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Are you looking for an eco-friendly dog bed for your furry friend?
Many dog beds on the market contain harmful chemicals, such as flame retardants and heavy metals, which can pose health risks to pets and humans alike.
We choose organic and non-toxic materials for our own bedrooms, 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.
To be classed as eco-friendly, a dog bed must meet the following criteria.
We'll talk more about how to identify these things later. First, let's look at the organic pet beds that tick all the boxes.
✔ 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).
Everything Bean Products makes is free from flame retardants, harmful chemicals, and toxic dyes. The absence of formaldehyde, ozone depleters, mercury, lead, and other heavy metals makes it non-toxic and safe for your pet to sleep on.
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.
The Bran Prodicts dog bed is made from premium 17oz upholstery-grade organic hemp fabric stuffed with supportive shredded latex. The manufacturer claims it will never flatten out, which is true in our experience so far.
The cover is easily removable for easy washing, ensuring a hygienic sleeping environment for your four-legged companion.
Or Buy on Amazon (Without Discount)
✔ GOTS / GOLS Certified Organic
✔ PETA-Approved
✔ Extra Support for Older Dogs
We Say: I couldn’t write a bed article without mentioning one of my favorite sleep brands, Avocado.
Avocado uses the same GOLS-certified organic latex and GOTS-certified organic cotton to make their dog beds as they do on their human bedding and mattresses. The product is also MADE SAFE, FSC, and Climate Label certified. Avocado is a certified B-Corp brand.
So with certified organic and natural materials and fair labor practices, this is one seriously green dog bed.
I don’t have a problem with either of Millie’s choices. However, if I were a Labradoodle looking for a comfy bed but also conscious of my environmental paw print, this is the bed I’d go for.
This is an orthopedic dog bed designed to relieve pressure on a dog's body. That means 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 while researching and 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 pet bed retailer that also offers a choice of filling and cover materials.
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 pet 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.
The Molly Mutt bed now has GOTS-certified organic cotton covers (they were previously uncertified), so it now ticks all the boxes in terms of safety and sustainability.
To choose a sustainable dog bed, look for materials that are eco-friendly and biodegradable, such as organic cotton, hemp, or recycled materials.
Also consider how the product was made, and any additional features you may need, such as orthopedic support and a removable cover.
Sustainable dog beds contain natural, renewable, or recycled materials such as organic cotton, hemp, natural latex, and recycled plastic bottles, promoting environmental health by reducing chemical pollution and landfill waste.
Natural materials used in eco-friendly pet beds are generally non-toxic, durable, and considered hypoallergenic, providing a healthy sleeping space for pets.
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:
Using non-toxic materials in dog beds can help prevent skin rashes, breathing problems, and other serious health issues in pets.
Some certifications to look out for when considering eco-friendly materials include:
Note that certifications increase the manufacturing cost, and not every pet bed has them. Lack of certification does not inherently mean a product isn't eco-friendly, but having them gives assurance and helps avoid greenwashing.
The manufacturing process of dog beds is crucial. Sustainable methods should be used to ensure that the environmental benefits of the materials are not negated.
The best dog beds are made using sustainable methods, such as:
Some certifications to look out for when considering eco-friendly manufacturers include:
Older dogs often benefit from beds that provide othopedic support.
Orthopedic dog beds are designed to provide proper support for dogs, especially those with joint issues, arthritis, or other musculoskeletal concerns, by using high-quality memory foam or layered cushioning to relieve pressure on hips, shoulders, and joints.
Choosing an orthopedic dog bed can lead to deeper, more restorative sleep for pets, which can help reduce stiffness, improve mobility, and enhance energy levels during the day.
Dog beds get messy. So consider whether the bed has a waterproof cover or liner. It's also useful if cover can be removed and machine washed. Otherwise, you will need to spot clean stains and hand-wash it every time it starts to smell.
Buying a cheap, flimsy dog bed is a false economy because they simply need replacing more frequently.
A key component of sustainability is not buying/consuming unnecessarily. Purchasing a well-made and durable pet bed might cost a few bucks more at the start, but I'm convinced it'll save you money in the long run.
Make sure the dog bed is big enough for your dog to sleep in comfortably. Otherwise, they won't use it.
It's an unavoidable fact that most sustainable products are more expensive than mass-produced alternatives.
Non-toxic dog beds usually 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. Organic dog beds help reduce plastic pollution, conserve natural resources, and provide a healthier sleep environment for pets. Plus, they're often more comfortable for your dog.
If you have the time and materials, one option to save money is to make a DIY dog bed at home.
One of the most eco-friendly dog bed options is the one that's made using materials lying around your home.
If you have some old clothes or 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:
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 can find the perfect earth-friendly 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!
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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