How to Choose the Right Size Dog Bed — A Breed-by-Breed Guide
Getting the size right is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your dog's comfort. Here's how to get it right first time.
Choosing a dog bed sounds simple enough. You find one you like the look of, pick the size that seems closest to your dog, and hope for the best. But a surprising number of dog owners end up with a bed their dog refuses to use — and more often than not, size is the reason.
A bed that's too small causes dogs to hang their limbs off the edge, disrupting sleep and putting strain on joints. A bed that's too large lacks the cosy, enclosed feeling many dogs instinctively seek out. Getting it right matters — especially when you're investing in a quality natural dog bed built to last.
At Hemp Pet Beds, we make our beds in four carefully considered sizes, each designed with specific breeds and sleeping styles in mind. This guide walks you through exactly which size suits your dog — by breed, weight, and sleeping style.
Measure your dog from nose to tail base while they're lying in their natural sleeping position. Add 20–30 cm to that length to find your ideal sleeping area. If your dog curls up tightly, you can size down slightly. If they sprawl, always go larger.
The Hemp Pet Beds Size Guide
Small — best for tiny dogs and cats
The small bed suits true toy breeds that curl up tightly. Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers rarely weigh more than 3–4 kg and thrive in a cosy, enclosed sleeping space. The raised wool-filled walls of our natural hemp bed act as a natural bolster — something these smaller breeds gravitate toward instinctively.
View our Small Hemp Pet Bed →Medium — for cats and small dogs
The medium is our most popular size for small dog owners. The French Bulldog — currently the UK's most popular small breed — typically weighs 8–15 kg and fits comfortably here. Pugs and Shih Tzus, both known for sensitive skin, particularly benefit from a hypoallergenic hemp dog bed that won't irritate their systems.
View our Medium Hemp Pet Bed →Large — the sweet spot for medium breeds
The Cocker Spaniel is currently the most registered medium breed in the UK — and at 12–16 kg, the large size is their natural fit. Whippets, known for loving warmth and softness, thrive on natural wool filling that retains heat without trapping moisture. The 15 cm height gives medium breeds the wall support they often seek when curling up.
View our Large Hemp Pet Bed →Extra Large — for bigger breeds and sprawlers
The Labrador Retriever remains one of the UK's most beloved dogs, and at 25–36 kg they need proper space. Larger breeds are significantly more prone to joint issues such as hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis — which is exactly why the material of their bed matters as much as the size. Our natural wool filling doesn't flatten over time the way polyester does, providing consistent joint support for the lifetime of the bed.
View our XL Hemp Pet Bed →What If My Dog Is Between Sizes?
If your dog sits right on the boundary between two sizes, always go larger. Dogs that feel cramped will simply stop using their bed and find somewhere else to sleep. A slightly larger bed is far less wasteful than one that goes unused.
Also consider your dog's sleeping style. Tight curlers can often go one size smaller than their weight suggests. Sprawlers — dogs that stretch fully flat — should always size up, regardless of weight.
Why the Bed Material Matters as Much as the Size
Getting the dimensions right is only half the equation. A dog bed made from synthetic polyester — however well sized — will trap heat, harbour dust mites, and flatten within months. For dogs with sensitive skin or allergies, it can actively cause discomfort rather than relieve it.
Our hemp and wool dog beds are built from 100% hemp canvas and natural wool filling, handmade in West Sussex. Hemp is naturally hypoallergenic, breathable, and odour resistant. Wool provides cushioning that holds its shape over years, not months. Every size in our range is made to the same standard — so whether you need a small natural dog bed for a Chihuahua or an extra large dog bed for a Labrador, the quality is identical.
All four sizes are available in our Natural Hemp & Wool Hypoallergenic Dog Bed. Handmade in England, built to last.
Shop the full size range →