Best Dog Beds for Crates in Australia: Perfect Fits for All Sizes

Key Takeaways

• A crate bed should fit the internal floor space of the crate, sit flat (no curling corners), and allow the dog to lie on their side with legs comfortably outstretched.
• Australian welfare guidance commonly referenced by RSPCA emphasises that a crate must allow a dog to stand without their head touching the roof, turn around, and lie fully stretched out; bedding should support this, not reduce usable space.
• In many Australian homes, heat management is as important as softness. Breathable covers and lower-profile supportive foam are often safer than thick, high-walled “nest” beds inside crates.
• The “best” crate bed depends on why the crate is used: overnight sleeping, daytime naps, travel, recovery after surgery, puppy toilet training, or containment for anxious/chewing dogs.
• Orthopaedic support matters for senior dogs and large breeds, but the bed must still be practical: washable, non-slip, and sized so it does not bunch up in the crate.
• Hygiene is not optional. A washable cover, a removable protector/liner, and a realistic washing routine help control odour, allergens, and parasites.

Recommended by PetCareShed: Smart Choices for Every Dog Owner

Introduction

Crate beds are one of the most overlooked purchases in dog ownership. Many Australian dog owners choose a crate for safety, training, and routine—then quickly realise that a bed that looks perfect online does not necessarily fit the crate, suit the season, or survive daily use.

A dog bed that is too thick can reduce headroom and airflow. A bed that is too small slides around and leaves joints on hard plastic. A bed that is too plush can trap heat during summer nights, especially in warmer parts of Australia. And a bed with the wrong cover fabric can quickly become a magnet for hair, sand, saliva, and “accidents”.

This guide explains how to choose the best dog beds for crates in Australia with a strong focus on fit, safety, comfort, and practical cleaning. It is written for everyday Australian households—whether the crate is used in an apartment in Sydney, a family home in Brisbane, or a country property where dust and mud are part of life.

What Makes a Dog Bed “Crate-Friendly” (Not Just Comfortable)

A crate-friendly bed is designed—or at least suitable—to work inside the specific constraints of a crate. Those constraints are different from an open lounge room bed. Inside a crate, there is limited space, limited airflow, and less room for the dog to reposition if the bed shifts.

A good crate bed should achieve four outcomes:

1) It should support normal resting posture
Dogs do not sleep in a single position. They curl, sprawl, stretch, and shift. In a crate, they still need to lie in a natural position. Guidance commonly used by welfare organisations indicates the crate must be large enough for the dog to stand without their head touching the roof, turn around, and lie down stretched out. Bedding that is too bulky can undermine these basic space requirements.

2) It should stay flat and stable
Beds that fold, bunch, or develop curled edges become uncomfortable and can create pressure points, particularly for older dogs. Stability also matters for dogs with reduced mobility, who may struggle to stand if the surface slides.

3) It should be easy to keep hygienic
Crates concentrate odour. Hair, skin flakes, and saliva accumulate quickly. A crate bed must be realistically washable, ideally with a removable cover. If a bed cannot be washed thoroughly, it becomes a long-term hygiene problem.

4) It should match your dog’s behaviour
A plush, thick bed is not “better” if your dog is a determined chewer or a puppy who is still toilet training. In these cases, a simpler mat with tough fabric and minimal stuffing is often safer.

A practical definition

A crate-friendly bed is typically one of the following:

• A flat crate mat (thin to medium thickness)
• A supportive foam pad (often orthopaedic)
• A washable fleece-style pad placed over a supportive base
• A water-resistant liner + topper system (especially for puppies or senior dogs)

High-bolster beds can work in crates for some dogs, but they are more likely to cause fit issues and reduce airflow.

Because Every Dog Deserves the Best — from PetCareShed

Australian Welfare and Safety Considerations for Crate Bedding

Crates are widely used for training and transport, but they should not be treated as long-term confinement. Australian welfare guidance commonly stresses that a crate must be appropriately sized so the dog can stand, turn around, and lie fully stretched out. RSPCA Tasmania’s guidance, for example, describes crate sizing in these terms and also indicates dogs should not be confined for excessive periods.

These principles matter for bed selection because bedding changes how the dog experiences space.

