Best Dog Beds in Australia 2026: Top Picks for Every Size & Budget

Key Takeaways

• Fit and support matter more than labels. A bed should match your dog’s sleeping style (curler vs stretcher), body weight, and any joint issues. Orthopaedic foam can meaningfully improve comfort for dogs with arthritis, based on clinical research in large-breed dogs.
• Australia’s climate changes what “best” means. A thick plush bed can be ideal in cool temperate zones, but it may be uncomfortable (and risky) in hot-humid regions where overheating is a concern. Use your local climate zone to guide fabric, fill and bed style. 
• Washability is a health feature, not a convenience. Aim to wash key bedding about weekly in most homes, especially where allergies, parasites, or skin problems are concerns. Choose removable, machine-washable covers to make this realistic long-term. 
• Cooling and heat safety are essential in summer. Dogs can develop heat stress quickly; practical bed choices include breathable covers, elevated designs, shaded placement, and using cool indoor areas during heatwaves. 
• Budget should be aligned with replacement risk. Chewers, puppies and outdoor dogs often need durable, easy-clean designs first; invest in premium orthopaedic beds once chewing settles or where joint disease is diagnosed.

Recommended by PetCareShed: Smart Choices for Every Dog Owner

Introduction

Choosing the best dog bed in Australia in 2026 is less about finding one “perfect” product and more about matching support, temperature control, hygiene and durability to the dog you live with and the home you run.

Australian households face a unique combination of realities: long hot summers, sudden cold snaps in temperate areas, humid nights in the north, dusty inland regions, and lifestyles that often include backyard time, beach walks and muddy winter parks. These conditions change how quickly beds smell, how often covers need washing, and whether a plush “winter” bed becomes uncomfortable in summer.

A good dog bed is also a health decision. Hard floors, thin mats and undersized beds can worsen pressure on joints and disrupt sleep. For older dogs (and large breeds in particular), supportive bedding is one of the simplest, most practical ways to improve comfort at home.

This guide explains what “best” means for different dogs and budgets, how to choose intelligently, which bed styles suit common Australian situations, and how to avoid expensive mistakes. It is written for dog owners who want clear, evidence-informed guidance, not hype.

How to Choose the Best Dog Bed (A Practical Framework)

The easiest way to choose well is to work through four decisions in order:

1. Support level (joint comfort and pressure relief)
2. Thermal comfort (cooling vs warmth, based on your climate and your home)
3. Hygiene and maintenance (washability, drying time, odour control)
4. Durability and risk factors (chewing, digging, outdoor exposure, incontinence)

A bed that looks appealing but fails on any one of these can become a source of frustration. A bed that performs well across all four is usually the one that lasts.

Step 1: Start with your dog’s body and health needs

Some dogs can sleep comfortably on almost anything, while others have predictable needs based on their anatomy and life stage.

Dogs that usually benefit from higher support bedding include:

• Senior dogs and large breeds (greater joint load)
• Dogs diagnosed (or suspected) with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, or elbow disease
• Dogs who are stiff after rest, slow to rise, or avoid jumping
• Dogs recovering from surgery or injury
• Underweight dogs (less natural padding over pressure points)

Clinical evidence for “therapeutic” mattresses is limited overall, but there is relevant research. A University of Pennsylvania pilot study reported improvements for large dogs with arthritis when using a high-density therapeutic mattress, with owner-observed reductions in pain and stiffness and improved nighttime restfulness. 

Dogs who often cope well with simpler beds include:

• Healthy adult dogs with no stiffness or mobility issues
• Dogs who frequently change sleeping spots and positions
• Dogs who prefer cool surfaces (tiles, floorboards) even in winter

Even for healthy dogs, the bed still needs to fit their natural sleeping posture and be thick enough to reduce pressure on bony prominences.

Step 2: Match the bed to how your dog sleeps

Observing your dog’s most common sleep position over a week is one of the most reliable “tests” you can do.

• Curled sleepers often prefer donut/cuddler beds or beds with raised bolsters.
• Stretched sleepers usually do better on mattress-style beds or flat orthopaedic beds.
• Leaning sleepers (against furniture or walls) often settle in bolster beds or sofa-style beds.
• Nesters and diggers may prefer a tougher cover or an inner lining that resists tearing.

