Shih Tzus spend up to 14 hours a day resting, which makes the right bed more important than it might seem. Because of this breed’s flat face, compressed airways, and tendency toward joint issues as they age, not every dog bed works equally well. Here is what to look for and which beds actually deliver.
Why bed choice matters more for Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic, meaning their flat faces and shortened airways make breathing slightly harder than it is for longer-nosed breeds. Professional dog trainer Michelle Reindal, CPDT-KA, recommends beds with raised bolsters that allow the dog to rest their head at a slight elevation, keeping the airway more open during sleep. Shih Tzus are also prone to hip and joint issues, and their dense coat holds warmth, which can make overheating a concern in warmer climates.
Quick Picks at a Glance
- Best OverallPetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed
- Best Calming DonutBest Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut
- Best Budget DonutWESTERN HOME WH Calming Anti-Anxiety Donut Bed
- Best Orthopedic SofaBedsure Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed
- Best Waterproof SofaPitPet Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed
- Best for Small Shih TzusINVENHO Rectangle Washable Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Best Crate PadKSIIA Washable Deluxe Plush Dog Crate Bed
- Best Compact BolsterAsvin Small Dog Bed
- Best Budget BolsterFurHaven Plush and Velvet Sofa-Style Orthopedic Bed
What to Look for in a Dog Bed for a Shih Tzu
Raised edges give a Shih Tzu somewhere to rest their head at a slight elevation, supporting easier breathing for a brachycephalic breed.
Shih Tzus are prone to hip dysplasia and joint stiffness. Memory foam or high-density egg crate foam reduces pressure points and supports joints.
A Shih Tzu’s long coat sheds and traps dander. A removable or fully washable cover is essential for hygiene.
Most Shih Tzus weigh between 4 and 8 kg. A small bed is usually appropriate; always check the specific weight limit on the listing.
With a thick double coat and a flat face that makes panting less efficient, Shih Tzus can overheat. Breathable covers help in warmer climates.
A non-slip underside keeps the bed stable on smooth floors, which matters especially for older Shih Tzus with mobility issues.
The 9 Best Dog Beds for Shih Tzus
The PetFusion Ultimate is the top-rated orthopedic dog bed for small breeds across Rover, iHeartDogs, and TechGearLab. For a Shih Tzu, the three-sided bolster provides a raised headrest on three sides with an open front for easy entry, and the 4-inch solid memory foam base supports joints without bottoming out. Unlike competing beds that use shredded or egg-crate foam, this uses true solid memory foam that molds to the dog’s body and returns to its original shape after every use. The waterproof inner liner protects the foam from accidents, and the machine washable cover is both tear and water resistant.
This is the strongest pick for senior Shih Tzus, dogs with hip dysplasia or arthritis, or any owner who wants a bed that genuinely holds up for years. Rover’s test pups preferred it over every other surface in the room.
Most adult Shih Tzus fit comfortably in Small. Size up if your dog is larger or shares a bed.
Pros
- True solid memory foam, not shredded or egg crate
- 4.7 stars, 10,000+ reviews
- 3-sided bolster for neck and head support
- Waterproof liner protects foam from accidents
- Tear and water resistant washable cover
- CertiPUR-US certified, no harmful chemicals
Cons
- Higher price than budget options
- Bolster fill is wipe-clean only
- Slight foam smell first 24 to 48 hours
- Not ideal for aggressive chewers
Best Friends by Sheri invented the calming donut bed category, and their original remains one of Amazon’s most reviewed dog beds. The 360-degree raised rim gives a Shih Tzu full neck and head support in any curl direction. The faux shag fur mimics the warmth and texture of a mother dog’s coat, which is why anxious dogs settle into it faster than a standard bolster bed. For Shih Tzus who curl up tightly rather than stretching out, this is often the preferred bed over a rectangular orthopedic option. The deep crevice between the rim and centre also satisfies the natural burrowing instinct many Shih Tzus have.
- XS — 18″ x 18″ (teacup Shih Tzus, up to 5 kg)
- Small — 23″ x 23″ (standard Shih Tzus, up to 11 kg)
- Medium, Large, XL also available
The Shag fur version is warmer; the short Lux fur is cooler and better for long-haired dogs in warm climates.
