Does your furry friend deserve the coziest spot to rest after a long day of playing? Just like us, dogs need a comfortable place to sleep, especially in their outdoor homes. Choosing the right bedding for a dog house can feel like a puzzle. You worry about keeping them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Plus, you need something easy to clean that won’t get smelly quickly. It’s tough finding the perfect balance between comfort, durability, and cleanliness.
But don’t worry! We have gathered all the essential tips you need. This guide cuts through the confusion. You will learn exactly what materials work best for different weather and how to keep that space fresh. Ready to transform your dog’s house into a five-star retreat? Keep reading to discover the secrets to selecting the ultimate dog house bedding.
Top Bedding For A Dog House Recommendations
No. 1
Natural Wheat Straw - 2 LB Dry Clean Soft Garden Mulch Weed Cover Chicken Coop Yard Farm Pets Bedding, Warm Decorative Straw Bale for Stray Cats Dogs Shelter
- 100% Natural & Soil-Safe Straw: Made from sun-dried wheat straw with no chemicals or weed seeds. It can safely break down into the soil, improve soil structure, and support organic gardening while keeping plants healthy and protected
- Ideal Spring Garden Mulch for Soil & Plants: Perfect for spring gardening, this wheat straw works as an effective straw for soil, helping retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent erosion from rain or wind
- Versatile Use for Gardens, Lawns & Landscaping: Widely used as garden mulch for vegetables, straw mulch for strawberries, roses, flowers, and seedlings. Suitable for garden beds, landscaping, lawn seeding, yard ground cover, and grass protection
- Clean & Animal-Friendly Bedding: This straw uses vacuum packaging to ensure that the straw is sealed and kept clean and odor-free for safe use around animals and plants. Ideal bedding for chicken coops, egg-laying boxes, cat shelters, rabbit hutches, and small animal housing
- Enhance Your Space: Our decorative wheat straw is great for crafts and seasonal decor. Use as straw for crafts, decorative displays, or holiday decorations to add a natural rustic touch
No. 2
BobbleT Natural Wheat Straw – 3 LB Clean Dry Straw Bale for Stray Cats & Dogs, Soft Straw Bedding for Cat Shelter, Hay Bales for Decoration, Yard or Farm Use
- Clean, Dry & Natural Wheat Straw:Made from 100% natural wheat straw, this clean and dry straw bale offers a soft, comfortable texture ideal for pet bedding or farm use. It contains no additives, fillers, oils, or dyes, ensuring a safe and high-quality product you can trust. Thoroughly dried to remove weed seeds and prevent sprouting, it’s perfect as straw bedding for feral cats and small outdoor animals, keeping them warm, dry, and secure
- Ideal Straw Bedding for Cats & Outdoor Shelters:Designed as straw bedding for cats, this bale provides excellent insulation and softness for cat shelters, outdoor dog houses, or feral cat colonies. The natural fiber traps heat effectively while allowing air circulation, creating a warm and dry space for pets during cold weather. Ideal for rescuers, shelters, and pet owners seeking a natural and reliable bedding solution
- Decorative & Functional Straw Bale for Multi-Use:Beyond pet bedding, these hay bales for decoration bring rustic farm charm to seasonal setups, fall festivals, or porch displays. Each 1 LB bale is compact, easy to carry, and mess-free—great for DIY projects, photography, or autumn harvest décor. Use it to create cozy scenes while still serving practical purposes like small animal nesting or garden protection
- Works Great as Straw Mulch for Landscaping:This straw also functions as an eco-friendly straw mulch that retains soil moisture, prevents erosion, and suppresses weeds. Perfect mulch for landscaping, vegetable gardens, and flower beds—improving soil health while keeping your yard tidy. Its natural texture blends beautifully with outdoor décor, helping create an attractive, low-maintenance garden environment
- Safe, Sustainable & Compostable Material Completely biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals, this Natural Wheat Straw is safe for animals, plants, and the planet. Use confidently for straw bedding for feral cats, pet shelters, or compostable mulch after use. It breaks down naturally, returning nutrients to your soil for sustainable gardening and zero-waste outdoor care—eco-friendly from start to finish
No. 3