A bed that suits the dog’s posture reduces the constant “rearranging” many dogs do before settling, which can be a sign of discomfort.

Step 3: Size correctly (without wasting money)

Sizing is often misunderstood. “Bigger is better” is not always true: some anxious dogs feel safer in a slightly more enclosed bed. The goal is appropriate size, not maximal size.

A practical sizing method:

• Measure from nose to base of tail while your dog is lying in their most common sleep position.
• Add 10–30 cm depending on whether your dog stretches out or curls up.
• For bolster beds, consider whether your dog will rest their head on the sides; higher sides may reduce usable interior space.

If you are between sizes, your dog’s sleeping style decides:

• Stretcher: choose the larger size.
• Curler: choose the smaller size if the interior is still comfortable.

Step 4: Decide where the bed will live (indoor, outdoor, travel)

Beds are often purchased without thinking about the environment. Yet location determines whether the bed stays dry, how fast it gets dusty, and how easy it is to maintain.

Consider:

• Indoor near family activity (living room): often needs washable, odour-resistant fabrics.
• Quiet sleep zone (bedroom, study): often benefits from extra cushioning and draft protection.
• Outdoor/alfresco: needs water resistance, fast drying, and a design that won’t trap moisture.
• Crate or car travel: needs thin, non-slip, easy-clean construction.

If your dog uses multiple locations, two simpler beds often work better than one “premium” bed that is constantly dragged around.

Because Every Dog Deserves the Best — from PetCareShed

Australia-Specific Considerations Most Guides Miss

Many dog bed guides are written for colder climates or assume consistent indoor heating and cooling. Australia is different: a large portion of households experience significant heat events, strong sunlight, and regional humidity patterns.

Australian climate zones and what they mean for bedding

Australia is commonly split into climate zones used in housing design and comfort planning. The National Construction Code approach lists eight climate zones, ranging from hot humid to alpine. 

This matters because thermal comfort is not only about “season.” It is about:

• night-time temperatures (especially in dry inland regions)
• humidity (which reduces a dog’s ability to cool by panting)
• floor temperature (cold tiles in winter; hot pavers in summer)

Below is a simplified bedding guide aligned to common Australian conditions.

Australian climate pattern	Common challenges	Bed features that usually work best
Hot humid (many northern coastal areas)	Overheating risk, sticky nights	Breathable covers, elevated cot style, thin fills
Hot dry inland/desert	Very hot days; cold nights	Two-mode setup: cool surface for day + insulated mat/bed for night
Warm temperate coasts	Heatwaves + cool winter nights	Medium cushion beds with removable covers; seasonal layering
Mild/cool temperate south	Cold floors, frosts inland	Thicker orthopaedic foam, bolsters, insulating blankets
Alpine/high country	Very cold nights, snow in winter	Insulated foam base, raised off floor, multiple washable layers

Heatwaves and heat stress: bedding choices that reduce risk

Heat stress can develop quickly, particularly in humid conditions. RSPCA guidance focuses on ensuring access to cool water, shade, ventilation and cool indoor areas, and avoiding exposure to high temperatures and hot surfaces. 

From a bedding perspective, practical steps include:

• Place beds out of direct sun and away from heat-retaining windows.
• Provide at least one cool resting option (tiles, shaded area, elevated mesh bed).
• In heatwaves, prioritise location over luxury: a basic mat in an air-conditioned room can be safer than a thick plush bed in a warm area.
• Avoid thick, enclosed “cave” beds during hot spells, particularly for brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds.

A helpful rule is to give your dog choice: one supportive bed and one cooler surface. Dogs will often regulate their own comfort when they have options.

Winter cold and hard floors in Australian homes

Many Australian homes can feel colder indoors than expected, particularly those with tiled floors and limited insulation. Cold floors can aggravate stiffness in older dogs and can be uncomfortable for short-coated breeds.

A practical winter setup often involves:

• A bed with a thick base (foam or layered fill)
• A washable blanket that can be rotated and dried easily
• Placement away from drafts, with enough airflow to prevent dampness

The goal is warmth without moisture buildup.

Bushfire smoke, dust, pollen and allergies

Australia’s environmental allergens (grass pollen, dust, smoke events) can noticeably increase dog itching, ear problems, and household allergy load.