Pros
- 360-degree bolster supports head in any position
- 60,000+ reviews at 4.6 stars
- Self-warming fur ideal for dogs who feel the cold
- Burrowing crevice satisfies natural instinct
- Small size fully machine washable
Cons
- No orthopedic foam; less joint support than PetFusion
- Faux fur attracts hair visibly
- Fur can mat slightly after repeated washing
- Not ideal for Shih Tzus who sleep stretched flat
The WESTERN HOME WH calming donut delivers the same round, burrowing-friendly design as the Best Friends by Sheri at a significantly lower price point. With over 35,000 ratings at 4.5 stars and a #12 Best Sellers rank in Dog Beds, it is one of the most popular budget donut beds on Amazon. The raised rim wraps all the way around for a consistent headrest in any curl direction, and the faux fur interior is soft and warm. The entire bed is fully machine washable, which gives it a practical edge over beds with removable-cover-only systems.
If choosing between two sizes, size up. The bolster takes up width, so the inner sleeping area is smaller than the total diameter suggests.
Pros
- 4.5 stars, 35,000+ reviews
- #12 in Dog Beds bestseller rank
- Much lower price than premium donut beds
- Fully machine washable
- Anti-slip base on smooth floors
Cons
- PP cotton fill less durable than CoziLOFT
- May flatten over time with heavier dogs
- Some reports of size running slightly small
- No orthopedic foam
The Bedsure Orthopedic Sofa Bed is the #1 bestseller in Dog Sofas on Amazon with 4.6 stars across nearly 33,000 reviews. For a Shih Tzu, the four-sided bolster stands out: unlike most sofa-style beds that only bolster three sides, the Bedsure wraps all the way around, giving the dog a headrest in every direction. The egg-crate foam base and waterproof inner liner make this a practical orthopedic option at any life stage, and the ultra-soft sherpa cover is fully machine washable.
- Small — 24″ x 19″ (compact Shih Tzus)
- Medium — 28″ x 23″ (standard adult Shih Tzus)
- Large, XL, XXL also available
For a Shih Tzu who stretches out fully, medium is the right choice. If they curl up, the small works well.
Pros
- 4.6 stars, nearly 33,000 reviews
- #1 bestseller in Dog Sofas on Amazon
- 4-sided bolster gives neck support every direction
- Waterproof liner protects foam
- Sherpa surface machine washable
- Strong value for an orthopedic bolster bed
Cons
- Egg-crate foam, not true memory foam
- Foam may compress faster under heavier dogs
- First-time foam insertion is slightly fiddly
The PitPet Orthopedic Sofa Bed is an Amazon’s Choice product at 4.5 stars with a strong waterproofing feature that sets it apart from the Bedsure: while both use egg-crate foam, the PitPet uses a TPU liner rather than a standard waterproof coating, which tends to be more durable and reliable against accidents. The soft velvet exterior and cushioned flannel top offer a luxurious feel, the raised bolster provides head and neck support on multiple sides, and the non-slip base keeps the bed stable. At the medium size it matches a standard adult Shih Tzu perfectly.
Amazon’s Choice badge and 200+ bought in past month confirms strong ongoing demand. The medium size is the right fit for most standard Shih Tzus.
Pros
- 4.5 stars, Amazon’s Choice badge
- TPU waterproof liner is more durable than standard coatings
- Velvet and flannel surface is exceptionally soft
- Raised bolster supports head and neck
- Non-slip base plus tough oxford underside
- Very competitive price point
Cons
- Egg-crate foam, not true memory foam
- Foam insert is spot clean only, not washable
- Fewer total reviews than Bedsure at this stage
The INVENHO Rectangle is an Amazon’s Choice product with over 1,000 purchases per month and 4.4 stars from more than 8,000 reviewers. For smaller Shih Tzus up to 15 lbs, the small size is an ideal fit: the four raised walls wrap all the way around, giving a curled or stretched dog head and neck support from every side. The reversible faux fur and suede surface is practical for different seasons, warm faux fur side up in winter and cooler suede side up in summer. Crucially, the entire bed including the walls is machine washable as one unit, which is a significant practical advantage.
- Small — 20″ x 19″ (up to 15 lbs, small Shih Tzus)
- Medium — 25″ x 21″ (up to 30 lbs)
- Large, XL, XXL also available
For a standard adult Shih Tzu the small is the right fit. The low entry edge makes it easy for puppies and older dogs alike to step in and out.
