The 6 Best Crate Dog Beds Australia: Tested & Evaluated 2024
Written By Vedrana Nikolic | Canine Coach, B.A Ethnology & Anthropology, M.A Semiotics.
Edited & Fact Checked By Renae Soppe | B.A Journalism & Science.
Last Updated: 21st January 2024
Maybe you have a new puppy in the family and you want to make crate training as smooth as possible, (1) and you want easy cleanup and comfort for your little one while they learn and adapt to their new environment.
Perhaps you have an adult dog who just loves the safety and security that their crate provides, as it has become their safe haven. (2)
Whatever the case may be, the best possible bed can make your dog’s crate all the more enticing.
If you’re searching for the best crate mat or crate bed in Australia for your dog, we’ve got you covered. In our quest to find the best of the best, we teamed up with veterinarians, canine behaviour experts, and pet parents alike to create a team of independent experts and test out the most popular choices. After months of research and plenty of discussion, we compiled this guide.
We’ll first discuss what makes an awesome crate mat before diving into the top crate beds Australia has to offer. There is so much choice and so much to discuss, so get cozy!
Quick Picks - The Top 3
Our Number 1 Pick -
The Barney Bed
- Highest quality materials
- 100's of 5 star Google reviews
- Machine washable
- Water and mite resistant
- Built to last a canine lifetime
Runner Up -
Quiet Time Teflon Defender Dog Beds
- Water resistant Teflon cover
- Soft fleece cover
- 1 year warranty
- Good value for money
Third Choice -
Snooza Orthobed
- Machine washable covers
- Orthopedic foam mattress
- Lightweight and portable
- Soft pile top
Australia's Best Dog Crate Beds Reviewed
Now that we have defined what makes a great crate mat for dogs, let’s review the best option on the Australian market. After months of testing some of the most popular options, these are the cream of the crop that our independent expert panel were able to agree upon wholeheartedly. We tried to keep all scenarios, sizes, and seasons in mind.
This guide will help you find the perfect crate mat for your pup.
#1: Top Choice: The Barney Bed
What sets this product apart from the rest?
Our top choice for puppies and adult dogs alike is the Barney Bed. This luxury option is an excellent dog bed for a crate for so many reasons and is actually our number one best overall dog bed.
Firstly, its high-quality materials make the Barney Bed virtually indestructible even when tested by our team's most rambunctious pups. The high-stitch microfibre covering is scratch-proof so your puppy won’t destroy it. The bed also has a water-resistant and mite-resistant lining, and this bed also tops our list for the best overall puppy beds too.
We love the orthopedic memory foam mattress which is thick, heavy, and completely supportive of your dog’s joints. Disabled and elderly dogs will find supreme comfort curled up on this mat. Due to the heavyweight mattress, however, we noticed it’s not the ideal choice for frequent travellers. If portability is a must-have feature for you, then we recommend any of the other mats on this list.
As for the construction, the Barney Bed has bolsters on all four sides, which lead to an added sense of security for my anxious pup. I also love how it comes in 5 sizes ranging from small to extra-extra-large. This is a fantastic range for a crate mat, as most do not come in that huge of a range. An average amount would be our number two choice ahead which offers three size options. Dog breeds of all sizes will find their perfect match here. Even if your Great Dane loves to sprawl, the XXL Barney Bed will suit them beautifully.
The Barney Bed being tested by our independent expert team.
The Barney Bed is simple to machine wash by removing the covers. We would recommend the microfibre covers for puppies as they are so durable. However, for adult dogs, you have the option for the stylish 100% linen covers. These come in a range of cool colours for that extra level of customisation. These covers are fully machine washable too.
Though it may cost a pretty penny, think of it more like a lifetime investment for your pooch, the Barney Bed is luxe, snuggly, and imperishable. It’ll be the perfect addition to your pup’s sacred den, just make sure you measure correctly!
This Barney Bed is suitable for small dogs like a Chihuahua to extra large dogs like a Great Dane.
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#2: Best Value for Money: Quiet Time Teflon Defender Dog Beds
For those on a budget, the Quiet Time Teflon Defender is a wonderful option for your dog’s crate. It may sound like a space-age sleep robot, but the Quiet Time bed is in fact a specifically-designed crate mat for dogs that is comfortable and easy to clean.
We appreciated how the Teflon material is water resistant and stain resistant, similar to our number one choice. Therefore it stays cleaner for longer. It’s no problem if you do need to wash it often though. Simply unzip the cover of the crate pad and throw it in the washing machine to keep it fresh.
On the other side, there is a white fleece cover for a snugglier sleep. You can reverse these covers interchangeably. A long-haired dog will probably prefer the Teflon side, whereas a short-haired pup will like the warm fleece side. We love a bed that can cater to both!
