Dog Bed Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Bed for your Dog

Not all beds are created equal. The right bed can improve your dog’s sleep, joint comfort, and overall quality of life. There are so many options on the market, and it’s easy to focus on looks or price and miss what actually matters for your dog’s comfort and long-term support. With decades of experience designing and manufacturing dog beds, Carolina Pet Company focuses on durability, support, and materials that hold up to real life with pets. Quick Picks: Which Dog Bed Is Right for Your Dog? Dog Type / Use Case Best Bed Type Why It Works Senior dogs Orthopedic beds Thicker, supportive foam helps relieve joint pressure. Large breeds High-density fill beds Holds shape longer and provides better long-term support. Heavy chewers Ripstop / heavy-duty beds More resistant to tearing and rough use. Crate users Low-profile crate beds Fits crates well and stays in place. Outdoor use Water-resistant beds Easy to clean and designed for patios, travel, or garages. Why Dog Bed Quality Matters A premium bed is not a luxury; it’s a cornerstone of your pet’s well-being. Comfort & Health: The right bed supports better sleep, reduces pressure on joints and can help minimize restlessness, especially for older or more active dogs. Orthopedic dog beds, in particular, are designed to relieve pressure points and support proper alignment. Durability & Longevity: Durability matters just as much as comfort. Cheaply made beds break down fast, losing shape and support over time. For larger breeds, senior dogs or heavy daily use, look for dog beds built with reinforced construction and long-lasting fill that won’t flatten after a few months. Material Standards: Look for performance fabrics over decorative ones. Key benefits include high-loft, recycled fills for cushioning and washable dog bed covers for easy cleaning. Eco-friendly materials are also a considerate choice for your home and the planet. Understanding Dog Bed Types & When to Use Them Selecting from the best dog bed types depends on your dog’s age, health, and habits. Orthopedic Beds: Ideal for older dogs, large breeds, or pets with joint issues, these beds feature supportive foam that contours to the body. They are a cornerstone of dog bed materials focused on health. Bolster & Nesting Beds: These beds feature raised edges that provide security and head support, perfect for dogs who love to curl up or nestle into a sense of enclosure. Heavy-Duty & Outdoor Options: Built for rough play, travel, or patio use, these beds utilize rugged fabrics like ripstop nylon. They are designed to resist moisture, dirt, and wear. Explore Carolina Pet Company’s Heavy-Duty/Ripstop Collection for beds that can keep up with an adventurous lifestyle. Crate & Travel Beds: Portability, lightweight design, and often waterproof bases define this category. They prioritize comfort without excess bulk, making them perfect for on-the-go pet parents. Key Features to Evaluate When Choosing a Dog Bed 1. Dog Bed Sizing Proper fit is crucial. Measure your dog while they’re stretched out in their favorite sleeping position, then add 6-12 inches for comfort. Consider breed and sleep style—sprawlers need more surface area than curlers. 2. Material & Fabric Breakdown Ripstop: Durable, often water-resistant, and excellent for active dogs or diggers. Sherpa & Plush Fabrics: Provide warmth and cozy comfort for nesting. Cotton Canvas: Natural cotton fabric with both softness and durability  Understanding dog bed materials helps you match the bed to your dog’s activity level and your home’s environment. 3. Washability & Maintenance Washable dog beds with removable, machine-washable covers are non-negotiable for easy care. They help control odors, allergens, and keep the bed fresh for years. 