Pros
- 4.4 stars, 8,161 reviews, Amazon’s Choice
- 4-sided raised walls for full neck support
- Reversible faux fur/suede for seasonal comfort
- Fully machine washable as one piece
- Low entry edge suits puppies and seniors
- Budget-friendly price point
Cons
- PP cotton fill, not orthopedic foam
- May need time to refluff after washing
- Some reports of inconsistent sizing
The KSIIA Washable Deluxe Plush Crate Bed is the #1 bestseller in Dog Beds on Amazon with 4.6 stars from nearly 25,000 reviewers. It is a flat, plush crate pad rather than a bolster bed, which makes it ideal for Shih Tzus who sleep in a crate or kennel at night, or who prefer a flat surface over raised sides. The deluxe plush top is exceptionally soft and the anti-slip Oxford base keeps the pad firmly in place. The entire bed washes in the machine as one piece and reviewers consistently report it fluffs back to its original shape after washing and drying.
This is also a strong secondary bed option: many Shih Tzu owners keep one as a travel or car-seat pad alongside a main bolster bed at home.
- Small — 24″ x 18″ (standard Shih Tzu crates)
- Medium — 29″ x 21″ (for larger crates or floor use)
- Multiple larger sizes also available
Arrives rolled and vacuum-sealed. Allow 24 hours after unboxing for the plush to fully expand to its original shape.
Pros
- 4.6 stars, 24,598 reviews, #1 in Dog Beds
- Fully machine washable and dryer safe
- Exceptional plush softness
- Anti-slip Oxford base stays in place
- 10 sizes for crates, floors, and travel use
- Very budget-friendly
Cons
- Flat pad, no bolster or neck support
- Not orthopedic foam
- Needs 24 hours to fully fluff after unboxing
- Not the best standalone bed for joint-sensitive seniors
The Asvin Small Dog Bed is a compact, bolstered oval bed at 4.5 stars from over 6,000 reviewers, and it holds an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification meaning it has been tested against over 1,000 harmful chemical substances. The raised bolster walls wrap around three sides with a low front cutout that makes it easy for small dogs and older Shih Tzus to step in and out. At just 20 inches across in the small size it is one of the most space-efficient bolster beds on this list, making it a practical choice for apartments, travel, or as a secondary bed for smaller rooms.
OEKO-TEX certification makes this a good pick for dogs with skin sensitivities, as the materials are verified free from harmful chemicals.
Pros
- 4.5 stars, 6,229 reviews
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified materials
- Compact size ideal for small spaces and travel
- Low entry cutout suits puppies and senior dogs
- Water-resistant Oxford base
- Machine washable
Cons
- Fewer total reviews than larger brands
- Not orthopedic foam
- Bolster is three-sided, not 360-degree
- Smaller sleeping area inside the walls
FurHaven is one of the most widely recommended budget-friendly orthopedic bed brands, and their sofa-style design is the most practical entry point for Shih Tzu owners who want bolster support and orthopedic foam without a higher price tag. The three-sided sofa design offers raised bolsters with an open front for easy entry. The egg-crate orthopedic foam base cushions pressure points and improves air circulation, and FurHaven offers more fabric and colour variety than almost any other brand at this price point. The fully removable cover is machine washable across every style.
- Plush and Velvet 3-Sided Sofa (Small, Sable Brown)
- Quilted Fleece Chaise (1-sided bolster, Small)
- Sherpa Flat Mattress (for sprawling sleepers)
For Shih Tzus, the 3-sided sofa style is preferable over the chaise or flat mattress as it provides neck support on more sides.
