Best Dog Beds for Apartments in Australia: Space-Saving & Noise-Reducing Designs

Key Takeaways

• Prioritise quiet sleep and neighbour comfort together. In apartments, the right bed can reduce impact noise (thumps, scraping) and support calmer downtime, but it works best alongside a predictable routine and an appropriately quiet placement.
• Choose support first, then convenience. A supportive base (often orthopedic-style foam) helps many dogs settle for longer and reduces pressure points—particularly important for large, senior, and thin-coated dogs that spend long periods resting.
• Use layout to your advantage. A bed placed on an internal wall, in a corner, and on a thick rug can reduce transmitted vibration and protect floors.
• Heat management matters in Australian units. In warm months, dogs need constant access to cool water and a cooler resting option. RSPCA guidance emphasises that heat stress can develop quickly and that access to shade and water is essential.[2]
• Washability is non-negotiable in small spaces. Removable, washable covers and layered bedding make odour control and hygiene realistic in an apartment.
• Avoid punishment devices for barking. RSPCA Queensland warns that anti-barking collars can cause pain, fear and distress, and may be triggered by extraneous noise.[6]

Recommended by PetCareShed: Smart Choices for Every Dog Owner

Introduction

Apartment living is now a normal part of dog ownership in many Australian cities and regional centres. With smaller floorplans, closer neighbours, and more hard surfaces (floating floors, tiles, compact balconies), a dog bed is not just a comfort purchase—it becomes a practical tool for daily harmony.

A well-chosen apartment-friendly dog bed should do three things consistently: support the dog’s body, fit into the home without obstructing movement, and reduce the everyday noise that can travel through floors and shared walls. Noise in apartments is not only about barking; it is also about the repeated impacts of paws on hard floors, nails clicking, and the “jump-on/jump-off” thump that can be felt in units below.

This guide explains what matters most in an apartment dog bed, how to choose designs that save space without compromising welfare, and how to set up a sleep zone that is calmer and easier to keep clean. It is written for Australian dog owners and uses Australian welfare guidance where available.

Why Dog Beds Matter More in Apartments

In a house with a backyard, a dog may rotate between multiple comfortable areas—shaded grass, a verandah, a quiet laundry corner, and indoor rugs. Apartments compress that variety. Many dogs spend more time indoors, and the sleeping zone often sits close to daily household activity.

A good apartment bed helps address common apartment-specific pressures:

• Hard flooring and echo: Modern apartments often have hard surfaces that amplify both footfall and “bed movement” noise.
• Limited quiet areas: There may be only one or two realistic places a bed can go.
• Temperature swings: Upper levels can trap heat; ground-level units can be cooler and damper. Heat management guidance from RSPCA emphasises constant access to water and shade because heat stress can develop quickly.[2]
• Closer neighbour exposure: If your dog is restless at night or reacts to hallway noise, the flow-on effect is greater than in a detached home.

A bed will not “solve” behavioural noise on its own, but it can reduce the physical noise your dog creates, improve rest quality, and support training by giving your dog a consistent place to settle.

Because Every Dog Deserves the Best — from PetCareShed

Understanding Apartment Noise: What a Bed Can (and Cannot) Fix

Apartment noise concerns usually fall into two categories:

1. Airborne noise: barking, whining, and sometimes scratching at doors.
2. Structure-borne noise: impacts and vibrations transmitted through floors and walls (jumping down, running, bed frame scraping).

A dog bed can meaningfully reduce structure-borne noise when it:

• spreads load over a larger area (reducing peak impact)
• includes thick, resilient cushioning
• has a stable, non-slip base
• is placed on a rug or additional damping layer

Airborne noise (barking) is influenced more by emotion and triggers. Research indicates barking often relates to environmental stimuli, fear and anxiety, including noise sensitivity.[6] Comfortable rest and a predictable safe space can support calmer behaviour, but if barking is frequent or intense, professional behavioural guidance may be necessary.

Importantly, avoid punitive barking devices. RSPCA Queensland notes that some anti-barking collars may be triggered by extraneous noise and can cause pain, fear and distress.[6]

Apartment Dog Bed Design Goals (A Practical Checklist)

Before comparing materials and shapes, it helps to define what “apartment-suitable” means.

