The best best dog bed for dogs that like to curl up is the Bedsure Calming Dog Bed Medium Size, a donut-shaped bed that earned an Oprah Daily Sleep Award for good reason. It wraps your pup in a cocoon of soft faux fur while the raised rim supports that natural nesting instinct.
Want a slightly plusher, shaggier feel instead? The Best Friends Sheri Original Calming Donut gives you a thicker faux fur pile and a water-resistant base, though the cover isn't as easy to remove for washing.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
This guide walks through seven curl-friendly beds for small to medium dogs up to 45 pounds. If your dog is larger than 50 pounds, sleeps mostly sprawled out, or has a habit of chewing through soft bedding, this category may not be right for you (there's a dedicated section on that later).
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, manufacturer specs, and each bed's verified owner track record, not from hands-on lab testing.
Quick Answer: The Best Dog Bed for Dogs That Like to Curl Up
For most owners of small to medium curl-up dogs, the Bedsure Calming Dog Bed Medium Size hits the sweetest balance of softness, washability, and proven durability.
Thinking about a dog over 50 pounds or a heavy chewer instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Comparison Table
Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
Bedsure Calming Dog Bed Medium Size: Best Overall Curl-Up Bed
#1
BedsureAward-Winning Donut
9.1OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.0
Coziness & Shape9.5
Ease of Cleaning9.2
Owner Satisfaction8.9
This is the only donut bed here that earned an Oprah Daily Sleep Award, and it’s easy to see why aggregate buyer reviews agree. The 30-inch diameter gives medium pups up to 45 pounds a snug, nest-like space with a raised rim they can rest their head on. The fluffy faux fur fabric is noticeably soft without being so deep that it traps odors.
Multiple owner reports highlight how quickly anxious or nervous dogs settle into this bed. The anti-slip bottom keeps it in place on hardwood floors, and the cover is fully removable and machine washable. Bedsure is a consistent brand in this category, and this model’s 4.6-star average across thousands of reviews backs up its reputation.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Some owners note that the filling can flatten over time, especially if a heavier dog uses it daily. After about six months, you might notice the rim losing some of its loft. The faux fur also shows dirt more readily than darker fabrics.
If you need a bed that holds its shape longer for a dog near the 45-pound limit, the
Best Friends Sheri Original Calming Donut further down uses a thicker fill that resists flattening better under sustained weight.
⚠Care: Machine wash the cover on a gentle cycle and air dry to extend the bed’s lifespan. Avoid high heat as it can damage the synthetic filling.
Pros
- ✓Oprah Daily Sleep Award recognition for design and comfort
- ✓Raised rim supports natural curling and nesting behavior
- ✓Fully removable and machine-washable cover for easy care
- ✓Anti-slip bottom keeps bed stable on slick floors
Cons
- ✕Filling may flatten noticeably after several months of daily use
- ✕Light-colored faux fur shows dirt and stains more easily
- ✕Not suitable for dogs over 45 pounds or heavy chewers
Material
Faux fur, polyester fill
Washable
Yes, removable cover
Best for: Owners of small to medium anxious dogs who want a proven, award-winning donut bed that’s easy to keep clean and helps their pet feel secure.
PetJett Calming Dog Bed Medium Size: Best Value Donut Bed
#2
PetJettBudget-Friendly Donut
8.5OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.2
Coziness & Shape8.8
Ease of Cleaning8.5
Owner Satisfaction8.4
PetJett offers a nearly identical donut shape to the Bedsure at a more accessible price, making it the smart budget pick for curl-up lovers. At 30 inches wide, it fits the same weight class of dogs up to 45 pounds. The dark grey color is a practical choice for hiding everyday dirt and fur.
Verified buyer feedback emphasizes how well this bed fluffs up after unpacking. It comes compressed in a box and most reviewers report it reaches full shape within 24 to 48 hours. The anti-slip bottom works well on tile and hardwood, and the entire bed is machine washable.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Being a newer model, PetJett doesn’t have the same long-term owner track record as established brands like Best Friends or Bedsure. A small number of buyers mention that the stitching on the rim could be more reinforced for heavy use.
