You know how wonderful it feels to settle into a nice, comfy bed with a heated blanket on a cold day? Did you know that you can give your dog that same feeling with a heated dog bed? But not only are heated dog beds good for just creating a warm, cozy place to sleep, they can also be a useful way to help dogs that have health conditions that make them sensitive to cold weather or just benefit from some extra warmth.
We reviewed dozens of heated dog beds to identify the best of the best. We considered all sorts of features, including size, cleanability, safety features, and more, not to mention reviews from real-life users just like you.
Our top pick and the clear winner is the Marunda Pet Heating Pad. With a built-in dual thermostat, chew-resistant steel cord, and a removable, machine washable cover, it stood out from the rest.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Heated Dog Beds
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Heated Dog Bed Overall | Marunda Pet Heating Pad | 4.6 |
| Best Self Heating Dog Bed | Aspen Pet Self Warming Bed | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Heated Dog Bed | Furhaven Thermapup Self-Warming Pet Heating Pad | 4.3 |
| Best Outdoor Heated Dog Mat | K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed | 4.6 |
| Best Heated Kennel Pad | Lesotc Pet Heating Pad | 4.5 |
Best Heated Dog Bed Overall: Marunda Pet Heating Pad
Our top pick is the Marunda Pet Heating Pad. It’s a versatile, comfortable heated dog bed that’s a great choice for virtually any home.
This heated dog bed has a built-in dual thermostat with intelligent temperature control that holds the bed’s temperature between 95° and 108° F, which is the most comfortable range for dogs. The inner heating wire is sandwiched between layers of fireproof sponge for safety, then enveloped in scratch proof, waterproof PVC material. The heating pad also comes with a soft flannel removable cover for extra comfort and warmth. The cord is made of stainless steel and is wrapped in cladding hose for chew resistance. In addition, it can withstand up to about 60 pounds (27 kgs) of pull force. The flannel cover is machine washable for easy cleaning and the PVC layer can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Just be sure to let it dry completely before plugging the heated dog bed back in.
The Marunda Pet Heating Pad comes in two sizes and can be used on the floor, on furniture, or on another dog bed. It comes with a two-year warranty and Marunda provides 24/7 live customer support.
Marunda Pet Heating Pad Key Features:
- Scratch proof, fireproof, and waterproof
- Available in two sizes
- Removable, machine washable flannel cover
- Two-year warranty
Best Self Heating Dog Bed: Aspen Pet Self Warming Bed
The Aspen Pet Self Warming Bed uses heat-reflecting technology to warm itself without the use of electricity. It has a reflective Mylar interior layer that heats up the dog bed by reflecting your dog’s own body heat back out, rather than absorbing it like a traditional dog bed. Self-heating makes this dog bed warm, but no more of a fire risk than any other non-electric bed. It also has plush sides to help keep the reflected heat trapped inside the bed so it doesn’t dissipate, leaving your pup cold. Faux lambswool lining adds additional insulation and comfiness, while the soft corduroy exterior adds to the cozy aesthetic. The non-skid bottom keeps the bed in place as your pet steps in and out.
In addition, the Aspen Pet Self Warming Bed is lightweight and flexible, which makes it good for travel. Since it requires no power, it’s an excellent option for camping or RVs.
The Aspen Pet Self Warming Bed is available in a few different colors and a couple of sizes. It’s also made in a pillow style configuration without walls for pets who prefer that style of bed.
Aspen Pet Self Warming Bed Key Features:
- Self-heating
- Faux lambswool lining
- Non-skid bottom
- Lightweight
Best Budget Heated Dog Bed: Furhaven Thermapup Self-Warming Pet Heating Pad
The Furhaven Thermapup Self-Warming Pet Heating Pad is a great way to get a heated dog bed while only spending a few dollars. It’s a reflective insert that can be used on its own or added to any dog bed with an openable cover. You can even cut it to fit the size and shape of your dog bed of choice. If you have multiple smaller beds you’d like to make heated beds, you could even get one of the larger self-warming pet heating pads and cut it into multiple smaller pads to save a little bit more. Either way, you still save by simply adding to beds you already own. Plus, you already know that your dog likes their current bed, so you don’t have to worry about shelling out for a new one, only to find out that your dog doesn’t care for the shape or material.