Core requirements (most apartments):

• Stable and quiet: no squeaking frames; no sliding across floors
• Comfortable for long rests: supportive, not overly soft
• Washable and odour-manageable: removable cover; moisture barrier preferred
• Space-efficient: fits a corner, under furniture, or doubles as a mat
• Heat-aware: breathable top layer; compatible with cooling options in summer

Helpful features (depending on dog and unit):

• Bolsters/raised sides: for security and head/neck support
• Low entry height: for senior dogs or dogs with joint issues
• Modular layers: thin topper + supportive base for easier washing
• Non-slip base: reduces “scrape noise” and accidents on slick flooring

Measuring Your Apartment (So the Bed Actually Fits)

Space-saving is not only about choosing a smaller bed; it is about choosing a bed that fits the traffic flow and the dog’s natural resting posture.

Step 1: Measure the dog correctly

Measure your dog in their preferred sleeping positions:

• curled up (diameter)
• stretched out on their side (nose-to-tail)
• “frog-leg” sprawl (common in many breeds)

Then add a comfort margin:

• Small dogs: add 10–15 cm
• Medium dogs: add 15–20 cm
• Large dogs: add 20–30 cm

This helps avoid the common apartment mistake of buying a bed that is “compact” but encourages the dog to spill onto the floor.

Step 2: Map bed placement zones

Identify two zones:

• Primary sleep zone (night-time): the quietest feasible location
• Day settle zone (work-from-home): near you, but not in the main walkway

In many apartments, you may use one well-chosen primary bed and a slim mat for the day zone.

Step 3: Check door swings and balcony access

Leave clearance so the bed does not block:

• balcony doors (often used for toileting or cooling breezes)
• bathroom access (night-time)
• entry door movement

Even a perfect bed can become a daily nuisance if it forces repeated stepping over the dog.

Where to Put the Bed in an Apartment (Comfort + Noise Reduction)

Placement is one of the most overlooked levers for noise reduction.

RSPCA Education advises positioning a dog’s safe space in a spot that is quiet and calm, away from noisy areas such as a television and away from busy parts of the home.[4] Translating that into apartment living:

• Prefer an internal wall rather than a shared bedroom wall where possible.
• Avoid placing the bed directly against balcony doors if hallway or outdoor noises trigger your dog.
• Use a corner location where the bed is naturally “contained” and less likely to be bumped.
• If you have floating floors, place the bed on a thick rug to reduce vibration.

A simple noise-reducing setup

• bed placed in a corner
• bed sitting on a dense rug or mat
• non-slip base to prevent movement
• optional low-profile foam “landing strip” in front of the bed if your dog jumps down energetically

This approach reduces both the dog’s movement noise and the bed’s tendency to migrate across the floor.

Space-Saving Dog Bed Types (Pros, Cons, Best For)

Apartment beds can be categorised by how they use space.

1) Orthopedic mattress-style beds (low profile)

Why they suit apartments: They slide under furniture, are quiet (no frame), and usually offer stable support.

Potential drawbacks: Large foam pieces can be harder to dry if soaked; choose a water-resistant liner.

Best for: medium to large dogs, senior dogs, units with limited floor area.

2) Bolster beds designed for corners

Why they suit apartments: Corners are often “dead space” in apartment layouts. A corner bolster bed uses that space while giving the dog a secure, enclosed feel.

Potential drawbacks: Bolsters can trap heat in summer if the fabric is heavy.

Best for: dogs that lean, burrow, or seek a den-like feel.

3) Crate-compatible mats (dual use)

Why they suit apartments: A crate can double as a safe space and visual barrier in a busy home. A fitted mat keeps the footprint consistent.

Potential drawbacks: The crate must be appropriately introduced and never used as punishment.

Best for: dogs that settle well in a covered nook; dogs adjusting to apartment sounds.

4) Raised beds (low frames)

Why they suit apartments: Airflow under the bed can help with heat and hygiene, and the raised design can reduce contact with cold floors.

Potential drawbacks: Some raised frames can creak or transmit vibration if feet are hard or the frame is unstable.

Best for: warm apartments, dogs that run hot, or homes that need easier cleaning underneath.

5) Foldable travel beds and roll-up mats

Why they suit apartments: Useful when you need the floor space back (e.g., guests, small living rooms) and for taking to cafes or outdoor areas.

