10 Cheers for the Best Outdoor Bedding for Dogs

Outdoor Bedding for Dogs

The correct and best outdoor bedding for dogs is what you need to ensure your dog is always comfortable. Shopping for outdoor-friendly bedding isn’t as easy as shopping for items for your house, though. That’s why we have this article to help you choose one of the best outdoor bedding for dogs. 

white dog bed

Our Best Pick

100% Natural Cedar Shavings is our best pick. We recommend it to you because if you have potted plants and keep animals simultaneously, the shavings will significantly help. You won’t need to buy different types of bedding since the product serves the same purpose for both. It is a product that absorbs odors. You won’t need to worry about smells anymore.

The Best Materials for Outdoor Dog Bedding

Many dogs, especially larger breeds, prefer spending most of their time outside. But, while they might enjoy eating, playing, and sleeping outdoors, that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy a little bit of comfort. Here’s what materials to use for outdoor dog bedding that will last:

Wood Chips

Wood chips may seem uncomplicated, but they make excellent outdoor dog bedding. They not only offer your dog support and padding, but they can also keep their dog house warm during cooler months. 

There are risks involved in using wood chips as your dog’s bedding. Use dog-friendly wood, such as pine or cedar, and make sure the pieces are not too sharp. The best move to take is to find an alternative if your dog tends to consume little objects, particularly wood. 

Although the natural repellant present in cedar oils will gradually deteriorate over time, using bedding made from freshly chopped cedar shavings will help reduce flea and tick infestations. 

Regular shavings changes will maintain the bed soft for your pet and replenish the oils that serve as a pest deterrent. You can use a fabric bag or mattress to trap the shavings or leave them loose. Some dogs may develop irritation and hair loss if they are allergic to the oils in cedar.

Straw

Hay and straw are other good dog bedding, particularly in dog houses. Due to their softness, these materials provide a ton of insulation throughout the fall and winter. Under a dog, straw quickly decomposes into a pile of straw dust. 

Contrarily, grass hay will keep its shape longer than straw and produce significantly less dust. Grasses for a warm season like Big Bluestem and Indian grass make the greatest grass hay ideal for use as dog bedding.

However, straw for dogs has a drawback. It draws fleas into a dog house. Hay and straw, regrettably, are excellent habitats for fleas and other parasites to breed. While it’s unlikely that your outdoor dog bedding will have this issue, it is possible. 

Polyfill

In your refillable dog beds, a polyester filling is an option. More mold-resistant than straw, polyfill holds its shape better than cedar shavings. Although polyfill cannot biodegrade, using it in bedding can be a practical option because you can recycle it after use and create it from recycled materials.

Foam

Your dog will have a bed that conforms to its shape if you cover a foam pad with moisture-resistant fabric. 

An older dog with joint or bone issues will feel more at ease sleeping on a foam mat. 

A foam bed keeps heat effectively, and you can wash the cover to avoid odor accumulation and bug infestation.

Old Bedding/Carpeting

Your dog may not care how it looks as long as it is comfy. Any old blankets, rugs, carpeting, or linens that you have sitting around will make fantastic outdoor dog beds. Going out and getting some may not be worth the bother if you don’t already have any of these supplies. Additionally, some carpeting and rugs might not be suitable for chewers. 

Traditional Dog Beds

Your dog may like the rough and tumble outdoors, but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t appreciate a bed from the pet store. A lot of mattresses are made expressly for usage outside. Look for fabrics marketed as waterproof or weather-resistant when buying a new dog bed. Compared to soft, plush beds, these materials will withstand rain and other weather conditions far better. 

Elevated Dog Beds

Your dog might also appreciate a raised dog bed and a conventional cushioned bed. These beds lift your dog off the ground for maximum comfort, resembling a robust hammock. A raised dog bed is an excellent option for dogs who suffer from stiffness or joint problems. The raised design removes pressure from their joints when sleeping or resting. 

Additionally, if you are concerned about damping your dog’s bed, this sort of bed is fantastic. These beds are elevated and constructed of sturdy materials, so rain and snow will pass right through, and the bed will dry quickly. 

Key Takeaway

Always take safety precautions, even if your dog enjoys being outside. Keep an eye on your dog using their new bedding if you worry they might consume wood chips or chew up the carpet. Also, remember that, even with proper bedding, not all breeds can withstand cold weather. 

Our Top Tips for Creating a Cozy Outside Environment

Are you ready to make your backyard a dog haven? Look at the helpful advice listed below to get started with petscaping! Are you prepared to make your backyard a pet haven? Take a look at the practical advice listed below to get started! 

