What is an elevated pet bed?
An elevated pet bed, often called a cot, is a stretched fabric or mesh surface held up by a frame, so your pet rests off the floor. Instead of a thick cushion, the sleeping surface is a taut, open-weave panel. Air can move underneath, and the bed is light enough to carry from room to room, onto the porch, or out to the yard.
This guide covers the pros and trade-offs, how to pick the right size, how to keep one clean, and a set of real options from the PetLavo catalog with their listed prices.
Pros of elevated and breathable beds
- Airflow. Mesh lets air pass through the sleeping surface, and the gap underneath helps air circulate. Many people like these for warm rooms, patios, and sunny spots.
- Off the ground. Lifting the bed keeps it away from damp grass, dusty floors, and cold tile.
- Easy to wipe down. Most mesh and fabric surfaces can be wiped or rinsed, which suits shedding pets and muddy paws.
- Portable. Frames are usually light, and several of the beds below include a carry bag.
- Good for outdoors. Cots with canopies give shade at the yard, campsite, or beach day.
Honest trade-offs: who this is not for
- Pets who love to burrow or curl into soft nests. A taut mesh surface is firm and flat. If your pet likes sinking into plush bedding, a cushioned or bolster-style bed will suit them better.
- Heavy chewers and diggers. Mesh and fabric can be damaged by determined chewing or scratching. Check that your pet leaves their bedding alone before buying.
- Pets who struggle to step up. A raised frame means a step up and down. For very small, very old, or less mobile pets, consider how easily they can get on and off, and ask your vet about what suits them.
- Cold rooms. An open, airy surface is not designed to hold warmth. In cold weather you may want to add a blanket or choose a different style.
How to choose: size, materials, safety
Size
Measure your pet while they lie in their usual sleeping position, nose to tail base, then add a few inches so they can stretch. Compare that number to the bed's listed dimensions, not just the size label, because "L" and "XL" mean different things from product to product. Also check the listed weight limit when the product gives one, and pick a bed rated comfortably above your pet's weight.
Materials
Look for a sturdy frame (steel is common), a taut mesh or Oxford-style fabric top, and feet that sit flat and stable. If you plan to use the bed outside, a canopy can add shade, and a water-resistant or wipe-clean surface makes cleanup simpler.
Safety
Before first use, assemble the bed fully and press down on the frame to check that nothing wobbles. Place it on a level surface and check the fabric tension and fasteners from time to time. Stop using any bed that shows damage.
Real options from our catalog
Here are elevated and mesh beds currently in our catalog. Details below come from each product's listing. Always read the full listing for dimensions before ordering.
Lower-priced elevated mesh and fabric beds
- Elevated Oxford Fabric Pet Bed for Small to Large Dogs, $65.79. A raised bed with breathable Oxford fabric and a 19-inch elevated design that lifts dogs off the ground for airflow.
- Elevated Breathable Mesh Pet Bed for Indoor and Outdoor Use, $67.19. A raised pet bed with breathable mesh, listed in sizes from small to XL.
- Elevated Dog Bed for Indoor & Outdoor Use, $106.99. Lifts your dog more than 8 inches off the ground so air can circulate underneath.
Cots with carry bags or canopies
- XL Elevated Dog Bed with Mesh Top and Carry Bag, $137.99. An extra-large raised cot with a steel frame, breathable mesh top, and a carry bag.
- Elevated Dog Cot with Removable UV Protection Canopy, 30", Gray, $134.99. Lifts your pet more than 7 inches off the ground, with a removable canopy for shade. The listing says it supports up to 44 lbs.
- 48" x 36" Elevated Dog Cot With UV Protection Canopy, Dark Blue, $169.99. A larger cot that lifts your pet over 9 inches off the ground, with a UV-protection canopy.
Larger dogs and wipe-clean surfaces
- Elevated Dog Cot for Large Dogs with Teslin Mesh, $172.99. A portable raised cot with breathable Teslin mesh and a waterproof, oil-resistant surface that is easy to wipe clean.
- Elevated Dog Bed with Steel Frame, $210.99. Breathable mesh fabric on a steel frame. The listing says it suits dogs under 23.5 inches long and 66 lbs, and wipes clean with soap and water.
A quick note on picking between them: if you want shade outside, start with the canopy models. If you travel, look at the ones that include a carry bag. If you only need a simple indoor bed, the lower-priced mesh and fabric options may be enough.
Cleaning an elevated bed
Cleaning is one of the main reasons people choose these beds, but the best method depends on the materials, so check the care notes in each product listing.
- Shake or brush off loose hair and dirt regularly. Open-weave surfaces release debris easily.
- Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and mild soap and water for everyday messes.
- Rinse and dry fully before your pet uses it again. Letting the fabric air dry helps avoid damp smells.
- Check the frame and fasteners while the bed is clean, and tighten anything that has loosened.
- Deal with accidents promptly. Mesh dries quickly, but the sooner you wipe it, the easier it is.
Avoid harsh cleaners unless the product listing says they are fine to use, and do not leave the bed in a position where it stays wet.
Getting your pet used to a new bed
Place the bed somewhere familiar, add a favorite blanket or toy at first, and let your pet explore at their own pace. Treats and calm praise can help. Some pets take to a firm surface right away, while others need a few days.
Frequently asked questions
Are elevated beds good for large dogs?
They can be, as long as you pick a size and weight rating that fits. Check the listed dimensions and weight limit, and choose a bed with a stable frame. Some listings give a limit and some do not, so read each one before ordering.
Can I use an elevated bed outdoors?
Many are designed for indoor and outdoor use, and some include a canopy. Look at the product description to confirm what it is designed for, and bring it inside during severe weather.
How do I clean a mesh pet bed?
Brush off loose hair, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, and let it dry fully. Check each listing for its specific care notes, such as wipe-clean surfaces.
Will my dog actually use an elevated bed?
Most pets adapt with a little encouragement, but preferences vary. Pets who like to burrow into soft bedding may prefer a cushioned bed. Start by placing the bed in their favorite spot and adding a familiar blanket.