The Quiet Time crate bed comes in three sizes: 66 cm, 76 cm, and 91 cm in length. So, most dogs regardless of breed will get on well with this bed.
The foam pad is soothing on your dog’s joints whilst also being relatively lightweight. Unlike our first choice, portability is not an issue with this model at all. We also like the geometric print design. Slightly more elevated than some of the plainer crate mats on this list.
Above all, the price point for this crate mat is fantastic, making it one of the better cheap dog bed options. Such great value for money with all of these top tier features. The cherry on the cake is the 1 year manufacturer’s warranty. Every member of our independent team of experts wholeheartedly recommend the Quiet Time crate mat.
This Quiet Time Teflon Defender Dog Beds is suitable for small dogs like a Chihuahua to medium dogs like a Blue Heeler.
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#3: Best Orthopedic Crate Bed: Snooza Orthobed
Now the Barney Bed is a wonderful orthopedic dog bed option for your pup but we wanted to add in one more with different features. We’re all about choice here! Introducing the Snooza Orthobed.
Unlike the Barney Bed, the Snooza model is a completely flat orthopedic bed, which our panel of experts note is great for disabled or pregnant dogs. The convoluted Australian foam mattress is cushiony to your dog’s joints whilst also being surprisingly lightweight, so you can take this pad anywhere!
The Snooza Orthobed being tested by our independent expert team.
The cover is made from high-quality, machine washable polyester, that has a soft pile top for maximum comfort. You can spot clean the foam mattress by hand when needed.
As for sizing, I was sad to learn the Snooza Orthobed only comes in a small and large size. The small measures 87 cm x 60 cm. The large measures 120 cm x 87 cm. Both are 7 cm in height. This is a little limiting when sizing for your dog’s crate, but if the fit is right, your dog will love it!
This is not the cheapest crate mat in Australia but it is a really high-quality option. For elderly, disabled, and pregnant dogs, this is a good orthopedic option.
This Snooza Orthobed is suitable for small dogs like a Chihuahua to large dogs like a Husky.
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#4: Best Indestructible Crate Mat: MIXJOY Crate Mat
Now onto the rambunctious puppies! Many dog owners argue that the perfect crate mat for puppies is no crate mat at all. Simply throw in some soft blankets and you’re good to go. After all, you don’t want to invest too much in a bed that your puppy will ultimately destroy, right? Whilst that is completely your choice, we respectfully disagree.
Just because they have young bones, bodies and brains do not mean they don’t deserve the same level of comfort as old dogs. In fact, members of expert panel argue that soft bedding helps with the development of a healthy skeleton. Luckily, there are also crate beds that can withstand the teething and boisterousness of a young pup too. Our pick is the MIXJOY Crate Mat, an overall great indestructible dog bed option.
This mat is practically unperishable, with reviews from puppy owners on our independent expert team attesting to its durability. The stylish cover is made of high-stitch fabric that little teeth and claws cannot penetrate. Therefore you won’t need to replace this mat as soon as you feared.
The fabric is soft and durable, but unfortunately not removable, unlike the other options on our list. You can wash this mat in the washing machine on a gentle, cool wash, but the manufacturer does recommend hand washing if possible. This will ensure the integrity of the bed over time; a better return on your investment.
Speaking of investment, this crate mat for puppies is very well priced. Ideal for those Australian households on a budget. The MIXJOY is foldable and lightweight so it is easily transportable. It comes in three sizes too, so puppies of all sizes can get on with this crate mat.
Overall, the MIXJOY is our top choice as a puppy crate mat. The good reviews, chew resistance, and low cost make it too good of a product to miss!
This MIXJOY Crate Mat bed is suitable for small dogs like a Chihuahua to large dogs like a Husky.
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#5: Best Cooling Crate Mat: K&H Pet Products Coolin' Comfort Bed
Summer is always a certainty here in Australia. So let’s keep your pup cool as they hang out in their crate. Our independent panel of experts share that cooling crate mats are important since they're specifically designed to help your dog regulate their temperature in unbearable heat.
Cooling beds are typically only used by your dog when they need that extra boost of freshness. However, you may want to prep your dog’s crate for maximum comfort during the summer and a cooling crate pad can help you do that.
Our pick is the K&H Coolin’ Comfort Bed for many reasons. First of all, it doesn’t require any electricity. Simply add cool water to have the full cooling effect for your dog. This is great as a crate mat since electric cords in a crate is never a good idea.
The K&H is completely flat with a soft, orthopedic foam layer embedded in the mattress. Similar to our number one choice, the Barney Bed, elderly or disabled dogs will love the extra cushioning.
Like our number two and number four choices, this crate mat comes in 3 sizes, ranging from 60 cm to 110 cm in length. A wide range of breeds of all sizes will enjoy this cooling pad.