⚠Sizing: Measure your dog’s curled length before buying. This 30-inch bed is ideal for dogs that curl into a tight ball, not for those that stretch out fully.
Pros
- ✓Competitive price point for a full donut bed design
- ✓Dark grey color hides stains and fur well
- ✓Quick fluff recovery after unpacking from compression
- ✓Fully machine washable for hassle-free cleaning
Cons
- ✕Limited long-term durability data compared to older brands
- ✕Stitching on the raised rim may wear under heavy use
- ✕Only one color option currently available
Material
Fluffy plush, polyester fill
Best for: Budget-conscious owners who want a functional donut bed for their small to medium curl-up dog without paying a premium for brand recognition.
Best Friends Sheri Original Calming Donut: Premium Shag Donut
#3
BestThick Shag, Water-Resistant
9.0OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.3
Coziness & Shape9.4
Ease of Cleaning8.5
Owner Satisfaction9.0
The Best Friends Sheri Original Calming Donut is the most recognized name in this category, and for good reason: its shag faux fur and water-resistant base set it apart. The 30-inch medium size supports dogs up to 45 pounds. The shag pile is noticeably thicker than standard faux fur, giving it a plush, blanket-like feel that many dogs seem to love.
Where this bed really shines is its water-resistant bottom. Accidents happen, and this base helps protect your floors from soaking through. The raised rim is generously stuffed and maintains its shape well over time. Aggregate owner reviews consistently mention this bed lasting two years or more with regular washing.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The shag fabric is harder to clean thoroughly than shorter-pile beds. Dirt and debris can get trapped deep in the fibers. The cover is removable but some owners find the zipper a bit stiff to operate. It’s also priced higher than comparable donut beds.
⚠Care: The shag fabric may require gentle brushing after washing to restore its fluff. Avoid fabric softener as it can mat the fibers.
Pros
- ✓Thick shag faux fur provides superior softness and warmth
- ✓Water-resistant base protects floors from accidents
- ✓Generously stuffed rim holds shape longer than budget options
- ✓Proven long-term durability, often lasting 2+ years
Cons
- ✕Shag fabric traps dirt and is harder to deep clean
- ✕Higher price point than similar donut beds
- ✕Zipper on cover can be stiff and difficult to operate
Material
Shag faux fur, water-resistant base
Washable
Yes, removable cover
Best for: Owners who prioritize a proven, long-lasting donut bed with the plushest shag feel and don’t mind paying more for a trusted brand name.
Bedsure ComfyFleece® Donut Dog Bed Medium: Best for Dual-Texture Lovers
#4
BedsureCorduroy + Fleece
8.7OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.8
Coziness & Shape9.0
Ease of Cleaning8.6
Owner Satisfaction8.5
This bed stands out because it combines a corduroy rim with a soft fleece center, giving your dog two distinct textures in one bed. The corduroy rim is more durable and resists pilling better than standard faux fur, while the fleece center offers that warm, cozy spot to curl into. At 30 x 30 x 8 inches, it has a slightly taller rim than some competitors, providing extra head support.
Owner feedback highlights how well this bed holds up to regular washing. The cover zips off easily and the materials don’t degrade quickly in the machine. The anti-slip bottom is effective on hardwood, and the cream color (though prone to showing marks) gives a clean, neutral look.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The cream color shows dirt quickly, which means you’ll be washing the cover more often than with darker beds. Some owners also mention that the fleece center can develop some matting over time, especially if your dog does a lot of digging before settling.
⚠Care: Wash the cover on a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low. Avoid bleach as it can damage the corduroy and fleece fabrics.
Pros
- ✓Dual-texture design: corduroy rim + soft fleece center
- ✓Corduroy is more durable and resists pilling than faux fur
- ✓Tall rim provides excellent head and neck support
- ✓Cover is easy to remove and holds up to machine washing
Cons
- ✕Cream color shows dirt and stains quickly
- ✕Fleece center can mat down with digging behavior
- ✕Not suitable for dogs over 45 pounds
Material
Corduroy rim, fleece center
Washable
Yes, removable cover
Best for: Owners who want a more durable rim fabric and a dual-texture surface that offers both support and soft warmth for their curling dog.