Key safety points for Australian conditions

Heat and ventilation
Australia’s climate can turn an enclosed space into a heat trap, even indoors. A crate placed in a warm room with a thick bed can reduce airflow around the dog’s body. Dogs cool themselves primarily through panting and limited sweating through paw pads, so overheating risk is real—especially for brachycephalic breeds, large dogs, and older dogs.

What this means in practice:

• Prefer breathable covers (cotton blends, durable breathable weaves).
• Avoid very thick “cave” or “nest” beds inside crates in summer.
• Consider a two-layer approach: supportive base + removable thin topper, so you can adjust thickness with the weather.

Chewing and ingestion risk
If a dog chews foam or fabric, the crate bed becomes a safety issue, not merely a durability problem. Ingested fabric or foam can cause gastrointestinal obstruction. For chewers, a low-profile, tightly woven, minimal-fill mat is usually safer.

Hygiene and parasite control
Beds are a common collection point for hair, skin scales, sand, and moisture. Regular washing is important. Several Australian pet care sources recommend washing bedding weekly or at least fortnightly to reduce allergens and bacteria build-up.

Mobility and pressure relief
Senior dogs, large breeds, and dogs with arthritis benefit from supportive bedding that reduces pressure on joints. However, inside a crate, “support” must be balanced with fit and headroom.

How to Measure a Crate for the Perfect Bed Fit

Most fit problems happen because owners measure the outside of the crate or purchase based on the crate’s advertised size (for example “42-inch crate”) without checking internal floor dimensions.

Step-by-step measurement method

1. Measure the internal length of the crate floor: from the inside front panel to the inside back panel.
2. Measure the internal width of the crate floor: from the inside left panel to the inside right panel.
3. Note the internal height if you are considering thick foam, a raised bed, or a bed with bolsters.
4. Account for tray lips and rounded corners: some plastic trays have curved corners, and some beds are rigid rectangles. If your tray corners are rounded, a slightly smaller bed may sit flatter ensure edges do not curl.

How snug should the bed be?

For most crates, the best outcome is a bed that is snug but not compressed:

• Too small: slides around, leaves gaps, encourages nesting behaviour that bunches bedding.
• Too large: curls up at the edges, reduces lying space, can push against doors so they do not close smoothly.

A practical target is a bed that is 0–2 cm smaller than the internal floor dimensions on each side. If the bed is foam and compressible, it can be closer to a perfect match.

Measuring the dog matters too

General measuring guidance for crate sizing often suggests measuring dog length (nose to base of tail) and height (floor to top of head/ears depending on posture), then adding a small allowance. While crate choice is separate from bed choice, it is worth checking that the dog can lie fully stretched out on the bed without the bed shortening the usable crate length.

Typical Crate Sizes in Australia and Matching Bed Dimensions

Crate brands vary, but many Australian households use common “length-based” crate sizes (24", 30", 36", 42", 48"). Internal dimensions vary by manufacturer, so treat these as typical ranges rather than guarantees.

Crate advertised size	Typical internal floor (approx.)	Common bed size approach	Notes
24" (Small)	~60 x 45 cm	Small crate mat or thin foam pad	Often best with low-profile bedding to preserve headroom
30" (Small–Medium)	~76 x 50 cm	Medium crate mat; avoid oversized bolsters	Popular for small adult dogs and growing puppies
36" (Medium)	~91 x 58 cm	Orthopaedic pad + washable topper	Good balance of space for many medium breeds
42" (Large)	~106 x 70 cm	Supportive foam pad, medium thickness	Check door clearance if using thick beds
48" (Extra Large)	~122 x 75 cm	Large orthopaedic pad with durable cover	Consider two-piece bedding for easier washing

Important: Always confirm internal dimensions of your crate before purchasing. Even a difference of 2–3 cm can cause curled edges in foam pads.

The Best Types of Dog Beds for Crates (and When Each Type Works)

There is no single “best” crate bed. The right option depends on your dog’s body, coat, behaviour, health status, and how you use the crate.

1) Flat crate mats (low profile)

Best for: puppies in training, dogs that run hot, travel use, dogs that prefer firm surfaces, crates with limited height.

Flat mats are usually easier to fit precisely, and they preserve headroom. They can be surprisingly comfortable when paired with a soft topper or blanket in winter.

