How to Measure Your Dog for a Box Dog Bed
By Charlie Scott's | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to measure your dog for a box dog bed in simple steps. Get the right size for comfort and support, with tips for large breeds and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from floor to shoulder while standing, then add a few inches to find the right box dog bed size.
Why box dog bed sizing matters
A box dog bed with raised sides gives your dog a defined sleeping space. If it's too small, your dog can't stretch out or curl comfortably; too large, and the support of the sides is lost. Getting the size right ensures your dog feels secure and rested.
Box bed vs other styles
Unlike flat mats or donut beds, box beds have structured walls that some dogs love for leaning against. But they require accurate measurements to make the most of that support. A snug fit is key—your dog should be able to lie down fully without being cramped.
Step-by-step measuring guide
- Measure length: Have your dog stand on all fours. Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (where the tail meets the body). This is the length your dog needs to stretch out. Check that the bed's interior length is at least this measurement plus a few inches.
- Measure width: While your dog is standing, measure the widest part of their body, usually across the chest or shoulders. This ensures the bed is wide enough for comfortable side sleeping. Add 4-6 inches to this width to allow for movement and curling.
- Measure height: Measure from the floor to the top of your dog's shoulder while standing. This helps determine if the bed's sides are too high or too low for easy entry and exit. Sides that are too high can be hard for older or small dogs to climb over.
- Check lying positions: Watch your dog in their favorite sleeping position—curled up, stretched out, or on their back. Use the longest position to guide your final size choice. If your dog likes to stretch, prioritize length over width.
- Compare with bed dimensions: Check the product's interior dimensions (not just the outer size) against your dog's measurements. Add 2-4 inches for comfort and to account for the bed's cushioning compressing under your dog's weight. When in doubt, choose the larger size for a box bed.
Box dog bed options
- Scruffs Chester Box Dog Bed: The Scruffs Chester Box Dog Bed has a structured box shape with soft internal cushioning and supportive raised sides. This design suits dogs that curl up or lean into edges, so measuring correctly ensures they get the full benefit of the supportive sides.
Scruffs Chester Box Dog Bed - Scruffs Coastal Box Dog Bed: The Scruffs Coastal Box Dog Bed offers gentle surrounding structure and supportive raised sides with coordinated striped fabrics. Its defined sleeping space helps dogs that rest their chin against soft boundaries, making accurate sizing essential for comfort.
Scruffs Coastal Box Dog Bed
