A crate is not complete without a comfortable bed.
The right crate bed transforms a wire box into a cosy den your dog actually wants to use. But sizing matters, chew resistance matters, and not every bed fits properly.
Here are the best dog beds designed specifically for crates, with proper sizing guides and options for every type of dog.
Quick Picks: Best Dog Beds for Crates
| Bed | Best For | Chew Proof | Price | Rating | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| K9 Ballistics Crate Pad | Chewers | Yes | $$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View K9 Ballistics Crate Pad |
| MidWest QuietTime Deluxe | Best Value | No | $ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View MidWest QuietTime Deluxe |
| Big Barker Crate Pad | Large Dogs | No | $$$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View Big Barker Crate Pad |
| Amazon Basics Crate Pad | Budget | No | $ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View Amazon Basics Crate Pad |
| Gorilla Crate Pad | Heavy Duty | Yes | $$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View Gorilla Crate Pad |
Our top pick: MidWest QuietTime Deluxe for most dogs because it offers excellent comfort, proper sizing, and great value. For chewers, K9 Ballistics Crate Pad is the clear winner.
Why Crate Beds Are Different
Crate beds differ from regular dog beds in several ways:
Sizing Precision
Crate beds must fit exactly. Too big and they bunch up. Too small and they slide around. Proper crate beds are sized to match standard crate dimensions.
Low Profile
Crates have limited height. Thick pillow beds may not fit or leave little headroom. Crate pads are typically thinner (1 to 3 inches) while still providing comfort.
Easy Cleaning
Crates contain accidents better than open rooms, but beds inside need frequent washing. Good crate beds have removable, machine washable covers.
Durability Focus
Dogs often chew or dig at crate beds, especially during crate training. Durability matters more than luxury features.
Best Dog Beds for Crates: Detailed Reviews
1. K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Crate Pad
Best for Chewers
If your dog destroys crate bedding, this is the solution. K9 Ballistics uses the same indestructible design as their elevated beds in pad form.
What makes it great:
Ballistic ripstop fabric resists teeth and claws. Reinforced edges eliminate the most vulnerable spots. CertiPUR certified foam inside provides comfort without the stuffing dogs love to pull out.
Specifications:
- Cover: Ballistic ripstop with DWR
- Fill: CertiPUR foam (not stuffing)
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Sizes: Fits standard crates 24" to 48"
- Warranty: 120 day chew proof guarantee
Pros:
- Genuinely chew resistant
- Foam fill (no stuffing to pull out)
- Machine washable cover
- Fits standard crates perfectly
- 120 day chew guarantee
Cons:
- Higher price than basic pads
- Limited cushioning (2 inch foam)
- Not plush or cosy looking
Best for: Chewers, puppies in training, anxious crate dogs.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. MidWest QuietTime Deluxe Crate Bed
Best Overall Value
MidWest makes crates, so their beds are designed to fit them perfectly. The QuietTime Deluxe offers excellent comfort at reasonable prices.
What makes it great:
Designed specifically for MidWest crates (and fits most standard sizes). Soft faux fur surface dogs love. Decent padding without being too thick for crate use.
Specifications:
- Cover: Faux fur or fleece options
- Fill: Polyester fibrefill
- Thickness: Approximately 2.5 inches
- Sizes: 18" to 54" (matches crate sizes)
- Care: Machine washable
Pros:
- Perfect fit for standard crates
- Very comfortable surface
- Affordable
- Multiple fabric options
- Machine washable
- Many size options
Cons:
- Not chew proof
- Fill can clump over time
- Thin for large dogs
Best for: Most dogs, crate training, everyday crate use.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Big Barker Crate Pad
Best for Large Dogs
Big Barker brings their premium foam to crate pad form for large dogs who need real support even in crates.
What makes it great:
The same quality foam as their full beds in a crate friendly size. Provides genuine orthopaedic support rather than just cushioning. Made for dogs who spend significant time in crates.
Specifications:
- Cover: Microfibre, removable
- Fill: American made premium foam
- Thickness: 4 inches
- Sizes: Large to Giant
- Warranty: 10 year foam guarantee
Pros:
- Premium foam quality
- Real orthopaedic support
- 10 year warranty
- Does not flatten
- Made for large breeds
Cons:
- Premium price
- Only large sizes available
- Thicker (check crate height)
- Not chew proof
Best for: Large dogs in crates, dogs with joint issues, premium buyers.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Amazon Basics Padded Pet Bolster Crate Pad
Best Budget Option
Simple, affordable crate padding that does the job without extras.
What makes it great:
Fits standard crates, provides basic comfort, and costs very little. Good option for puppies who may outgrow beds or while testing crate setups.
Specifications:
- Cover: Polyester with fleece top
- Fill: Recycled polyester fibrefill
- Thickness: Approximately 2 inches
- Sizes: 22" to 40"
- Care: Machine washable
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Fits standard crates
- Machine washable
- Good for puppies
Cons:
- Thin padding
- Not durable long term
- Fill flattens
- No chew resistance
Best for: Budget buyers, puppies, temporary use.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. Gorilla Ballistic Crate Pad
Heavy Duty Alternative
Another excellent chew resistant option with heavy duty construction.