Potential drawbacks: Many are thin; may not be enough support for daily sleep for large or older dogs.

Best for: small dogs, younger dogs, or as a secondary “day mat”.

Noise-Reducing Design Features to Look For

Noise reduction is partly about material and partly about stability.

Non-slip bases and floor grip

A non-slip base reduces:

• scraping noises on timber or tiles
• the bed moving when the dog “digs” or circles
• sudden shifts that startle the dog (which can increase restlessness)

Look for wide contact areas and grippy materials rather than narrow plastic feet.

High-mass cushioning to damp impact

Thicker foam and dense fill can absorb more energy when your dog drops onto the bed. While foam specifications vary, the practical test is simple:

• Press down firmly with your hand. If you can easily “bottom out” to the floor, the bed may transmit more impact noise and provide less joint support.

Quiet construction

In apartments, small noises repeat and become more noticeable. Choose:

• stitched seams rather than noisy Velcro where possible
• stable zips with fabric garages (less rattling)
• foam beds or quiet frames that do not creak

“Landing zones” for jumpers

If your dog habitually jumps off furniture onto hard floors, the bed may not be the main noise source. Consider:

• a slim mat placed where the dog lands most often
• a step/ramp for small dogs or seniors (reduces impact and slip risk)

Support and Joint Health: Choosing the Right Cushioning

A bed’s job is to distribute pressure, support the spine and joints, and keep muscles relaxed during rest.

Dogs that benefit most from firmer support include:

• large breeds
• senior dogs
• dogs with arthritis or reduced mobility
• dogs with a lean body condition (less natural padding)

In apartments, supportive beds are also indirectly helpful because a more comfortable dog is often less likely to roam at night, scratch at floors, or repeatedly change location.

Thickness and firmness (practical guidance)

For many apartment dogs:

• Small dogs: 5–8 cm may be sufficient if the foam is supportive.
• Medium dogs: 8–12 cm is a common comfort range.
• Large dogs: 10–15 cm often improves comfort and reduces bottoming out.

The bed should allow the dog to sink slightly without feeling unstable. Overly soft beds may cause deeper sink, which can make standing up harder for seniors.

Low entry height for seniors

Older dogs often do best with a supportive bed that has a low entry. High bolsters can be helpful for leaning but can be a barrier for dogs with stiffness.

A useful compromise is a bed with bolsters on three sides and a lowered front edge.

Heat, Ventilation and Summer Comfort in Australian Apartments

Australian apartments can overheat quickly, especially:

• top-floor units
• west-facing living areas
• buildings with limited cross-ventilation

RSPCA guidance is clear that heat stress can develop extremely quickly and pets need constant access to water and shade in hot weather.[2] While “shade” looks different indoors, the principle remains: dogs need a cooler option and should not be forced to rest on thick, heat-trapping bedding.

Practical bed choices for warm seasons

• Prefer breathable covers (lighter fabrics) and avoid heavy faux-fur for summer use.
• Use layering: a supportive base plus a removable light topper.
• Provide a cooler alternative: many dogs choose tiles or timber floors during heat. Do not block that choice.
• Consider a raised bed for airflow, provided it is stable and quiet.

If your dog is at higher heat risk (brachycephalic breeds, overweight, senior), follow heatstroke prevention advice carefully. RSPCA’s heatstroke guidance highlights multiple risk factors and stresses ventilation, shade, water and avoiding exercise in extreme heat.[1]

Winter Comfort, Drafts and Cold Floors

Not all apartments are warm. Ground-floor units and older builds can be cool and drafty.

A winter-ready apartment bed should:

• lift the dog slightly from cold surfaces (either thicker foam or a raised design)
• have an insulating but breathable cover
• be positioned away from draft lines (under doors, sliding balcony gaps)

Layering works well: a washable blanket can be added in winter and removed in summer.

Hygiene and Odour Control in Small Homes

In apartments, odour and allergens concentrate faster because there is less air volume and fewer “spare rooms” to isolate washing.

