Donut dog beds have exploded in popularity over the past few years, and it's easy to see why. These round, nest-like beds with raised edges appeal to dogs' natural instinct to curl up in a protected space—the same instinct that explains why dogs scratch their beds before lying down. The soft, plush materials and supportive walls create a cosy cocoon that helps dogs feel safe and secure.
Having tested numerous donut beds with my pack of six dogs—from Charlie, my German Shepherd who barely fits in the largest sizes, to Molly, my French Bulldog who absolutely disappears into the fluff—I've learned exactly what separates the best donut beds from the disappointments.
What Is a Donut Dog Bed?
A donut bed (also called a cuddler bed, nest bed, or round bolster bed) features a circular design with raised, padded walls surrounding a recessed centre. The shape resembles a donut or bagel, hence the name.
The design works brilliantly for dogs who:
- Curl up when they sleep rather than sprawl out
- Like to rest their head on something elevated
- Seek out cosy, enclosed feeling spaces
- Enjoy burrowing or nesting into soft materials
Why Dogs Love Donut Beds
The donut bed's popularity isn't just a trend—the design genuinely meets several of dogs' psychological and physical needs:
Security through enclosure - The raised walls create a nest-like environment that triggers comfort instincts. Dogs in the wild create similar sleeping spots by circling and pawing at grass or leaves.
Head and neck support - The bolstered edges provide the perfect chin rest, supporting your dog's head and neck in a natural position.
Self-warming design - Curling up in a donut bed helps dogs conserve body heat. The walls also reflect body heat back, keeping dogs warm without electricity.
Anxiety reduction - Studies show that the gentle pressure from bolstered beds can have a calming effect similar to swaddling for babies or weighted blankets for humans. For more options, see our calming dog beds guide.
Best Donut Dog Beds: Our Top Recommendations
Best Overall: Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Cuddler
This bed single-handedly popularised the donut bed trend, and it remains the benchmark against which all others are measured. The combination of deep-fill cushioning, ultra-soft faux fur, and thoughtful design makes it a winner.
What we love:
- Incredibly soft, long faux fur that dogs adore
- Deep enough for dogs to truly nestle in
- Self-warming from reflected body heat
- Machine washable and dryer safe
- Water and dirt resistant bottom
- Available in extensive size and colour options
Sizing: 23" (up to 25 lbs), 30" (up to 45 lbs), 36" (up to 100 lbs), 45" (up to 150 lbs)
What to consider: The long fur can trap hair and require regular cleaning. Some dogs may try to dig at the material.
Best for: Most dogs, especially those who curl up when sleeping and benefit from calming, secure environments
Best Budget Option: JOEJOY Round Dog Bed
Proving you don't need to spend a fortune for quality, the JOEJOY donut bed delivers impressive comfort at an accessible price point. It's become a favourite among budget-conscious pet parents.
What we love:
- Excellent value for money
- Soft, plush material throughout
- Non-slip bottom
- Machine washable
- Good range of sizes and colours
Sizing: 20", 24", 28", 32", 40" diameter options
What to consider: May flatten faster than premium options with heavy daily use. Sizing runs slightly small.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, second beds for different rooms, or trial purchases for unsure owners
Best Premium: Snoozer Luxury Overstuffed Round Bed
When only the best will do, Snoozer's luxury option delivers exceptional quality with their signature overstuffed design. This bed maintains its loft far longer than competitors.
What we love:
- Dramatically overstuffed for supreme comfort
- Premium poly-fill that resists flattening
- High-quality, durable fabrics
- Multiple fabric options including microsuede and sherpa
- Made in USA
- Machine washable
Sizing: Small (25"), Medium (30"), Large (35"), XL (45")
What to consider: Premium price point. May be too plush for dogs who prefer firmer surfaces.
Best for: Dogs who deserve the very best, owners who value longevity over initial cost
Best for Anxious Dogs: Best Friends by Sheri Calming Lux Fur Donut
Building on their original design, this upgraded version adds extra depth and even softer materials specifically designed for maximum anxiety relief.