Look for:

• Non-slip base
• Tight stitching at edges
• Removable cover (ideal)
• Quick-dry fabric if you live in humid areas or have a water-loving dog

Watch-outs:

• Very thin mats can “bottom out” for large or older dogs.

2) Orthopaedic foam crate pads

Best for: senior dogs, large breeds, arthritic dogs, dogs recovering from injury or surgery.

Supportive foam distributes weight more evenly and reduces pressure on bony points. For older dogs, this is not a luxury—comfort influences sleep quality, movement, and willingness to settle.

To work well inside a crate, the foam pad should:

• Be thick enough to prevent bottoming out
• Still allow the dog to stand without head contact
• Have a washable cover that withstands frequent laundering

A practical approach is “supportive but not towering”. Very thick, deep memory foam can increase heat retention and reduce headroom in smaller crates.

3) Bolster beds (raised sides)

Best for: dogs that like a headrest, dogs that curl, dogs that enjoy boundaries—only when crate size allows it.

Bolsters can make some dogs feel secure, but they are more likely to:

• Reduce floor space
• Reduce airflow
• Cause fit problems (bolsters press against sides, door, or corners)

If choosing a bolster bed for a crate, prefer a low bolster with a compressible edge and confirm door clearance.

4) Cooling-friendly crate bedding (breathable systems)

Best for: Queensland and Northern Territory climates, summer use across much of Australia, thick-coated dogs, dogs prone to panting overnight.

A practical “cool” crate setup often uses:

• A breathable, wipeable liner protecting the tray
• A thinner topper that can be removed on hot nights

Cooling gels can be used carefully, but inside crates the priority is airflow and a surface that does not trap heat.

5) Waterproof and incontinence-friendly setups

Best for: puppies, senior dogs, dogs with urinary issues, post-operative care.

Rather than relying on a single waterproof bed (which can feel hot and clammy), a more comfortable system is layered:

• Waterproof liner/protector under the bed or under a topper
• Absorbent layer above (washable)

This approach protects the foam core and extends bed life while keeping the surface comfortable.

6) Chew-resistant crate mats

Best for: adolescent dogs, anxious dogs, bored chewers, high-drive breeds confined during work hours.

No fabric is truly chew-proof for every dog. The practical goal is to reduce the chance of the dog accessing stuffing and to make the bedding less rewarding to shred.

Choose:

• Tight, durable weave
• Minimal seams and piping
• Low loft (less to grab)
• Consider using bedding only under supervision if chewing is persistent

Choosing a Crate Bed Based on Your Dog’s Life Stage

Puppies (8 weeks to 12 months)

Puppies need comfort, but they also need a bed that supports training and is easy to clean.

Priorities:

• Washability and fast drying
• Optional waterproof layer
• Simple shape that fits snugly
• Low profile so the puppy does not use bedding to climb or wedge against the door

If your puppy is still having overnight accidents, consider using a washable topper over a protective liner rather than a thick foam bed until toilet habits are consistent.

Adult dogs (1 to 7 years)

Most adult dogs do well with:

• A medium-thickness mat for moderate climates
• A supportive foam pad if they are a large breed, athletic, or prone to stiffness

Behaviour matters. If your dog tends to “dig” or rearrange bedding, a snug-fitting mat is often more successful than loose blankets.

Senior dogs (7+ years, earlier for large breeds)

For older dogs, comfort and joint protection become central.

Practical features that make a difference:

• Higher density foam for support
• Easy-entry crate door (not a bed feature, but important for overall setup)
• Non-slip base
• A cover that can be removed and washed frequently

If your dog struggles to settle, wakes frequently, or seems stiff on rising, upgrading to a supportive crate pad can improve sleep quality.

Choosing a Crate Bed Based on Coat Type and Breed Traits (Australia-Specific Practicalities)

Breed traits influence heat tolerance, shedding, and cleaning requirements.

Double-coated breeds

Double coats trap heat. In warmer Australian months, these dogs often prefer cooler surfaces.

Suggested approach:

• Use a thinner, breathable mat
• Add a removable topper only when needed
• Keep crates out of sun and away from unventilated corners

Short-coated breeds

Short-coated dogs often seek warmth, especially in southern states during winter.