What makes it great:
Cordura fabric exterior resists damage. Solid foam fill provides comfort without the temptation of stuffing. Good middle ground between basic pads and premium options.
Specifications:
- Cover: Cordura fabric
- Fill: Solid foam
- Sizes: Multiple options
- Warranty: Satisfaction guarantee
Pros:
- Chew resistant fabric
- Solid foam construction
- Durable
- Good value
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Not as proven as K9 Ballistics
- Limited size options
- Firm feel
Best for: Moderate chewers, durable everyday use.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Crate Bed Sizing Guide
Standard Crate Sizes and Matching Pads
| Crate Size | Typical Dimensions | Dog Size | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18" | 18" x 12" | Toy breeds | |
| 22" | 22" x 13" | Small dogs | |
| 24" | 24" x 18" | Small to medium | |
| 30" | 30" x 19" | Medium dogs | |
| 36" | 36" x 23" | Medium to large | |
| 42" | 42" x 28" | Large dogs | |
| 48" | 48" x 30" | Extra large | |
| 54" | 54" x 37" | Giant breeds |
How to Measure for Crate Pads
- Measure inside crate floor length and width
- Choose pad 1 to 2 inches smaller than measurements
- Check crate height allows for pad thickness plus dog height
Common Fit Issues
Pad too big: Bunches up, creates uncomfortable lumps, dog cannot lie flat.
Pad too small: Slides around, exposes cold crate floor, dog pushes it aside.
Pad too thick: Reduces headroom, may touch crate top, dog feels cramped.
Crate Beds by Dog Type
For Puppies
Puppies chew, have accidents, and outgrow things quickly.
Best options:
- Amazon Basics (cheap, replaceable)
- MidWest QuietTime (good value)
- Waterproof pads under bedding
Tips:
- Expect to replace bedding during training
- Use waterproof layer underneath
- Keep bedding simple until house trained
For Chewers
Some dogs destroy any bedding in their crate.
Best options:
- K9 Ballistics Chew Proof (guaranteed)
- Gorilla Ballistic
- No bedding temporarily (some dogs prefer this)
Tips:
- Remove stuffed beds (reward for chewing)
- Foam filled pads better than fibre fill
- Address underlying anxiety if possible
For Large Breeds
Big dogs need real support even in crates.
Best options:
- Big Barker Crate Pad (premium)
- K9 Ballistics (durable)
- MidWest Deluxe in largest sizes
Tips:
- Check foam thickness and density
- Ensure crate is tall enough for pad plus dog
- Orthopaedic support matters for large breeds
For Senior Dogs
Older dogs may need more cushioning and easier entry.
Best options:
- Big Barker (orthopaedic support)
- MidWest with extra padding
- Low profile memory foam options
Tips:
- Prioritise joint support
- Consider waterproof liner (incontinence)
- Soft edges for comfort
For Dogs with Accidents
House training or incontinence requires waterproof solutions.
Best options:
- Waterproof pad under regular bedding
- Crate pads with waterproof liners
- Easy wash options (frequent cleaning)
Tips:
- Layer waterproof pad, then bed, then washable cover
- Have multiple pads for rotation during washing
- Enzyme cleaner for accident cleanup
Crate Training and Beds
Should Puppies Have Beds in Crates?
During house training: Some trainers recommend bare crate or minimal bedding. Dogs avoid soiling where they sleep, and absorbent bedding can hide accidents.
After house trained: Comfortable bedding makes crates pleasant places dogs choose to use.
Middle ground: Waterproof pad with thin towel on top. Easy to see and clean accidents, some comfort.
Making Crates Cosy
Beyond the bed, create comfortable crate spaces with:
Crate cover: Creates den like darkness and reduces stimulation.
Familiar scent: Blanket from home or owner's worn shirt.
Proper temperature: Not in direct sunlight or drafts.
Right size crate: Big enough to stand, turn, lie down. Not much bigger.
Care and Maintenance
Washing Crate Beds
Most crate pads are machine washable:
- Remove cover if possible
- Shake off loose debris
- Machine wash on gentle cycle
- Use pet safe detergent
- Tumble dry low or air dry
- Do not use high heat (damages foam)
Cleaning Frequency
Weekly: Shake out, vacuum, spot clean.
Monthly: Full machine wash of cover.
After accidents: Immediate spot clean, full wash within 24 hours.
Replace when: Foam flattens, odours persist after washing, damage exposes fill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dogs need beds in their crates?
+What is the best bedding for a dog crate?
+Should I put a bed in my puppy's crate at night?
+How thick should a crate bed be?
+Why does my dog tear up crate bedding?
+Can I use a regular dog bed in a crate?
+The Bottom Line
The right crate bed makes your dog's crate a comfortable den they want to use. Match the bed to your dog's needs and your crate dimensions for best results.
Our recommendations:
Best overall: MidWest QuietTime Deluxe for perfect fit and value.
For chewers: K9 Ballistics Crate Pad with 120 day guarantee.
Large dogs: Big Barker Crate Pad for premium support.
Budget: Amazon Basics for simple, affordable padding.
Heavy duty: Gorilla Ballistic for durable daily use.
A comfortable crate bed transforms crate time from confinement to relaxation.
Check our top pick: MidWest QuietTime on Amazon
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