Onto the cons and this is not a great choice for chewers. The fact it is filled with water also makes it a little heavy; not ideal for travelling.
If you want to pamper your pooch this summer with a frosty option for their crate, the K&H is a stellar choice.
This K&H Pet Products Coolin' Comfort Bed is suitable for small dogs like a Chihuahua to large dogs like a Husky.
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#6: Best Warming Crate Mat: Love's Cabin Self Warming Crate Pad
Let’s balance the scales with a warming option now! Warming dog beds are fabulous for Winter or short-haired dogs that struggle on cold nights. A snuggly option for our crate-dwellers is the Love’s Cabin Self Warming Crate Pad. A cute name for a cute product!
Everyone on our team of independent panel shared that the Love’s Cabin mat is cushioned and plump, with a soft microfibre exterior that is caring on your dog’s skin. Like our cooling pad, this bed uses no electricity. Instead, the warming properties come from a self-warming thermal layer within the mattress that reflects the dog’s own body heat back to them. Your dog will feel very toasty but not overwhelmingly so.
Unfortunately, this warming crate pad only comes in one size. It measures 60 cm x 88 cm. This is not a bad size for a standard crate but of course, extra large and extra small crates won’t be suitable for this crate pad. I did appreciate that it is, however, fully machine washable on a gentle cycle and low heat. You can choose to hand wash this pad if you want to ensure its longevity.
The price is mid-range so it won’t break the bank. Love’s Cabin stands by their product, so they offer a 1 month return and replacement service if you are unhappy with the product for any reason.
To summarise, this is a top choice for a warming crate mat to keep your dog snuggly and warm on cold nights!
This Love's Cabin Self Warming Crate Pad is suitable for small dogs like a Chihuahua to medium dogs like a Blue Heeler.
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How I Choose A Crate Bed For My Dog
Whether you call them mats, beds or pillows - crate mats are as varied as dog beds. There are luxury options, indestructible options, warming mats, and cooling mats.
For the purposes of our review today, we will stick to just calling them crate mats - in that they are a soft sleeping surface that is placed on the floor of a crate. To find the right one for you, our panel of independent experts say you need to take into account the following factors:
Durability
The durability of any product is a key factor in your buying decision as you want a return on your investment after all. We all hate that one fast-fashion t-shirt that practically melted in the washing machine. Well, be sure not to make the same mistakes when looking for a crate mat for your dog!
Durability is all in the materials used. Teflon is definitely hardier than a cheap polyester or velvet. The sponge filling can also vary widely in quality. A more solid orthopedic memory foam is far more likely to last a long time than thinner spongey foam mattresses. You want the shape and buoyancy of the mattress to provide lasting support to your dog’s joints as they rest.
PRO TIP: Another factor in this is your dog’s age. If you are crate training your puppy, then you’ll need a virtually indestructible crate mat that can withstand your puppy’s teething. If you’re shopping for a crate mat for senior dogs, the teething is less of an issue but the strength of the mattress certainly is. Older dogs are far more likely to suffer from hip dysplasia and arthritis, so the crate mattress needs to soothe those joints. (3)
Ease Of Cleaning
We all want a washable dog bed that is simple to clean. Most crate mats have machine washable covers, making cleaning a breeze. If the cover and lining are more delicate, you may need to hand wash, which is clearly more time-consuming. If the entire bed is washable this is a huge plus. Particularly with puppy crate mats, it is beneficial to have a fully washable mat in case of accidents.
Note: we will not be discussing pee pads for puppies today as that is a slightly different product than the humble crate pad. For a quick definition, a pee pad is a portable potty training tool. (4)
Some owners use them as the base for their crate but pee pads can be used anywhere. Generally, we find that pee pads inside crates can be quite confusing because the aim of the crate is not to be used as a toilet.
As our panel of experts explain, the principle of crate training is that your dog does not want to soil their own bedding. The crate is meant to be a safe space for them. Keeping them confined in a crate overnight or when unsupervised for a couple of hours during the day means that your dog is less likely to pee or poo around the house or inside the crate. They don’t want to defile their own safe space! Therefore, a pee pad is counterproductive to crate training in general.
Shapes & Sizing
Crate pads for dogs come in all different shapes and sizes. The vast majority of mats are flat but some have bolstered sides to make your pup feel even more secure. Anxious dogs like mine appreciate high sides to their crate mat because the enclosing structure feels safer - like a warm hug! This is a key factor if you are using crate training for separation anxiety.
