“Sizing a dog bed feels simple until your pup ends up with paws hanging off the edge. This quick guide shows you exactly how to measure your dog so the orthopedic bed you pick actually fits. From nose-to-tail length to shoulder height and crate compatibility, we cover the basics that owners often miss. Ready to shop? Start with our orthopedic dog bed hub.”
To pick the right size, first measure your dog for an orthopedic bed. Use a soft tape, note nose to tail length and shoulder width, then add a comfort margin. If the bed must fit a crate, confirm the interior size first. Seniors and big breeds do better with generous space and a low step in height.
Quick measuring checklist
- Have your dog relax on the floor.
- Measure nose to tail base for length.
- Measure shoulder width or full sprawl for width.
- Add extra inches for comfort.
- If using a crate, measure the interior length and width.
- Choose a thickness your dog can step onto easily, especially seniors.
Step by step: length, width, and how many inches to add
Length
Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while your dog is relaxed. This is your minimum bed length.
Width
Measure the broadest point across the shoulders or the full side sprawl if your dog sleeps stretched out. This prevents elbows or hips from hanging over the edge.
Add inches
Add a comfort margin. Many retailer guides suggest adding several inches so the dog can stretch. For small curlers you can add a bit less, but sprawlers and larger dogs often need more room than you think. Treat the add inches rule as a comfort buffer, not a strict number.
Inline tip
Write down both measurements and compare them to the brand’s size chart since Large and XL vary across manufacturers.
See the nose to tail method on the Big Barker size guide.
Sprawler vs curler and low step in needs
Sleeping style changes the footprint you pick. Sprawlers tend to occupy the full length, so give them extra room at the head and paws. Curlers can fit a smaller footprint if a bolster supports the neck. Seniors benefit from a low step in height so they do not need to climb onto a tall edge each time they lie down. The goal is easy access with space to extend joints and turn without slipping off the edge. A supportive bed is especially helpful for older dogs that cannot get comfy on hard floors.
Crate fit: matching bed to crate interior
If the bed must go inside a crate, start with the crate’s interior length and width. Measure the inside of the crate and pick a mat that lies flat with slight clearance so the corners do not buckle. Crate vendors recommend measuring nose to tail base and adding a bit for comfortable movement, then matching that to the crate’s internal dimensions. A low profile mat works best in crates because step in height is minimal and the door closes cleanly.
Measure the interior length and width as crate makers recommend.
Large vs XL with real brand examples
Brand labels are not universal, so compare the actual footprint. For example, PetFusion lists Large at 36 by 28 inches and XL at 44 by 34 inches on its Ultimate model, while other brands define sizes differently. If your dog rests the head on a bolster, remember that the interior lying space is smaller than the outer footprint. For long bodied or 75 to 100 pound dogs, XL often provides better stretch, but always check your measurements against the chart.
| Feature | Large bed example | XL bed example |
|---|---|---|
| Footprint | 36 × 28 in | 44 × 34 in |
| Better for | 45 to 75 lb if length fits | 75 to 100 lb or long bodied dogs |
| Note | Tighter for sprawlers | Extra space at head and paws |
Breed sized shortcuts
Use breed lists only as a starting point. A Beagle that sprawls may need more space than a curled up Border Collie. Measure your dog and match the footprint to sleeping style. Seniors and large breeds usually benefit from generous room and a supportive surface so elbows and hips are cushioned.
| Bucket | Typical weight | Examples | Starting footprint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | up to 20 lb | Chihuahua, Yorkie | 20 to 30 by 15 to 20 in |
| Medium | 20 to 45 lb | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel | 30 to 36 by 20 to 25 in |
| Large | 46 to 75 lb | Labrador, Boxer | 36 to 44 by 28 to 34 in |
| XL to Giant | 76 to 100 plus lb | German Shepherd, Great Dane | 44 to 58 by 34 to 40 in |
Common sizing mistakes to avoid
Do not buy to weight alone. Length and sleeping style matter more than the label on the box. Do not skip the comfort margin or you will end up with paws off the edge. If the bed must fit a crate, measure the crate’s interior and match a mat that sits flat. For seniors, avoid tall step in heights and prioritize supportive foam that does not flatten early.
FAQs
How do I measure length
Measure from nose tip to tail base while your dog is relaxed and standing or lying flat. Use that number as your minimum bed length.
How many inches should I add
Use a comfort margin rather than a rigid number. Many guides suggest adding several inches so your dog can stretch and turn without hanging over the edge.
Do I need to measure width
Yes. Measure the broadest point across the shoulders or the full side sprawl if your dog sleeps stretched out.
How do I size a bed for a crate
Measure the crate’s interior length and width and select a low profile mat that lies flat with slight clearance.
Large or XL for a 75 to 85 lb dog
Compare your measurements to the brand chart. On PetFusion’s Ultimate, XL is 44 by 34 inches and offers more lying room than Large for long bodied dogs.