Bedding can help or worsen this:

• Choose a removable cover you can wash frequently.
• Avoid overly “hair-trapping” faux fur if allergies are present.
• Consider having two covers so one can be washed while the other is in use.

For households with allergy concerns, maintenance becomes as important as the initial purchase.

Understanding Dog Bed Types (Pros, Cons, and Who They Suit)

Dog bed categories can be confusing because the market uses overlapping labels. The following breakdown focuses on structure and function.

Orthopaedic foam beds

What they are: Beds using high-density foam (often memory foam or supportive foam layers) designed to distribute body weight and reduce pressure points.

Best for:

• Senior dogs
• Large breeds
• Dogs with arthritis or recovering from injury
• Dogs who sleep for long periods in one position

Watch-outs:

• Some “orthopaedic” beds are thin foam on a soft base; thick foam depth matters.
• Foam can trap heat; in warm climates, look for breathable covers or gel-infused layers.

Evidence note: A University of Pennsylvania pilot study reported functional and comfort improvements in large dogs with arthritis using a therapeutic mattress. 

Bolster (sofa-style) beds

What they are: Mattress base with raised sides.

Best for:

• Dogs who like a headrest
• Dogs who feel secure in an enclosed space
• Homes with drafts (bolsters create a barrier)

Watch-outs:

• Bolsters reduce interior sleep space.
• Some dogs chew bolsters first.

Donut/cuddler beds

What they are: Soft, round beds with deep sides.

Best for:

• Curlers
• Anxious dogs who like to “nest”
• Smaller breeds who like warmth

Watch-outs:

• Often run hot in summer.
• Some are difficult to wash thoroughly if they lack removable covers.

Elevated (cot-style) beds

What they are: Raised frame with a taut fabric surface.

Best for:

• Hot climates and summer cooling
• Dogs with thick coats
• Dogs who like airflow underneath

Watch-outs:

• Less pressure relief than thick foam for older dogs.
• Some dogs dislike the “trampoline” feel.

Crate mats and travel mats

What they are: Thin padded mats that fit crates or car setups.

Best for:

• Transport
• Dogs who need a stable, non-bulky surface
• Crate-trained dogs

Watch-outs:

• May be insufficient as a main bed for older dogs.

Waterproof and outdoor beds

What they are: Beds with water-resistant covers, sealed seams, or quick-dry materials.

Best for:

• Outdoor sleepers (where appropriate)
• Dogs who come inside muddy
• Dogs prone to accidents

Watch-outs:

• Water resistance is not the same as breathability; some waterproof covers can be sweaty in warm weather.

“Top Picks” by Dog Size and Budget (2026 Buying Guide)

Rather than listing brand-name products (which change frequently and can confuse long-term readers), the most useful approach is to select bed archetypes—the types of beds that consistently perform well for specific needs.

Top picks for small dogs (under ~10 kg)

Small dogs often seek warmth and security. However, in warmer states, overheating can still be a concern—especially for flat-faced breeds.

Best value pick: A washable bolster bed with a medium-thickness base.

• Why it works: provides comfort, a headrest, and a sense of enclosure.
• Ideal for: toy breeds, small terriers, companion dogs.

Best premium pick: A compact orthopaedic bed with supportive foam and a removable cover.

• Why it works: prevents “bottoming out” on hard floors.
• Ideal for: older small dogs, dogs with patella issues or spinal stiffness.

Best summer pick (hot climates): A breathable mat or lightweight bed cover used over a thin pad.

• Why it works: reduces heat retention.

Top picks for medium dogs (~10–25 kg)

Medium dogs vary widely in build and coat. Look for a bed that matches sleeping posture.

Best value pick: A mattress bed with a washable cover and decent depth.

• Why it works: versatile; suits stretchers and curlers.

Best for lean dogs or hard floors: A thicker foam base (orthopaedic or layered foam).

• Why it works: reduces pressure points for dogs with less natural padding.

Best for active, indoor-outdoor dogs: A tough-cover bed with a replaceable cover.

• Why it works: better suited to Australian “wet dog” reality.

Top picks for large dogs (~25–45 kg)

Large dogs are where support becomes non-negotiable for many households. Thin beds compress quickly.

Best value pick: A thick foam mattress bed with a durable cover.

• Why it works: helps distribute weight and reduce floor pressure.

Best premium pick: A true orthopaedic bed with high-density foam and strong cover construction.