“It bears repeating that a crate is your dog’s friend and your ally. It’s an important training tool and the solution for many puppy challenges. It isn’t cruel or unhealthy if used appropriately. Instead, it can provide your pup with a safe, quiet place to relax. Some dogs feel safer and more comfortable in their crate when left alone.” Stephanie Gibeault, MSc, CPDT, from the American Kennel Club (5)
You want your crate mat to fit perfectly within the crate space. If you intend to also feed your dog in the crate or have toys, the mat could be slightly smaller than the full space of the base. That said, if you are only purchasing a crate bed for when your dog is travelling, then think of what will make them most comfortable.
Portability
Speaking of travelling, crates are often used when transporting your dog in the car or via public transport - trains, planes, and automobiles! Ferries often require that your dog’s crate has a mat to help absorb any accidents, but also for the general comfort and happiness of your dog. Travelling is stressful for dogs in general so you’ll want the experience to be as easy as possible for them.
With that in mind, a travelling crate bed should be lightweight enough to carry. On planes and ferries, the staff will be the ones lifting and transporting your dog. Your dog is heavy enough - don’t make the crate unnecessarily heavier with a hefty crate bed too. That said, this is only a factor if you travel with your pet a lot. If this scenario is unlikely, then portability is not much of an issue for you. You can go for the heaviest, comfiest option with no issues at all.
My Final Verdict
As you can see, we are spoilt for choice in Australia for stellar crate mats for our dogs. The best overall as tried, tested, and loved by our team of independent experts is hands down the Barney Bed. The ease of washing, luxurious orthopedic foam mattress, and incredible, genuine reviews make it the one to beat. However, it is not the best option for use in a portable crate.
We are also fans of the Quiet Time Teflon Defender crate mat for those looking for a lighter, cheaper option.
FAQ
As we said with puppies, many dog owners opt to use blankets to pad out the base of their dog’s crate. While this may be cost-effective, it is not the best option for your dog’s overall comfort and health.
When speaking about bedding, Marty Smith, DVM, and Angela Walter, DVM from Pet Coach write “If you have ever lived with dogs, you know they tend to select couches, chairs, or beds as a place to rest or sleep. They prefer the comfort and warmth furniture offers compared to a hard, cold floor.” (6)
The same principles apply to a crate. A dog crate becomes their own little sanctuary to be calm and soothing. A warm bed to lay their head is part of this experience. Give your dog the gift of extra padded comfort with a crate mat that suits their needs. They’ll love you for it!
The jury is certainly out on this one. There are vets and dog experts who believe that crates are cruel. There are also many vets and experts who believe crates are the bee’s knees. Generally, the consensus is that your dog’s crate is a warm, inviting place for your dog to call their own. They can rely on their crate to be a solace, away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world and family life.
Dr. Teagan Lever, BVSc (Hons) from Pet Circle Australia writes, “Crate training is a way to create a safe, personal space for your dog in your home. It draws on your dog's natural instincts to create a den, a safe refuge in which to sleep and hide.” (7)
We wholeheartedly agree. As denning animals, dogs like to feel protected in enclosed areas. Crates are also fantastic tools for housetraining puppies and adult dogs alike. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their bedding so crates are a solid invention as a housetraining tool. Crate trained dogs also have better associations with pet carriers, so they can be transported safely and calmly whenever you need to.
There is no need to continue with the crate after your puppy is housetrained, but some dogs just like them! Of course, see how your dog takes to the crate life. If it feels like a home within their home, they’ll continue to use it. Make the environment that much more appealing with a soft crate mat, toys, and quiet surroundings. What a peaceful scene.
References
- Madson, C. May 2, 2021. “Crate Training Your Puppy or Adult Dog: Everything You Need To Know”. Preventive Vet. Retrieved May 22, 2023. https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/everything-you-need-to-know-about-crate-training-your-puppy-or-adult-dog
- Arford, K. November 19, 2019. “Crate Training Benefits: Why A Crate Is Great for You and Your Dog” American Kennel Club. Retrieved May 22, 2023. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-crate-training-is-great-for-your-dog/
- Hunter, T. and Ward, E. “Hip Dysplasia in Dogs”. VCA Animal Hospital. Retrieved May 22, 2023. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/hip-dysplasia-in-dogs
- Madson, C. February 10, 2019. “Pee Pad Training: Is It a Good Idea?”. Preventive Vet. Retrieved May 22, 2023. https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/pee-pad-training-is-it-a-good-idea
- Gibeault, S. January 17, 2023. “Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Causes, Prevention, and How to Stop”. American Kennel Club. Retrieved May 22, 2023. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-separation-anxiety/
- Smith, M, and Walter, A. “Why Does Your Dog Need Their Own Bed?”. Pet Coach. Retrieved May 22, 2023. https://www.petcoach.co/article/beds-every-dog-should-have-one/
- Lever, T. November 25, 2022. “Crate Training Your Puppy”. Pet Circle. Retrieved May 22, 2023. https://www.petcircle.com.au/discover/crate-training-your-puppy