Consider Your Pet’s Personality

Think about your dog and its particular routines when you plan the arrangement of your outside area. There are innovative methods to make the most of your outdoor space to keep your animals happy and healthy. This applies whether you have a dog who enjoys running or prefers to lounge in the sun. A few entertaining outdoor additions are: 

  • A challenging course 
  • A tiny pool or splash pad 
  • A play area 
  • A pet-friendly yard 
  • A sizable pet home for unwinding 

By adding these enjoyable extras, you can be sure that your paw friend will like the outside area you create! 

Remove Any Risks That Might Exist 

Remove any dangers before allowing your pet to roam free outside. Keep any chemicals, such as lawn fertilizer or weed killer, out of your pet’s reach. Your outdoor area’s plant life is another crucial factor to consider. Even typical flowers and plants might hurt your pet. Avoid these plants, among others: Flowers and plants might hurt your pet. Avoid these plants, among others: 

  • Aloe vera
  • Daffodil
  • Foxglove
  • Lillies
  • Milkweed
  • Tulips

Eradicate Pests 

You must employ safe pest control techniques to get the most out of your outside time with your pet. This may include: 

  • Removing fire ants from your lawn 
  • Applying a mosquito spray 

Use Yellow Jacket Traps 

Tell your pest control specialist about your pets while contemplating pest control options. Doing this ensures you use the safest chemicals and follow the proper guidelines to protect your pet’s safety. 

Utilize Pet-Friendly Components

When designing your outside area, use long-lasting, pet-friendly materials. Doing this may create an entertaining space that can endure any damage your pet may cause. The usage of synthetic grass is one well-liked choice. You may shield your lawn from the muck, dead areas, and holes by applying:

  • Artificial grass
  • Bermuda grass 
  • Bricks 
  • Paver stones made of concrete 

By selecting these components; you can guarantee the longevity of your newly pet-themed outdoor space. 

Golden retriever on dog bed

The Best Outdoor Dog Bedding at a Glance

NameBest For
100% Natural Cedar ShavingsBoth animals and potted plants
AA Plus Shop 100% Natural Wheat Straw GrassHouse Decorations and pets’ beds
Pet Parents Premium Pet BlanketPuppies
Allisandro Extra Softness Microplush Fleece Polyester Pet BlanketMedium and large dogs
Drymate Whelping Box Liner Mat, Washable and Reusable Puppy PadAbsorbing and Containing Urine
Amazon Basics Outdoor Water Repellant Pet Pillow BedTravel
Bedsure Cooling Elevated Dog BedAll dogs and cats of all ages
Cheerhunting Outdoor Dog BedOutdoor and indoor use
Classic Accessories Ravenna Water-Resistant Outdoor Bench/Setee CushionComfort and support
Downtown Pet Supply-Dog Potty PadPatio or balcony use
Bedsure Elevated Raised Cooling Cots Bed for Large Dogs, Portable Indoor & Outdoor Pet Hammock with Skid-Resistant Feet, Frame with Breathable Mesh, Grey, 49 inches
100% Natural Cedar Shavings | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or Indoor Potted Plants | Dog Bedding (4 Quart)
Pet Parents Pet Blanket, Water Resistant Cat Blanket, Dog Blanket, Puppy Blanket, Dog Blanket for Small Dogs, Dog Blanket for Medium Dogs, Dog Blanket for Large Dogs, Dog Blanket for Couch, 24"x32"
Product name
Bedsure Elevated Raised Cooling Cots Bed for Large Dogs, Portable Indoor & Outdoor Pet Hammock with Skid-Resistant Feet, Frame with Breathable Mesh, Grey, 49 inches
100% Natural Cedar Shavings | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or Indoor Potted Plants | Dog Bedding (4 Quart)
Pet Parents Pet Blanket, Water Resistant Cat Blanket, Dog Blanket, Puppy Blanket, Dog Blanket for Small Dogs, Dog Blanket for Medium Dogs, Dog Blanket for Large Dogs, Dog Blanket for Couch, 24″x32″
Price
$29.99
$13.99
$11.99
Bedsure Elevated Raised Cooling Cots Bed for Large Dogs, Portable Indoor & Outdoor Pet Hammock with Skid-Resistant Feet, Frame with Breathable Mesh, Grey, 49 inches
Product name
Bedsure Elevated Raised Cooling Cots Bed for Large Dogs, Portable Indoor & Outdoor Pet Hammock with Skid-Resistant Feet, Frame with Breathable Mesh, Grey, 49 inches
Price
$29.99
Buy Now
100% Natural Cedar Shavings | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or Indoor Potted Plants | Dog Bedding (4 Quart)
Product name
100% Natural Cedar Shavings | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or Indoor Potted Plants | Dog Bedding (4 Quart)
Price
$13.99
Buy Now
Pet Parents Pet Blanket, Water Resistant Cat Blanket, Dog Blanket, Puppy Blanket, Dog Blanket for Small Dogs, Dog Blanket for Medium Dogs, Dog Blanket for Large Dogs, Dog Blanket for Couch, 24"x32"
Product name
Pet Parents Pet Blanket, Water Resistant Cat Blanket, Dog Blanket, Puppy Blanket, Dog Blanket for Small Dogs, Dog Blanket for Medium Dogs, Dog Blanket for Large Dogs, Dog Blanket for Couch, 24″x32″
Price
$11.99
Buy Now

