base
This is particularly important for dogs with mobility issues. Having the bed move as they step in or out of it could cause additional pain and increase the risk of accidents.
- Washable covers
Keeping your heated dog bed clean is important, especially if it is used outside in kennels or sheds. Look for a complete machine washable bed or one that has removable and washable covers. For those with heating elements, the waterproof cover should be wiped clean and covered with a washable softcover.
Find out more about Washable Dog Beds.
Types of Heated Dog Beds
While heated dog beds come in a range of shapes and sizes, they can be separated into two main types – self-warming and those that use electricity to heat the bed. Here we look at both types in a little more detail.
- Self-warming heated dog beds
Self-warming beds use your dog’s own body heat to create a warm bed. Instead of your dog’s body heat simply being absorbed into the bed as would usually happen, in these beds, the heat is reflected back to your dog. This is achieved by using special materials that work in much the same way as space or survival blankets. These beds are great because they do not use electricity. There is no additional cost for keeping your dog warm and no need to place near an electrical outlet.
It also means there are no leads and no risk of your dog chewing through the lead or through to the heating element below. However, self-warming beds rely on your dog being in them to produce heat, so when they leave the bed they cool down quickly. It also means that if your dog is having difficulty maintaining its body heat, the bed will not produce as much heat. This makes them unsuitable for use outdoors or in kennels.
- Electrically heated dog beds
These beds include an electric heater in the base of the bed, which produces heat to warm the bed. The best electric heated dog beds are thermostatically controlled so they cannot overheat. The thermostat allows you to maintain the bed at your dog’s usual body temperature. Some can also be set to maintain a lower temperature when your dog is not present so that your dog can return to a warm bed without it costing a fortune in power usage.
Such beds can come as either full pet beds with cushions and bolstered sides or as sleep pads. While the full beds are usually intended for indoor use only, the mats can often be used outdoors, in kennels, dog houses, or sheds, as well. However, it is important to check with the manufacturer before using any heated pet bed outdoors.
Check out our article on the Best Heated Dog Pads.
The key things to consider with electrically heated pet beds are the safety features, including ensuring that the heater is MET safety listed and that the cable is chew proof. Electrically heated beds are not suitable for pets who have a tendency to destroy their beds or other furniture as there is always the risk that they will chew through to the electrical element.
You may also like our ultimate guide on Dog Beds for Small Dogs.
FAQs:
Q: What are Heated Dog Beds?
A: A heated dog bed is one that either self-warms through the use of special heat-reflective materials or includes an electric heater to provide additional warmth for your dog. Such beds come in a range of styles from full lounge sleepers to sleep mats.
Q: Why Buy a Heated Dog Bed?
A: Heated dog beds help your dog to maintain optimal body temperature regardless of the air temperature. This gives them a more restful and comfortable sleep and reduces the risk of them catching a chill and becoming susceptible to other illnesses. Heated dog beds can also help to reduce the pain and suffering of a range of joint and back conditions including, arthritis, hip dysplasia, and spinal problems. They can also provide support for senior dogs who may have more stiffness and joint pain than their younger health counterparts.
Source:
- Your Guide to Dog Beds, WebMD