Suggested approach:

• Medium-thickness pad
• Add a light blanket as needed
• Avoid overheating by allowing airflow and avoiding overly insulating “cave” styles

Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs)

These dogs can struggle with heat and airflow.

Practical priorities:

• Excellent ventilation
• Breathable bedding
• Avoid thick, enveloping beds in summer

If your dog has any breathing difficulty, consult a veterinarian about safe sleeping environments in warmer months.

Materials That Work Well for Crate Beds in Australian Homes

Material choice affects comfort, cleaning, odour control, and longevity.

Foam types

• High-density foam: often a good balance of support and heat control.
• Memory foam: useful for joint support, but can retain heat and may be too soft for some dogs.

A crate pad does not need to be extremely thick to be supportive; it needs adequate density and the right fit.

Cover fabrics

Good crate-bed covers in Australian conditions often share these traits:

• Breathable but durable weave
• Hair releases reasonably well during washing
• Does not hold odour easily
• Dries without long damp periods (important in humid coastal areas)

Avoid covers that stay damp for long periods, as persistent moisture encourages odour and discomfort.

Waterproofing (used thoughtfully)

Waterproof liners are valuable, but a fully waterproof sleeping surface can feel hot and clammy. A better approach is:

• Waterproof liner under the bed or under a topper
• Breathable washable cover on top

This preserves comfort while still protecting the crate tray and the bed core.

Thickness, Headroom, and the “Bottoming Out” Problem

Crate beds fail when they are either too thin to be supportive or too thick for the crate.

What “bottoming out” means

A bed bottoms out when the dog’s weight compresses the cushioning until their hips, shoulders, or elbows press into the hard tray. This often happens with:

• Thin mats used for large breeds
• Low-quality fibre fill that clumps
• Foam that has degraded over time

Signs your dog is bottoming out:

• Frequently changing position
• Avoiding the crate
• Resting with elbows on the bare tray rather than on the bed

A practical thickness guide (non-medical)

• Small dogs: thin to medium pads often work well
• Medium dogs: medium thickness usually suitable
• Large and giant dogs: medium to thicker high-density foam is often needed

The more important factor is foam density and how the bed performs after a few weeks of use.

Crate Bed Fit Problems and How to Fix Them

Problem: corners curl up

Likely causes:

• Bed is slightly too large for internal tray
• Foam is rigid and corners cannot compress

Fixes:

• Choose a bed that is 1–2 cm smaller each direction
• Consider a slightly more compressible mat

Problem: bed slides around

Likely causes:

• Smooth crate tray
• No non-slip base

Fixes:

• Choose a bed with a non-slip base
• Use a thin non-slip underlay designed for pet bedding

Problem: dog pushes bed into a pile

Likely causes:

• Dog is nesting or anxious
• Bed is too light or too soft at edges

Fixes:

• Use a snug-fitting crate mat
• Remove loose blankets unless needed for warmth
• Address underlying crate training issues (routine, enrichment, appropriate confinement time)

Problem: persistent chewing

Fixes:

• Switch to a chew-resistant, minimal-fill mat
• Provide safe chew options outside the crate
• Use the crate for shorter durations while training improves
• Seek professional behavioural advice if chewing is anxiety-driven

Cleaning and Hygiene: A Realistic Routine for Australian Conditions

Crate bedding gets dirty faster than many owners expect. Hair and fine dust (especially in drier regions) accumulate quickly.

A practical baseline routine:

• Weekly: wash removable cover or topper
• Fortnightly: wash the full bed cover plus any liners; wipe crate tray thoroughly
• As needed: immediate washing after accidents, vomit, or heavy mud

Several Australian pet care resources recommend washing pet bedding around weekly or at least fortnightly to manage allergens and bacteria.

Washing tips that reduce wear

• Close zippers before washing
• Use a gentle cycle where possible
• Avoid heavy fabric softeners if your dog has sensitive skin
• Dry thoroughly before returning to the crate to prevent odour and dampness

Managing odour without masking it

If odour persists after washing, it usually indicates:

• Dampness not fully removed
• Foam core contamination (urine seeped into foam)
• Inadequate washing frequency

In these cases, a protective liner and a removable topper can prevent repeat issues.