Our Reviews on the Best Outdoor Dog Bedding

100% Natural Cedar Shavings (Best for Both Animals, and Potted Plants)

Amazon’s Choice in Garden Soil by Wood Smith the USA

General Description

It is an excellent addition to any home decoration. Use it in indoor and outdoor potted plants, hanging planters, and other gardening pots. What it does is it will control weeds and hold moisture in the soil. It is also great when used in and around animal bedding & has a natural cedar aroma. 

You can make your sachet or leave it in an open container to make the air fresh. The smell of the cedar absorbs moisture and unpleasant odors. 

  • Brand: Word Smith USA
  • Product type: Cedar
  • Material: Organic/Natural
  • Item weight: 1.52 pounds (0.69 kilograms)
  • Product dimensions: 15.67 X 12.76 X 4.69 inches (39.8 X 32.4 X 11.91 centimeters)
  • Unit count: 1
  • Breed recommendation: Dogs, cats
  • Fill material: Cedar shavings

Uses

  • Hanging planters
  • Air fresheners
  • Animal bedding

AA Plus Shop 100% Natural Wheat Straw Grass (Best for House Decorations, and Pets Beds)

General Description

The AA Plus Shop strives to provide great products and services. The 100% Natural Wheat Straws come from a local farm they partnered with to provide easy-to-use and handle wheat straw. 

Each package comes with a slab of wheat straw measuring just over 4lb (1.8kg). This ensures you get a little extra with each order you make. If there is any defect, they are easy to clean with a quick pull of the material. 

  • Brand: AA Plus Shop
  • Product type: Wheat
  • Material: Wheat straw
  • Item weight: 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms)
  • Product dimensions: 22 x 15.5 x 7.5 inches (55.8 x 39.3 x 19 centimeters)
  • Unit count: 1
  • Breed recommendation: All pets
  • Fill material: Wheat straw

Uses

  • House decorations
  • Pets bedding

Pet Parents Premium Pet Blanket (Best for Puppies)

Amazon’s Choice in Dog Bed Blankets by Pet Parent

General Description

The blanket is for warm embraces and maximum warmth. This blanket is ideal for those families with pets who have cats and dogs. Your pet can take their pet blanket everywhere they want to curl up because it is warm and portable. 

The luxury blanket complements your couch or bed and is ideal for use as a dog toss blanket. They are also waterproof blankets! Drool, and other minor messes won’t leak through and onto adjacent surfaces. 

  • Brand: Pet Parents
  • Product type: Blanket
  • Material: Sherpup
  • Product dimensions: 24 x 32, 32 x 40, and 50 x 60 inches (60 x 81, 81 x 101, and 127 x 152 centimeters)
  • Color: Slate
  • Breed recommendation: Cats and dogs

Uses

  • Protecting furniture from scratches and unwanted dog hair
  • Great puppy blanket for bed, floor, couch, crate, and car
  • Great pet gift

Allisandro Extra Softness Microplush Fleece Polyester Pet Blanket (Best for Medium, and Large Dogs)

General Description

The company focuses on making pet goods to improve, soften, and enhance their lives. Pets who enjoy curling up on soft comfort or burrowing under blankets would love Allisandro blankets. The blanket, which has a fashion-forward design, may also be utilized as home décor. 

The soft pet flannel blanket is also ideal for travel because it is simple to roll or fold. This dog cat blanket is so portable and light that it makes the perfect sleeping companion for your pet whether you go camping or perform other outdoor activities.

Additionally, this pet bed cover works well for sofas and car seats. It’s ideal for preventing scratches on them. Never before has keeping your pet warm and cozy outside been so simple! 