The Furhaven Thermapup Self-Warming Pet Heating Pad is just convenient because of the savings, though. It’s lightweight and foldable, so it’s good for travel. Since it can be used on its own, you don’t even have to take a full bed with you, though your dog will probably be more comfortable using it with a cover on it or with it wrapped in a blanket. It’s also great for seasonal use since you can easily remove it from the bed when the weather is warm, preventing your dog from overheating, then just fold it up for easy storage until temperatures drop once again.
It’s also easy to clean: just wipe it down with a damp cloth and allow it to air dry.
Furhaven Thermapup Self-Warming Pet Heating Pad Key Features:
- Can be added to almost any dog bed
- Great for seasonal use
- Folds for easy travel and storage
- Easy to clean
Best Outdoor Heated Dog Mat: K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed
The K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed is a great option for outdoor and working dogs, or even just dogs that like to spend time outside regardless of cold weather. With a durable and waterproof PVC out layer, this outdoor heated dog mat is designed to be safe enough for outdoor use, though it should still only be used in covered areas, like garages, barns, and sheds. The bed is thin, so it fits well in large dog kennels and other places space is at a premium, but it also has orthopedic foam for extra comfort and support. It also comes with a faux lambswool fleece cover.
The K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed comes in four sizes to work in a variety of spaces and for dogs of all sizes. It’s thermostatically controlled and heats so that the temperature stays consistent to match your dog’s body temperature and is effective in temperatures as low as 20 degrees. It has a 5.5-foot steel wrapped cord. This outdoor heated dog mat is only 60-watts for safety and energy efficiency.
The fleece cover is removable and machine washable, while the PVC can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Like with other electric heated dog beds, be sure to allow it to completely dry before plugging it in or using it.
K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed Key Features:
- Suitable for outdoor use
- Removable fleece cover
- Matches dog’s body temperature
- Steel wrapped cord
Best Heated Kennel Pad: Lesotc Pet Heating Pad
The last of our top five picks is the Lesotc Pet Heating Pad, a soft, flexible heated pad that’s perfect for use in kennels. It comes in two sizes and has three thermostatically controlled heating units in the larger size and two in the smaller size. This allows the heated kennel pad to maintain a consistent temperature across the entirety of the pad and allows each heater to work less hard, which reduces the risk of overheating and fire. There are layers of fireproof material both above and below the heating wires and the heated pad uses only 50 watts for safety and energy efficiency. The heating pad has VO flame resistance, which is the highest possible rating, and means that in the event that the pad does catch fire, it should extinguish itself within 30 seconds.
The 59-inch stainless steel power cord is enclosed in cladding hose and is both chew-resistant and pull-resistant.
The thermostats maintain the pad’s temperature between 96.8° and 109.4° F. The heating pad itself has an IP68 waterproof PVC envelope enclosure, but it also comes with a removable cover made from soft velvet. The cover is machine washable, while the enclosure can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Lesotc Pet Heating Pad Key Features:
- Multiple thermostatically controlled heating units
- VO flame resistance
- Chew-resistant and pull-resistant power cord
- Machine washable velvet cover
Who Should Buy a Heated Dog Bed
Heated dog beds can be a great way to provide any dog with a warm, cozy place to sleep, especially if you live in a cold area. However, they can be particularly helpful for some dogs.
For example, dogs that chill easily, such as small or short-haired breeds will especially benefit from having a comfortable place to take some time to warm up. Young puppies are also especially susceptible to cold, so a heated bed is a great addition to their area, and mom will probably enjoy the warm, cozy retreat as well. Dogs with health issues like arthritis, dysplasia, and other back problems or circulation issues, which are especially common in senior dogs, will get some relief from a heated bed. This is especially true for joint problems when the heated bed also has memory foam or similar joint support.
Some dogs also just enjoy sleeping in a warm spot. If you don’t have a heated dog bed, you may catch your dog sleeping in front or on top of heat vents, but this can dry out their skin. A heated dog bed provides them an alternative that’s still warm, but gentler on skin.