What we love:
- Extra-deep design for burrowing
- Luxuriously soft lux fur material
- Enhanced self-warming properties
- Flexible walls that mould around your dog
- Creates true cocoon feeling
Sizing: Multiple sizes from small to XXL
What to consider: The deep design means some dogs may need help climbing in initially.
Best for: Highly anxious dogs, rescue dogs, dogs with separation anxiety, nervous breeds
Best Orthopaedic Donut: FurHaven Round Plush & Suede Orthopedic Sofa
For dogs who need joint support alongside the donut bed benefits, FurHaven combines memory foam with the beloved round design. See our complete orthopedic dog beds guide and FurHaven review for more options.
What we love:
- Egg-crate orthopaedic foam base
- Supportive bolstered walls
- Removable, machine-washable cover
- Multiple colour options
- Excellent price for orthopaedic features
Sizing: Small (20" x 20"), Medium (26" x 26"), Large (30" x 30"), Jumbo (35" x 35")
What to consider: Not as plush on top as pure cushion designs. The orthopaedic base is firmer.
Best for: Senior dogs, dogs with arthritis, large breeds prone to joint issues, dogs recovering from surgery
Best for Large Dogs: Bedsure Calming Dog Bed Round Donut
Large dogs often struggle to find donut beds that actually fit them properly. Bedsure's offering comes in genuinely large sizes while maintaining the cosy donut feel. For more options, see our large breed dog beds guide and Bedsure review.
What we love:
- Available in true XL and XXL sizes (up to 45")
- Deep, supportive walls even in large sizes
- Soft faux fur throughout
- Water-resistant, anti-slip bottom
- Machine washable
- Very competitive pricing for the size
Sizing: Multiple sizes up to 45" diameter
What to consider: Very large sizes take up significant floor space. May take longer to dry after washing.
Best for: Large and giant breed dogs who curl up when sleeping, multi-dog households where dogs share
Best Easy-Clean Option: Western Home Faux Fur Dog Bed
For households where cleanliness is paramount, this donut bed's design prioritises easy maintenance without sacrificing comfort.
What we love:
- Short faux fur that doesn't trap debris
- Fully machine washable and quick drying
- Maintains shape well after washing
- Non-slip, waterproof bottom
- Affordable price point
Sizing: 23", 27", 32", 36" diameter
What to consider: The shorter fur isn't quite as luxuriously soft as longer pile options.
Best for: Dogs who drool, messy dogs, households with multiple pets, owners who prioritise cleanliness
Best Cooling Donut: PetFusion Premium Orthopedic Round Memory Foam
For dogs who overheat but still want the donut bed experience, PetFusion's design incorporates cooling features.
What we love:
- Cooling gel memory foam base
- Breathable cover fabric
- Year-round comfort
- Removable, washable cover
- Water-resistant liner
- Premium construction
Sizing: Multiple sizes available
What to consider: Higher price point. May not be warm enough for dogs who get cold easily.
Best for: Dogs who overheat, warm climates, dogs who like donut beds but pant in traditional ones
How to Choose the Right Size Donut Bed
Sizing donut beds correctly is crucial. Too small and your dog can't curl up comfortably; too large and they lose the secure, enclosed feeling. For comprehensive sizing advice, check our dog bed size guide and what size dog bed guide.
