The best and most durable dog beds (for owners who are sick of always buying new ones)

If you're anything like me, every time you buy a dog bed, you want it to be the last one for a while. That means getting something durable, but not too expensive. Something soft and cosy, but not prone to smells or accidents.

Mostly just something, anything, that will actually do the job longer than the typical two-month cycle. 

These beds try their hardest to fit that brief. Sticking, of course, to some important specifications that give them longevity – must be machine washable, must be something your dog will actually use – while keeping an eye on the price tag.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Best for large dogs

Pawever Pets Dog Trampoline Bed

$59.99 on Kogan

Perfect for both big dogs and those who need a cooling spot in summer, this Trampoline Bed from Pawever Pets has UV-treated mesh that won't get hot. The elevated structure also allows for airflow underneath.

The metal frame of the bed is designed to support both big and energetic dogs, so you can trust they'll be safe when they leap up onto the bed. The cover is also washable, so it'll last a while if you clean it regularly.

Barkley and Wagner bed

Buy it for $79 on Amazon

It feels harder to find beds for big dogs. Ones that are comfortable and cute, anyway.

This one from Barkley & Wagner is affordable and "surprisingly durable", according to one reviewer. It'll give enough space for them to stretch their lanky legs but also to curl up into the soft-top cover. 

Best range of colours

Mog and Bone Bolster Dog Bed

From $99.95 on The Iconic

Dog beds need to be practical, yes, but I have nothing but respect for the owner who buys for aesthetics too. 

The Mog & Bone dog beds are both. They come in a range of colours and patterns to suit all types of interiors (with matching accessories to boot). You can find different types of beds in a range of neutrals and navys, all of which are made with 100 per cent cotton to soothe your pup's skin and regulate their temperature. 

Our pick is the Bolster Dog Bed in Mocha Wave. 

Best for durability 

SportPet Designs Large Luxury Waterproof Pet Bed

Buy it for $118

The reviews on the SportPet Designs Luxury Waterproof Pet Bed tell you everything you need to know about the staying power of this bed. 

"I have had this bed for 3 years and it's still being used," said one five-star reviewer.

"We have purchased four of these beds in the last two years… We still use all four," said another. 

For many dog owners, keeping a bed for longer than six months is unheard of. But this one uses a base of individual memory foam pieces – similar to a beanbag – to provide comfort to your dog while also ensuring it lasts. It's waterproof with a soft, machine washable cover, and looks darn cute. 

Best for soothing anxious types

Charlie's Ultra-Soft Teddy Fleece Round Donut Calming Dog Bed

From $69 on Amazon

Any owner of a particularly anxious dog – which, I hazard a guess, is most of us – will know the appeal of the soothing donut beds. 

This black boucle one gets my pick because of its durability. It's cute, the texture will comfort your dog, but the colour will hide any discolouring and the material won't get ratty. Unlike the fluffy covers that are popular with this style, which tend to look worn out within a week, the boucle is on trend but will last for ages. 

Best for little dogs who like their own space 

K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot Tent

Buy yours for $129.40

Speaking of anxious types, if your pooch finds comfort in his or her own company, try the elevated pet cot tent. 

Reviewers agree on its quality and that it's a great solution for smaller dogs who like to hide away. As an added bonus, you can take it camping, replace the inserts as needed, and use it as an outdoor or indoor bed. 

Best for a hot summer outdoors 

Coolaroo Original Elevated Dog Bed

Buy it from $57 on Amazon

During the scorching Aussie summer, it's a good idea to have somewhere cool for your dog to rest when they venture outside. Enter the Coolaroo Elevated Dog Bed. With a four and a half review rating over 65,000 reviews, it's one of the most popular of its type on Amazon. 

It's praised by reviewers for being good quality, it also gets extra points for a mesh covering made out of recycled plastics.

If you have a dog who likes to gnaw at new things, Coolaroo also sells replacement covers.

Best all-rounder 

PaWz Orthopedic Sofa Bed

$129.99 on Amazon

The PaWz Orthopedic Sofa Bed gets our pick for the best and most durable dog bed for all types of dogs. Seniors with mobility issues, big sooks who want a bit of comfort, little pups who want to play and thrash around with lots of space. It comes in sizes small through to extra large.

The mattress is memory foam, so it won't lose its shape. Even better: it has a waterproof, removable cover under the fluffy exterior. If you have a senior dog with bladder issues, or a puppy yet to be toilet trained, you don't have to be on high alert for accidents.

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