Best Dog Beds for Beagles in Australia: Comfy & Washable

Key Takeaways

• Beagles need a bed that supports joints and the lower back while still feeling snug. Their compact build, high activity levels, and tendency to gain weight make supportive cushioning more important than it first appears.
• Prioritise washable designs: a removable, machine-washable cover (and ideally a water-resistant inner liner) helps manage shed hair, odour, mud, and the realities of Australian outdoor living.
• Size matters more than the label. Measure your Beagle’s sleep style (curled vs stretched) and choose a bed that allows full stretch without pushing them to the edge.
• Bolsters help many Beagles settle, but very high bolsters can trap heat in summer. In warm and humid regions, breathable fabrics or raised designs can improve comfort.
• Cooling, insulation, and moisture control should match your climate. Australia’s conditions vary widely, so bedding that works in Hobart may be uncomfortable in Darwin.
• Cleaning frequency is part of pet health. The CDC advises cleaning pet beds weekly, and using heat during drying can improve disinfection outcomes for fabrics and covers.
• Safety is practical: avoid beds that shed foam, flatten quickly, or use weak zips. Chewing and digging behaviours are common enough that construction quality matters.

Recommended by PetCareShed: Smart Choices for Every Dog Owner

Introduction

Beagles are famously affectionate, curious, and determined. They are also a breed that tends to sleep deeply once they are settled, often with a strong preference for comfort, warmth, and a sense of security. For many Australian households, the challenge is finding a dog bed that balances cosy softness with real structural support and the ability to handle frequent washing.

A “best” dog bed for a Beagle is rarely about luxury. It is about providing reliable pressure relief for shoulders and hips, maintaining shape under a medium-sized body that may gain weight over time, and staying hygienic despite hair, dirt, and odour. It also needs to suit Australian conditions, including hot summers, humid coastal regions, cold winter floors, and the everyday grit of backyards and verandas.

This guide explains what matters most when choosing the best dog beds for Beagles in Australia, focusing on comfort, washability, safety, and practicality. It also includes climate and lifestyle considerations that are often overlooked, so you can choose a bed that is genuinely suitable for your dog and your home.

Understanding Beagles: Why Bed Choice Matters

Beagles are compact scent hounds typically sitting in the 13–15 inch height range, with many adults weighing around 9–13.5 kg depending on size variety and body condition. Breed references commonly describe two size groups (13" and under, and 13–15") with weights up to around 13.5 kg for the larger group. Beagles are also known for strong food motivation, which can contribute to weight gain if diet and exercise are not managed.

These traits affect bed choice in practical ways:

• Joint and pressure considerations: A Beagle’s shoulders and hips can take repeated pressure when sleeping on thin bedding, especially on hard floors. If your Beagle is older, heavier, or showing stiffness after rest, a supportive bed is more than a comfort item.
• Heat management: Beagles have a short, dense coat and can overheat on thick plush bedding in warm weather, particularly in humid regions where heat dissipation is harder.
• Digging and nesting: Many Beagles “make the bed” before lying down, scratching and circling to create a comfortable nest. Beds need durable seams and fabrics to handle this routine.
• Chewing and boredom: Beagles are intelligent and can be persistent. A bored Beagle may chew zips, piping, and corners. That does not mean your dog is “bad”; it means the bed design needs to tolerate normal canine behaviour.

A well-chosen bed supports sleep quality, reduces pressure on joints, and helps your dog settle more calmly. It can also reduce household stress: fewer smells, fewer hair build-ups, and fewer replacement purchases.

Because Every Dog Deserves the Best — from PetCareShed

Beagle Size and Bed Dimensions: A Practical Sizing Method

Dog bed sizes are often labelled “S”, “M”, “L”, or “XL”, but those labels vary. A more reliable approach is to measure your Beagle and match the bed’s internal sleeping area.

