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Are you looking for an eco-friendly dog bed for your furry friend?
Most of us try our best to avoid sleeping on synthetic materials. We also prefer to buy materials that are sustainably produced and can be recycled at the end of their lives.
So why should our best friends deserve any lesser treatment?
I decided to find a sustainable dog bed for our labradoodle, Millie. Preferably, one that is certified organic and non-toxic.
She did the testing (by which I mean sleeping), and I wrote up the results. Seems like a fair deal to me.
✔ Organic Latex Fill
✔ Durable Hemp Outer Cover
✔ No Formaldehyde or Other Harmful Chemicals
We Say: I was going to leave the bulk of the testing to Millie. After all, it’s her area of expertise. However, it quickly became apparent that she was not too fussy and would sleep on pretty much anything.
That said, this was one of three beds she returned to when given a choice, and I’m confident to call it her favorite of the three.
I have to say…she has impeccable taste…I also love Bean Products' natural bean bag chairs (in fairness, so does Millie).
This premium dog bed from Bean Products is the perfect solution for pet parents who want to provide their furry friends with a luxurious and comfortable bedding experience.
Made from premium 17oz upholstery grade organic hemp fabric stuffed with shredded organic natural latex, this eco-friendly pet bed will never flatten out. It’ll provide your pup with endless comfort.
The cover is easily removable for easy washing, ensuring a hygienic sleeping environment for your four-legged companion.
I'm happy to report that the bed is made without the use of toxic chemicals. Zero formaldehyde, ozone depleters, mercury, lead, and other heavy metals make it non-toxic and safe for your pet to sleep on.
Or Buy on Amazon (Without Discount)
We Say: I couldn’t write a bed article without mentioning one of my favorite sleep brands, Avocado.
In the past, I’ve used/recommended their GOTS certified organic cotton bedding and mattresses. And it turns out they don’t just cater to humans. Their organic dog beds are also pretty awesome.
This is one seriously green dog bed. I don’t have a problem with either of Millie’s choices. However, if I was a Labradoodle looking for a comfy bed but also conscious of my environmental paw print, this is the bed I’d go for.
It's worth knowing that this is an orthopedic dog bed, so it will offer Millie the support she needs when she gets older without me having to invest in a new bed.
This is an expensive option (particularly if you also go for the pillow bolster and bed frame), but if you can stretch the budget this far for your furry friend (and the planet!) it’s worth every cent!
We Say: I noticed that The Futon Shop made pet mattresses when I was researching/testing for my organic sofa bed article.
When I saw that they offer customized sizing options, I decided to give it a try, and I’m thrilled I did.
If you have a bespoke requirement, you might want to give The Futon Shop a call. However, even the standard options are numerous and would cover most needs.
Most of the other dog beds I've recommended offer different sizes and colors. But the Futon Shop is the only retailer that also gives you a choice of filling and cover material.
So, if you love a side of options with your eco-friendly credentials, The Futon Shop is the place to go.
We Say: The West Paw bed is super soft and cozy, perfect for snuggling up on a cold winter’s day. It's also so lightweight that it's suitable for travel and even fits into a pet crate if you're planning on going long distance.
The entire bed (inner and outer) is machine washable and can even go in the dryer. Wash as cool as possible for the best results.
West Paw is so confident in the quality of its dog beds that they offer a Love It Guarantee. So if your dog doesn't agree with Millie, you can simply return for a full refund.
✔ Choice of Patterns & Colors
✔ Temperature Regulating
✔ Machine Washable Cover
We Say: The Molly Mutt Sheepy Wool Crate Mat is an excellent option if you’re looking for a little bit of everything…color, pattern, and comfort.
This mat comes in a variety of sizes and an extensive range of colors and patterns.
The Molly Mutt Sheepy Wool Crate Mat is a great option for pets who need a little extra comfort. The 100% wool filling will keep them comfortable year-round, and the machine-washable cover makes it easy to keep clean.
I tested the Amarillo by Morning option with Millie. She appears to find it comfortable, and I think it looks very stylish.
My only issue with this Molly Mutt dog bed is the use of standard cotton instead of organic cotton. If they did switch to a certified organic cotton canvas, this might well be the perfect crate mat.
The definition of eco-friendly has changed a lot over the past few decades. It was once enough just for a product to be made from recycled materials. But these days, companies are expected to do much more than that.
To be truly eco-friendly, manufacturers need to take sustainability and planet welfare seriously. Here are a few things to look out for when shopping for truly green dog beds.
Your attitude to the materials used in non toxic dog beds should be the same when you’re shopping for an eco-friendly mattress for yourself.
