How to Measure Your Dog for a Cave Bed
By Collared Creatures | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Getting the right cave bed size means measuring your dog from nose to tail and adding a few inches for comfort. Here's how to do it.
Quick answer
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail while they stand naturally, then add 4–6 inches to find the right cave bed length. Always check the bed's interior dimensions, not the outer edge.
Why cave bed sizing is different from standard beds
Cave beds have a hooded, enclosed design that dogs burrow into. Unlike open bolster beds, the usable space is slightly smaller than the outer dimensions because the hood and side walls take up room. A bed that looks big from the outside may feel cramped once your dog curls up inside.
That's why measuring your dog's actual curled-up length matters more than their standing height or weight. A bed that's too short will push the hood forward, making it hard for your dog to settle. A bed that's too long leaves extra fabric that can bunch up.
Common sizing mistake: relying on weight alone
Weight charts are a rough starting point, but they don't account for body shape. A lean Greyhound and a stocky Bulldog can weigh the same yet need very different cave bed sizes. Always measure length and, if possible, the height from paw to shoulder when your dog is lying in a curled position.
Collared Creatures cave beds come in multiple size options, so you can match the interior dimensions to your dog's actual measurements rather than guessing by breed or weight.
How to measure your dog for a cave bed
- Measure length from nose to tail base: Have your dog stand on all fours. Use a soft measuring tape and measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (where the tail meets the body). Write this number down. Common mistake: measuring to the tip of the tail adds unnecessary length. The base of the tail is the correct stopping point.
- Measure curled-up length: Wait until your dog naturally curls up to sleep. Gently measure from the top of their head to the bottom of their tucked paws. This is their sleeping length, which is often shorter than standing length. Checkpoint: if your dog stretches out fully when sleeping, use the standing length instead of the curled length.
- Add 4–6 inches for comfort: Add 4 to 6 inches to the sleeping length measurement. This extra space allows your dog to shift positions, stretch slightly, and settle without feeling squished against the hood or walls. Common mistake: adding too much space (8+ inches) makes the bed feel cavernous and reduces the cosy den effect that cave beds are designed for.
- Check interior dimensions of the bed: Look at the product's interior dimensions (not outer dimensions). Compare your dog's length plus the 4–6 inch allowance to the interior length. If the bed only lists outer dimensions, contact customer support or look for a size guide. Checkpoint: if you're between sizes, size up only if the smaller size's interior length is less than your dog's length + 4 inches.
- Consider your dog's height and build: For deep-chested breeds (e.g., Boxers, Greyhounds), also measure from paw to shoulder when lying down. The hood height should be at least as tall as your dog's shoulder height so they can enter and exit comfortably. Common mistake: ignoring height for breeds with deep chests. A bed that's long enough but too shallow in the hood will cause your dog to bump their head.
Products mentioned in this guide
- Green Tweed Luxury Dog Cave Bed: The Green Tweed Luxury Dog Cave Bed is a hooded, cosy bed with a traditional tweed look. If your dog loves to burrow, the hooded design provides a snug den-like feel, but you need accurate length measurements to ensure the hood doesn't press against their head.
Green Tweed Luxury Dog Cave Bed - Grey Luxury Dog Cave Bed: The Grey Luxury Dog Cave Bed is made with premium grey upholstery-grade fabric and lined with plush faux fur. The plush lining adds warmth and comfort, but a bed that's too small will compress the fur lining, reducing its insulating effect.
Grey Luxury Dog Cave Bed - Beige Luxury Dog Cave Bed: The Beige Luxury Dog Cave Bed is designed for cuddlers, anxious pups, and dogs that love a cosy hideaway. Anxious dogs benefit from the enclosed feel, but a poorly sized bed can make them feel trapped rather than secure.
