Which bed size does your dog or cat actually need?

A bed that is too small gets ignored. A bed that is too big loses the cozy, tucked-in feeling that makes cats and small dogs choose it over the sofa. The trick is to size for how your pet sleeps, not how they look standing up.

Step 1: watch how they sleep

Curlers tuck nose to tail in a ball. Cats, and many small and medium dogs, sleep this way most of the time. A round bed with a raised rim suits them.

Sprawlers stretch out flat on their side. Larger dogs and warm-weather sleepers do this. They need a longer, flatter bed and usually more space than you expect.

Step 2: measure the sleeping shape

Next time they are asleep, measure the longest point of that shape: nose to tail when curled, or nose to rear paw when stretched. Add 15-20 cm so they can shift position. That number is the inside diameter or length to look for.

Step 3: check the weight guide

Makers publish a weight range for each size. Use it as a second check, not the first. Our Cozy Donut Bed ships in the 50 cm size, which the maker rates for pets up to about 5 kg (11 lb). That covers most cats and small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Yorkies and small terriers. A 7 kg Frenchie or a Cocker Spaniel needs a bigger bed.

Round or flat?

• Round, raised rim: best for curlers and for pets that like something to lean their head on. Feels enclosed.
• Flat mat or rectangle: best for sprawlers, for crates and for hot weather.
• Tent or cave: for cats and shy dogs that prefer a roof. See the Cat Tent House.

Things people forget

• Washability. Check whether the whole bed goes in the machine or only the cover. Plush beds should be air dried fully before use.
• Vacuum packing. Many plush beds ship compressed. They look flat on arrival and need a shake and 6-12 hours to regain loft.
• Placement. A great bed in a draughty hallway is still a bad bed. Put it where they already nap.

Browse the beds collection, and measure first.