Step-by-step sizing

1. Measure sleeping length: When your Beagle is asleep and stretched out, measure from nose to base of tail.
2. Add comfort margin: Add 15–25 cm so the dog can stretch without touching edges.
3. Consider sleeping style:

• If your Beagle mostly curls tightly, a slightly smaller bed with bolsters may encourage settling.
• If your Beagle sprawls on its side, choose a larger mattress-style bed.

1. Check internal dimensions: For bolster beds, the internal space can be significantly smaller than the external size.

Typical sizing guidance (general)

Many adult Beagles are comfortable in beds where the usable sleeping area is around 70–90 cm long (depending on whether they curl or sprawl). Larger Beagles (or those who prefer to sprawl) often suit a bed closer to the upper end.

Beagle profile	Common sleep style	Suggested usable sleeping length	Suggested bed style
Small adult (lean)	Curl or half-curl	70–80 cm	Bolster / nest bed
Average adult	Mixed	75–85 cm	Bolster or flat mattress
Larger adult or overweight	Side-sprawl	85–95 cm	Orthopaedic mattress
Senior with stiffness	Careful repositioning	80–95 cm	Orthopaedic with low entry

A common mistake is buying a bed that is “medium” because the dog is medium-sized. For Beagles, the better question is whether the dog can fully stretch without being pushed into a curled posture.

What “Comfy” Means for Beagles: Support, Warmth, and Security

Comfort is not only softness. For Beagles, comfort usually comes from three overlapping needs: support, temperature control, and security.

1) Support (pressure relief and shape retention)

A bed should keep its shape under your Beagle’s weight. If the bed flattens quickly, your dog ends up sleeping on the floor through a thin layer of fabric.

Support matters more when:

• Your Beagle is middle-aged or senior.
• Your Beagle is overweight or prone to weight gain.
• Your home has hard floors (tiles, polished concrete, floorboards).
• Your dog sleeps for long stretches during the day.

Orthopaedic foam (often memory foam or high-density foam layers) is commonly chosen for pressure relief. While it is not “medical treatment”, it can materially improve comfort for dogs that show stiffness when rising.

2) Warmth and insulation (especially for cold floors)

Australian winters can be mild in some regions, but cold floors are common nationwide. Even in warmer states, a cold tiled laundry or hallway can be uncomfortable. RSPCA guidance on dog comfort and housing includes providing washable bedding, extra comfort and warmth, and regular cleaning, and winter care advice from RSPCA sources emphasises keeping beds away from draughts and off cold, hard surfaces.

Practical insulation options include:

• A thicker base layer or high-density foam.
• A blanket layer that can be washed separately.
• A raised bed that reduces heat loss to cold surfaces.

3) Security (nesting and calming features)

Many Beagles settle better when they can lean against something. Bolsters and slightly enclosed shapes can create a “den” feel. This can be especially helpful for dogs that are easily distracted by household movement, noise, or scents.

However, very high bolsters can be warm and may not suit hot climates. In summer, a flatter bed or a cooling surface may be more comfortable.

Washability in Real Homes: What Actually Makes a Dog Bed Easy to Clean

“Washable” can mean several different things. In practice, the best washable dog beds for Beagles usually combine:

• Removable cover (zippered)
• Machine-washable cover fabric
• Water-resistant inner liner to protect foam
• Materials that dry efficiently to avoid musty smells

If the cover can be washed but the internal cushion cannot, odour and bacteria can gradually build up inside the bed. A liner between cover and foam can significantly extend the life of the bed.

How often should you wash a Beagle’s bed?

Frequency depends on your dog’s lifestyle, but health agencies and welfare organisations strongly support regular cleaning of pet items. The US CDC advises cleaning pet beds and blankets weekly as part of routine hygiene for pet supplies.

In Australian conditions, weekly is a sensible baseline when:

• Your Beagle sleeps indoors on the bed daily.
• Your dog has seasonal allergies or itchy skin.
• There is heavy shedding.
• The dog regularly returns from outdoor play with dust or mud.