• Why it works: evidence suggests therapeutic mattresses can improve comfort and function in arthritic large dogs. 

Best cooling pick: A hybrid setup—orthopaedic bed in a cool room plus an elevated bed option for hot periods.

• Why it works: gives choice without sacrificing support.

Top picks for giant breeds (45 kg+)

Giant breeds need beds that maintain structural integrity. Many standard beds “dish” in the middle over time.

Best value pick: A firm, thick foam bed (often rectangular) with a removable, washable cover.

Best premium pick: A multi-layer orthopaedic bed (support foam + comfort layer), ideally with a non-slip base.

• Why it works: helps keep the spine and hips aligned.

Best for mobility-limited seniors: A low-profile orthopaedic bed.

• Why it works: reduces step-over height for painful joints.

Budget tiers: what to prioritise

Budget matters, but it should be spent where it changes outcomes.

Budget tier	What to prioritise	Where to compromise (if needed)
Entry	Washable cover, correct size, non-slip base	Premium fabrics, thick foam layers
Mid-range	Better support depth, stronger zips, replaceable cover	Designer aesthetics
Premium	High-density foam, durable cover, long-term hygiene	Extra accessories (unless needed)

If you are buying for a chewing puppy, consider starting at mid-range durability rather than paying for premium foam that may be destroyed quickly.

The Most Important Feature: Support (Especially for Older Dogs)

Support is where dog beds become a welfare decision.

Signs your dog may need a more supportive bed

A bed upgrade is worth considering if you notice:

• Stiffness after sleep
• Hesitation before lying down
• Reluctance to jump into the car or onto furniture
• Sleeping on rugs rather than hard floors, but constantly changing positions
• “Old dog” behaviours in a dog who is not yet old (some breeds age earlier)

Supportive bedding cannot diagnose or treat disease on its own, but it can reduce discomfort and improve rest quality.

What “orthopaedic” should mean in practice

“Orthopaedic” is not a regulated marketing term. Use practical checks:

• Thickness: for medium to large dogs, thin foam often compresses to the floor.
• Density/firmness: too soft can worsen joint alignment; too firm can create pressure points.
• Layering: some quality beds use a supportive base with a softer top layer.

If your dog has diagnosed osteoarthritis, supportive bedding is a sensible part of the home plan alongside veterinary advice.

Heat Management Beds: Cooling Mats, Elevated Beds and Summer Setup

In Australia, summer bedding is often overlooked until the first heatwave.

RSPCA advice emphasises prevention: access to cool water, shade and ventilation, and bringing dogs into cool indoor areas during extreme heat. 

Cooling options that are generally practical

• Elevated mesh beds: airflow underneath can reduce heat retention.
• Cooling mats: useful for short-term relief; avoid options that may be chewed and ingested.
• Thin, breathable covers: cotton blends and mesh-style fabrics can be easier in humidity.
• Rotate locations: place one bed in the coolest room of the house.

A safe “two-bed” strategy

For many Australian homes, the most realistic approach is:

• One supportive bed (orthopaedic or thick mattress) in the primary sleeping area
• One cooling option (elevated bed or cooling mat) available in summer

Dogs often choose the cooler option during hot spells and return to the supportive bed when temperatures drop.

Waterproof, Mud-Resistant and Easy-Clean Beds (Real-World Australia)

The best-looking bed is not always the most liveable.

If your dog regularly arrives at the back door wet, sandy or muddy, prioritise:

• Removable covers that can be machine washed
• Water-resistant outer fabric (especially for outdoor/alfresco)
• Fast drying materials to reduce mildew smells
• A non-slip base for tiles and floorboards

In rainier regions, a bed that stays damp is a common cause of persistent odour and can aggravate skin irritation in some dogs.

Hygiene, Washing and Odour Control (What to Do in Practice)

Washing dog bedding is one of the most effective ways to reduce odour, allergens and parasite load.

Guidance from pet care sources indicates a weekly wash is a good routine in many households, with more frequent washing where allergies, skin issues, or higher parasite risk exist. 

How often should you wash dog bedding?

A realistic schedule for many Australian homes:

• Weekly: main cover or bedding layer (common best practice for hygiene). 
• Fortnightly: inner cushion protector (if used), depending on odour and hair.
• Immediately: after gastro accidents, wet-dog saturation, fleas, or skin flare-ups.

