Best Dog Beds for Australian Shepherds: Durable & Cooling Designs (Australia)

Key Takeaways

• Australian Shepherds (Aussies) need beds that match a working-dog body and mind. Their athletic build and high daily activity can expose joints and pressure points to more wear than a low-energy breed.
• Cooling and airflow matter in Australian summers. Heat stress can escalate quickly in dogs, so beds that reduce heat build-up (breathable covers, gel cooling layers, elevated cots, moisture-wicking fabrics) are often more practical than thick plush alone.
• Durability is not only about fabric strength. The longest-lasting beds typically combine tough outer textiles, reinforced seams, protected zippers, and a washable, water-resistant inner liner.
• Orthopaedic support is a sensible default for many Aussies. Quality foam that spreads body weight helps reduce pressure on elbows, hips, and shoulders—especially for adult and senior dogs, or those recovering from injury.
• Size and shape should support “sprawl sleeping”. Most Aussies do best with a bed that allows full stretch-out, plus optional bolsters for head/neck support.
• Hygiene is a comfort and health issue. Removable covers and easy-to-clean materials reduce odours, allergens, and the chance of skin irritation.

Recommended by PetCareShed: Smart Choices for Every Dog Owner

Introduction

Australian Shepherds are often described as “busy” dogs. In Australian homes they commonly combine two demanding traits: high physical drive and a weather-resistant double coat. That mix creates a practical bedding challenge—especially in a country where summer temperatures can spike rapidly, and where many dogs alternate between dusty backyards, beach walks, wet winter parks, and indoor family time.

A dog bed is not simply a soft spot on the floor. For an Aussie, the right bed can support joint comfort after sport or long walks, reduce pressure on elbows and hips, improve sleep quality, and help with temperature regulation when nights remain warm. The wrong bed can do the opposite: trap heat, flatten quickly, hold moisture and odours, and encourage destructive chewing.

This guide explains how to choose the best dog beds for Australian Shepherds with a focus on durability and cooling, while still addressing orthopaedic support, hygiene, and real-life Australian conditions.

Understanding the Australian Shepherd: What Their Body and Coat Mean for Bed Choice

The Australian Shepherd was developed as a capable stock dog with strong endurance and agility. Breed references consistently describe a well-balanced, medium-sized, athletic dog with a double coat that can vary with climate and season, and a temperament that thrives on work and activity.

For bedding, that translates into several practical needs:

1) A body that loads pressure points. Even though Aussies are not a giant breed, their musculoskeletal load is meaningful: they jump, twist, sprint, and often “drop” onto the floor at the end of activity. Over time, repeated impact and resting on hard surfaces can contribute to discomfort, calluses, and pressure irritation—especially at elbows and hips.

2) A coat that can trap warmth. A double coat is protective, but it can also hold heat if the dog is lying on a non-breathable surface. In warm, humid conditions, dogs depend largely on panting to cool themselves, and any extra heat build-up under the body increases the cooling workload.

3) A mind that gets bored. Chewing and bed destruction are not always “naughty behaviour”. In many Aussies it is a sign of insufficient enrichment, anxiety, or simply a dog that needs a more suitable resting place and routine. That means durability needs to be paired with training, management, and appropriate daily outlets.

Breed clubs and breed profiles emphasise the Aussie’s high energy and endurance and note their weather-resistant coat characteristics, which can influence heat management strategies in warmer climates.

Because Every Dog Deserves the Best — from PetCareShed

Australian Climate Reality: Why Cooling Design Matters

Australia’s summer conditions are not uniform. Perth heat is often dry; Brisbane and parts of coastal NSW can be hot and humid; inland regions may have extreme day-to-night swings. But across the country, heatwaves and high radiant temperatures from surfaces (pavers, concrete) can place dogs under stress.

Heat stress in dogs is a serious welfare risk. Australian animal welfare and emergency veterinary guidance highlights common prevention steps: avoid exercise in the hottest part of the day, provide shade and ventilation, ensure access to cool water, and bring pets inside where possible during extreme heat.

