A rectangle dog bed is the best shape for dogs who stretch out or sleep on their side, because it lets them fully extend their legs. For small to medium dogs, our picks run from orthopedic rectangles to boxy boucle beds and flat floor pillows, starting at $94.
By Edvards Strelcs & Dr. Alex Crow
Written by Edvards Strelcs, Le Noof. Medically reviewed and co-authored by Dr. Alex Crow (Veterinary Surgeon, MRCVS).
Emma unboxing her Green Boucle Square Dog Bed
Why choose a rectangle shape?
Round beds make dogs curl. A rectangle dog bed gives side-sleepers and sprawlers room to stretch their legs out flat, which many dogs prefer once they have the space.
Not sure which shape suits your dog? Compare them in our guide to round vs rectangular beds.
The orthopedic rectangle for joints
The Grey Corduroy Orthopedic Dog Bed (from $143) is a true rectangle with a firm CertiPUR-US foam base and a waterproof lining under a washable cover.
Dr. Alex Crow recommends a flat, supportive surface for growing and aging joints. See all orthopedic dog beds.
Want a warmer, softer look?
The Tan Brown Flannel Orthopedic Dog Bed is the same rectangle build as the corduroy, wrapped in a cozy flannel cover.
Its warm tone sits well next to wood floors and earthy interiors, where grey can feel cold.
What do you get with the flannel bed?
The same orthopedic foam base, a waterproof lining and a removable, washable cover. The Small starts at $179.
Comparing brands? See how it stacks up in our ranking of the best orthopedic dog beds.
Is the boucle square bed actually square?
Not quite. The name comes from its boxy, square-edged profile, but the footprint is a rectangle: Small is 32 x 24 inches and Medium is 39 x 28 inches.
In the photo, a French Bulldog stretches out on the green Small.
Why pick the green?
The Green Boucle Square Dog Bed (from $139) is a deep green that holds its own in a room instead of hiding in a corner. It's the bed Emma unboxes in the video above.
Foam-filled with a removable, machine-washable cover. Browse all boucle dog beds.
Prefer a neutral that blends in?
The grey version is the same boxy rectangle in a dark grey boucle that works with almost any floor or sofa.
Long, low breeds love the room to stretch. In the photo, a Dachshund settles into the Small.
What size should you get?
The Grey Boucle Square Dog Bed starts at $139 for the Small (32 x 24 in), with the Medium at $169 (39 x 28 in).
Measure your dog stretched out and add a few inches. See all square dog beds.
Need a flat bed for a small to medium dog?
Our boucle floor pillows are flat rectangles, 33.5 by 21.5 inches, sized for small to medium dogs. The fill is GRS 4.0 certified recycled polyester.
At $94, it's the easiest way to add a second bed by the couch or under a desk.
Which pillow color should you pick?
Swipe through all six: beige, cream white, grey, blue, dusty pink and chartreuse green. Every color is the same 33.5 x 21.5 inch pillow at $94.
Beige, cream and grey disappear into a room. Pink and chartreuse turn it into a statement piece. See them all in dog pillows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a rectangle dog bed better than a round one?
It depends on the dog. Rectangles suit dogs who stretch out or sleep on their side, while round beds suit dogs who curl tight.
What size rectangle bed for a small or medium dog?
Small fits most dogs up to about 25 lbs and Medium up to about 50 lbs. Measure your dog stretched out and add a few inches.
Are the orthopedic beds good for joints?
The orthopedic rectangles use a firm CertiPUR-US foam base for support, which vets recommend for growing and aging joints.
Can I wash a rectangle dog bed?
The orthopedic and boucle beds have removable, machine-washable covers, and the orthopedic beds add a waterproof lining.
Find the right rectangle for your dog
Orthopedic, boucle or a flat floor pillow, all ship free in the US. Pick the shape your dog actually sleeps in.
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