Measuring Your Dog
- Measure your dog from nose to base of tail
- Add 6-8 inches for curling room
- Choose the closest donut bed diameter
Size Guide by Weight (approximate)
| Dog Weight | Recommended Diameter | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 15 lbs | 20–23" | |
| 15–30 lbs | 24–27" | |
| 30–50 lbs | 28–32" | |
| 50–75 lbs | 32–36" | |
| 75–100 lbs | 36–40" | |
| 100+ lbs | 40–45"+ |
Consider Your Dog's Sleeping Style
- Tight curlers can often go down a size
- Loose curlers who stretch their legs should size up
- Dogs who sprawl may prefer a different bed style entirely
Donut Bed Materials Explained
Faux Fur (Long Pile)
Pros: Incredibly soft, luxurious feel, excellent warmth, dogs love it Cons: Can trap hair and debris, may take longer to dry, some dogs dig at it
Faux Fur (Short Pile)
Pros: Easier to clean, dries quickly, still soft and comfortable Cons: Less plush feeling, not quite as warm
Microfibre/Microsuede
Pros: Durable, easy to clean, doesn't trap hair, breathable Cons: Not as soft as fur options, less "luxury" feel
Sherpa Fleece
Pros: Very soft, excellent warmth, comfortable Cons: Can pill with washing, may trap hair
Donut Bed vs Other Bed Styles
| Feature | Donut Bed | Flat/Mat Bed | Bolster Bed | Cave Bed | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head support | Excellent (360°) | None | Good (partial) | Varies | |
| Enclosure feeling | Good | None | Partial | Excellent | |
| Best sleeping position | Curled | Any | Curled or stretched | Curled | |
| Warmth | Good | Minimal | Moderate | Excellent | |
| Floor space needed | Medium (circular) | Medium | Medium | Medium | |
| Suits sprawling dogs | No | Yes | Somewhat | No |
Common Donut Bed Issues and Solutions
"My dog won't use it"
Some dogs need time to adjust. Try:
- Placing familiar-scented items inside
- Using treats to create positive associations
- Putting it where they already like to rest
- Being patient—some dogs take weeks
"It went flat quickly"
Budget beds often flatten faster. Solutions:
- Choose beds with higher quality fill
- Fluff regularly between washes
- Add a small pillow underneath
- Consider upgrading to a premium option
"My dog is too big"
If your dog overflows the edges:
- The bed is too small—size up
- Consider whether a different style suits them better
- Look for brands offering genuine XL/XXL sizes
"It's too hot in summer"
Donut beds can trap heat. Options:
- Choose a cooling donut bed
- Offer alternative sleeping spots in summer
- Look for short-pile versions which are cooler
- Place in air-conditioned areas
Caring for Your Donut Dog Bed
Washing
Most donut beds are machine washable. For detailed cleaning instructions, see our guide on how to clean a dog bed. Best practices:
- Wash on gentle/delicate cycle
- Use cold water
- Mild detergent only (no fabric softener)
- Tumble dry on low or air dry
Between Washes
- Vacuum weekly to remove hair and debris
- Spot clean accidents immediately
- Fluff and reshape regularly
- Air out in sunlight occasionally (kills bacteria)
When to Replace
For more guidance, see our article on when to replace your dog's bed. Consider replacing when:
- The bed no longer springs back after washing
- There are rips or tears
- The filling has gone permanently flat
- Odours persist despite washing
- Your dog no longer seems comfortable
Frequently Asked Questions
Are donut beds good for dogs?
+What size donut bed should I get?
+Why do dogs like donut beds?
+Can large dogs use donut beds?
+Are donut beds calming for dogs?
+How do I wash a donut dog bed?
+Will my donut bed go flat
+Final Recommendations
For most dogs, the Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Cuddler remains my top recommendation. It hits the sweet spot of comfort, quality, and value that's hard to beat.
If your dog needs orthopaedic support, the FurHaven Orthopedic Round Sofa combines joint-friendly foam with the beloved donut design.
For large breeds, the Bedsure Calming Dog Bed offers genuine XL sizing without compromising on comfort or breaking the bank.
Whatever you choose, watching your dog nestle into a donut bed for the first time—circling, pawing, and finally settling into that perfect curled position—is wonderfully satisfying. These beds genuinely make dogs happy, and isn't that what we're all after?
We’ve paused the on-page review box for now because we were getting too many spam submissions. If you’d like to share your experience, please send it through our contact form and I’ll add it manually. Thanks for understanding — genuine feedback really helps other dog owners. John Henry