Beds play a support role in that plan. The goal is not to “cold shock” a dog, but to reduce heat accumulation and allow the body to cool normally.

Signs your Aussie may be overheating (and why bedding can be part of prevention)

Heat stress signs can start subtly and worsen quickly. Emergency veterinary resources list signs such as heavy panting, weakness, drooling, vomiting/diarrhoea, and collapse in severe cases.

A bed will not prevent heatstroke on its own, but cooling-oriented design can help by:

• improving airflow under and around the body
• avoiding heat-trapping plush in warm weather
• reducing contact with hot tiles, decking, or sun-warmed floors
• providing a consistent “cool zone” indoors

If a dog shows worrying signs of heat stress, follow reputable Australian guidance: move to a cooler area, offer water, apply cool (not icy) water and airflow, and seek veterinary help urgently if symptoms are significant or worsening.

What “Best” Means for Aussie Beds: A Practical Checklist

When selecting a bed for an Australian Shepherd, it helps to define “best” as a combination of comfort, support, cooling, durability, and hygiene—not simply softness.

Consider these criteria together:

• Support: thickness, foam type, weight distribution, edge support
• Cooling: breathable cover, open-cell foam, elevated airflow, moisture-wicking textiles, cooling gel layers
• Durability: fabric strength, denier rating, ripstop weave, seam reinforcement, zipper protection
• Safety: non-toxic materials, low risk of stuffing access, non-slip base
• Cleanability: removable cover, washable surfaces, water-resistant liners
• Fit: correct size for full-body sprawl; shape to match sleeping style

A good bed should also suit how the dog lives—indoor, outdoor undercover, crate use, travel, or multi-dog households.

Choosing the Right Size for an Australian Shepherd (With a Simple Measuring Method)

Many owners underestimate size. Aussies often sleep in a full stretch, with front legs extended and hips rotated to one side. A bed that is too small forces curled posture, which can increase stiffness after exercise.

How to measure

1. Measure your Aussie from nose to base of tail while standing.
2. Add 20–30 cm for comfortable stretch room.
3. Compare the result to the bed’s internal sleeping surface, not just the external dimensions.

Size guide (typical ranges)

Most adult Australian Shepherds fall in the medium-to-large bed range depending on body size and preferred sprawl.

Dog profile	Typical sleeping style	Suggested internal length	Notes
Small adult Aussie	Curled / side	80–90 cm	Choose larger if sprawler
Average adult Aussie	Side / sprawl	90–105 cm	Most common fit
Large male or long-bodied	Full sprawl	105–120 cm	Improves hip/shoulder comfort
Crate use	Varies	Match crate base	Ensure airflow + chew safety

If your Aussie often sleeps half-on/half-off the bed, that is usually a sizing issue rather than a training issue.

Cooling Dog Bed Designs That Work Well for Australian Shepherds

Cooling design is not one single technology. It is usually a combination of airflow, material choice, and moisture control. For Australian Shepherds, the best cooling approach depends on your climate, housing, and your dog’s coat density.

1) Elevated (cot-style) beds: airflow first

Elevated dog beds lift the dog off the floor, allowing air to circulate under the body. This can be highly practical in warm regions and for dogs that run hot after exercise.

Benefits for Aussies:

• reduces heat build-up compared with thick plush
• keeps the dog off warm tiles or sun-heated decking
• tends to stay drier and cleaner (mud falls away)
• often very durable when the fabric is tensioned in a frame

Watch-outs:

• older dogs with arthritis may need a step or lower frame height
• fabric tension should be supportive, not sagging
• avoid exposed edges or loose fabric if your dog is a determined chewer

2) Cooling mats and gel layers: targeted relief

Cooling mats can be useful in summer, particularly in air-conditioned rooms. They are often best used as an add-on layer rather than a full-time bed replacement, because some mats provide less cushioning.

Practical use: after walks, after agility training, during hot evenings.

Safety note: If your dog chews, select a mat with strong outer layers and supervise initial use. Ingested material can cause gastrointestinal issues.

3) Breathable orthopaedic beds: support without heat trapping

Some orthopaedic beds are designed with breathable covers and foam structures that reduce heat retention. This is often the best compromise for Aussies that need both joint support and thermal comfort.