RSPCA guidance for general dog care recommends using washable rugs, cushions or blankets for extra comfort and warmth, and states that bedding should be cleaned regularly.[7]

A realistic washing system for apartments

A practical setup for most households:

• Removable cover that fits in a standard washing machine
• Water-resistant liner to protect the foam from accidents
• Top blanket that you wash more frequently than the main cover

Suggested routine (adjust to your dog):

• Top blanket: weekly, and immediately if soiled
• Main cover: every 2–4 weeks for many dogs
• Foam protection liner: every 1–3 months, or sooner if contamination occurs

If your dog has allergies, recurrent skin infections, or parasites, follow your veterinarian’s advice for cleaning frequency and products.

Drying constraints

Many apartments lack outdoor clotheslines. If you rely on a dryer, choose fabrics and covers that tolerate drying without shrinking. If air-drying indoors, ensure airflow to prevent damp and mould.

Materials Guide: What Works Best in Apartments

Material choices affect comfort, noise, and maintenance.

Cover fabrics

• Canvas-like weaves: durable and often quieter (less “rustle”) but can feel warmer.
• Microfibre: tends to resist hair embedding and can be easier to wipe.
• Fleece / plush: cosy but can trap heat and collect hair; better as a removable topper.

Fill and support layers

• Foam: quiet, stable, good for impact damping.
• Fibre fill: can be comfortable but may flatten quickly, increasing noise and reducing support.
• Mixed designs: foam base plus soft topper often suits apartment needs.

Waterproofing (without overheating)

Waterproof liners protect foam but can increase heat. Prefer breathable, well-fitted liners and keep a lighter topper available for warm nights.

Choosing the Right Bed Shape for Apartment Layouts

Different shapes suit different floorplans.

• Rectangle mattress: easiest to fit under tables or along walls.
• Corner wedge: ideal for tight corners and to keep walkways clear.
• Round donut: suits curlers but can waste space if you need wall alignment.

If your living room doubles as the main circulation area, a corner bed often provides the best balance of access and minimal obstruction.

A Room-by-Room Bed Placement Plan (Apartment Edition)

Living room

Often the best “day settle” space because the dog can be near the household. Aim for:

• a corner away from TV speakers
• a bed on a rug to damp noise
• a position where the dog can see you but is not in the path to the kitchen

Bedroom

For many dogs, sleeping in the bedroom reduces night-time wandering. However, a bedroom bed should be:

• quiet and low-profile
• easy to wash (bedrooms retain odours)
• not pressed against a shared wall if you can avoid it

Laundry/bathroom alcove

Sometimes practical for cooling in summer (tiles) but can be noisy and high-traffic. Avoid if:

• the dog is sensitive to plumbing sounds
• the area is damp or mould-prone

Balcony

Balconies can be useful for daytime supervised rests, but be cautious:

• exposure to heat and hot surfaces
• noise triggers from birds, pedestrians, and other dogs
• safety risks and local building rules

In hot weather, RSPCA guidance emphasises water and shade, and the need to avoid heat-trapping shelters.[2][3] Balconies can become heat traps; ensure the dog can move indoors.

Settling and Routine: Supporting Quiet Apartment Behaviour

A bed is most effective when it is part of a broader “settle routine”. A calm dog is easier to live with, and a predictable routine reduces stress-driven behaviours.

Build positive association with the bed

• Feed occasional treats on the bed.
• Reward calm behaviour (lying down quietly).
• Avoid sending the dog to the bed as punishment.

Manage triggers in common apartment scenarios

• Hallway sounds: consider a bed placement away from the front door and reduce visual access to the corridor.
• Delivery noise: teach a “go to bed” cue before opening the door.
• Balcony reactivity: use frosted film or block line-of-sight if your dog becomes aroused by outside movement.

Enrichment to reduce boredom-driven restlessness

Many apartment dogs need deliberate enrichment:

• short training sessions
• food puzzles
• sniff games
• appropriate chew items

This supports rest and reduces repetitive pacing that can create noise.

Recommended Related Products from PetCareShed

The following product categories are commonly useful for apartment dog owners choosing space-saving, noise-reducing sleep setups. The aim is to match the product type to the apartment constraint (space, flooring, washing access, temperature).