4. Construction Quality Inspect stitching, seam strength, and zipper durability. Double-stitched seams and robust zippers are hallmarks of a bed built to last, preventing premature breakdown even with daily use. Real-World Insights from Carolina Pet Company Built for long-lasting comfort Oftentimes, poly fill beds look great in stores but go flat as soon as you your dog lays on it. All Carolina Pet beds feature a zippered channeled liner- specifically crafted to keep the fill from migrating away from the center. This feature, paired with a generous amount of hi-loft poly fill means your bed will provide the long lasting support your pups need.  Sometimes we get inquiries about using a Carolina Pet Bed if a pet is a persistent digger. Fortunately, our fabrics have been designed with dippers in mind, and the channeled liner should help keep the fill in place. If over time they manage to ‘dig’ themselves a spot out of the middle - the zippered liner also gives the ability to access the liner and fluff it up, or add/remove fill to best suit your pet over time.    Carolina Pet Company Bed Collections: Designed with Expertise Our collections are the culmination of decades of manufacturing expertise, each designed with specific needs in mind. Senior & Orthopedic Dog Beds Designed for aging dogs or pets who need extra joint support, our senior bed collection features thicker cushioning and supportive fills to help reduce pressure on hips and joints, making rest more comfortable for dogs with mobility concerns. Bolster & Nesting Dog Beds For dogs who love to curl up or rest their head on raised edges, bolster-style beds offer a sense of security and added neck support. These are a great choice for pups who prefer a “nesting” sleep style. Round & Plush Comfort Beds Round dog beds and ultra-soft styles like sherpa-lined designs provide cozy, sink-in comfort for dogs that love to curl into a ball. These options work well for smaller dogs or any pet that prefers a snug sleeping space. Heavy-Duty & Tough Beds for Active Dogs For dogs that are hard on their beds, whether due to chewing, digging, or outdoor use, heavy-duty options offer more rugged fabrics and reinforced construction to better handle everyday wear and tear. Made in USA Crafted with care in the U.S., these beds focus on quality materials and dependable construction. This collection is ideal for pet parents who prioritize domestic manufacturing and long-lasting comfort. Common Questions About Dog Beds: How often should I replace my dog’s bed? Even a high-quality, durable dog bed will eventually wear out. Typically, consider replacement every 1–2 years, but inspect regularly for flattened cushioning, torn fabric, or compromised support. What makes orthopedic dog beds different? Orthopedic dog beds use specialized, high-density foam or supportive fill that distributes weight evenly and helps relieve pressure on joints, unlike standard cushioning. Which fabrics are best for heavy chewers? Dense, tight-weave fabrics like ripstop nylon or heavy-duty polyester are most resistant to damage. Our Heavy-Duty collection is specifically designed for this challenge. How do I wash and care for my dog’s bed? Always follow the manufacturer’s label. For most washable dog beds, remove the cover and wash separately in cold water on a gentle cycle. Tumble dry low. Spot clean the bed core as needed. Quick Maintenance & Longevity Tips Use a waterproof bed liner or blanket for extra protection. Vacuum hair and debris weekly. Follow a regular washing schedule for the cover to prevent odor and allergen buildup. Rotate and fluff the bed regularly to maintain even wear.