  • Brand: Allisandro
  • Product type: Throw blanket
  • Material: 100% Polyester
  • Product dimensions: 31 x 24, 39 x 31, 64 x 40, and 80 x 64 inches (78 x 60, 99 x 78, and 162 x 101 centimeters)
  • Color: Gray
  • Breed recommendations: Dogs and cats

Uses

  • Drying the pets
  • Pet bedding
  • Keeping pets warm
  • Decorating homes
  • Protects furniture

Drymate Whelping Box Liner Mat, Washable and Reusable Puppy Pad (Best for Absorbing, and Containing Urine)

General Description

The best option for your litter of puppies is the Drymate whelping box liner mat. Since the edges won’t unravel and tangle the puppies, you can cut the liner to fit the whelping box. Zorb-patented tech’s anti-flow technology prevents liquids from soaking through and absorbing them, creating a clean and hygienic whelping space. 

This machine-washable mat grips the floor and holds the liner level and in position. Puppies have a comfortable, insulated surface made of strong, puncture-resistant fabric. It’s simple to clean; simply machine-wash with your other laundry. 

  • Brand: Drymate
  • Product type: Mat
  • Material: Polyester
  • Product dimensions: 50 x 48 x 0.13 inches (127 x 121 x 0.33 centimeters)
  • Size: 1.74 pounds (0.79 kilograms) 
  • Color: Charcoal
  • Breed recommendation: Dogs

Uses

  • Absorbs and contains liquid
  • Secure footing for puppies
  • Anti-slip/walk assistant for pets

Amazon Basics Outdoor Water Repellant Pet Pillow Bed (Best for Travel)

General Description

It is a sizable pet pillow bed that you may use for travel, crates, and regular indoor and outdoor use. Specially prepared with a water-repellent polyester oxford shell, the pillow bed. Fluffy and made entirely of polyester. The middle of the bed has a beautiful bone-shaped embroidery pattern. Although you cannot remove the cover, you can machine-wash it. 

  • Brand: Amazon Basics
  • Product type: Pillow bed
  • Material: Polyester
  • Item weight: 5.11 pounds (2.3 kilograms)
  • Product dimensions: 40 x 30 x 4 inches (101 x 76 x 10 centimeters)
  • Color: Blue
  • Breed recommendations: Dogs

Uses

  • Repels water and excess moisture
  • Spot for dogs to relax

Bedsure Cooling Elevated Dog Bed (Best for all Dogs, and Cats of Different Sizes)

Amazon’s Choice in Dog Beds by Bedsure

General Description

In particular, on rainy or hot days, the Bedsure Elevated Dog Bed lifts your canine friend off dirty, wet grass to keep him clean and cool. They will feel the breeze in the summer thanks to the sturdy Teslin (biodegradable) mesh that allows air to flow through the fabric. It can reduce joint pain and tension in your pet.

It also has the benefit of being simple to clean: Pet hair, filth, and grime won’t stick to the tightly woven surface; instead, you can spray it down with simple tap water, hand wash it with mild soap, and then let it air dry. 

  • Brand: Bedsure
  • Product type: Elevated bed
  • Material: Fabric
  • Item weight: 7.83 pounds
  • Product dimensions: 49” x 35” x 8” (124 x 88 x 20 centimeters)
  • Color: Gray
  • Breed recommendations: Dogs

Uses

  • It prevents accidents from happening when they sleep
  • Keeps dogs at a comfortable temperature
  • Provides firm or even support

Cheerhunting Outdoor Dog Bed (Best for Both Outdoor and Indoor Use)

Amazon’s Choice in Dog Beds by Cheerhunting

General Description

Cheerhunting Outdoor Dog Bed is also in the category of best outdoor bedding for dogs. First and foremost, Oxford cloth makes this durable design, which features waterproof capabilities and is resistant to just about any weather condition. 

It’s also 43″  (109 centimeters) long and 26″ (66 centimeters) wide, perfect for any medium-sized or large dog, and suitable for any crate or kennel.

Moreover, it is also claw-resistant, scratch-resistant, and machine washable. Plus, it is one of the more comfortable and breathable beddings thanks to its PP cotton filling. The mat is also entirely reversible and has a durable handle and strong seams. It’s also effortless to fold, store and carry.

