How to make a dog crate comfy: Creating the paw-fect comfy dog bed

Updated 27/02/2024

A comfy dog bed is essential for every snuffle monster. Unlike their cat counterparts, dogs can appreciate when their parents have found the paw-fect pet mattress. (they have superior taste when it comes to these things). Having this cozy quiet space also counts for crate time. If you choose to put your pup in a crate at night, or you’ve taken them through crate training for other purposes, you’ll want to make sure this area feels most like a comfy, canine cave rather than a cage.

A dog crate needs to be more than just easy to clean, it needs to be a space where your pup can put their paws up after a busy day of being the family favorite. A place for quiet time, similar to how humans have a go-to chair, couch, or reading spot. We’ve done some digging to sniff out what makes a great dog bed and how this can be added to your bark baby’s crate.

Here’s how to make a dog crate comfy with a few simple steps and suggestions.

Top tail tips on how to make a dog crate comfy

Location, location, location

Whether you have an adult dog or a young puppy, where you keep their crate is just as important as what you put inside it. When we say location, location, location, we don’t mean head to your local realtor, we mean find a place in your home that’s ideal for quiet time. 

Some pet parents figure this out during crate training, but finding the paw-fect spot can be tricky. Make sure it is well-ventilated and in a place where you can cool them down in summer or warm them up in winter. Dogs prefer their crate to stay in the same place, particularly if they sleep there at night. Make sure this area is tucked away to help your dog feel safe. However, make sure they have a bit of a view of what’s going on, they still like to observe the daily goings on of their family while they chill. The exact location depends on the temperament and disposition of your dog. If they are very nervous, they may want to be somewhere well out of the main thoroughfare of the house.

A comfy crate must be able to fit a dog bed inside

What makes a comfy dog bed inside a crate? One that fits properly, duh! Dog beds are designed to offer extra room for doggos to feel more comfortable. If their dog bed doesn’t fit in their crate, they’re not going to be comfy. Before purchasing a bed for their crate, be sure to take measurements of your pup as well as their crate. The last thing any pet parent wants is a squashed snuffle.

Extra padding for your pooch

Some dog crates already come with added pooch padding, but not all of them, especially those designed for travel. Although their dog bed may be enough, a few extra blankets or padding are a great way to make your pooch feel extra comfy. This is important for wintertime if you need to keep your pup warm. Be careful of overheating in summer, however, they need fewer blankets as the temperatures rise.

Make sure plush dog toys, chew toys, and favorite toys are in reach

Just as some of us used to take our teddies to bed with us (well, some of us still do, and that’s okay!) our pups love to take their toys with them too. Whether for emotional support or to while away boredom, make sure your pooch has at least a chew toy or one of their many plush dog toys in there with them.

If you’re planning to keep your pup in their crate during long periods of the day, a small puzzle toy can be a great option to help them pass the time, as well as reduce the chances of destructive behavior.

Easy access to water

Another must-have for doggos who use their crate at night, on long journeys, or if you’re away during the day. Keep their water bowl visible in a corner of their crate and use blankets to hold it in place. It’s pretty much impossible to teach a pup to drink their water without making a mess, but this should help prevent any annoying spillages.

A sprinkling of dog treats can help create quiet time

And finally, the most im-paw-tant tip: dog treats. Whilst a water bowl is essential, keeping a full food bowl inside their crate is perhaps not the best idea. This can dirty their bedding much quicker and create unwanted smells. Instead, pop in a few treats or a taste chew to gnaw on that isn’t going to make their comfy crate a stinky one. This is also a helpful tip for crate training - if your pup associates their crate with treat time, it’ll be easier to coax them in there. Always supervise your dog when giving them chews to ensure they do not choke.

Meet our veterinary expert, Emma

This article has been checked by veterinarian Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS. Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a postgraduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.

For young pups who are still growing into their paws, we have a helpful puppy training guide for new pet parents and puppy sitters. Otherwise, join the conversation on our Community Forum - hear how other canine carers create comfy, cozy crates for their fur family whilst swapping some of your suggestions.