Summer vs Winter: Seasonal Crate Bed Setups for Australia

Australia’s seasonal shifts can be mild in some regions and dramatic in others. Many households benefit from a flexible bedding system rather than one “all-year” bed.

Warm and humid months

• Prioritise airflow and breathability
• Use a lower-profile mat or a supportive pad with a thinner topper
• Consider placing the crate in the coolest safe indoor area

Cooler months

• Add warmth with a removable blanket rather than switching to an overly bulky bed
• For short-coated dogs, a slightly thicker topper may help

A layered setup is often the most practical solution for Australia: it adapts to weather without forcing you to buy multiple bulky beds.

Travel and Car Use: When Your “Crate Bed” Needs Different Features

If your dog’s crate is used for travel (car trips, holidays, or occasional flights), bedding needs shift.

For travel, aim for:

• Stable fit that does not slide
• Easy cleaning (mud, sand)
• Lower profile to maintain airflow
• Less plush bedding that might trap heat in a parked vehicle

For any travel crate, ensure the dog can sit, stand, turn around, and lie naturally, and keep ventilation unobstructed.

Orthopaedic Support in Crates: What Matters (and What Doesn’t)

Orthopaedic beds can be beneficial, but marketing terms can confuse the issue.

What matters most:

• Supportive density: the bed resists compression under hips and shoulders
• Even pressure distribution: reduces point loading on elbows and hips
• Stable surface: helps dogs with stiffness rise without slipping

What matters less inside a crate:

• Tall bolsters
• Excessive softness that increases heat retention

For older dogs, comfort is linked to welfare. If your senior dog avoids the crate or cannot settle, bedding is a reasonable factor to review alongside routine, temperature, and veterinary health checks.

Budget vs Premium: What You Actually Pay For in a Crate Bed

Price differences often reflect:

• Foam quality (density and resilience)
• Stitching strength and seam design
• Cover fabric durability
• Washability (zippers, removable covers)

A well-made crate mat can outlast multiple cheap beds, particularly in households with high shedding, beach sand, or frequent washing.

A practical checklist for value

• Does it have a removable, washable cover?
• Can the cover survive frequent laundering?
• Will the foam hold shape for 12 months?
• Is the size precise for your crate?

If any answer is “no”, the bed may be poor value even if it is initially inexpensive.

Recommended Related Products from PetCareShed

The following product categories are commonly helpful when setting up a safe and practical crate sleeping area. Selection should be based on your dog’s size, behaviour, and local climate.

• Crate mats (low profile): useful for warm climates, puppies in training, and crates where headroom is limited.
• Orthopaedic foam crate pads: suitable for senior dogs, large breeds, and dogs needing extra joint support.
• Waterproof bed liners and protectors: helpful for puppies, seniors, and travel; protects foam cores and crate trays.
• Washable pet blankets (lightweight): useful as seasonal toppers; easy to remove on hot nights.
• Non-slip matting: helps reduce sliding on smooth crate trays, especially for older dogs.
• Grooming tools (deshedding and brushes): reducing loose hair lowers odour and makes crate bedding easier to keep clean.
• Slow feeders and lick mats: can support calm crate routines by providing a soothing, time-consuming activity outside or before crate time.

A Step-by-Step Buying Guide: Picking the Best Crate Bed for Your Dog

Step 1: Confirm crate purpose

Choose based on how the crate is used:

• Overnight sleeping
• Daytime rest while you work
• Post-surgery recovery
• Travel containment
• Puppy toilet training

A travel crate bed should usually be thinner and more washable than an overnight comfort setup.

Step 2: Measure internal floor and door clearance

Measure internal floor dimensions precisely. Also confirm door clearance if the bed has bolsters.

Step 3: Decide on a one-piece or layered system

A layered system often suits Australian households:

• Supportive base pad
• Removable washable topper
• Optional waterproof liner

This is practical for washing, seasonal adjustment, and accident management.