BobbleT Natural Wheat Straw – 1 LB Clean Dry Straw Bale for Stray Cats & Dogs, Warm Straw for Cat Shelter, Soft Straw Bedding for Cats, Chicken Coop Bedding, Hay Bales for Decoration
- 【100% Natural Wheat Straw】100% Natural Wheat Straw, Crafted from premium natural wheat straw, thoroughly dried and cleaned to help reduce dust and debris. Ideal as straw bedding for feral cats, straw for feral cat bedding, and straw for cat house setups—great for stray and feral cats needing a safe nesting material
- 【Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable Choice】Our straw is 100% compostable and sourced from renewable wheat crops, perfect size for display, easy to place on tables, mantels, entryways, or combine with pumpkins, garlands, and candles for a cozy holiday vibe
- 【Ideal Bedding for Stray Cats & Feral Shelters】Designed specifically for outdoor use, this straw is perfect for feral cat shelters and rescue boxes. Works as straw for outdoor cat shelter, straw for outdoor cat house, and straw bedding for outdoor cats in barns or garages. Whether you're helping community cats or protecting your own pets outdoors, our straw bedding provides reliable comfort through every cold weather
- 【Insulates Against Harsh Winter Conditions】Unlike blankets or hay that retain moisture and freeze, wheat straw naturally insulates by trapping air between its hollow stalks. Keeps outdoor cats warm, dry, and protected in freezing temperatures—essential for winter survival
- Versatile Decorative Bale： Ideal for farmhouse, porch, yard, garden, party décor, western cowboy themes, barn weddings, and fall festivals. A must-have for autumn decorating.Beyond decoration, this straw bale also provides warm bedding for stray cats & dogs during colder months, making it both decorative and meaningful
No. 4
Hahafelt 6 Pcs Soft Fleece Puppy Blankets Pet Blanket for Small Dog Cat Kitten 23 x 16 Inches Washable Fluffy Flannel Blankets for Dogs Pet House Bed (Beige)
- Sufficient Quantity: you'll receive 6 dog blankets, a sufficient quantity nice for keeping your dog or other pet warm during the winter, while also protecting your sofa, bed, and other furniture from pet damage
- Plush Dog Blanket: our dog blankets are made from soft and warm flannel; The fluffy plush is skin friendly and non irritating, giving your dog, cat or other pet a comfortable experience
- Small Pet Blanket: the size of 23 x 16 inches is designed specifically for small dogs, puppies, and cats, making it a nicely fit for pet beds, pet cases, car seats, and sofas; The design of the heart-shaped pattern can nicely blend in whether you want to use it as a pet pad or home decoration
- Washable Cat Blanket: the pet blanket is machine washable, foldable, easy to carry, and suitable for outdoor activities such as traveling, camping, and picnicking; Keep your pet warm and comfortable while sleeping outdoors
- Versatile Use: this pet blanket can be applied indoors and outdoors, providing a warm environment for your pet; They're nice for sofas, dog beds, floors, or cages
No. 5
Washable Pee Pads for Dogs, Reusable 36" Round Whelping Pads, Whelping Box for Dogs, Puppy Training Pads with Non-Slip Back for Playpen/Crate, Dog Housebreaking Absorption Pad
- Super Absorbent: Our washable pee pads for dogs round are made of 100% polyester knitting surface for ultimate comfortable; Super absorbent high density middle layer; Breathable waterproof PUL inner layer with non-slip silica gel bottom.The dog pee pads are suitable for whelping box for dogs.
- Reusable&Washable: Guaranteed absorbency for up to 300+ washes, the whelping pads are fully machine washable and can be reused many time, no odor left and can go in the dryer.NOTE: DO NOT USE fabric softener, bleach or dry clean these whelping pads.
- Anti-Slip Bottom: Our washable pee pads for dogs have a great deal of anti-slip silica gels on the bottom side of the fabric. The leak-proof, slip resistant backing will help keep your floors dry while staying in place.
- Multipurpose: Reusable pee pads for dogs round could be used in dog kennel & dog crates for small dogs, training puppies pee in playpen or assisting incontinence elderly,as whelping pads & incontinence bed pads & waterproof floor mat for pets. Our reusable pee pads for dogs round are ideal for protecting carpet,wood floor,furniture,sofa,car seats during travel.
- Coldwind Bedding Sale Service: We are committed to customer satisfaction. If you have any questions about washable pee pads for dogs round during the purchase process, please do not hesitate to contact us.
