How to Pick the Right Dog Bed for Small Apartments

June 5, 2025

Introduction

City life means cozy cafés, walkable streets — and often, tight living spaces.
If you’re a dog parent in a small apartment, you know that every square inch matters. But even with limited room, your dog deserves a comfortable, supportive place to rest.

So how do you find a bed that’s both space-efficient and stylish, while still giving your pup the support they need?

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best strategies for choosing the right dog bed for small apartments, from bed shape to multipurpose designs.

1. Prioritize Space-Saving Shapes

The shape of the bed can significantly affect how well it fits in your space.

Round Beds

Perfect for corners or under tables — ideal for small or curled-up sleepers.
Recommended for: Chihuahuas, Pugs, Frenchies.

Rectangular Beds

Great for wall flush placement or lining alongside furniture.
Recommended for: Labs, Terriers, dogs that stretch out.

Bolster Beds

Look bulky, but the raised sides allow you to place them against walls, saving space and offering neck support.

See our popular Bolster Dog Bed Gaugau for versatile space-saving design.

2. Choose Multi-Functionality for Maximum Efficiency

In a small apartment, products that serve more than one purpose are a win.

Consider:

Dog beds that double as furniture accents (like boucle fabric beds)
Orthopedic beds with hidden storage compartments for toys/blankets
Pet sofas or window perches that align with your existing layout

Insight: Millennials and Gen Z customers often seek stylish pet accessories that complement their modern interior designs — not something they need to hide away.

3. Consider Your Dog’s Size and Sleeping Style

Even in a small apartment, your dog shouldn’t feel cramped.

Ask:

Does your dog curl up or stretch out?
Do they prefer edges to lean against (go for bolster beds)?
Do they move around while sleeping (need extra space or cooling zones)?

Use a tape measure to determine the minimum bed length = dog length + 4–6 inches.

4. Focus on Beds That Are Easy to Move and Clean

Apartment dwellers often rearrange furniture or travel with pets. Choose a bed that’s:

Lightweight but supportive
Machine washable (look for removable covers)
Portable for road trips or weekends away

Example: Our Orthopedic Dog Bed XL offers removable covers for easy washing in tight laundry spaces.

5. Make the Most of Vertical or Hidden Spaces

Don’t just look at floor space — use vertical room too:

Slide low-profile beds under desks
Place raised beds on balconies or in utility corners
Use custom shelves or cubbies as cozy pet corners

Lifestyle tip: Some GauGauPet customers add our round pet beds into IKEA-style cubes or shelf units for a sleek, integrated look.

6. Match the Bed Style to Your Apartment Décor

Small spaces get cluttered quickly. A mismatched or bulky bed can ruin the aesthetic.
Instead, look for:

Neutral tones or textured fabrics (like boucle or soft fleece)
Low-profile shapes
Beds with modern stitching or minimal design

A well-chosen bed becomes part of the room, not an obstacle.

Conclusion

Living small doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort — for you or your dog.
With the right shape, style, and smart design, you can choose a dog bed that:

Maximizes space
Matches your interior
Keeps your furry friend safe and comfy

From compact round beds to orthopedic bolsters with modern design, GauGauPet has small-space solutions that fit beautifully.

Ready to find your perfect space-saving bed?
Shop our Best Dog Beds for Small Apartments Collection and upgrade your home today.

FAQs

Q1: What’s the best bed shape for tight corners?
A: Round or oval beds fit snugly into corners and are great for small dogs that curl up.

Q2: Can I use a cat bed for my small dog in an apartment?
A: Yes, if your dog is under 10–15 lbs and the bed offers enough cushion.

Q3: What should I avoid in a small apartment?
A: Avoid overly bulky beds with thick frames or fixed shapes that can't be tucked away.

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