EHEYCIGA Orthopedic XL Dog Bed Large: Best for Dogs That Curl and Also Stretch
#5
EHEYCIGAMemory Foam Couch
8.3OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.5
Coziness & Shape8.6
Ease of Cleaning7.8
Owner Satisfaction8.4
This is the bed for larger dogs who like to curl up at night but also sprawl out during the day. At 42 x 30 inches, it’s an extra-large couch-style bed with bolsters on two sides. The memory foam base provides real orthopedic support, which is a step up from the polyester fill in the donut beds. A waterproof liner inside protects the foam from accidents.
Aggregate buyer feedback praises the balance this bed offers. Dogs can rest their head on the bolsters when curling, or stretch out fully on the flat memory foam surface. The cover is removable and washable, though the size makes it a bit more cumbersome to handle in a standard home washing machine. Owners of senior dogs with joint issues particularly rate this bed highly.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. This is not a pure donut shape. If your dog only curls into a tight ball and ignores the flat center, a donut bed might suit them better. The cover is also trickier to zip back on after washing compared to smaller beds. A few owners mention the memory foam can feel firm initially and needs a few days to soften up.
For a smaller, purely curled-sleep experience, the
Bedsure Calming Dog Bed at the top of this list gives that tight nest feel better than any couch-style bed.
⚠Sizing: Measure your dog from nose to tail and add 4-6 inches for comfortable stretching. The 42-inch length accommodates most large breeds.
Pros
- ✓Memory foam base offers genuine orthopedic support
- ✓Waterproof liner protects foam from accidents and spills
- ✓Extra-large 42×30 size fits larger dogs and gives stretch room
- ✓Bolsters on two sides support curling and head resting
Cons
- ✕Not a true donut shape; less enclosed feeling for tight curlers
- ✕Cover is large and awkward to remove and replace
- ✕Memory foam may feel too firm at first for some dogs
Weight Limit
Up to 90+ lbs
Material
Memory foam, polyester cover
Washable
Yes, removable cover
Best for: Owners of medium to large dogs who need both a curling spot and a stretching space, especially senior pups needing joint pressure relief.
KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Medium Size: Best for Crate or Flat Sleeping
#6
KSIIALow-Profile Mat
8.0OUT OF 10
Build Quality7.8
Coziness & Shape7.5
Ease of Cleaning9.2
Owner Satisfaction8.1
If your dog sleeps in a crate or prefers a flat surface with just a hint of cushioning, this thin mat bed does the job without the bulk of a donut. At 35 x 23 inches, it’s a rectangular pad that fits standard medium dog crates. The plush top offers enough comfort for curling without a raised rim to get in the way.
What makes this bed stand out is how easy it is to clean. You can throw the entire bed into the washing machine without dealing with zippers or separate covers. It dries quickly too. The anti-slip bottom keeps it in place on crate trays and hardwood floors. For a simple, no-fuss sleeping surface, this is hard to beat.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. This is not a donut bed. If your dog specifically seeks out a raised rim to rest their head on, they won’t get that here. The thin fill also means less cushioning for older dogs with joint issues. It’s best as a secondary crate bed or for dogs that don’t need extra support.
For a true donut shape that provides head support for curling, the
PetJett Calming Dog Bed gives that nest-like rim at a similar budget-friendly price.
⚠Sizing: Check your crate dimensions before ordering. This 35×23 mat fits most 30-36 inch crates but may be too long for smaller models.
Pros
- ✓Entire bed is machine washable with no separate cover
- ✓Thin, low-profile design fits easily inside standard crates
- ✓Lightweight and quick-drying after washing
- ✓Affordable price point for a basic cushioned mat
Cons
- ✕No raised rim for dogs that need head support while curling
- ✕Thin fill provides limited orthopedic cushioning
- ✕Not suitable as a primary bed for dogs that prefer nest shapes
Weight Limit
Up to 50+ lbs
Material
Plush polyester, anti-slip base
Best for: Owners needing a simple, washable crate mat or a flat sleeping surface for dogs that don’t require a raised rim for comfort.