Look for:

• moisture-wicking, breathable top fabric
• open-cell or ventilated foam designs
• water-resistant inner liner to protect foam from sweat, drool, and accidents

4) Hybrid designs: bolster + cooling surface

Many Aussies like a place to rest their chin. Bolsters can provide that comfort without forcing a curled posture.

For warmer climates, choose bolsters that are:

• moderately filled (not overly plush)
• covered in breathable fabric
• removable or washable

Durable Dog Bed Designs for Australian Shepherds (Because Aussies Can Be Hard on Gear)

Durability is a design system. A bed can have a tough fabric but fail at the seams, zip, or base.

Research and product testing commentary on chew-resistant beds repeatedly highlights the importance of ballistic or ripstop fabrics, high-denier textiles, reinforced seams, and protected zippers, with some designs using a frame to reduce exposed edges.

What “durable” should mean in practical terms

• Outer cover resists abrasion: paws, nails, digging, repeated washing
• Seams resist tearing: triple stitching or reinforced binding
• Zippers are protected: hidden zipper garages, covered seams
• Inner liner protects foam: water-resistant barrier prevents odour build-up and foam breakdown
• Base grips the floor: non-slip base reduces sliding and seam stress

Fabric terms worth understanding (without overcomplicating it)

• Denier (D): a measure associated with fibre thickness. Higher denier often indicates tougher fabric.
• Ripstop: a weave pattern designed to stop small tears spreading.
• Ballistic nylon: heavy-duty nylon developed for high abrasion resistance; commonly used in tough pet gear.

The “chew-proof” reality

No bed is truly indestructible for a determined chewer. However, certain designs are consistently more resilient:

• elevated cots where fabric edges are secured within the frame
• reinforced covers with ripstop/ballistic layers
• minimal external seams and no loose piping

If chewing is persistent, consider whether the dog is under-exercised, anxious, teething, or confined for long periods. Durability features help, but behaviour management is still essential.

Orthopaedic Support: When It Matters for Aussies (and Why It Often Helps)

Orthopaedic beds are not only for elderly dogs. They can be valuable for:

• adult Aussies doing regular high-impact exercise (ball chasing, agility)
• dogs with stiffness after rest
• dogs recovering from surgery or injury
• seniors with reduced mobility

Veterinary guidance on pressure sores and joint comfort emphasises that thick, supportive bedding helps distribute weight and reduce pressure on bony prominences, which is important for prevention and management of pressure-related skin issues.

Foam types: what to choose

• High-density support foam: provides structure and resists flattening
• Memory foam (viscoelastic): contours to the body and can reduce pressure points
• Layered foam: support base + comfort top often performs better than a single slab

How thick should an orthopaedic bed be?

As a general guide for medium-to-large, active breeds:

• minimum effective thickness: often around 7–10 cm for meaningful cushioning
• better for adults/seniors: 10–15 cm depending on weight and health

A bed that bottoms out under your dog’s hip is unlikely to provide reliable support.

Matching Bed Shape to Aussie Sleeping Style

Australian Shepherds commonly rotate between sleep styles depending on temperature and fatigue:

• Sprawl (belly down, legs out): often a cooling posture
• Side sleeping: common after activity
• Curled “donut”: more common in cooler weather or anxious dogs
• Chin-on-edge: many Aussies like head/neck support

Bed shapes and who they suit

• Flat mattress style: best for sprawlers and dogs that get warm
• Bolster bed: good for chin-resters and dogs that like boundaries
• Donut bed: suited to curlers; can trap heat in summer
• Elevated cot: excellent for airflow; add a thin topper for seniors

A practical approach in many Australian homes is a seasonal setup: a breathable mattress or cot for summer, and a warmer topper or cover for winter.

Indoor vs Outdoor (Undercover) Use: What Changes

Where the bed sits matters as much as what it is made from.

Indoors

Indoors, the main priorities are:

• non-slip base on tiles or floorboards
• breathable materials if the house stays warm
• low-odour, easy washing

Air-conditioning can make a thicker orthopaedic bed comfortable year-round.