No. 6
3LB Natural Wheat Straw, Premium Organic Straw for Animal Bedding, Garden Mulch, Compost, and DIY Crafts - Eco-Friendly, Chemical-Free, and Multi-Purpose
- 100% Natural & Chemical-Free: Harvested from organic wheat, our straw is free of pesticides, chemicals, and additives. It’s safe for animals, plants, and humans, making it a healthy choice for your home, garden, and pets.
- Multi-Purpose Performance: Perfect for chicken nesting boxes, small animal bedding (rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters), garden mulch, composting, erosion control, and rustic DIY crafts. Its lightweight, absorbent design adapts to any task.
- Superior Animal Bedding: Provides a soft, warm, and breathable surface for chickens to lay eggs and small pets to nest. The natural straw wicks moisture away, keeping animals dry and comfortable while reducing odors.
- Premium Garden Mulch: Insulates soil to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature. As it decomposes, it enriches the soil with organic matter, promoting healthier plant growth and a more vibrant garden.
- Eco-Friendly & Sustainable: A renewable resource that composts easily, reducing waste and supporting a circular ecosystem. It’s a greener alternative to synthetic bedding and mulch materials.
No. 7
Natural Wheat Straw - 1 LB Dry Clean Soft Garden Mulch Weed Cover Chicken Coop Yard Farm Pets Bedding, Warm Decorative Straw Bale for Stray Cats Dogs Shelter
- 100% Natural & Soil-Safe Straw: Made from sun-dried wheat straw with no chemicals or weed seeds. It can safely break down into the soil, improve soil structure, and support organic gardening while keeping plants healthy and protected
- Ideal Spring Garden Mulch for Soil & Plants: Perfect for spring gardening, this wheat straw works as an effective straw for soil, helping retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent erosion from rain or wind
- Versatile Use for Gardens, Lawns & Landscaping: Widely used as garden mulch for vegetables, straw mulch for strawberries, roses, flowers, and seedlings. Suitable for garden beds, landscaping, lawn seeding, yard ground cover, and grass protection
- Clean & Animal-Friendly Bedding: This straw uses vacuum packaging to ensure that the straw is sealed and kept clean and odor-free for safe use around animals and plants. Ideal bedding for chicken coops, egg-laying boxes, cat shelters, rabbit hutches, and small animal housing
- Enhance Your Space: Our decorative wheat straw is great for crafts and seasonal decor. Use as straw for crafts, decorative displays, or holiday decorations to add a natural rustic touch
No. 8
Jeffers Pet Comfort Dog Pillow, Medium 25" x 33", Dark Green – Machine Washable Dog Bed for House, Sofa, Crate & Travel – Poly Cotton Shell, Winter Warmth, Soft, Comfy, Durable, Top Pet Bedding
- Durable & Long Lasting - Built to last with a high quality, durable construction, this pet comfort pillow is ideal for everyday use, offering long term comfort for your pet while complementing your home decor
- Ultimate Comfort & Support - This dog pillow features a soft, durable poly/cotton shell and 600 gm poly fiber fill insulation, providing your dog or cat with a comfy and supportive resting place at home, in the house, on the sofa, or in a crate.
- Perfect for All Seasons - Designed to offer year-round comfort, this washable dog bed is perfect for winter warmth while staying breathable for use in warmer months, ensuring your pet stays cozy, cool, and comfortable anytime.
- Easy to Clean - The machine washable design of this dog pillow makes it simple to maintain. Keep your pet's space fresh and clean with ease, making it an essential addition to your pet's bedding accessories collection.
- Multi-Use & Versatile - Whether used as a pet mattress, travel pillow, or crate pad, this versatile bed is perfect for pets of all sizes. It also works as a great lounging spot on your sofa or in a kennel for both dogs and cats.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Dog House Bedding
Choosing the right bedding for your dog’s house keeps your furry friend cozy, warm, and happy. A good bed offers support and insulation. This guide helps you select the best option for your pup and their outdoor or indoor home.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check for these important features. They make a big difference in comfort and durability.
- Size Matters: Measure the inside of the dog house. The bed should fit well, leaving a little room for movement but not so much that it bunches up.
- Insulation Level: If your dog stays outside, you need thick, warm bedding. Indoor beds can be lighter.
