What fabric is best for a dog bed?

Choosing the right dog bed isn’t just about size or colour — the fabric plays a massive role in your dog’s comfort, your home’s hygiene, and the longevity of the bed itself. Whether you’re dealing with a teething puppy, a senior dog with joint issues, or just an extra-fluffy mate who sheds like a woolly jumper, the material you choose matters.

At PaWz, we believe in dog beds that suit every lifestyle, breed, and season — and that starts with selecting the right fabric.

Let’s explore which materials work best for different needs, what to avoid, and how to choose a dog bed fabric that’s worth every cent.

Why Fabric Matters More Than You Think

You wouldn’t wear a wool jumper in 35°C heat or sleep on plastic sheets, right? The same logic applies to your dog’s bed.

The fabric can affect:

• Temperature regulation

• Shedding and dander control

• Allergies and sensitivities

• Chew resistance

• Ease of cleaning

• Longevity and comfort

Before we dive into fabric types, it’s worth reviewing the big picture. If you haven’t already, check out our guide on how to choose the right dog bed — it’ll help you define your dog’s core needs before narrowing down the material.

What to Consider When Choosing a Dog Bed Fabric

Coat Type

• Long-haired dogs may overheat in plush or faux fur

• Short-haired breeds often need extra softness or warmth

Lifestyle

• Outdoor dogs need weather-resistant, durable materials

• Indoor pups might benefit from plush, washable covers

Age & Health

• Puppies and senior dogs often need waterproof liners

• Orthopaedic needs = supportive filling and soft yet tough outer fabric

Allergies & Sensitivities

• Hypoallergenic microfibre or tightly woven fabric is ideal

If your dog ticks multiple boxes, don’t worry — there’s a fabric out there to suit!

Comparing Popular Dog Bed Fabrics

Fleece & Plush

Fleece is ultra-soft and comforting, making it a popular choice for calming beds and smaller breeds who love to burrow.

Pros:

• Cosy and comforting

• Ideal for anxious or chilled dogs

Cons:

• Attracts fur like a magnet

• Hard to fully clean

Fleece is best suited for donut beds, fluffy beds, or dog snuggle beds kept in cooler areas.

Cotton

Natural and breathable, cotton is often used in covers or inserts. It’s light and soft — but not the most durable.

Pros:

• Breathable and soft

• Easy to dye and print on

Cons:

• Tears easily with scratching or chewing

• Can hold onto odours and moisture

Cotton is better suited for dogs that don’t chew or dig — or as a washable cover on top of a more durable base.

Microfibre & Microsuede

These synthetic fabrics are a top choice for dog beds for a reason — they’re comfortable, durable, and relatively easy to clean.

Pros:

• Tightly woven and durable

• Less likely to trap fur

• Easy to spot clean and vacuum

Cons:

• Can feel warmer in summer

• Not all microfibre is created equal — check the thickness

You’ll find this fabric on many orthopaedic beds, memory foam beds, and sofa-style dog beds.

Canvas & Oxford Cloth

Built tough for the messiest dogs, these fabrics are commonly found in raised, waterproof, or outdoor dog beds.

Pros:

• Extremely durable

• Often water- and chew-resistant

• Great for hot climates

Cons:

• Not as soft

• May need a soft inner layer or cushion

For large breeds or diggers who destroy beds in minutes, canvas is a solid bet.

Sherpa & Faux Fur

Designed to mimic the softness of real wool or fur, this fabric is ideal for dogs who love to feel cocooned.

Pros:

• Plush and luxurious feel

• Encourages nesting behaviour

Cons:

• Traps fur and dirt

• Requires frequent washing

Best suited for small dog beds, round calming beds, or fluffy dog beds kept indoors.

Velvet, Terry, and Other Luxury Covers

Often found on premium memory foam dog beds, these fabrics strike a balance between comfort and style.

Pros:

• Stylish and soft

• Good for dogs who don’t chew or dig

Cons:

• Less durable

• May show stains

Combine with a removable, washable cover for practicality.

Easy-to-Clean Fabrics: A Must-Have Feature

Let’s face it — dogs are messy. Whether it’s drool, dirt, or the odd accident, you’ll want a fabric that can handle frequent washing.

Look for:

• Machine-washable fabrics

• Removable zip covers

• Water-resistant liners underneath

For hygiene-focused buyers, explore our washable dog beds collection — built with everyday clean-ups in mind.

Need tips? Read our blog on how to wash a dog bed to keep things fresh.

Best Fabrics by Lifestyle

For a complete care guide, check our related post: How Often Should You Replace a Dog Bed?

Common Mistakes When Choosing Dog Bed Fabric

• Ignoring washability: Looks nice, smells awful in a week.

• Choosing based on colour only: Function beats fashion.

• Going too soft for chewers: You’ll be vacuuming fluff in minutes.

Tip: If you wouldn’t want to sleep on it, your dog probably won’t either.

Fabric Highlights from the Pet PaWz Range

Here are a few examples of beds where fabric meets function:

• Orthopaedic Dog Bed – Durable microsuede cover + memory foam base

• Fluffy Calming Dog Bed – Faux fur Sherpa top, removable cover

• Waterproof Raised Bed – Oxford canvas fabric with elevated mesh

• Memory Foam Sofa Bed – Soft velvet exterior, easy zip-off wash

Choosing the best fabric for a dog bed comes down to more than looks. It’s about balancing comfort, durability, and care — for both you and your pup.

Need help finding the perfect match? Browse our full Dog Beds Collection to find a fit that feels good in every way.

At PaWz, we’re all about comfort that lasts. Whether you're looking for machine-washable covers, tough outdoor fabrics, or luxury faux fur, we’ve got something your dog will love curling up on.