If weekly washing is not realistic, aim for a structured routine:

• Cover: every 1–2 weeks (more often if dirty)
• Liner wipe-down: weekly
• Foam insert check and airing: monthly

Washing and drying practices that matter

The CDC’s cleaning guidance emphasises following product instructions and using appropriate cleaning and disinfecting approaches, including effective drying. Heat during drying can be a valuable step for fabric covers when permitted by care labels.

A practical approach for most washable covers is:

• Shake out hair outdoors before washing.
• Pre-treat visible stains.
• Wash according to care label.
• Dry thoroughly; incomplete drying is a common cause of odour and mildew.

If your Beagle has had fleas, skin infections, or gastro accidents, hygiene becomes more important. In those cases, seek advice from your vet about the appropriate cleaning approach and products safe for your household.

Australian Climate Factors: Matching the Bed to Heat, Humidity, and Cold

Australia’s climate varies widely. What feels comfortable on a cool Melbourne evening can be too warm for a humid Brisbane night. Bedding that stays damp in coastal humidity may develop odour and can become unpleasant for both dog and household.

Heat and humidity

In hot or humid regions, the bed should:

• Encourage airflow (breathable fabrics)
• Avoid deep heat-trapping plush layers
• Dry quickly after washing

Raised beds can be useful in warm conditions because airflow under the bed can improve comfort and reduce contact with warm surfaces.

Cold regions and winter nights

In colder regions or homes with uninsulated floors, insulation is often the comfort bottleneck. RSPCA winter care advice includes practical measures such as keeping bedding away from draughts and elevating it off cold surfaces.

For winter comfort:

• Consider orthopaedic foam with enough thickness to insulate from the floor.
• Add a washable blanket layer.
• Place the bed away from draughts and cold door gaps.

Outdoor and semi-outdoor sleeping

Many Australian dogs rest on verandas, in garages, or in sheltered outdoor areas. If your Beagle sleeps or lounges in these locations, prioritise:

• Water-resistant materials
• UV resistance (fabric degradation is real in Australian sun)
• Raised structure or waterproof base
• Ease of hosing down and drying

Outdoor use also means more dirt and parasite exposure, so washability and durability become even more important.

Dog Bed Styles That Suit Beagles (and When to Choose Each)

There is no single “best” bed style for all Beagles. The ideal choice depends on age, season, sleep style, and home layout.

Orthopaedic mattress beds

Best for: seniors, heavier Beagles, dogs with stiffness, and homes with hard floors.

What to look for:

• High-density foam that does not bottom out
• A firm base with a slightly softer top layer
• A removable, washable cover
• Water-resistant liner

Beagles that sprawl often do well with a flat mattress bed because it does not restrict positions.

Bolster (nest) beds

Best for: Beagles that curl, like to lean, or seek den-like security.

Key features:

• Bolsters that are supportive but not overly tall
• Durable stitching (Beagles may dig)
• Removable cover that can be washed frequently

Bolster beds can be very comforting, but the internal sleeping area may be smaller than expected, so check internal dimensions.

Raised (elevated) beds

Best for: warm climates, verandas, airflow needs, and dogs that overheat.

Raised beds can also help keep your Beagle off hot ground or cold concrete. They tend to be easier to wipe down and can reduce contact with damp surfaces.

Cooling mats and cooling layers

Best for: hot summers, dogs that seek cool tiles, and homes without air-conditioning.

Cooling products can help manage comfort, but they should be part of broader heat management: shade, ventilation, hydration, and safe exercise timing.

Crate mats and travel beds

Best for: crate-trained Beagles, travel, car trips, or visiting friends.

Beagles often benefit from a consistent “safe spot” when routines change. A washable crate mat can provide that familiar scent and comfort without needing a full-size bed.

Materials and Construction: What Holds Up to Beagle Life

Beagles are not typically the most destructive breed, but they do test beds in predictable ways: digging, nesting, licking, and occasionally chewing. Construction quality is therefore a welfare and cost issue.

Cover fabrics

Common cover materials include polyester blends, canvas-style fabrics, and plush fabrics. The best choice depends on climate and your dog’s behaviour:

• Tighter-weave fabrics resist snags from nails.
• Textured plush can be comforting but may hold hair.
• Smooth fabrics are easier to de-fur with a brush or lint tool.