Pros
- Lowest price of the orthopedic options on this list
- Huge fabric and colour variety
- Fully removable machine washable cover
- CertiPUR-US certified foam
- Good everyday support for healthy adult Shih Tzus
- 90-day warranty plus 60-day worry-free return
Cons
- Egg-crate foam, not true memory foam
- Foam compresses faster than premium options
- Not ideal as sole bed for seniors with joint issues
- Quality control slightly less consistent than Bedsure or PetFusion
Side by Side: How All Nine Compare
| Bed | Rating | Foam | Bolster Style | Fully Washable | Waterproof Liner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PetFusion Ultimate | 4.7 ★ | True memory | 3-sided | Cover only | Yes |
| Best Friends Donut | 4.6 ★ | Polyfill | 360-degree | Yes (small) | No |
| WESTERN HOME WH | 4.5 ★ | PP cotton | Round rim | Yes (fully) | No |
| Bedsure Orthopedic | 4.6 ★ | Egg-crate | 4-sided | Cover only | Yes |
| PitPet Orthopedic | 4.5 ★ | Egg-crate | Raised bolster | Cover only | Yes (TPU) |
| INVENHO Rectangle | 4.4 ★ | PP cotton | 4-sided walls | Yes (fully) | No |
| KSIIA Crate Pad | 4.6 ★ | Plush (no foam) | Flat pad | Yes (fully) | No |
| Asvin Small Bed | 4.5 ★ | Plush (no foam) | 3-sided | Cover only | No |
| FurHaven Sofa | 4.4 ★ | Egg-crate | 3-sided | Cover only | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Most standard adult Shih Tzus weigh between 4 and 7 kg and measure around 25 to 30 cm in length lying down. A small-size bed in most ranges is appropriate. Always check the specific weight limit on the listing rather than assuming “small” means the same across brands. If your Shih Tzu is on the larger end or likes to stretch out flat, size up to medium.
It depends on age and health. Puppies and healthy young adults can do well on any well-cushioned bed with bolster support. Senior Shih Tzus, or those with known joint issues or hip dysplasia, benefit significantly from memory foam or high-density orthopedic foam. The PetFusion is the best choice in this category. For healthy adults, the Bedsure or PitPet egg-crate sofa beds provide adequate support at a lower cost.
Yes, particularly for Shih Tzus who sleep curled up and for anxious dogs who benefit from the sense of enclosure a 360-degree bolster provides. The Best Friends by Sheri uses a higher-quality fill that holds its loft longer and is the premium pick. The WESTERN HOME WH delivers a very similar donut experience at a fraction of the cost, with over 35,000 reviews at 4.5 stars to back it up.
The KSIIA Washable Deluxe Plush Crate Bed is specifically designed for crate use, comes in dimensions that fit standard wire crates, and is the #1 bestseller in Dog Beds on Amazon. The INVENHO Rectangle is also a strong option for crate sleeping as it is fully machine washable and its four-sided walls keep a dog contained and comfortable.
The cover should be washed at least every two to three weeks to manage dander, hair, and odour from a Shih Tzu’s dense coat. If the dog has skin conditions or allergies, washing weekly is better. All nine beds on this list have removable or fully machine-washable covers. Spot clean the foam base as needed and air it out regularly.
Which Bed Is Right for Your Shih Tzu?
For most adult Shih Tzus, the PetFusion Ultimate is the strongest all-round choice, with the best foam quality and the longest lifespan. If budget is a constraint, the Bedsure Orthopedic Sofa is the next best orthopedic option with a waterproof liner and four-sided bolster. For a Shih Tzu who prefers to curl up or struggles with anxiety, the Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut is the premium pick, or the WESTERN HOME WH for a more budget-friendly version of the same idea.
For crate sleeping, the KSIIA Crate Pad is the #1 in Dog Beds on Amazon for good reason: it is soft, durable, and fully washable. For a smaller or more compact setup, the INVENHO Rectangle or Asvin both offer four-sided support in a compact package that suits smaller rooms or travel. Cooper has strong opinions on the matter, and so do we. 🐾
Sources and References
- Rover: The 6 Best Dog Beds for Shih Tzus (featuring Michelle Reindal, CPDT-KA)
- PetsBlueprint: Best Dog Bed for Shih Tzu 2026
- All Shih Tzu: The Best Beds for Shih Tzu, All Ages
- iHeartDogs: PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed Review
- Rover: PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed Review
- TechGearLab: The Best Dog Bed — Tested and Ranked
- Amazon: PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed
- Amazon: Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Dog Bed
- Amazon: WESTERN HOME WH Calming Anti-Anxiety Donut Dog Bed
- Amazon: Bedsure Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed
- Amazon: PitPet Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed
- Amazon: INVENHO Rectangle Washable Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Amazon: KSIIA Washable Deluxe Plush Dog Crate Bed
- Amazon: Asvin Small Dog Bed
- Amazon: FurHaven Plush and Velvet Sofa-Style Orthopedic Dog Bed