Outdoors (undercover)

If your Aussie uses a bed in a covered outdoor space:

• choose water-resistant liners and quick-drying covers
• avoid materials that hold moisture (mildew risk)
• use raised beds to reduce contact with damp concrete

Do not rely on a dog bed to keep a dog safe in extreme heat. Australian welfare advice emphasises bringing pets to cooler indoor areas where possible during hot weather.

Cooling + Durability Feature Comparison (What to Look For at a Glance)

Feature	Why it matters for Aussies	Best for	Potential trade-off
Elevated cot frame	Airflow, stays dry, tough structure	Hot climates, outdoor undercover	Less cushioning unless topped
Breathable cover	Reduces heat build-up and moisture	Warm homes, thick coats	Some fabrics snag if low quality
Cooling gel layer	Short-term cooling comfort	After walks, summer evenings	Not ideal for heavy chewers
Ripstop / ballistic fabric	Resists digging, tearing, abrasion	Busy dogs, multi-dog homes	May feel firmer than plush
Water-resistant inner liner	Protects foam from odours and moisture	All-round hygiene	Must still be breathable overall
High-density orthopaedic foam	Joint comfort, pressure relief	Adults, seniors, recovery	Can retain warmth if poorly ventilated

A Practical “Best Bed” Shortlist by Aussie Lifestyle

Rather than naming external brands, the most useful approach is to match bed type to how your Aussie lives.

1) The active outdoorsy Aussie (beach walks, hikes, muddy parks)

Priorities: washability, quick drying, durable cover, liner.

Best bed types:

• durable orthopaedic mattress with removable cover + waterproof liner
• elevated cot for undercover outdoor use

Helpful features:

• dark or mid-tone fabrics that hide light dust
• reinforced seams and zipper protection

2) The agility or sport Aussie

Priorities: joint recovery support, stable base, cooling surface.

Best bed types:

• breathable orthopaedic bed (layered foam)
• add-on cooling mat for post-training rest

Helpful features:

• generous size for full-body sprawl
• non-slip base to prevent sliding onto hard floors

3) The apartment/suburban indoor Aussie

Priorities: odour control, noise reduction, temperature management.

Best bed types:

• supportive mattress bed with washable cover
• bolster bed if the dog prefers boundaries

Helpful features:

• breathable cover (especially if heating is used in winter)
• low-profile entry for easy step-on/step-off

4) The senior Aussie

Priorities: orthopaedic thickness, easy access, temperature neutrality.

Best bed types:

• thick orthopaedic mattress
• bolster optional for stability and comfort

Helpful features:

• non-slip base
• spare covers for frequent washing

Pressure sore prevention guidance commonly stresses thick, supportive bedding and avoiding prolonged pressure on hard surfaces, particularly for less mobile dogs.

Where Most Beds Fail: Common Mistakes Aussie Owners Can Avoid

Mistake 1: Buying plush that traps heat

In much of Australia, overly plush synthetic fur can hold warmth. For some dogs it is comfortable in winter, but it can become unpleasant in summer and contribute to restless sleep.

Better approach: choose a breathable everyday bed and add a removable winter topper or blanket when needed.

Mistake 2: Underestimating nail and digging wear

Aussies can “nest” before lying down. If the cover is thin, it will pill and tear.

Better approach: select ripstop/ballistic-style covers and keep nails trimmed.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the inner liner

Foam that absorbs drool, sweat, or accidents often develops a persistent smell.

Better approach: choose a bed with a water-resistant inner liner and washable cover.

Mistake 4: Too small (the silent comfort problem)

Owners sometimes choose a smaller size for a “neat look”. The dog then sleeps half off the bed or changes position constantly.

Better approach: prioritise the internal sleeping surface.

Mistake 5: Treating chewing as a product problem only

A tough bed is helpful, but chewing often needs behaviour management.

Better approach: ensure adequate daily exercise and mental enrichment, and supervise new bedding until the dog’s habits are clear.