Practical washing tips that improve results

• Vacuum or shake the cover outdoors before washing to reduce hair load.
• Use the warmest water the care label allows and dry thoroughly to prevent mildew. 
• Prefer unscented detergents if your dog has itchy skin.
• Keep a spare cover to avoid your dog lying on bare foam while one is washing.

If a bed is difficult to wash, it usually becomes difficult to keep—and that tends to shorten its usable life.

Materials and Construction: What to Look For (and What to Avoid)

A dog bed’s performance depends heavily on construction details.

Cover fabrics

Common options and what they suit:

• Canvas-style / heavy weave: good for durability and digging
• Microfibre: soft, often easy to clean, but can trap hair depending on weave
• Faux fur / shag: comforting for curlers, but can run hot and trap allergens
• Mesh: best for cooling and airflow

Inner fill options

• Polyfill: inexpensive, soft, but tends to flatten quickly
• Egg-crate foam: offers some pressure distribution, but may be too thin for large dogs
• High-density foam: better long-term support
• Memory foam: conforms to the body; can retain heat in warm climates

Construction details that predict longevity

• Strong zippers (ideally covered)
• Replaceable covers
• Non-slip base
• Stitching quality at corners and seams

If you are buying for a chewer, consider beds with tougher outer layers and minimise exposed seams.

Matching Beds to Life Stages and Common Australian Households

Puppies and adolescents

Puppies chew, dig and have accidents. This is not the time for delicate fabrics.

Practical priorities:

• Water-resistant, washable cover
• Simple shapes with minimal seams
• Budget that assumes replacement risk

Once chewing settles, upgrade to thicker support.

Adult dogs

For healthy adults, the right bed is mostly about posture and climate. A medium-thickness washable bed is often adequate, with seasonal adjustments.

Senior dogs

Older dogs benefit from:

• Thicker, supportive foam
• Low entry height
• Warmth management (especially in cold climates)

If your dog struggles to rise, supportive bedding is a reasonable welfare improvement.

Multi-dog homes

Competition for beds can create tension. Consider:

• One bed per dog plus one extra, especially with high-value resting spots
• Beds in separate zones to reduce guarding behaviours

Dogs with anxiety

For anxious dogs, the bed’s shape and location often matter most.

Helpful options:

• Donut/cuddler bed in a quiet, predictable place
• Covered crate mat for dogs who settle in a crate
• Avoid high-traffic placement where the dog is constantly disturbed

Recommended Related Products from PetCareShed

The following product categories commonly support better bedding outcomes. They are listed as practical complements, based on the issues Australian dog owners most often manage (heat, hygiene, slipping, and joint comfort).

• Orthopaedic dog beds: useful for seniors, large breeds, and dogs with joint stiffness.
• Washable dog bed covers: helpful where seasonal rotation, allergies, or heavy shedding make frequent washing necessary.
• Cooling mats: a practical option for hot weather and humid nights when dogs struggle to settle. Ensure they are used under supervision for chewers.
• Elevated dog beds: assist airflow in summer and can keep dogs off hot or damp surfaces on verandas.
• Non-slip pet mats: useful under beds on tiles and floorboards, especially for older dogs.
• Waterproof pet mats: helpful for puppies, senior dogs with accidents, or post-grooming dampness.
• Grooming brushes and deshedding tools: reduce hair and dander build-up in bedding and can improve odour control between washes.

How to Set Up the “Ideal” Sleeping Area in an Australian Home

The bed is only one part of comfort. Setup matters.

Placement rules that usually work

• Keep beds away from direct afternoon sun in summer.
• Avoid drafts in winter (near external doors or poorly sealed windows).
• Provide one bed in a family zone and one in a quiet zone if possible.
• For senior dogs, avoid slippery approaches; add a non-slip mat if needed.

Layering for seasonal comfort

A simple, effective approach:

• Summer: breathable cover, optional cooling mat, bed placed in coolest room
• Winter: add a washable blanket layer; move bed away from drafts

Layering is often cheaper and more flexible than buying entirely different beds.