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed Medium Washable: Best Orthopedic Bolster Bed
#7
BedsureBolster Couch
8.1OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.3
Coziness & Shape8.0
Ease of Cleaning8.7
Owner Satisfaction8.2
This is a classic bolster couch bed that works for dogs who want a place to rest their head on a supportive three-sided rim. At 28 inches, it’s a smaller medium size best for dogs up to around 30-35 pounds. The egg-crate foam base provides more orthopedic support than the polyester-filled donut beds, making it a good choice for aging dogs.
Owner reviews consistently praise how easy this bed is to clean. The cover zips off fully and survives frequent washing without shrinking or fading. The non-slip bottom keeps it in place on hard floors. Multiple buyers mention their senior dogs with arthritis visibly preferring this bed over thinner options.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. This bed is smaller than the 30-inch donuts, so it may not suit a dog that is 35-plus pounds. The open center means it doesn’t provide the same fully enclosed, nest-like feeling that many nervous dogs love. Some owners also mention the bolster fill can shift over time if the dog leans heavily on one side.
For a smaller dog that really wants to curl up tight, the
Bedsure Calming Dog Bed with its donut shape offers that fully enclosed comfort that the bolster style can’t match.
⚠Sizing: This 28-inch bed runs small. Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and choose a size where they can curl without hanging off the edge.
Pros
- ✓Egg-crate foam offers better orthopedic support than polyester fill
- ✓Three-sided bolster provides head and neck support for curling
- ✓Cover is fully removable and holds up well to frequent washing
- ✓Non-slip bottom keeps bed stable on tile and hardwood
Cons
- ✕Smaller size (28 inches) limits use to smaller dogs under 35 lbs
- ✕Open center lacks the enclosed, nest-like feel of donut beds
- ✕Bolster fill can shift and flatten with heavy side leaning
Material
Egg-crate foam, polyester cover
Washable
Yes, removable cover
Best for: Owners of small senior dogs who need orthopedic support and a bolster to rest their head on, but don’t need a fully enclosed donut shape.
Buying Guide: Size, Sleep Style, Fill Type, and Washability
Donut and bolster beds are simple in concept, but choosing the right one comes down to a few key factors. Here's what to think about before you add one to your cart.
What size does your dog actually need?
This is where most people get it wrong. A dog that curls into a tight ball can sleep comfortably in a bed that looks too small at first glance. Measure your dog from nose to the base of their tail when they are in their tightest curl.
Add 2-4 inches to that measurement for wiggle room.
For the donut beds in this lineup, 30 inches works well for most dogs up to 45 pounds. The Bedsure Calming Dog Bed and Best Friends Sheri both use that 30-inch diameter. If your dog is smaller, the 28-inch Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed may fit better.
For larger dogs that alternate between curling and stretching, the EHEYCIGA XL at 42 inches gives you that hybrid option.
Does your dog need a donut or a bolster?
Donut beds have a continuous raised rim that wraps all the way around. This is ideal for dogs that burrow, nest, or curl into a tight ball. The enclosed feeling helps reduce anxiety for many dogs.
Bolster beds have three raised sides and an open front. Dogs that like to stretch one leg out or rest their head on a flat surface often prefer this shape. The Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed is a classic bolster, while the EHEYCIGA is a sofa-style with bolsters on two sides.
If your dog curls 90% of the time, stick with a donut. If they switch positions, consider a bolster or couch style.
What kind of filling is best for your dog?
The filling determines how long the bed holds its shape and how much support it offers.
Polyester fiber fill is the most common in donut beds. It's soft and affordable but tends to flatten over months of daily use. The Bedsure Calming Dog Bed and PetJett both use this.
The Best Friends Sheri uses a denser fill that resists flattening better.
Memory foam or egg-crate foam is firmer and holds its shape for years. The EHEYCIGA and Bedsure Orthopedic beds use foam. These are better for senior dogs or dogs with joint issues, but they lack the soft, sink-in feel of fiber fill.