Important Features to Consider
A heated dog bed should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a heated dog bed for your dog:
- Heat source. Heated dog beds can be electric or self-heating. Electric beds generate their own heat, while self-heating dog beds reflect the dog’s body heat back. Electric heated dog beds may be better for dogs with medical issues, since the bed can be already warm before they climb in and doesn’t require the dog to expend energy heating the bed themselves. Self-heating dog beds, on the other hand, are often more affordable and don’t require access to a power source.
- Location of use. If you want to be able to use your heated dog bed outdoors, you’ll need to make sure that it’s designed for safe outdoor use. This is especially important for electric heated dog beds since the electrical elements can potentially pose a safety hazard if damaged or used improperly. Even if you only plan on using the heated dog bed inside, consider where you plan on using it. Electric heated dog beds will need to be placed near a power outlet, while self-heating dog beds can be placed anywhere.
- Size. Choose a dog bed that is large enough for your dog, but try to avoid going for one that’s significantly larger. A bed that’s too big won’t be as efficient and will waste energy. Your dog may also not be able to produce enough body heat to adequately warm a self-heating dog bed that’s too big.
- Ease of cleaning. Easy cleaning adds a ton of convenience to any dog bed, but especially so with electric heated dog beds that have delicate electrical components. Look for heated dog beds with easy to clean materials, removable and machine washable covers, and waterproof barriers protecting parts that can’t be easily washed.
- Your dog’s preferences. Does your dog enjoy beds that are soft or firm? Thick or thin? Do they prefer a bed with walls or none? Do they have a material they especially like? Try to choose a heated dog bed that suits these preferences to make the bed as comfortable and enjoyable as possible for your dog.
- Safety features. With anything that heats up, especially something electrical, safety is very important. Look for a heated dog bed with safety features like chew resistant cables, a thermostat for automatic shutoff if it gets too hot, water-resistant electrical elements, low wattage, and fire retardant materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a heated dog bed work?
There are two types of heated dog beds: electric and self-heating. Electric dog beds plug into a wall outlet or other power source and use that power to heat up, similar to an electric blanket or heating pad. Self-heating dog beds have a layer of reflective material that reflects your dog’s body heat instead of absorbing it into the bed, keeping your dog warmer.
Are heated dog beds safe?
With adequate precautions, heated dog beds are totally safe. In fact, heated dog beds and heated dog pads actually safer for dogs than electric blankets and similar products designed for humans, since the heating elements in a heated dog bed are designed to maintain a temperature that’s safe for dogs. Still, you should make sure your dog can always leave their heated dog bed if it gets too hot, regularly check any cables to make sure they’re in good shape, and check the temperature of the bed regularly while your dog is using it to make sure it’s staying at a good temperature. In addition, always make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care.
Will a heated dog bed help with my dog’s arthritis?
Just like in humans, the cold can worsen arthritis symptoms like pain and stiffness, so a heated dog bed can help counteract this. Even if it’s not especially cold, warmth from a heated dog bed can still help relieve symptoms worsened by something else, too.
How do I know if my dog is too warm?
Signs like panting more than usual, heavy breathing, excessive drooling, or dry or pale gums can indicate that your dog is overheating. Avoid overheating by making sure your dog can move away from their heated bed at all times and by regularly checking the temperature yourself to make sure it’s not too hot.
Other Heated Dog Beds We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other heated dog beds. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best heated dog beds list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your dog. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Heated Dog Beds for Large Dogs
- Heated Dog Beds for Small Dogs
- Heated Kennel Pads
- Outdoor Heated Dog Mats
- Self Heating Dog Beds
Heated Dog Beds for Large Dogs
This heating pad has an elegant rose print and comes in sizes up to 33″ x 21″, making it great for large dogs.
Key Features:
- Heats in about 10 minutes
- Chew resistant cord
- Thermostatically controlled
Cost: $30
This heating pad has features that make it scratch-proof, waterproof, fireproof, and pull-resistant, so it’s super safe for your large dog.
Key Features:
- Four layers of fireproof materials
- Can be used continuously for up to 24 hours
- Two overheating protectors for safety
Cost: $40
Petnf Upgraded Pet Heating Pad
This heating pad has a timer with five settings, including the default Always setting.