Learn more

A Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Pets with Exceptional Taste

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate the love that curls up beside you, greets you at the door, and makes every space feel more like home. From bold designs to personalized home accents and travel-ready essentials, these elevated Valentine’s picks go far beyond the ordinary.

Learn more

Hit the Road with Your Furry Co-Pilot: Essential Gear for Pet-Friendly Road Trips

We've rounded up the must-have essentials that will transform your vehicle into a pet-friendly travel haven and make every mile smoother for both of you.

Learn more

2025 Holiday Gift Guide

When choosing presents for your furry friends or that special pet fanatic in your life, dive into our carefully curated holiday gift list crafted to spoil adored pets this jolly season. Check out our mix of new releases, coordinated bundles, and classic favorites.

Learn more

Caring for your dog bed 🛁🧼🧴🧽✨

Carolina Pet Company beds are designed for easy washing. Here’s how to keep yours looking and smelling great.

Learn more

A Very Furry Mountain Photoshoot 🍂

Behind the Scenes of a Product Photoshoot:  Every season has its own personality, and fall is one of our favorites. The crisp air, cozy textures, and warm tones always inspire us when it comes to creating new Carolina Pet Company collections. This year, we wanted to capture that feeling in our fall product photoshoot—and we thought it would be fun to give you a peek behind the scenes. Setting the Scene We packed up a U-Haul and headed to Boone, North Carolina—a spot that perfectly blends cozy charm with mountain adventure. Our backdrop included not so rustic cabins tucked into the hills and serene lakes with perfectly timed afternoon showers. The mix of woodsy textures, crisp mountain air, and sweeping views created exactly the mood we wanted: a sense of warmth, coziness, and just a hint of adventure. It was the perfect canvas for showcasing our Pendleton and Carolina Pet Collections.   The Stars of the Show Of course, the real stars of any photoshoot are the pets. Our furry models brought the products to life with their personalities. From curling up in our plush beds to trotting through the scene in collars and coats, they reminded us of why we do what we do: to create pieces that keep them happy, while also looking great in your home. We couldn't have had a better dog wrangler than Chelsea Cutler with Discovery Dog Training. She brought in her A-Team of local dogs who's manners and training has us considering bringing our own pets in for a obedience training refresher course! To really add to the chaos our team brought a golden retriever puppy, and 2 cats that traveled from location to location like champs in their cat backpacks.  Capturing the Details We wanted to showcase not only how our products function, but also how they feel. Close-up shots of soft fabrics, natural textures, and thoughtful design details show the care and craftsmanship that go into every Carolina Pet Company product. Fall is a season of warmth and comfort, and our goal was to translate that through every photo. A Team Effort It takes a village to make a shoot come together. We could not have done this without the amazing team at Real Boone Studios who's photos and planning turned out far better than we could have imagined, or without Chelsea making sure the pets felt calm and cared for —it was truly a group effort. And yes, there were plenty of treat breaks and tail wags along the way.  What’s Next We can’t wait to share the final images with you throughout the season on our website, social channels, and more. They’ll give you plenty of inspiration for incorporating Carolina Pet Company products into your home this fall. At the end of the day, this shoot wasn’t just about photos. (Although we LOVE the photos) It was about celebrating the bond between pets and their families, and showcasing the cozy, stylish spaces we can create for them together. Also, sometimes we all need an excuse to leave the office and hang out with a pack of dogs for a few days... am I right? Thanks again to everyone who made this come together!  Real Boone Studios: Paul Sherar, Evan France (Production, Photography, Videography, locations, everything in between)  Discovery Dog Training: Chelsea Cutler Ellie, Samwise, Tillie, Annie, Gimli, Goose, Cygnus, BOGO, and Mischa. The best 4 legged models, who definitely knew when to strike a pose. 