How important is washability?
Every bed in this lineup has a washable cover, but they differ in how easy the process is.
Donut beds with removable covers require you to unzip and remove the cover, then separate the inner fill. The Bedsure ComfyFleece has an easy zipper and the fabric holds up well. The Best Friends Sheri has a stiffer zipper that some owners find annoying.
The KSIIA mat is the simplest: you throw the entire bed in the wash. No zippers, no separate parts. It's the best choice if you wash bedding frequently.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Dog Bed for Dogs That Like to Curl Up
This category is the wrong purchase for a few specific kinds of buyers. Here's who they are, and what to look at instead.
You Need a Bed for a Dog Over 50 Pounds
Almost every donut bed on this list tops out at 45 pounds. A 60-pound Lab or 70-pound Golden Retriever will overflow a 30-inch donut. The raised rim isn't designed to support heavy weight, and the fiber fill will flatten quickly.
Instead, look for jumbo-sized orthopedic beds or large bolster couches specifically rated for 80-100 pounds. The EHEYCIGA XL here is one option, but there are larger models available in other categories.
Your Dog is a Heavy Chewer or Digger
Donut beds and bolster beds are not chew-proof. Dogs that deliberately rip apart soft bedding will destroy the fiber fill in minutes. The faux fur and polyester covers are not reinforced against teeth.
If your dog has a history of destroying beds, consider a chew-resistant bed made from ballistic nylon or a raised cot-style bed. Those are more durable and harder for determined chewers to destroy.
You Need a Bed That Provides Firm Orthopedic Support for a Senior Dog
Polyester-filled donut beds look cozy but offer very little joint support. Senior dogs with arthritis need a firmer sleeping surface that doesn't sag under their weight. The EHEYCIGA and Bedsure Orthopedic beds do have foam, but they are not as supportive as high-density orthopedic beds designed specifically for joint health.
For a senior dog, look for a bed with at least 3-4 inches of high-density memory foam and a supportive base layer. Avoid soft fiber fill entirely for dogs with mobility issues.
Final Verdict
The Bedsure Calming Dog Bed Medium Size is the best overall for most owners of small to medium dogs that love to curl up. It combines award-winning design, proven owner satisfaction, and easy care at a fair price. If your dog needs a plusher, more durable shag feel and you don't mind paying more, the Best Friends Sheri Original Calming Donut is a strong second.
Want a budget-friendly alternative that still gives a true donut shape? The PetJett Calming Dog Bed delivers a similar experience at a lower cost. Need something for a larger dog that curls and stretches?
The EHEYCIGA Orthopedic XL covers both sleeping styles.
If your dog is over 50 pounds, a heavy chewer, or needs firm orthopedic support, check the Who Should NOT Buy section above before making a decision.
FAQ
What's the best Dog Bed for Dogs That Like to Curl Up overall?
The Bedsure Calming Dog Bed Medium Size is our top pick. It earned an Oprah Daily Sleep Award, has a 4.6-star average from thousands of owners, and provides a soft, fully enclosed donut shape that anxious and curling dogs love.
Is a donut bed or a bolster bed better for a dog that curls?
A donut bed is almost always better for tight curling. The continuous raised rim gives your dog a place to rest their head and creates a secure, nest-like space. Bolster beds work better for dogs that also like to stretch one leg out.
How do I know what size donut bed to buy?
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail when they are curled up. Add 2-4 inches. Most medium dogs up to 45 pounds fit well in a 30-inch donut.
Smaller dogs under 35 pounds can use a 28-inch bed.
Can I put a donut bed in a crate?
Most donut beds are too bulky for crates. The raised rim takes up space that your dog needs to stand and turn around. Use a flat mat or thin pad for crate sleeping, like the KSIIA Washable Dog Bed.
How often should I wash my dog's bed?
Every two to four weeks is a good rule of thumb for regular maintenance. Wash the cover more frequently if your dog has allergies, has accidents, or spends time outdoors. Use a gentle cycle and avoid fabric softener to preserve the fabric and filling.