Key Features:
- Thermostatically controlled
- Five timer settings
- Chew resistant cord
Cost: $35
Quasilove XXL Heating Pad for Large Dog
This heated dog pad has two temperature settings: High to help warm the pad up quickly and Low for use for extended periods.
Key Features:
- Two temperature settings
- Chew resistant cord
- Waterproof cover
Cost: $40
This heated dog bed has a single circuit heating element for consistent temperature across the entire pad.
Key Features:
- Built-in dual thermostat
- Waterproof PVC envelope
- Removable fleece cover
Heated Dog Beds for Small Dogs
K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pet Bed
The stuffing in this heated dog bed is made from recycled plastic bottles, so it’s an environmentally-friendly choice.
Key Features:
- Self-heating
- Non-slip bottom
- Available in three colors
Cost: $25
K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Mat Heated Pet Bed
This heating pad is made for cats, but it’s also a great option for small dogs.
Key Features:
- Uses only 6 watts
- Removable, machine washable cover
- Warms to 102°
Cost: $25
K&H Pet Products Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Pet Bed
This cozy heated pet bed is a great size for small to medium-sized dogs.
Key Features:
- Soft foam walls
- Removable heater
- Uses only 6 watts
Cost: $60
Pet Craft Supply Co. Soho Self Warming Cat & Dog Bed
This heated dog bed has a memory foam cushion that will give extra support to small dogs with joint problems.
Key Features:
- Memory foam cushion
- Machine washable
- Available in Grey and Brown
Heated Kennel Pads
K&H Pet Products Pet Bed Warmer
This bed warmer is great because it can be easily added to virtually any pet bed, giving you more freedom to select a pad for your dog’s kennel.
Key Features:
- Works with virtually any pet bed
- Energy efficient
- Warms to match your dog’s body temperature
Cost: $20
This heated kennel pad is available in both fixed and adjustable temperature versions to suit any needs.
Key Features:
- Built-in thermostat
- Removable, washable fleece cover
- 5-foot, steel-wrapped power cord
Cost: $25
This heating pad has three temperature settings and three timer settings so that you can customize your pup’s use.
Key Features:
- Three temperature settings
- Three timer settings
- Auto shutoff to prevent overheating
Cost: $30
This heating pad allows you to custom set both the temperature and time.
Key Features:
- Temperature setting between 80° and 130°
- Timer setting between 1 and 12 hours
- Removable polyester cover
Outdoor Heated Dog Mats
K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Bed
With this luxurious outdoor heated dog mat, your dog can have a soft, cozy bed that’s also suitable for outdoor use.
Key Features:
- Soft, cozy bolster and fleece heating pad cover
- Warms to your dog’s body temperature
- Available in three sizes
Cost: $125
K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed
This is the basic version of the Lectro-Kennel Heated Pad for more minimalistic dogs and owners.
Key Features:
- Soft removable fleece cover
- Warms to your dog’s body temperature
- Available in four sizes
Cost: $50
K&H Pet Products Original Lectro-Kennel Outdoor Heated Pad
This heating pad can be placed on the floor for your dog to lay on or mounted to a wall so your dog can lay against it.
Key Features:
- Soft removable fleece cover
- Warms to your dog’s body temperature
- Can be placed on the floor or wall-mounted
Self Heating Dog Beds
AmazonBasics Warming Pet Bed For Cats or Dogs
This self-heating dog bed is plush and soft to be as cozy as possible.
Key Features:
- Faux sherpa lining
- Available in two shapes and three sizes each
- Heat retaining materials
Cost: $35
Downtown Pet Supply Thermal Pet Warming Bed
These thermal pads have buttons that allow you to attach multiple pads together so you can create a custom shape and size that works for your space and pet.
Key Features:
- Connectable
- Available in two sizes and two colors
- Machine washable
Cost: $20
Furhaven Insulated Self-Warming Pet Bed Mat
This self-warming mat is also available in several other configurations including a softer pad, a convertible bed, and a throw blanket.
Key Features:
- Great for travel
- Machine washable
- Available in multiple colors, styles, and sizes
Cost: $20
K&H Pet Products Self Warming Pet Crate Pad
This crate pad has slits in the corners, allowing it to work with a variety of crate sizes.
Key Features:
- Self-warming
- Microfleece top
- Non-slip bottom
Cost: $10