Zips, seams, and internal protection

Look for:

• Reinforced seams
• Zips positioned to reduce chewing access
• A flap over the zip (simple, but effective)
• An inner liner that keeps foam cleaner

Foam quality and shape retention

A supportive foam bed should rebound after pressure. If the foam stays compressed or the bed forms a permanent dip, the support benefit reduces quickly.

If your Beagle is prone to chewing, avoid beds where foam is easily accessible. Ingested foam can be a gastrointestinal risk.

Chemical and safety considerations

Some commentary and consumer-focused sources raise concerns about chemicals in foams and fabrics, including certain flame retardants and contaminants. In practical purchasing terms, the safest approach is to:

• Choose reputable products with clear materials information.
• Avoid strong chemical odours when unboxing.
• Air the bed in a ventilated area before use.
• Consider products that note material safety standards or certifications where available.

If your dog is prone to chewing, material safety becomes even more important because ingestion risk increases.

Choosing the Best Dog Bed for Your Beagle’s Life Stage

Puppies (and adolescent Beagles)

Young Beagles can be enthusiastic chewers and may have toilet training accidents. Beds for this stage should prioritise:

• Washable cover and liner
• Durably stitched edges
• Lower-cost replaceable covers (if available)

A slightly firmer bed can also be helpful, as very plush beds may encourage chewing of fluffy textures.

Adult Beagles

Most healthy adult Beagles do well with either:

• A supportive bolster bed for curling, or
• A medium-thickness orthopaedic mattress for stretching

If your Beagle is a “couch dog” indoors but also enjoys outdoor adventures, consider two sleeping surfaces:

• One washable indoor bed
• One raised or wipeable bed for veranda/garage use

Senior Beagles

Older Beagles may show stiffness, reluctance to jump, or slower rising after naps. For seniors:

• Choose an orthopaedic base with reliable thickness.
• Keep entry height low (very tall bolsters can be awkward).
• Place the bed on a non-slip surface.

Senior comfort is closely linked to temperature: older dogs often feel the cold more. Extra washable bedding layers can help.

Where to Place the Bed in an Australian Home

Placement strongly affects how much your Beagle uses the bed.

A practical placement checklist:

• Away from draughts (door gaps, hallways with strong airflow)
• Not in direct sun for long periods (reduces overheating and fabric degradation)
• Close enough to family activity if your Beagle prefers company
• Quiet enough for deep sleep, especially in busy households
• On a stable, non-slip surface

RSPCA resources on housing and environmental needs emphasise appropriate environments and comfort. While they do not prescribe specific dog bed brands or models, the welfare principles translate into choosing a safe, clean, comfortable rest area that suits the dog’s needs.

Bed Hygiene, Parasites, and Household Health

Dog bedding can collect hair, saliva, soil, pollen, and parasite debris. In Australia, fleas and ticks are a reality in many regions, and regular parasite prevention is a routine part of dog care.

RSPCA pet care guidance also highlights the importance of regularly cleaned bedding and maintaining a clean environment. When dogs share household spaces, hygiene is not only about smell; it can also reduce irritants for people with allergies.

A practical hygiene routine:

• Vacuum around the bed at least weekly.
• Wash removable covers on schedule.
• Air the inner cushion regularly.
• Replace beds that cannot be cleaned effectively.

If your Beagle has skin conditions, recurrent ear issues, or allergies, discuss bedding materials and cleaning routine with your veterinarian. Bedding is not a cure, but it can reduce environmental triggers.

Quick Comparison: Which Bed Type Suits Which Beagle?

