The right dog or cat bed starts with your pet’s resting measurements. Measure the space they use while sleeping, then compare it with the usable sleeping area of the exact bed and size you are considering.
How to measure your dog or cat for a bed
- Watch how your pet sleeps. Notice whether they curl into a ball, stretch out on their side, or rest their head on a raised edge. If their position changes, measure the larger resting footprint.
- Measure their resting length. While your pet is relaxed on the floor or a blanket, measure the longest span of the space they occupy. Include extended paws and the head when these extend beyond the body. Do not restrain your pet to take a measurement.
- Measure their resting width. Measure across the widest part of that resting footprint. For a curled-up pet, note both the longest and widest spans rather than assuming the shape is a perfect circle.
- Compare the interior dimensions. Check the selected product’s size chart or description. Raised sides, bolsters and thick walls can make the sleeping area smaller than the advertised outside dimensions.
- Check movement and placement. Allow comfortable room to reposition and stretch. Check that the full external size fits the intended floor space and that the entrance is suitable for your pet.
Which measurements matter most?
| Measurement | What to check |
|---|---|
| Resting length and width | The space your pet occupies in their usual sleeping position, including outstretched paws. |
| Usable sleeping area | The interior cushion or clear space available to lie on. Compare this with your pet’s resting footprint. |
| External bed dimensions | The total floor space the bed needs, including raised edges and walls. |
| Entrance and interior height | For covered beds, check that your pet can enter, turn around and settle without being squeezed. |
Choose a size for the bed style
Bolster and sofa beds
Raised edges provide a place to rest the head, but they also take up space. Compare your pet’s measurements with the inside cushion, not just the full bed width. Check the height of the entry edge, especially if your pet prefers an easy step-in entrance.
Round and donut beds
Look for the inner sleeping diameter as well as the outside diameter. A curled-up sleeper may enjoy a close-fitting shape, while a pet that stretches out needs a larger clear sleeping area. Soft sides can flex, but they should not be treated as a substitute for adequate room.
Cat caves and covered beds
Check the opening, interior floor space and overall height together. Your cat should be able to enter and turn around comfortably. A cat that prefers an open view may be better suited to an open bed even when the cave dimensions are large enough.
Open cushions and pouf beds
Compare the usable top surface with your pet’s resting footprint. Rounded or sloping edges may offer less flat sleeping space than the product’s maximum width suggests.
Between two sizes?
If the smaller option leaves little room to change position, consider the larger one after checking the available floor space. For a covered bed, also compare the entrance and height. A larger size is useful only when its shape and access still suit your pet.
For a growing puppy or kitten, reassess the fit as they grow. For pets sharing a bed, measure the space they use together and make sure each can move away comfortably.
Inches and centimeters
1 inch = 2.54 centimeters. Multiply inches by 2.54 to get centimeters, or divide centimeters by 2.54 to get inches. Keep both measurements in the same unit before comparing.
| Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|
| 12 in | 30.48 cm |
| 16 in | 40.64 cm |
| 20 in | 50.80 cm |
| 24 in | 60.96 cm |
| 30 in | 76.20 cm |
| 36 in | 91.44 cm |
Before you add a bed to your cart
- Confirm the dimensions apply to the size option you selected.
- Check whether the listed measurements are internal or external.
- Review the product’s materials and care instructions; not every bed is machine washable.
- Measure the intended floor space and check the bed’s entry height.
- If dimensions are missing or unclear, contact us with the product link before ordering.
Pet bed sizing questions
Can I choose a bed using my pet’s weight?
Weight can help narrow the options, but it does not describe body length or sleeping position. Use resting measurements and the selected product’s dimensions to make the final comparison.
Is Medium the same size across all beds?
No. Size labels are specific to each product. Always compare the actual dimensions, even if your pet already uses a Medium bed in another style.
What if only the outside dimensions are listed?
Do not assume they equal the sleeping area. Send us the product link and the size you are considering so we can help clarify which measurements are available.
Should I choose a close fit for a cat cave?
A sheltered shape can still provide room to move. Check the entrance and interior dimensions so your cat can enter, turn around and settle comfortably.
Can a dog and cat use the same style of bed?
Some open bed styles can suit either, depending on the pet’s size and preferences. Check the individual product details, access and sleeping area rather than choosing only by the category name.
What should I send when asking for sizing help?
Send the product link, the size option you are considering, your pet’s resting length and width, and whether they curl up or stretch out. Include the measurement units.