Learn more

The Evolution of The Carolina Pet Co. Brand

For 24 years, Carolina Pet Company has been dedicated to designing high-quality pet products that seamlessly blend thoughtful design with lasting durability. We’ve built a reputation for providing pet owners with products that not only cater to their furry companions but also complement their homes and lifestyles. Now, it’s time for our brand to reflect that same level of care and craftsmanship.  The New Carolina Pet Co. Brand – Launching in April 2025 As the pet industry continues to grow, we recognize the need to evolve—ensuring our brand stands out and truly represents who we are: a company that goes beyond the basics to create hand-curated designs that elevate the pet-owning experience.  Our commitment to quality remains unwavering. What’s changing is how we present ourselves to you, our loyal customers. Our refreshed look and enhanced shopping experience are designed to better communicate what sets us apart—not just another pet brand, but a lifestyle brand that understands the intersection of comfort, style, and function.  To bring this vision to life, we’ve partnered with the geniuses at Hammonds Media for our website overhaul and Atemp Co for our brand identity design. We believe that pet products should be as thoughtfully designed as anything else in your home, and that belief is now at the forefront of our brand identity.  Things To Expect From The Brand Refresh What is Changing? A fresh new logo and brand identity that embodies our craftsmanship and passion for pets. A revamped website with a seamless shopping experience, making it easier than ever to find the perfect products for your furry companions.  Enhanced storytelling and product visuals that highlight the quality, design, and function of our offerings.  What is Staying The Same? Our unwavering commitment to high-quality pet products. The same trusted brands and collections that you and your pets love. Exceptional customer service from a small team that truly cares about pets and their people.    Take A Deeper Dive Into the New Look   As a company, we began our branding process with a few core principles in mind that are key components of the future of Carolina Pet as a company: Meaningful – It is vital that our brand represents the pets and people who have brought tremendous meaning to our business for almost 20 years. Modern & Timeless – Although it was clear that our brand needed to be modernized, the Carolina Pet team worked diligently with our designers to capture the pieces of our company and community that are timeless. Elevated – Our products are known for their quality, flexibility, and style, so we wanted the next wave of the Carolina Pet Co. brand to fully capture the luxury nature of our current products as well as the future pet collections being developed. “Since launching the Carolina Pet Company, we have invested all our time and resources in developing products, maintaining inventory, and acquiring customers. As a result, our name has never been regarded or recognized as a brand. While we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished to date, we’re excited to use our new branding to showcase our collections, innovations, and product development capabilities to an industry that thrives on function, fashion and high performance. We can’t wait to welcome you to our Carolina Pet Family.” – Ed Bobowski, Co-Founder and Partner at Carolina Pet Co. It Starts With A Strong Wordmark We chose to go with a serif-style font with rounded features that offered a high-class feeling while being easily readable on product packaging or in a digital format. Our new wordmark is strong enough to stand on its own but not overpowering when paired with other elements of the brand. Our new typeface is an adaption of the Field font, which we will use for our headings. Additionally, the Onest font will be used for our body and paragraph fonts.   An Iconic Brandmark – Introducing The New Logo Emblem Logo iterations from Atemp Co. designer Guilherme Nogueira. We did not want our brandmark to blend in with the countless pet logos already out there—another name with cat ears or a cartoon dog like we’ve used in the past. It was time for our brand to evolve into something more refined and abstract, while still honoring the pets and pet owners we serve. After exploring a wide range of concepts and shape variations, we arrived at a simple, rounded-line illustration of a dog as the foundation for our new brandmark. This updated identity gives us greater flexibility across everything from product packaging to our digital presence.   Versatile And Recognizable The new Carolina Pet Co. logo comes in five versatile formats, designed to work seamlessly across nearly any application. A core element of a strong brand is memorability, which is why each version of our logo is thoughtfully crafted to stand out—both in the market and in the minds of our audience. Original artwork from the Atemp Co. logo presentation. An Elegant And Modern Visual Experience Our new branding modernizes key elements of the Carolina Pet identity. You’ll still see our signature blues and browns, now enhanced with subtle updates that bring a more refined, elegant feel—reflecting the elevated quality of our products. We’ve also introduced gold as a core brand color, adding a touch of warmth and sophistication across our creative assets. The updated visual experience for Carolina Pet Co. is smoother, more fluid, and more dynamic. It reflects not only the innovation behind our products but also the ease and enjoyment of being a Carolina Pet customer. We remain committed to delivering seamless, stress-free purchase experiences for every pet lover we serve. “When I joined Carolina Pet Co. in 2023, it became clear that, after years of successful partnerships, licensing deals, and countless pet products, our personal identity had become somewhat unclear. The question of ‘Who is Carolina Pet Co., and more importantly, who do we want to be?’ needed answering. This rebrand has given us the opportunity to step back and define our core strengths and values—both in our products and our business. We see our work as a balance of thoughtfully curated design and a steadfast commitment to quality. Just as these principles have shaped our products, they now guide the evolution of our brand.” – Kaitlin York, Director of Design and Development at Carolina Pet Co. See More Check out our image gallery to see more Carolina Pet Co. rebrand content and get a glimpse into what the future of Carolina Pet looks like. Conclusion As we step into this new chapter, we invite you to rediscover Carolina Pet Company. Whether you’re a longtime customer or just discovering us, we are here to provide the same trusted quality with a fresh perspective. Thank you for being a part of our journey—we can’t wait to share what’s next! Check out our about page to learn more information about Carolina Pet Company.

Learn more

5 Tips for Walking Your Dog

Walking isn’t just great exercise for your dog, it’s also a bonding experience that promotes mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned dog walker or new to it, here are five quick tips to make your walks even better.

Learn more

Blog post

Give your customers a summary of your blog post

Learn more

Blog post

Give your customers a summary of your blog post

Learn more

Blog post

Give your customers a summary of your blog post

Learn more

Blog post

Give your customers a summary of your blog post

Learn more

Blog post

Give your customers a summary of your blog post

Learn more