Bed type	Best for	Main advantage	Main watch-out
Orthopaedic mattress	Adults, seniors, heavier dogs	Pressure relief and shape retention	Needs liner + washable cover
Bolster / nest	Curlers, anxious sleepers	Security and head support	Internal space can be small
Raised / elevated	Hot climates, verandas	Airflow and off-ground comfort	Some dogs prefer padding on top
Cooling mat/layer	Summer heat management	Helps reduce heat load	Not a substitute for shade/water
Crate mat	Crate use, travel, training	Portable and familiar	May not suit joint support alone

How to Test Whether a Bed Is Working (Without Guessing)

Dogs are honest about comfort, but their signals can be subtle. Instead of assuming “they will get used to it”, look for objective signs over two weeks.

Positive signs:

• Your Beagle chooses the bed without prompting.
• They settle quickly and stay settled.
• They change position easily without getting up.
• They rise from naps without stiffness.

Possible bed mismatch signs:

• They repeatedly abandon the bed for tiles or the floor (may be too warm).
• They only use the bed when you add a blanket (may be too firm or too cool).
• They scratch excessively and cannot settle (shape or fabric may be irritating).
• They chew corners or zips (boredom, anxiety, or insufficient durability).

If your dog shows persistent discomfort, limping, or pain when rising, consult a veterinarian. Bedding is supportive care, not a substitute for medical assessment.

Recommended Related Products from PetCareShed

The products below are presented as practical category options that align with Beagle comfort and washability needs. Selection should be based on your dog’s measurements, sleep style, and climate.

• Orthopaedic foam dog bed (washable cover): Useful for adult and senior Beagles that need pressure relief and shape retention.
• Bolster dog bed with removable cover: Suitable for Beagles that curl and prefer a den-like feel, especially when placed in a quiet corner.
• Water-resistant bed liner or waterproof inner cover: Helps protect foam inserts from accidents, drool, and damp coats.
• Raised dog bed (breathable mesh): A strong choice for warm climates, verandas, and households where airflow and easy cleaning matter.
• Cooling mat: Helpful as a summer layer or a separate rest spot in hot conditions.
• Washable dog blanket: Adds insulation in winter and can be washed more frequently than the full bed.
• Crate mat / travel mat: Supports routine during travel and provides a familiar rest surface when visiting family or staying in pet-friendly accommodation.

Care and Maintenance: A Bed Cleaning Plan That Works

A sustainable cleaning plan is better than an ideal plan that never happens.

Weekly (ideal baseline)

• Remove cover and wash (per care label).
• Vacuum the bed base and surrounding floor.
• Wipe the liner or inner cover if present.

The CDC includes pet bedding in weekly cleaning guidance for pet supplies, which aligns well with maintaining odour control and reducing allergens.

Monthly

• Inspect seams, zips, and corners for wear.
• Check foam rebound and thickness.
• Air the inner cushion in a ventilated area.

When to replace the bed

Replace sooner if:

• The bed no longer provides cushioning (bottoming out).
• There is persistent odour despite washing.
• The cover is torn and stuffing/foam is accessible.
• The base becomes lumpy or uneven.

A worn-out bed is not just unattractive; it may contribute to poor sleep and can become difficult to keep hygienic.

Common Buying Mistakes (and Better Alternatives)

• Mistake: Choosing the fluffiest bed in the store.
• Better: Choose a bed with a supportive base layer and a washable cover. Add a blanket if your Beagle likes softness.
• Mistake: Ignoring climate.
• Better: In hot/humid regions, prioritise breathable, quick-dry covers or raised beds. In cold homes, prioritise insulation.
• Mistake: Buying a bed that is “just big enough”.
• Better: Measure your Beagle asleep. Add margin. Check internal dimensions.
• Mistake: Assuming “machine washable” means the whole bed.
• Better: Confirm whether the cover, inner cushion, and liner are washable, and how long drying will take.
• Mistake: Placing the bed in a walkway or draughty area.
• Better: Place the bed in a stable, quiet location that still allows your Beagle to feel included.

Detailed FAQ

 What size bed does a Beagle need?

Most adult Beagles suit a bed with a usable sleeping area around 70–90 cm long, depending on whether they curl or sprawl. Measure your Beagle while asleep (stretched out) and add 15–25 cm. For bolster beds, check internal dimensions because the bolsters reduce usable space.