Common Mistakes When Buying Dog Beds (and How to Avoid Them)

• Buying based on looks rather than function. If it cannot be washed easily, it will not stay pleasant.
• Choosing the wrong size. Dogs that cannot fully settle will constantly rotate or sleep elsewhere.
• Underestimating heat. Thick plush beds can be uncomfortable in many Australian summers.
• Assuming “orthopaedic” means supportive. Thickness and foam quality matter more than the label.
• Ignoring the dog’s behaviour. Chewers need different construction choices than gentle sleepers.

FAQ: Best Dog Beds in Australia (2026)

What is the best type of dog bed for Australian summers?

For many Australian homes, the most comfortable summer options are breathable, easy-clean beds and elevated cot-style beds that allow airflow underneath. During heatwaves, prioritise placing your dog’s bed in the coolest indoor area available and ensure access to water and shade, consistent with RSPCA heat stress prevention guidance. 

Are cooling mats safe for dogs?

Cooling mats are generally safe when used correctly, but they are not ideal for dogs that chew. If a mat is punctured, the contents may be ingested. For chewers, an elevated bed or a cool tiled area can be a safer cooling option.

Do orthopaedic dog beds actually help dogs with arthritis?

Supportive mattresses can help many arthritic dogs by reducing pressure on joints and improving rest. A University of Pennsylvania pilot study in large dogs with arthritis reported improvements in pain, stiffness, function and nighttime restfulness using a therapeutic mattress. Bedding is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it is a practical comfort measure.

How thick should an orthopaedic bed be?

Thickness needs to match body weight. As a general guide, larger dogs usually need a thicker foam base to avoid “bottoming out” onto the floor. If your dog lies down and you can feel the floor easily through the bed, it is likely too thin for that dog.

How often should I wash my dog’s bed?

A weekly wash is a sound routine in many homes, particularly where odour, allergies, heavy shedding or parasite risk are concerns. Choose beds with removable, machine-washable covers to make this routine achievable. 

What temperature should I wash dog bedding at?

Use the warmest water the care label allows and dry thoroughly. Higher temperatures can improve hygiene outcomes, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging waterproof linings or shrinking covers. 

My dog sleeps on the floor instead of the bed. Does that mean the bed is wrong?

Often, yes—especially in warm weather. Common reasons include:

• The bed is too hot (thick shag, enclosed sides)
• The bed is too soft or unstable
• The bed is placed in a warm or noisy area
• The size or shape does not match your dog’s preferred posture

Offer a cooler option (mat or elevated bed) and adjust placement before assuming your dog “just prefers the floor.”

What is the best dog bed for a chewer?

For chewers, prioritise durability and safety:

• Tough outer fabrics
• Fewer exposed seams
• Covered zippers
• Replaceable covers

Avoid beds with loose stuffing access and remove damaged beds promptly to reduce ingestion risk.

Are waterproof dog beds good for indoor use?

They can be, especially for:

• Puppies (toilet training)
• Senior dogs with accidents
• Dogs who come inside wet

However, some waterproof fabrics reduce breathability and can feel warm in summer. A common solution is using a waterproof liner with a breathable top cover.

Should my dog have more than one bed?

In many Australian homes, yes. A practical setup is:

• A supportive main bed
• A cooling option for summer

Multiple beds also help in multi-zone households (one in the family area, one in a quiet area).

What bed is best for a dog that gets up and down frequently at night?

If veterinary causes are excluded, frequent rising can be linked to discomfort. A low-profile orthopaedic bed with stable foam support can help some dogs settle. Consider also checking room temperature: overheating in summer or cold floors in winter can disturb rest.

Can a dog bed help with anxiety?

A bed cannot treat anxiety on its own, but it can support settling. Many anxious dogs respond well to a donut/cuddler shape (for security) placed in a quiet, predictable location. The most important factor is consistency: a stable sleep zone with minimal disturbance.

What is the best dog bed for outdoor sleeping in Australia?

Where outdoor sleeping is used (and permitted by your local conditions), prioritise:

• Water-resistant, quick-dry construction
• Raised or insulated base (to reduce cold ground exposure)
• Shaded, ventilated placement

In extreme heat, dogs should have access to a cooler indoor area as heat stress can develop quickly. 

How do I know if a bed is causing overheating?

Signs can include:

• Your dog repeatedly leaving the bed for cool surfaces
• Panting at rest (in warm conditions)
• Restlessness and frequent position changes

Switch to a breathable cover, reduce bedding layers, and provide a cooler resting option.