Quick answer: Small dogs usually do best with a warm, cozy bed they can curl up or burrow in, such as a bolster, donut or cave-style bed. Look for a low entry, a washable cover, and the right size so your dog feels snug, not lost.
Small breeds like Yorkies, Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus have little body fat and often get cold fast. Many love to curl up, burrow under blankets and press against something soft.
Our own senior Yorkie, Gracie, has a blanket in every bed for exactly this reason. Here’s how to pick a bed that keeps a small dog warm and comfortable.
Popular Small Dog Bed Styles
| Style | Great for |
|---|---|
| Donut or round bolster bed | Curlers who like to rest their head on an edge |
| Cave or burrow bed (hooded) | Dogs who dig under blankets and like to hide |
| Self-warming bed | Dogs who get cold easily; reflects body heat with no electricity |
| Low-profile orthopedic bed | Seniors and dogs with joint or knee problems |
| Crate pad | Dogs who sleep in a crate |
What to Look For
- The right size. Small dogs like to feel snug. Measure your dog curled up and choose a bed only a little bigger.
- Low entry. Small dogs, especially seniors, can struggle with tall sides. A low front lip makes getting in easy.
- Warmth. Soft, plush fabrics, hooded designs or self-warming layers help small dogs stay cozy.
- Washable cover that’s easy to remove.
- Non-slip base for hard floors.
- Safe materials. Skip beds with small pieces or loose stuffing for dogs who chew.
Small Dogs and Their Joints
Small breeds are prone to a slipping kneecap (luxating patella), and many develop arthritis as they age. A supportive foam base, even a thin one, is easier on joints than a bed that collapses flat.
Small dogs who jump off high furniture can injure themselves too. If your dog sleeps on your bed or couch, pet stairs or a ramp can help.
Keeping a Small Dog Warm
- Add a fleece blanket your dog can burrow into.
- Keep the bed away from drafty doors and windows.
- If you use a heated pad, choose one made for pets and make sure your dog can move off it. Older dogs may not move away from heat quickly.
Helpful Products
- Cave-style burrow beds: Lets burrowing dogs hide and stay warm.
- Self-warming dog beds: Reflects body heat, no cords needed.
- Pet stairs for small dogs: Saves small joints from jumping off furniture.
- Soft fleece dog blankets: Easy to wash and great for burrowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of bed is best for a small dog?
Most small dogs love warm, cozy beds like bolster, donut or cave-style beds. Seniors may do better with a low-entry orthopedic bed.
Why does my small dog burrow under blankets?
Burrowing is natural for many small breeds, especially terriers. It keeps them warm and helps them feel secure.
Are self-warming beds safe?
Yes. They use a reflective layer to bounce back your dog’s own body heat and don’t use electricity.
Should my small dog sleep in my bed?
That’s a personal choice. If your dog sleeps on a tall bed, pet stairs can prevent jumping injuries.
The Bottom Line
Small dogs want to be warm, snug and comfortable. Pick a bed that fits them closely, is easy to climb into, and gives them a place to curl up or burrow, and they’ll happily use it every day.
Keep reading:
- Life With a Senior Yorkie: What 14-Year-Old Gracie Has Taught Us
- 10 Small Dog Breeds Perfect for Apartment Living
- The Ultimate Guide to Dog Beds: Finding the Perfect Fit
- Pet Ramps vs. Pet Stairs: How to Choose for Senior and Small Dogs
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