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Beds & Crate Pads

Best Waterproof Dog Beds: For Accidents, Wet Dogs and Senior Dogs

Waterproof dog beds for wet dogs, seniors and accidents: the difference between a waterproof liner, a waterproof cover and water-resistant, plus 5 picks.

By Updated 5 min read Research-based guide

We compare published specs, manufacturer information and patterns in owner feedback. We haven't physically tested these products; if we ever do, the guide will say exactly what we tested.

Two wet Labrador Retrievers standing at the edge of a pond
On this page
  1. “Waterproof” means three different things
  2. Quick picks
  3. The 5 best waterproof dog beds
  4. What about the PetFusion bed?
  5. How to choose a waterproof dog bed
  6. Frequently asked questions

A dog who comes in wet from the yard, a Lab who heads straight for every pond, a puppy still learning, or a senior dog having accidents: all of them can ruin a foam bed fast. Once urine or water soaks into the foam, it’s very hard to get out.

The fix is a bed that keeps liquid out of the foam. But “waterproof” on a listing can mean three quite different things, and that’s what this guide sorts out first.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The links below go to Amazon; if you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It doesn’t change our picks. See our affiliate disclosure.

Our picks are research-based: we compare manufacturer listings and specifications; we haven’t tested these beds hands-on.

“Waterproof” means three different things

What the listing saysWhat it actually doesGood for
Waterproof liner zipped around the foamStops liquid reaching the foam on every sideAccidents, incontinent seniors, puppies
Waterproof layer in the coverProtects the sleeping surface; seams, zips or sides may not beWet dogs, spills, a bed you wash often
Water-resistant coverRepels light splashes; soaks through if liquid sitsLight protection only

If accidents are the reason you’re shopping, look for the first one, and read the listing for exactly which parts are waterproof.

Quick picks

PickBest forType of waterproofingWhere to buy
Dogbed4less Orthopedic Memory Foam BedBest overallWaterproof internal zip cover around the foamCheck price
Comfort Expression Waterproof Orthopedic BedBig dogs who like bolstersWaterproof inner linerCheck price
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog BedBest budgetLaminated waterproof layer in the coverCheck price
EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Sofa BedBolster bed on a budgetWaterproof film under the sleeping surface (sides aren’t)Check price
K&H Outdoor Elevated Dog BedPatios, yards, wet climatesQuick-drying waterproof meshCheck price

The 5 best waterproof dog beds

Best overall

1Dogbed4less Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed

The listing describes a gel memory foam pad inside a waterproof internal zipper cover, with a removable, machine-washable denim outer cover and a spare microsuede outer cover. That’s the setup you want for accidents: the liner protects the foam, and you can wash one outer cover while the other is on the bed.

Pros

  • Waterproof internal cover zips around the foam
  • Two outer covers, so one can be in the wash
  • Memory foam support for big or older dogs

Cons

  • You still need to wash the outer cover after an accident
  • Check the size chart: the listing covers several sizes

Check price on Amazon →

Best with bolsters

2Comfort Expression Waterproof Orthopedic Dog Bed

An orthopedic bed with bolsters and a waterproof inner liner that the listing says stops liquid soaking into the foam. The outer cover is removable and machine washable.

Pros

  • Waterproof inner liner protects the foam
  • Bolsters for dogs who lean or curl
  • Removable, machine-washable outer cover

Cons

  • More parts to take apart for washing (base and bolsters)
  • Bolsters take up some of the lying space; size up for sprawlers

Check price on Amazon →

Best budget

3Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed

A low-cost orthopedic bed whose cover has a laminated waterproof layer to protect against spills and accidents, according to the listing. Unzip the cover and machine wash it.

Pros

  • Inexpensive for a waterproof orthopedic bed
  • Waterproof layer built into the cover
  • Machine-washable cover

Cons

  • The waterproofing is in the cover, not a separate liner around the foam
  • Budget foam won’t feel as substantial as premium beds

Check price on Amazon →

Bolster bed on a budget

4EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Sofa Bed

Memory foam and egg-crate foam with three-sided bolsters. The listing says a waterproof film sits between the fleece surface and the bottom fabric, and it states plainly that the sides are not waterproof.

Pros

  • Three-sided bolsters for head and neck support
  • Waterproof film under the sleeping surface
  • Soft fleece top

Cons

  • Sides aren’t waterproof, so not ideal for heavy accidents
  • Fleece holds dog hair

Check price on Amazon →

Best for outdoors

5K&H Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed

Not a foam bed at all: an elevated cot with a waterproof, quick-drying mesh center, made for patios, decks and yards. It lifts your dog off wet or hot ground, and the listing notes the hammock-style support helps relieve joint pressure.

Pros

  • Mesh drains and dries quickly
  • Raised off damp or hot ground
  • Good for outdoors and for dogs who run hot

Cons

  • No cushioning; add a pad if your dog likes it soft
  • Frame needs assembling

Check price on Amazon →

What about the PetFusion bed?

The PetFusion Ultimate is one of our favourite all-round orthopedic beds, but its listing describes a water-resistant cover, not a waterproof liner. It’s fine for a clean, dry dog; for accidents, pick one of the beds above or add a waterproof liner. See it in our orthopedic dog beds guide.

How to choose a waterproof dog bed

  • Accidents or incontinence: a waterproof liner around the whole foam core, plus a washable outer cover. A spare cover makes life much easier.
  • Wet dog, muddy paws: a waterproof layer in the cover is usually enough, with a cover that machine-washes.
  • Big or senior dog: solid orthopedic foam first, waterproofing second. See our orthopedic dog beds.
  • Outdoors: an elevated mesh cot, not a foam bed.
  • Size: measure your dog lying stretched out and add a few inches. Use our dog bed size calculator.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a waterproof and a water-resistant dog bed?

Water-resistant slows a spill down; waterproof stops liquid reaching the foam. For accidents, look for a waterproof liner around the foam.

Is a waterproof liner better than a waterproof cover?

A liner zipped around the whole foam protects every side. A waterproof layer in the cover protects the sleeping surface, but seams, zips or sides may not be waterproof.

What is the best dog bed for an incontinent senior dog?

Solid orthopedic foam with a waterproof liner and a removable, washable cover. Ask your vet about new incontinence.

Can you put a waterproof dog bed outside?

Foam beds aren’t made to live outdoors. Use an elevated cot with quick-drying mesh.


Related: Best Orthopedic Dog Beds · Labrador Retriever Gear Guide · Best Dog Beds for German Shepherds · Dog Bed Size Calculator