- Water Resistance: Outdoor beds must shed water or dry quickly. Look for waterproof covers.
- Ease of Cleaning: Dogs can be messy! Removable, machine-washable covers are a huge plus.
- Support: Older dogs or large breeds need supportive foam or thick padding to protect their joints.
Important Materials
The material of the bed affects warmth, comfort, and how long it lasts. Consider these common options:
Outer Fabrics:
- Canvas or Heavy Nylon: These are tough and resist chewing or scratching better than thin cloth. They are great for outdoor use.
- Fleece or Sherpa: These soft materials feel wonderful in cold weather but might absorb moisture if left outside.
Filling Materials:
- Poly-fill (Polyester Fiber): This is common and inexpensive. It offers basic cushioning but can flatten over time.
- Memory Foam: This material molds to your dog’s body. It offers superior support, which is excellent for senior dogs.
- Cedar Shavings: Some people use these, especially in outdoor houses. Cedar naturally repels fleas, but you must replace it often.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all beds are made equal. A few details really separate high-quality bedding from lower-quality items.
Quality Boosters:
- Double Stitching: Strong seams prevent the filling from spilling out after a few weeks of use.
- Thick Padding: A thicker bed (3 inches or more) provides better insulation from the cold floor of the dog house.
- Non-Skid Bottoms: These keep the bed in place, preventing it from sliding around when your dog hops in or out.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin Batting: Beds that feel flat right away offer very little comfort.
- Cheap Zippers: If the zipper breaks, washing the cover becomes very difficult.
- Untreated Fabrics: Fabrics that soak up water quickly will make your dog damp and cold during rain.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how your dog uses their house. This guides your final choice.
Use Cases:
- The Outdoor Guard Dog: This dog needs rugged, weather-resistant bedding. Look for durable nylon and thick foam that resists ground moisture. The bed must stay dry inside the house.
- The Indoor Napper: If the dog house is just a cozy corner inside your garage or laundry room, you can choose softer, more luxurious materials like fleece. Washability is key here.
- The Puppy or Chewer: Puppies test everything! Choose beds with durable, tightly woven covers and minimal loose stuffing that could be swallowed.
A good bed lasts longer and keeps your dog healthier. Always check reviews to see how other owners found the bed holds up to real-life dog use!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog House Bedding
Q: How often should I clean the bedding?
A: For indoor use, wash the cover weekly or bi-weekly. For outdoor beds, check for dampness or dirt daily and wash the cover monthly, or whenever it looks dirty.
Q: Can I use old blankets instead of buying a specific dog bed?
A: Yes, old blankets work in a pinch, but they flatten fast and do not insulate well from cold floors. A proper dog bed offers better support.
Q: What is the best bedding for extreme cold?
A: Look for beds that use thick orthopedic foam and have a waterproof outer layer. Self-warming materials also help trap your dog’s body heat.
Q: Are cedar chips safe inside a dog house bed?
A: Yes, cedar chips repel fleas, but they must be kept dry. They should be in a separate, breathable sack or layer, not loose under the main cushion, as they can irritate some dogs’ skin.
Q: How do I stop my dog from chewing the bed?
A: If your dog is a chewer, choose beds labeled as “chew-resistant.” These use tougher materials like ballistic nylon. Ensure the bed size is correct so they don’t feel cramped.
Q: What if my dog’s bed gets soaked by rain?
A: Remove the wet bedding immediately. If the cover is removable, wash and dry it. If the foam core is soaked, you must dry it thoroughly in the sun or it will grow mold. Replace the filling if it smells musty.
Q: Should the bed fill the entire dog house floor?
A: It is best if the bed covers most of the floor area. This keeps your dog off the cold, hard floor. However, leave a small perimeter so the bed doesn’t get pushed against the walls.
Q: Do I need a different bed for summer and winter?
A: Many owners swap beds. Use thick, warming beds in winter and switch to thinner, cooling mats or just a simple canvas pad in the summer heat.
Q: How do I know if the bed size is correct?
A: Your dog should be able to fully stretch out without hanging off the edge, and they should be able to curl up comfortably in the center.
Q: Are expensive memory foam beds worth the extra money?
A: If your dog is older, arthritic, or very large, the joint support from quality memory foam is definitely worth the higher price.