Setting Up a Cooling Sleep Zone at Home (Beyond the Bed)

A bed performs best when the environment supports cooling. Australian welfare advice stresses shade, ventilation, and access to cool water in hot weather, and avoiding exercise during the hottest times.

For practical home set-up:

• Place the bed in the coolest room (often tiled laundry or a shaded living area).
• Use airflow: fan positioned to circulate air (not blasting directly into the face).
• Consider a cooling mat placed on top of a supportive base for hot nights.
• Keep water nearby, refreshed often.
• Avoid placing the bed in direct sun patches that move across the floor.

If your area experiences very hot days, consider having two resting options: an elevated cot for maximum airflow and an orthopaedic mattress for deeper support.

Cleaning and Hygiene: Keeping Beds Fresh in Australian Conditions

Australia-specific challenges include:

• dust and pollen seasons
• sandy coats from beach walks
• wet-dog smell during winter rain
• ticks/fleas in some regions

A realistic cleaning routine

• Weekly: vacuum the cover and surrounding floor; check seams and zipper.
• Fortnightly to monthly: wash cover (frequency depends on coat, allergies, and outdoor exposure).
• After rain/mud: wipe down liner and air the bed thoroughly.

For dogs with allergies or sensitive skin, clean bedding can make a noticeable difference. Removable, washable covers are not a luxury feature—they are a practical health feature.

Safety Considerations: Materials, Chewing, and Heat

Avoid extreme cooling methods

If a dog is overheating, follow reputable guidance: use cool water and airflow, and seek veterinary care for serious signs. Avoid using ice-cold water for rapid cooling, which some councils and emergency guidance warn against due to potential complications in cooling too quickly.

Choose safe, robust construction for chewers

Chew-resistant bed research highlights the importance of reinforced construction and protected closures.[4] For Aussies that chew:

• avoid beds with loose piping, tassels, or easily grabbed corners
• choose hidden zippers or zipper covers
• supervise initially and remove if destructive chewing begins

If the bed contains foam, access to foam can become a safety risk if ingested. The safest option for persistent chewers is often a frame-based elevated cot or a tough crate mat with protected edges.

Recommended Related Products from PetCareShed

The products below are presented as practical options that commonly suit Australian Shepherd needs. Selection should be based on your dog’s age, chewing habits, local climate, and whether the bed is used indoors, in a crate, or outdoors under cover.

• Orthopaedic foam dog bed (removable cover): Useful for adult and senior Aussies needing pressure relief and recovery support.
• Cooling dog mat: Suitable as a seasonal layer for summer afternoons or post-walk cooldowns, ideally used under supervision for dogs that chew.
• Elevated dog bed (cot-style): Supports airflow and stays cleaner in warm climates; particularly useful for undercover outdoor areas.
• Water-resistant crate mat: Practical for travel, crate training, and dogs that prefer a firmer sleeping surface.
• Durable dog bed cover or spare cover (washable): Helps maintain hygiene in multi-dog homes, allergy management, or wet-weather seasons.
• Slow feeder bowl: Complements a “settle and rest” routine by turning meals into calmer enrichment—useful for high-drive Aussies.
• Tough chew toys: Support appropriate chewing outlets, which can indirectly protect bedding.

How to Choose Between a Cooling Bed and an Orthopaedic Bed (A Decision Guide)

Many owners feel they must choose one or the other. In practice, the best solution is often support first, cooling second, unless the dog is clearly heat-sensitive.

Choose a cooling-forward bed if:

• your home stays warm at night
• your Aussie seeks tiles or refuses plush bedding in summer
• you live in humid or consistently hot regions
• your dog pants heavily after mild exercise (even after veterinary clearance)

Choose an orthopaedic-forward bed if:

• your Aussie is over 5–7 years old
• there is stiffness after rest
• your dog has had injury/surgery
• your dog develops elbow calluses or pressure irritation

A balanced option

A breathable orthopaedic mattress plus a removable cooling layer (mat or lightweight topper) gives flexibility across seasons.

Buying Checklist: Questions to Ask Before You Purchase

Use this checklist to reduce trial-and-error.