  • Brand: Cheerhunting
  • Product type: Bed
  • Material: Polyester, Polyfill
  • Product dimensions: 43 x 26 inches (109 x 66) Centimeters
  • Color: Blue
  • Breed recommendations: Dogs
  • Fill material: Cotton

Uses

  • For camping
  • Sleeping mat for pets
  • Indoor dog mat
  • Traveling car mat

Classic Accessories Ravenna Water-Resistant Outdoor Bench/Setee Cushion (Best for Comfort, and Support)

General Description

Do you want to add comfort to your outdoor furniture? Then go for the Ravenna Patio Cushion Collection by Classic Accessories. The company made it with a solution-dyed polyester and Gardelle One Fabric system that keeps mother nature and unforeseen spills at bay.

This happens by resisting stains and helping keep the rain out. For this reason, your cushion foam stays protected.

  • Brand: Classic Accessories
  • Product type: Cushion
  • Item weight: 2.5 pounds (1.1 kilograms)
  • Material: Polyester
  • Product dimensions: 48 x 18 x 3 inches (121 x 33 x 7) Centimeters
  • Color: Espresso, empire blue, mushroom, mallard green, spice, dark taupe
  • Breed recommendation: All pets
  • Fill material: Polyurethane

Uses

  • The fabric protects furniture against stains
  • Provides a firm surface
  • Adds comfort to furniture

Downtown Pet Supply-Dog Potty Pad (Best for Patio or Balcony Use)

General Description

The pet potty is lightweight, convenient, and mimics grass. Dogs have the instinct to do their business on grass. With this very realistic imitation, you will have little to no training for your dog to use it! We highly suggest buying odor-eliminating cleaning solutions for grass turfs if you have trouble removing odors from your mat.

For dogs, pet grass potty will simplify potty training. It safeguards your flooring so you won’t have to be concerned about messes again. The three-layer, weatherproof dog toilet pad is easy to disassemble, portable, and has fake grass turf. Use it on the yard, patio, balcony, or porch.

  • Brand: Downtown Pet Supply
  • Product type: Pad
  • Item weight: 2.56 pounds (1.2 kilograms)
  • Product dimensions: 20 x 16 x 1.5 inches (50 x 40 x 4 centimeters)
  • Breed recommendation: Dogs

Uses

  • Potty training
  • Protects the floor against dirt
  • Relaxing point for your furry friend

FAQs on Outdoor Dog Bedding

Q: How to waterproof an outdoor dog bed

A: Unbelievably, it is feasible to waterproof an existing dog bed so you can use it outside. You can cover the bed with material for outdoor use, such as polythene, Sunbrella, or another membrane sheet resistant to moisture. 

There are a ton of affordable alternatives available for purchase online. You can then seal the edges with any type of water-resistant tape to prevent moisture intrusion.

Q: What outdoor dog bed ideas should you avoid?

A: Avoid the following:

Grass, dirt, and soil

This one might seem quite apparent, but it is nonetheless important. A way to ensure your dog contracts sickness or encounters a creature is to let it lay on the dirt, soil, or grass. It is a certain way to get your dog (or yourself!) sick because these are all the spots where things like fleas, ticks, gnats, and other undesirable critters tend to reside. 

If you allow the dog back inside, there is also a higher likelihood that they will track mud and dirt throughout your home.

Sawdust

You should not use sawdust as bedding. It may sound strange, considering we just advised you to use wood chips. But because sawdust is such a tiny particle, it has a greater propensity to collect in your dog’s moist crevices and cracks.

If it becomes stuck in your dog’s eyes, ears, nose, or mouth, it poses a significant issue and risk of illness. Additionally, it isn’t enjoyable and is rather messy to clean up after.

Straw and hay

Using hay and straw for a dog bed may go against your instincts. It’s among the worst materials you can utilize. This is so because hay and straw often produce fleas and insects, including mites, ticks, and gnats. Not to mention all the bacteria that they harbor.

Remember that agricultural animals and cattle are the usual targets of this technique. You can use straw and hay as additional insulation under the dog house, but not inside.

Pet pee pads

Pet pee pads are for catching and taking in all of your dog’s messes. Therefore, letting them sleep here is a way to make them sick practically immediately. Additionally, they will start stinking up the house, and who wants that? Read our article and find out How Long Can Dogs Hold Their Pee.

Dog laying on soft bed

Recap

Although assembling an outdoor dog bedding might appear like a straightforward gesture; your dog will undoubtedly enjoy it. The finest bedding for you and your dog may differ from that of another person. For instance, we prefer 100% Natural Cedar Shavings. We recommend it because it serves both animals and potted plants.

The reason for different choices is each of these materials for bedding has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. However, all these materials are excellent choices when you use them appropriately. 

From what we have discussed in this article, you can be sure of what you may want to go with. Once you choose, you can visit Amazon, an online store where you can make purchases. 

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