7 Best Waterproof Dog Bed Options for Outdoor Adventures
- Molly Weinfurter
- Aug 6
- 5 min read
Outdoor adventures like camping weekends and hiking trips are great for dog parents because the activities are more likely to be dog-friendly. However, the gear you need to pack for outdoor activities is much different than what you would use in the comfort of your home. One item that most dog parents probably don’t consider until they're out in the wilderness is a waterproof dog bed.
Most dog beds are made of plush materials and soft mattresses to maximize your dog’s comfort. While those types of beds are perfect for indoors, they can quickly get damp and disgusting if you use them outside. Even inside a tent, dog beds and blankets can get dirty from the debris tracked inside.
If you love to explore the outdoors with your canine companion, especially on camping trips, a waterproof dog bed is a great way to give them a comfortable sleeping spot that won’t be easily ruined.
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When to Use a Waterproof Dog Bed
Camping trips are only one example. Waterproof dog beds are perfect for many situations, including:
Outdoor lounging, especially in wet or muddy environments
Puppies still learning potty training
Senior dogs or sick dogs with bladder issues
Dogs who want a spot to relax after swimming
Heavy droolers
Regardless of the type of fluid the bed is resisting, these beds make it easy to clean up after mud, rain, accidents, and drool without ruining the bed’s cushion or fabric.
What to Look for in a Waterproof Dog Bed
Every waterproof bed is different, but here are some key features to keep an eye out for:
Easy to clean
Waterproof liner surrounding any cushions or stuffing
Still comfortable even with waterproof materials
Suitable for your dog’s size and weight
Affordable while still being good quality
Most waterproof beds are either a cushioned bed with a waterproof cover or an elevated bed that’s easy to rinse off. Choose an option that’s practical while still fitting your dog’s preferences and needs.
Best Waterproof Dog Bed
Below are some of the best waterproof dog beds, which are perfect for outdoor adventures or situations that require the bed to be cleaned frequently.
Waterproof dog beds don’t have to be uncomfortable, and this product is proof of that. This cushioned bedding has orthopedic support, just like the luxurious beds your dog might have at home. The bed’s cover is made with waterproof oxford fabric, so when moisture gets on the bed, it won’t leak onto the interior. The cover can be wiped with a damp cloth or completely removed to go in the washing machine. Dog parents can choose from 15 colors and eight sizes to find the perfect one for their dog.
This is another great option for dogs who need premium comfort even on camping trips. The interior has egg crate foam for comfort while the cover is made of premium oxford fabric that blocks liquid. The fabric is also great as resisting fur, making it easy to wipe down after a fluffy dog’s nap. With a machine-washable cover, you can easily clean the bed as often as needed. This brand has three colors and five sizes available.
Elevated beds are a great option for outdoors because the bottom won’t get covered in dirt and they’re easy to clean. This one has an added layer of comfort because it has a waterproof cover with a bolster cushion to make it more comfortable. You can easily remove the mat if you want a more breathable option on hot summer days. This versatile bed works great for any situation where the bed might get wet. It comes in five colors and five sizes.
This simple option is essentially a large pillow with a waterproof cover. It’s the perfect cozy spot for both indoor and outdoor use. It comes in either green or gray, and its extra large size makes it a great spot for any dog 100 pounds or smaller to stretch out on. The cover can be easily removed and thrown in the washing machine when it gets dirty, and its waterproof liner ensures that no liquid seeps onto the cushion.
For dogs that need a bed that’s easy on their joints, this is a great choice. It’s like a small orthopedic mattress that humans would use, only designed for dogs. It’s dual-sided, so you can choose whether your dog will prefer memory foam or egg crate foam. The bed includes a waterproof cover that’s perfect for outdoor adventures and older dogs that can’t control their bladders. It has five unique colors and seven sizes, most of which fit perfectly into standard dog crate sizes.
Standard elevated dog beds like this one might not market themselves as waterproof, but liquids won’t harm them. The fabric and sturdy steel frame of this bed are easy to rinse off whether you’re on an outdoor adventure or relaxing in your backyard. The elevated fabric is breathable, helping dogs relax while also staying cool on warm days. The design is also good for your dog’s joints. This product specifically is eco-friendly because it’s made from 100% recycled fabric. There are four sizes and five colors available.
Here’s another great outdoor dog bed that can easily be rinsed off after coming into contact with dirt, debris, or moisture. It has seven colors and four sizes to offer variations that cater to a variety of dog breeds. While elevated beds might not look comfortable at first glance, the way they cradle your dog’s body is good for their joints and offers breathability that fluffy beds don’t. It’s a strong, durable design, which is why it’s perfect for outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Make a Dog Bed Waterproof?
You can make a dog bed waterproof by covering it in a waterproof mattress protector. Some dog beds already come with a waterproof cover to ensure the bed is still comfortable while resisting moisture.
Can You Get a Waterproof Dog Bed Protector?
Yes, some brands sell waterproof dog bed protectors without a bed included. This is a great way to cover one of your dog’s favorite beds without having to buy them a completely new bed.
How Do You Wash a Waterproof Dog Bed?
Most of these dog beds come with a removable cover that you can throw in the washing machine. For elevated dog beds or covers that aren’t machine washable, you can wipe them down or spray them off.
How Do You Prevent a Dog from Urinating on Their Bed?
If your dog keeps urinating on their bed, visit your vet first to rule out health problems. If it isn’t health-related, return to the potty training basics to teach your dog where it’s okay to do their business. For dogs that can’t control their bladder, wearing a diaper/belly band or using a waterproof bed cover can help contain the accidents.
Bring a Waterproof Dog Bed on Your Next Camping Trip
If you're sick of your dog’s bed getting filthy after an outdoor trip, you might want to consider getting a waterproof dog bed for your next adventure. Regardless of where you use these beds, they’re easy to clean without causing any plush fabric or mattresses to get wet or dirty. Even if it’s not your dog’s primary bed, it’s still a great bed to have around for the right situations.
