Best Beds for Anxiety

By PetEssentialist Team · Updated July 2026 · How we review

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Big Barker 7" Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed — best for Large breeds with joint issues. Why it wins: Excellent support and comfort for large breeds.

Dogs suffering from anxiety often exhibit destructive behavior, panting, and pacing. For breeds like the German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, and Border Collie, which are prone to anxiety due to their high energy and intelligent nature, a calming dog bed can be a game-changer. These dogs need a bed that provides comfort, support, and a sense of security to alleviate their anxiety. A good night's sleep is essential for dogs to recharge and manage their anxiety. A calming dog bed can help reduce stress and anxiety by providing a comfortable and cozy space for dogs to relax. With the right bed, dogs can sleep better, and their owners can enjoy a more peaceful home. Breed-specific attributes, such as size, coat type, and energy level, play a significant role in choosing the right calming dog bed. For example, larger breeds like the Great Dane require more support and space, while smaller breeds like the Chihuahua need a cozier and more secure environment.

What to look for

Size and Space

Consider the size of your dog and the space available in your home. Larger breeds require more space, while smaller breeds can thrive in cozier environments. A bed that is too small can exacerbate anxiety, while a bed that is too large can make your dog feel insecure.

Support and Comfort

Look for beds with orthopedic memory foam or egg-crate foam bases, which provide excellent support and comfort for dogs with joint issues or anxiety. These beds can help reduce pain and discomfort, making it easier for your dog to relax and sleep.

Material and Texture

Choose a bed with a comfortable and calming material, such as plush faux fur or microsuede. These textures can provide a sense of security and comfort, reducing anxiety and stress in dogs.

Cooling and Ventilation

Some dogs, especially those with thick coats, can overheat and become anxious. Look for beds with cooling properties, such as elevated designs or breathable mesh surfaces, to keep your dog cool and comfortable.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Big Barker 7" Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed	Large breeds with joint issues
2	Furhaven Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed	Medium to large breeds with anxiety
3	Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Cuddler	Small to medium breeds with anxiety
4	PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed	Medium to large breeds with joint issues
5	BarksBar Snuggly Sleeper Bolster Dog Bed	Small to medium breeds with anxiety

Big Barker 7" Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed

Best for Large breeds with joint issues

The Big Barker 7" Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed is an excellent choice for large breeds with joint issues or anxiety. The 7" therapeutic foam base provides superior support and comfort, while the microsuede cover is gentle on their skin. This bed is perfect for breeds like the Great Dane or Labrador Retriever, which require extra support and space.

✓ Excellent support and comfort for large breeds
✓ Durable and long-lasting construction
✓ Easy to clean and maintain

✕ Expensive compared to other options
✕ May be too large for smaller breeds

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Furhaven Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed

Best for Medium to large breeds with anxiety

The Furhaven Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed is a great option for medium to large breeds with anxiety. The egg-crate orthopedic foam base provides excellent support and comfort, while the plush faux fur sleep surface is gentle on their skin. This bed is perfect for breeds like the Australian Shepherd or Border Collie, which require a comfortable and secure environment.

✓ Comfortable and supportive design
✓ Easy to clean and maintain
✓ Affordable price point

✕ May not be suitable for small breeds
✕ Some owners find the bed too firm

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Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Cuddler

Best for Small to medium breeds with anxiety

The Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Cuddler is a great option for small to medium breeds with anxiety. The deep dish design and vegan shag fur exterior provide a sense of security and comfort, reducing anxiety and stress in dogs. This bed is perfect for breeds like the Chihuahua or Poodle, which require a cozy and secure environment.

✓ Unique and comforting design
✓ Easy to clean and maintain
✓ Affordable price point

✕ May not be suitable for large breeds
✕ Some owners find the bed too small

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PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

Best for Medium to large breeds with joint issues

The PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed is an excellent choice for medium to large breeds with joint issues or anxiety. The 4" solid memory foam base provides superior support and comfort, while the waterproof inner liner and removable machine-washable cover make it easy to clean and maintain. This bed is perfect for breeds like the German Shepherd or Golden Retriever, which require extra support and comfort.

✓ Excellent support and comfort for medium to large breeds
✓ Durable and long-lasting construction
✓ Easy to clean and maintain

✕ Expensive compared to other options
✕ May be too firm for some dogs

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BarksBar Snuggly Sleeper Bolster Dog Bed

Best for Small to medium breeds with anxiety

The BarksBar Snuggly Sleeper Bolster Dog Bed is a great option for small to medium breeds with anxiety. The orthopedic cotton-padded base and solid orthopedic foam provide excellent support and comfort, while the non-slip rubber backing keeps the bed in place. This bed is perfect for breeds like the French Bulldog or Shih Tzu, which require a cozy and secure environment.

✓ Comfortable and supportive design
✓ Easy to clean and maintain
✓ Affordable price point

✕ May not be suitable for large breeds
✕ Some owners find the bed too small

Check price →

Frequently asked questions

What is the best type of bed for a dog with anxiety?

The best type of bed for a dog with anxiety is one that provides comfort, support, and a sense of security. Look for beds with orthopedic memory foam or egg-crate foam bases, and consider a bed with a calming material like plush faux fur or microsuede.

How can I help my dog with anxiety sleep better?

To help your dog with anxiety sleep better, provide a comfortable and secure environment, and consider using a calming aid like a pheromone diffuser or a calming treat. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a bedtime routine to signal to your dog that it's time to sleep.

Can a dog bed really help with anxiety?

Yes, a dog bed can really help with anxiety. A comfortable and supportive bed can provide a sense of security and comfort, reducing anxiety and stress in dogs. Look for a bed that is specifically designed to help with anxiety, and consider consulting with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist for additional guidance.

What size bed should I get for my dog?

The size of the bed you should get for your dog depends on their breed, size, and personal preference. Consider a bed that is large enough for your dog to stretch out comfortably, but not so large that it makes them feel insecure. Measure your dog's length and width to determine the best size bed for them.

How often should I clean my dog's bed?

You should clean your dog's bed regularly to keep it clean and hygienic. Wash the bed cover in warm water and mild detergent, and dry it on a low setting. Consider washing the bed itself every 1-2 weeks, depending on how often your dog uses it and how much they shed.

When choosing a calming dog bed, consider your dog's specific needs and breed attributes. Look for a bed that provides comfort, support, and a sense of security, and consider a bed with a calming material like plush faux fur or microsuede. By providing a comfortable and secure environment, you can help your dog with anxiety sleep better and reduce their stress and anxiety.

Best Beds for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.