Step 4: Match materials to climate and coat

• Hot climate or thick coat: breathable, lower loft
• Cold climate or short coat: add warmth with removable topper

Step 5: Match construction to behaviour

• Chewer: minimal-fill, durable weave, fewer seams
• Digger: snug fit, stable surface
• Anxious dog: stable bedding plus a consistent routine (bedding alone rarely solves anxiety)

Common Mistakes Australian Owners Make with Crate Beds

• Buying based on “crate length” without measuring internal floor dimensions
• Choosing a bed that is too thick for the crate height
• Using overly plush beds in warm weather, increasing overheating risk
• Skipping a waterproof protector for puppies or seniors, leading to foam contamination
• Washing too infrequently, resulting in odour and allergen build-up
• Expecting a “chew-proof” label to outperform determined chewing behaviour

FAQ: Best Dog Beds for Crates in Australia

What is the best type of dog bed for a crate?

A flat crate mat or a supportive foam crate pad is usually the most reliable choice. These styles fit better, stay flatter, and preserve headroom. The best option depends on your dog’s age, joint health, and whether overheating, accidents, or chewing are concerns.

Should a crate bed fill the whole crate floor?

In most cases, yes—the bed should cover most of the crate floor so the dog can lie comfortably without joints on hard plastic. The bed should not be so large that it curls at the edges or blocks the door.

How do I stop a crate bed from sliding?

Choose a bed with a non-slip base. If the crate tray is very smooth, add a thin non-slip underlay beneath the bed. Ensure the bed is the correct size, as undersized beds tend to move more.

Is memory foam safe in a dog crate?

Memory foam is generally safe and can be helpful for joint support, but it must fit the crate properly and be covered with a durable, washable cover. In warm Australian conditions, some memory foam beds retain heat, so breathable covers and moderate thickness are important.

What bed is best for a puppy in a crate?

For puppies, prioritise washability and accident management. A low-profile crate mat or a foam pad protected with a waterproof liner and topped with a washable cover is practical. Very plush beds are often harder to keep clean during toilet training.

What if my dog chews their crate bed?

Use a chew-resistant, minimal-fill mat and remove loose blankets. Persistent chewing may indicate boredom, anxiety, or insufficient exercise/enrichment. If chewing continues, seek advice from a qualified trainer or veterinarian, as ingestion can be dangerous.

How often should I wash crate bedding?

A practical baseline is weekly washing for covers/toppers and at least fortnightly for deeper cleaning, with immediate washing after accidents. More frequent washing may be needed for dogs with allergies, skin issues, or heavy shedding.

Can a crate bed be too thick?

Yes. A bed that is too thick reduces headroom, can restrict airflow, and may stop the dog from standing comfortably. Thick beds can also trap heat. Inside crates, “supportive density” is often more useful than excessive thickness.

Are bolster beds suitable inside crates?

Sometimes, but fit is critical. Bolsters reduce usable floor space and can press against crate sides and doors. Low bolsters may work in larger crates for dogs that like a headrest, but many dogs do better with flat pads in crates.

What bedding is best for hot Australian summers?

Breathable, lower-profile bedding is usually best. Consider a supportive pad with a removable thin topper, so you can reduce insulation on hot nights. Keep the crate in a well-ventilated, shaded indoor area.

Do I need a waterproof liner in the crate?

Waterproof liners are strongly suggested for puppies, seniors, and travel use. They protect foam cores and crate trays from urine and spills and make hygiene management easier.

My dog prefers the plastic tray over the bed—why?

Common reasons include heat (the tray feels cooler), the bed being too soft or too warm, or the bed not lying flat. Try a thinner, more breathable mat or reduce topper thickness, especially in warmer weather.

What size crate bed do I need for a 42-inch crate?

It depends on internal dimensions, which vary by manufacturer. Measure the internal floor length and width, then choose a bed that matches closely (often 0–2 cm smaller on each side). Avoid relying only on “42-inch” labels.

Is it safe to cover a crate with a blanket in summer?

Covering can reduce airflow and increase heat build-up. In warm Australian conditions, use covers cautiously and prioritise ventilation. If you cover part of the crate to create a den-like feel, keep mesh panels unobstructed and monitor temperature.

When should I upgrade to an orthopaedic crate bed?

Consider upgrading if your dog is a senior, a large breed, shows stiffness on rising, has arthritis, or struggles to settle on thinner bedding. A supportive foam pad can improve comfort, but it must still fit the crate and remain washable.

Can I use human bedding (pillows or doonas) in a crate?

It is usually impractical. Human bedding tends to bunch up, trap heat, and may be chewed. Purpose-made crate mats or pads are typically safer, easier to wash, and more stable.