Try to steer clear of unsustainable and toxic materials that are used in most traditional dog beds. Instead, look for dog beds and covers made from eco-friendly and sustainable materials, such as:
Some certifications to look out for when considering eco-friendly materials include:
The manufacturing process is just as important as the materials used. If a product is made in an unsustainable way, it negates any eco-friendly benefits of the materials used.
So, when you’re buying an eco-friendly dog bed, make sure to find out how it was made. The best dog beds will be made using sustainable methods, such as:
Some certifications to look out for when considering eco-friendly manufacturers include:
The filling of eco-friendly dog beds is just as important as the materials used for the outer cover.
Synthetic fillings, such as polyester, are made from petroleum and are not biodegradable or compostable. They're inherently bad for the environment.
Instead, look for dog beds filled with eco-friendly materials, such as:
These filings are more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Some are also biodegradable, so they won’t end up in landfill.
It’s an unavoidable fact that most sustainable products are more expensive than mass-produced alternatives.
Non-toxic dog beds are likely to cost more than conventional dog beds.
That’s because they’re made from higher quality, sustainable materials. They’re also often handmade by artisan craftspeople working in safe conditions and earning a fair wage. This all costs more, which makes the end product more expensive.
However, the extra cost is worth it when you consider the environmental benefits of eco-friendly dog beds. Plus, they’re often more comfortable for your dog too. Win-win!
Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. You can find cheap sustainable dog beds if you know where to look. And you can also find some costly ones!
In the article, I’ve tried to cater to all budgets.
The important thing is to shop around and compare prices before making your final decision.
Can the dog bed cover be removed and washed in the machine with eco-friendly laundry detergent, or will you need to hand wash it every time it starts to smell?
Buying a cheap flimsy dog bed will end up being a false economy.
Aside from all the potential issues with toxic materials, unsustainable manufacturing processes, etc., you’ll also probably have to replace it within a short period.
A key component of sustainability is not buying/consuming unnecessarily. Purchasing a well-made and durable dog bed might cost a few bucks more at the start, but I’m convinced it’ll save you money in the long run.
You need to make sure the dog bed is big enough for your dog to sleep in comfortably.
One of the most eco-friendly dog bed options is the one that’s made using materials lying around your home.
If you have an old comforter or pillow that’s seen better days, put it to good use by fashioning it into a bed for your furry friend.
Simply stuff the comforter or pillow inside an old pillowcase or piece of fabric, and voila! You’ve got yourself a homemade dog bed. If you’re feeling extra creative, you can even sew a dog bed cover for easy washing.
Not only is this option eco-friendly, but it’s also budget-friendly. Making your own dog bed is a great way to save money, and it’s also a fun project to do with the kids. They’ll love seeing their handiwork being used by the family pet.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when making your own environmentally friendly dog beds:
Eco-friendly is a generic catch-all phrase that some manufacturers use to confuse and deceive consumers.
Look out for dog beds made from sustainable materials put together by ethical producers. All the recommendations in this article have many excellent eco-friendly qualities.
Yes. Dogs are den animals. They would burrow into the ground to keep warm and safe in the wild. Our domestic dogs still have that instinct, which is why they love to curl up under the covers or in a cozy nook.
But do they really need a cozy bed? Most dog experts say yes, especially if your dog sleeps indoors. Having their own bed can give them a sense of security and belonging. It’s also a great way to keep them off your furniture!
Thanks to their fur coats, most dogs are naturally insulated against the cold.
However, some breeds have thinner fur coats than others and may benefit from a blanket. If your dog is shivering at night, try a blanket and see if it helps.
The best place for your dog’s bed is somewhere they can feel safe and relaxed. This might be in their crate or a corner of your room.
You also want to make sure the bed is at a comfortable temperature. Avoid putting them near draughts or heat sources as this could make your dog too hot or too cold.
Omi is not a brand I tested due to the sky-high ticket price. I wanted to include a range of dog beds for all budgets.
On average, most dogs spend 50% of their life asleep, so it’s worth investing in a non-toxic dog bed that’s comfortable and sustainable.
Eco-friendly dog beds are becoming increasingly popular as more and more pet owners become aware of the importance of choosing sustainable products and natural materials.
There are a few things you need to consider before making your purchase. But with a bit of research (I’ve done that for you), you should be able to find the perfect bed for your furry friend.
It’s time to recycle the regular old dog bed (once it’s reached the end of its usable life, of course) and go green. Your pup and the planet will thank you for it!
Where do you buy your sustainable dog beds? Have I missed your favorite brand making awesome mats, rugs, or beds with non-toxic materials? Do you have a killer DIY hack for a homemade dog bed? Drop me a line and let me know.
Our core values mean we always prioritize sustainability over profit. We carefully evaluate and personally test every product to ensure they meet our high standards. All products recommended in this article were tested in accordance with our Review Methodology.
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