• Is the cover removable and machine washable?
• Is there a water-resistant inner liner protecting the foam?
• Does the bed have a breathable top surface suitable for Australian summers?
• Are seams reinforced and is the zipper protected?
• Will the bed allow full stretch-out (sprawl) for my dog’s length?
• Is the base non-slip for tiles and floorboards?
• If my dog chews, are corners and edges hard to grip?
• Is the bed easy to move and clean under (important for dust and hair)?

FAQ: Best Dog Beds for Australian Shepherds

Are Australian Shepherds prone to overheating in Australia?

They can be. Aussies have a double coat and high activity drive, and Australian summer conditions can push any dog toward heat stress if cooling strategies are not in place. Australian animal welfare and emergency veterinary guidance recommends avoiding exercise in extreme heat, ensuring shade and ventilation, and providing water and cool resting areas.[2][3]

What is the best cooling dog bed type for an Aussie?

For many Australian homes, an elevated cot-style bed is one of the most effective cooling designs because it improves airflow under the body. In air-conditioned homes, a breathable mattress bed paired with a cooling mat can also work well.

Do Aussies need an orthopaedic bed?

Not every Aussie needs an orthopaedic bed, but many benefit from supportive foam—particularly adult sport dogs, seniors, or dogs with stiffness. Guidance on pressure-related skin issues highlights the value of thick, supportive bedding to reduce pressure on bony areas.[5]

How thick should a dog bed be for an Australian Shepherd?

For meaningful support, many medium-to-large active dogs do best with at least 7–10 cm of quality foam, and often more for seniors. The bed should not “bottom out” under the hips.

Are donut beds good for Australian Shepherds?

They can be good for Aussies that prefer to curl and feel secure. However, donut beds may trap heat in summer. If you choose a donut shape, prioritise breathable materials and consider a cooler option for hot months.

What is the best bed for an Aussie that chews?

No bed is fully chew-proof, but durability improves with:

• tough ripstop/ballistic-style covers
• reinforced seams
• protected zippers
• minimal external piping
• elevated cot designs that reduce exposed edges

If chewing is severe, consider a durable crate mat and address the behavioural driver (boredom, anxiety, insufficient exercise).

How can you tell if a bed is too small?

Common signs include:

• your dog sleeps with shoulders/hips off the bed
• constant repositioning
• choosing the floor next to the bed
• curled posture when the dog typically sprawls elsewhere

Choose based on internal sleeping area, not external dimensions.

Is a cooling mat safe for dogs?

Many are safe when used correctly, but dogs that chew may puncture mats and potentially ingest material. Supervise early use and avoid giving chew-prone dogs unsupervised access to easily damaged mats.

Can a bed help prevent elbow calluses or pressure sores?

Supportive bedding can help reduce pressure on elbows and other bony points by spreading weight more evenly. Pressure sore prevention advice commonly focuses on avoiding hard surfaces and providing thick, supportive bedding, especially for less mobile dogs.[5]

How often should I wash my Aussie’s bed?

A practical routine is:

• vacuum weekly
• wash cover every 2–4 weeks (more often for allergies, beach dogs, or indoor shedding)
• deep clean after muddy or wet outings

Always ensure the bed dries fully to reduce odour and mildew risk.

Where should I place my dog’s bed during an Australian heatwave?

Place the bed in the coolest part of the home—often a shaded, well-ventilated room with tiles—and ensure water access. Australian heat guidance commonly recommends bringing pets indoors where possible during extreme heat and avoiding exposure to hot outdoor conditions.[2]

Should I clip my Aussie’s coat in summer to help them stay cool on their bed?

Coat clipping should be discussed with a groomer or vet. Double coats can provide insulation from heat and sun as well as cold, and inappropriate clipping can affect coat regrowth. Bedding and environmental management (shade, airflow, cool resting areas) are often safer first steps.

What bed is best for an Aussie puppy?

Puppies may chew and have toileting accidents. Consider:

• a water-resistant crate mat or easy-clean bed
• removable washable covers
• chew-resistant construction
• a plan to size up as the puppy grows

Avoid very plush beds if your puppy is likely to ingest fibres.