 Are orthopaedic beds worth it for Beagles?

They are often worthwhile for senior Beagles, heavier dogs, and dogs on hard floors because supportive foam helps reduce pressure on joints and shoulders. For young, lean Beagles, an orthopaedic bed may still be a good long-term choice if it is washable and suits your climate.

 How often should I wash my Beagle’s bed?

A weekly clean is a strong hygiene baseline. The CDC recommends cleaning pet beds and blankets every week as part of routine cleaning of pet supplies. Increase frequency if your Beagle has allergies, spends a lot of time outdoors, or the bed gets dirty quickly.

 What is the easiest type of dog bed to keep clean?

Beds with a removable, machine-washable cover and a water-resistant inner liner are usually the easiest to keep hygienic. Raised beds are also practical for wiping down, especially in verandas and semi-outdoor areas.

 My Beagle sleeps on the tiles instead of the bed. Why?

This commonly indicates the bed is too warm, especially in summer or humid conditions. Try:

• Moving the bed to a cooler, better-ventilated spot
• Switching to a more breathable cover
• Offering a raised bed or a cooling mat option

If your Beagle avoids the bed year-round, reassess size, firmness, and placement.

 Do Beagles prefer bolster beds?

Many do, because bolsters offer a place to lean and can feel secure. However, some Beagles prefer a flat mattress style so they can change position freely. The best indicator is your dog’s sleep style: curlers often enjoy bolsters; sprawlers often prefer flat.

 What thickness should a Beagle bed be?

For supportive beds on hard floors, a thicker base helps prevent bottoming out. As a general guide, choose a bed thick enough that your Beagle’s hips and shoulders do not press through to the floor when lying on their side. If in doubt, select a higher-density foam bed rather than relying on fluffy fill.

 Can I put a Beagle bed in the washing machine?

Often the cover can be machine washed, but the inner foam usually cannot. Always check the care label. If you want maximum washability, look for beds designed with a removable cover and a protective liner.

 How do I reduce Beagle smell in bedding?

• Wash covers regularly.
• Dry completely (odour often persists when fabric remains damp).
• Use a liner to stop odour penetrating the foam.
• Vacuum hair frequently.

If odour is sudden or strong, consider whether there is a skin, dental, or ear issue and seek veterinary advice.

 What is the best bed for a Beagle puppy?

For puppies, prioritise washability and durability. Accidents and chewing are common during training. A bed with a washable cover, water-resistant liner, and strong seams is often more practical than a very plush bed.

 My Beagle chews the bed. What should I do?

First, address the cause: boredom, anxiety, teething, or a lack of suitable chew outlets. From a bed-selection perspective:

• Choose a bed with protected zips and durable seams.
• Avoid loose piping and easy-to-grab corners.
• Consider a raised bed or a simpler mat while training.

If chewing is persistent or destructive, discuss behaviour strategies with your veterinarian or a qualified trainer.

 Should Beagles sleep indoors in Australia?

Many Australian Beagles sleep indoors, and this often makes temperature regulation and hygiene easier. If your Beagle sleeps outdoors or in semi-outdoor areas, ensure the resting area is dry, sheltered, and comfortable, with bedding that is easy to clean. RSPCA resources emphasise appropriate housing, comfort, and regularly cleaned bedding for dog welfare.

 What is better for summer: a cooling mat or a raised bed?

They solve different problems:

• A raised bed improves airflow and reduces contact with hot ground.
• A cooling mat can help reduce heat load when placed in a shaded, ventilated area.

In many Australian homes, a raised bed plus a cooling layer (used safely and supervised if your dog chews) is a practical combination.

 When should I talk to a vet about my Beagle’s bedding?

Seek veterinary advice if:

• Your Beagle shows pain, limping, or significant stiffness after rest.
• There are repeated skin flare-ups that may be worsened by environmental factors.
• Your dog is restless at night and cannot settle despite appropriate bedding.

Bedding choice is supportive, but persistent discomfort warrants clinical assessment.