Dachshunds love to burrow, but most beds are either too soft to support the spine or too hot for all-night use. This guide helps you choose a bed by function, not branding.
Quick card
Quick Card: Burrower beds
Who this guide is for
- Burrow-loving dachshunds that overheat, nest constantly, or flatten cheap beds quickly.
- Owners who need washable setups that still provide support.
- Homes that want one dependable sleep setup instead of rotating low-quality beds.
How this guide is evaluated
This is an editorial desk scorecard, not an ad-driven “best picks” list. Bed options are compared on:
- Base support under full body weight.
- Entry height for short legs.
- Burrow satisfaction without overheating.
- Cover washability and durability.
- Long-term shape retention.
If a bed collapses to the floor under normal use, it fails.
Quick takeaways
- Look for a supportive base and a flexible top layer.
- Washable covers matter more than cute prints.
- Size for full-body stretch, not just a tight curl.
Table of contents
- Fast decision table
- What burrowing dogs need
- Bed styles that actually work
- Materials and cleaning reality
- Sizing for long backs
- No-affiliate fallback options
- Buying mistakes to avoid
Fast decision table
| Situation | Prioritize | Tradeoff to accept | Skip if |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog digs and nests constantly | Cave top + supportive base | Slightly warmer sleep zone | Base sinks with body weight |
| Dog overheats at night | Flat orthopedic bed + loose throw | Less enclosed comfort | Fabric traps heat |
| Senior dog with stiffness | Low entry + stable foam core | Heavier bed to move | Entry wall is too tall |
| Small apartment | Washable cover + compact footprint | Fewer style options | Cover cannot be removed |
What burrowing dogs need
Burrowing is comfort and security. The right bed supports both.
- A base that does not sink into the floor.
- A top layer your dog can nose under easily.
- Edges that give a sense of boundary without forcing a curl.
Bed styles that actually work
These styles tend to keep dachshunds comfortable.
- Cave beds: best for true burrowers. Look for a firm base.
- Bolster beds: good for dogs that like a head rest.
- Flat orthopedic beds + blanket: best for dogs that overheat.
Avoid beds that collapse or are too tall for short legs.
Materials and cleaning reality
Choose a bed that stays clean and keeps shape after repeated washing.
- Covers: removable and machine washable.
- Fill: foam or fiber that holds shape, not loose fluff.
- Fabric: tight weave that resists snags and hair.
If you cannot wash it, it will not survive.
Sizing for long backs
Measure your dog from nose to tail base, then add 4 to 6 inches.
- Too small makes the back curl.
- Too large makes the dog lose the feeling of security.
No-affiliate fallback options
If you are not buying a new bed today:
- Use a folded blanket over a firm mat to improve support.
- Add a washable throw for burrow behavior instead of deep plush fill.
- Keep the sleep zone warm and draft-free to reduce restless nesting.
Related non-affiliate reads:
- Dachshund back safety at home: ramps, lifting, and simple rules
- Dachshund home setup: floors, ramps, and safe zones
Buying mistakes to avoid
- Choosing high loft fill that flattens in days.
- Ignoring entry height for short-legged dogs.
- Buying decorative cave beds with non-removable covers.
- Keeping beds with persistent chemical odor after airing out.
A short list to start with
- Supportive base that stays flat
- Washable cover with durable seams
- Low entry for short legs
- No strong chemical smell after 24-hour airing
FAQ
Q: Do dachshunds need orthopedic beds? A: It helps, especially for older dogs, but the bed must still be low and easy to enter.
Q: My dog overheats in cave beds. What now? A: Use a flat bed and a loose blanket so they can burrow without trapped heat.
Q: How often should I wash the cover? A: Every 2 to 4 weeks, or more often if your dog has allergies.
Related reads
- Best harnesses for long backs: what to look for
- Dachshund puppy-proofing checklist for apartments
- Weight management for dachshunds: a healthy silhouette
Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Author
Doxie Lowdown Team