• Orthopedic foam dog beds: useful for supportive sleep, impact damping, and low-profile placement along walls or under furniture.
• Bolster dog beds (including corner-friendly shapes): helpful for dogs that seek security, and for using “dead space” in room corners.
• Non-slip dog mats: practical under beds to reduce sliding and protect timber or tile floors.
• Crate mats and bedding liners: suitable for dogs that settle best in a safe-space style nook; liners help with accidents and easier cleaning.
• Cooling mats: valuable in warm apartments where dogs need a cooler resting option during hot periods, in line with RSPCA heat safety principles.[2]
• Grooming brushes and deshedding tools: reduce hair build-up in bedding and improve indoor air quality.
• Puzzle feeders and enrichment toys: support calm downtime by meeting mental needs, which is particularly relevant for apartment living.

Apartment Dog Bed Buying Guide (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Identify the primary problem

Choose the bed based on what is most limiting in your apartment:

• Space: needs to fit a corner or under furniture
• Noise: needs stability, non-slip base, and impact damping
• Heat: needs breathability or raised airflow
• Hygiene: needs removable covers and liners

Step 2: Match the bed to your dog’s body and behaviour

• Curlers: donut/bolster beds can be comforting.
• Stretch sleepers: flat mattresses prevent “half-on, half-off” sleeping.
• Diggers/spinners: durable covers and stable bases reduce movement.

Step 3: Select a size that works now and later

If your dog is a growing puppy, avoid buying too small to “save space”. It is often better to buy the correct adult size and manage space with placement.

Step 4: Plan wash and dry logistics before buying

Ask:

• Will the cover fit your washing machine?
• Can it be tumble dried?
• Do you have a second cover or topper while one is washing?

Step 5: Prepare the floor

For hard floors:

• add a rug under the bed
• use a non-slip mat if needed
• trim nails regularly to reduce clicking and scratching

Comparison Table: Apartment-Friendly Dog Bed Features

Apartment Need	Feature to Look For	Why It Helps	Watch Out For
Reduce impact noise	Thick supportive foam base	Damps thumps and spreads load	Too thin can bottom out
Stop bed sliding	Non-slip base / grippy underside	Prevents scraping and movement	Hard feet can mark floors
Save floor space	Corner shape or low-profile mattress	Uses dead space / fits under furniture	Too small reduces comfort
Summer comfort	Breathable cover, optional cooling layer	Reduces heat build-up	Waterproof covers can trap heat
Easy cleaning	Removable washable cover + liner	Manages odour in small homes	Non-removable covers are difficult
Senior mobility	Low entry height, stable surface	Easier to get in/out, less slipping	Overly soft beds can hinder rising

Example Setups for Common Australian Apartment Scenarios

Scenario 1: Small one-bedroom with timber floors

Common issues: echo, sliding, limited space.

Bed approach:

• low-profile orthopedic mattress bed
• placed in a corner on a dense rug
• add a slim mat as a “landing strip” if your dog jumps down often

Why it works: the mattress is quiet and does not need a frame; the rug reduces vibration transmission.

Scenario 2: High-rise with warm afternoon sun

Common issues: overheating in summer.

Bed approach:

• breathable cover; removable plush topper for winter only
• cooling mat available as an alternative
• bed positioned away from direct sun and hot windows

Why it works: supports RSPCA heat safety principles—dogs need water access and a cooler option, and heat stress can develop quickly.[2]

Scenario 3: Dog reactive to hallway sounds

Common issues: barking at door noises.

Bed approach:

• place bed away from entry line-of-sight
• create a “safe space” nook consistent with RSPCA advice (quiet, calm location)[4]
• pair with training: cue to bed when door sounds occur

Why it works: reduces triggers and supports calmer settling.

Scenario 4: Older dog in a compact unit

Common issues: stiffness, difficulty rising, night restlessness.

Bed approach:

• supportive bed with low entry
• stable surface to prevent slipping
• bedroom placement if that reduces night movement

Why it works: comfort and stability reduce repeated repositioning and associated noise.

Safety and Welfare Considerations (EEAT/YMYL)

A dog bed should never compromise safety.

• Avoid overheating: Thick plush beds can trap heat. In Australian warm periods, provide access to cooler surfaces and constant water. RSPCA advises constant water and shade and notes heat stress can develop quickly.[2]
• Avoid unsafe DIY soundproofing: Do not enclose a bed in a way that restricts airflow.
• Avoid aversive barking devices: RSPCA Queensland warns about welfare harms from barking collars, including the risk of triggering from extraneous noise.[6]

If your dog shows signs of pain (stiffness, reluctance to lie down, difficulty rising) or persistent anxiety (panting, pacing, vocalising when alone), seek advice from a veterinarian or a qualified behaviour professional.

Detailed FAQ

 What is the best type of dog bed for an apartment?

For many apartments, a low-profile orthopedic-style mattress bed is the most practical choice because it is quiet (no frame), stable on hard floors, and can fit along a wall or under furniture. If your dog prefers more “security”, a corner bolster bed can use dead space efficiently.

 How can a dog bed reduce noise in an apartment?

A bed reduces structure-borne noise by absorbing impact when your dog lies down or jumps on/off. The most effective noise-reducing features are:

• thick, resilient cushioning
• non-slip base
• placement on a dense rug or mat
• stable construction that does not creak

Barking is a different type of noise. While a comfortable bed and safe-space placement can support calmness, barking is often linked to triggers such as noises, fear and anxiety.[6]

 Where should I place my dog’s bed to minimise disturbance to neighbours?

Aim for a quiet, calm location away from noisy household areas, consistent with RSPCA safe-space advice.[4] Practically, this often means:

• away from the front door and hallway line-of-sight
• on an internal wall rather than a shared bedroom wall where possible
• on a rug to reduce vibration through floors

 Are raised dog beds good for apartments?

They can be, especially in warm units because airflow underneath can improve comfort. However, for apartments, ensure the raised bed is stable and quiet, with non-marking feet and no creaking joints. If the frame shifts on hard flooring, it can increase noise.

 How often should I wash my dog’s bed in an apartment?

RSPCA advises using washable bedding and cleaning it regularly.[7] In an apartment, a common practical routine is:

• wash a top blanket weekly
• wash the main cover every 2–4 weeks
• clean liners/inner layers every 1–3 months

Increase frequency if your dog has allergies, skin disease, parasites, or toileting accidents.

 My dog gets hot at night. Should I remove the bed?

Do not remove comfortable rest options, but do provide choice. In warm Australian conditions, dogs should have constant access to water and a cooler place to rest; heat stress can develop quickly.[2] Practical options include:

• swapping to a breathable cover
• using a lighter topper or no topper
• providing a cooling mat
• allowing access to cooler flooring (tiles/timber)

 Do waterproof dog beds trap heat?

Waterproof liners can reduce airflow and feel warmer. A good approach is a water-resistant liner inside (to protect foam) with a breathable outer cover, plus a removable topper that you can adjust seasonally.

 What bed is best for a dog with arthritis in an apartment?

A supportive, stable bed with:

• thicker cushioning (so it does not bottom out)
• low entry height
• non-slip base

If your dog struggles to stand or appears painful, consult your veterinarian to confirm underlying conditions and discuss supportive care.

 Can a bed stop nuisance barking complaints?

A bed alone is unlikely to prevent barking complaints because barking is often driven by triggers and emotional states such as fear, anxiety or noise sensitivity.[6] A good bed supports rest, but effective management usually involves:

• trigger reduction (visual and sound exposure)
• enrichment and exercise
• training a settle routine
• professional support when needed

Avoid aversive barking collars; RSPCA Queensland warns they can cause pain, fear and distress and may be triggered by extraneous noise.[6]

 Is it okay to put my dog’s bed on the balcony?

Only if it is safe and supervised, and your dog can move indoors. In hot weather, balconies can become heat traps. RSPCA heat guidance stresses constant access to water and shade and highlights that heat stress can develop quickly.[2]

 How do I choose a bed size if space is tight?

Prioritise the dog’s ability to lie comfortably. If you must save space:

• choose a corner bed to use dead space
• choose a low-profile mattress bed that fits along a wall
• use one main bed plus a slim mat, rather than multiple bulky beds

A bed that is too small often leads to poor sleep and more movement noise.

 What should I do if my dog keeps moving their bed or digging at it?

This commonly reflects:

• insufficient traction (bed slides)
• discomfort (too hot, too soft, not supportive)
• nesting behaviour (common before sleep)

Try:

• adding a non-slip mat or rug
• switching to a more supportive base
• offering a washable blanket the dog can “nest” in

If digging is intense or sudden, consider potential skin irritation or anxiety and seek veterinary or behavioural advice.