Can You Leave a Dog Bed Outside?

Your dog’s lounging on the deck in the morning sun, but by afternoon, their bed’s a soggy mess from an unexpected shower. Sound familiar? According to a 2025 pet beds market study, 68% of dog owners prioritise durable, washable beds when making purchase decisions – but durability doesn’t always mean weatherproof. While 80% of pet owners seek orthopedic or cushioned beds for comfort, many discover these same features don’t translate well to outdoor use.

The short answer: it depends on the bed. Most outdoor dog beds are water-resistant, not waterproof, which means they can handle light moisture but shouldn’t be left in heavy rain or extreme weather 24/7. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your dog comfortable outside without ruining their bed.

Quick Answers

• Water-resistant outdoor beds can stay outside during mild weather, but should be brought in during storms or prolonged wet conditions. We recommend keeping them undercover.
• Raised/elevated beds handle outdoor conditions better than cushioned beds because air circulates underneath
• Material matters – ripstop canvas, shade cloth, and hessian perform better outdoors than standard indoor fabrics
• Proper placement under cover (patio, veranda) extends bed life significantly
• Regular maintenance, like wiping down frames and washing covers, prevents mould and odour buildup

What Makes a Bed Suitable for Outdoor Use?

Not all dog beds are designed the same. Indoor beds typically use soft fabrics that absorb moisture, trap odours, and break down quickly when exposed to UV rays and rain. Outdoor dog beds, on the other hand, are built with specific materials designed to withstand Australian conditions.

Water-resistant fabrics like ripstop canvas or treated twill repel light moisture without soaking through. These materials dry faster than standard cushions, which matters when morning dew or a passing sprinkle hits. Breathable options like shade cloth or hessian allow airflow, preventing that musty smell that builds up in enclosed fabrics.

Elevated designs keep your dog off hot concrete or damp grass. The raised structure allows air to circulate underneath, keeping them cooler in summer and drier year-round. Galvanised steel frames won’t rust when exposed to moisture, unlike cheaper aluminium or untreated metal options that corrode quickly in coastal areas or humid climates.

According to research from the Pet Beds Market (2025), 80% of pet owners prioritise comfort alongside durability – meaning outdoor beds need to balance toughness with support. Memory foam works well for orthopaedic needs but requires a waterproof cover layer. Mesh or textilene fabrics provide firm support without absorbing water.

Water-Resistant vs Waterproof: What’s the Difference?

Here’s where many dog owners get caught out. Water-resistant means the fabric repels light moisture – think morning dew or a brief drizzle. The coating or weave structure causes water to bead on the surface rather than soak in immediately. This gives you time to bring the bed inside or wipe it down before moisture penetrates.

Waterproof materials have a complete barrier that blocks water entirely. These are less common in dog beds because they often trap heat and don’t breathe well. Your dog can overheat on a fully waterproof surface during summer, which defeats the purpose of outdoor comfort.

Most quality outdoor dog beds use water-resistant materials that handle typical outdoor exposure but aren’t designed to sit through a thunderstorm. If you leave a water-resistant bed in heavy rain, moisture will eventually seep through, leading to mould growth in the filling or frame corrosion.

Think of it this way: water-resistant beds can cope with the elements during supervised outdoor time. Waterproof covers or liners add extra protection for dogs that drool, have accidents, or swim before hopping on their bed. But neither is meant to replace a proper dog shelter in severe weather.

Best Materials for Outdoor Dog Beds

Ripstop Canvas

Ripstop canvas tops the list for durability. Originally developed for outdoor gear like tents and sails, this fabric uses a reinforced weave that resists a tear running even when dogs dig or scratch. The water-repellent coating sheds the occasional shower, and the material holds up well against UV exposure without fading too quickly.

Shade Cloth and Textilene

Shade cloth and textilene offer maximum breathability with a flea-repelling bonus. The open weave prevents pests from nesting while allowing air to flow freely. Dogs stay cooler, and the material dries almost instantly after getting wet. This makes it ideal for hot Australian summers when elevated cooling matters more than cushioning.

Hessian (Jute)

Hessian (jute) provides a natural, biodegradable option that’s surprisingly tough. High-grade jute withstands moisture exposure better than you’d expect, and the natural fibres have inherent heat resistance. If the material stretches over time, leaving it in the sun tightens it back up – a handy feature for long-term outdoor use.

Twilled Canvas

Twilled canvas combines water resistance with wind protection, featuring a PVC backing. The tight weave blocks breezes that can chill dogs on cooler evenings, while the treated surface repels moisture and resists staining. It’s heavy-duty enough for dogs that are rough on their bedding.

When You Should Bring an Outdoor Dog Bed Inside

Even the toughest outdoor bed needs protection during extreme weather. Heavy rain eventually saturates water-resistant materials, leading to mould growth in foam or fillings. If you can’t move the bed, place it under cover where rain won’t directly hit it.

Prolonged direct sunlight degrades most fabrics over time, causing colours to fade and fibres to weaken. Rotate the bed’s position occasionally, or move it to a shaded spot during the hottest part of the day. UV-resistant materials last longer, but nothing is truly fade-proof when exposed to the Australian sun for months on end.

Cold, damp nights present another challenge. While raised beds keep dogs off cold ground, the bed itself can become uncomfortably chilly when temperatures drop. Bringing it inside overnight or adding a blanket layer or fitted mat helps, especially for older dogs with arthritis or joint issues.

If your dog spends significant time outdoors, invest in multiple beds – one that stays outside in a protected area, and another for inside use. This approach extends both beds’ lifespans because neither cops constant weather exposure or indoor wear and tear.

How Raised Dog Beds Outperform Standard Outdoor Beds

Elevated designs solve several outdoor challenges simultaneously. Air flows underneath, keeping dogs cooler when resting on hot days – essential in Australia, where summer temperatures regularly hit 30°C+. That same airflow prevents moisture buildup from damp ground or morning dew.

The raised platform keeps dogs away from biting insects that thrive in grass or dirt. Fleas can’t nest in an open-weave elevated bed the way they burrow into cushioned beds that sit directly on the ground. This matters during spring and summer when flea populations explode.

Joint support improves because the firm surface distributes weight evenly, preventing dogs from sinking into soft cushions. Senior dogs or large breeds prone to hip dysplasia often find relief on raised beds. 

Superior Pet Goods’ raised dog beds feature 1.2mm galvanised steel frames that resist rust even in coastal environments where salt air accelerates corrosion. The frame sits 15cm off the ground – high enough for airflow without making it difficult for older dogs to climb on. Replacement covers let you swap worn fabric without replacing the entire bed, reducing long-term costs and waste.

Maintaining Outdoor Dog Beds for Longevity

Regular cleaning extends bed life significantly. Wipe down frames weekly with lukewarm water and mild detergent to remove dirt buildup before it becomes encrusted. This takes five minutes and prevents grime from prematurely wearing down materials.

Wash Covers

Wash covers every 2 weeks if your dog spends several hours outdoors each day. Most removable covers can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle – check the manufacturer’s care instructions first. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry in the sun. Avoid leaving wet covers in the washing machine, as this can cause mildew growth even in supposedly mildew-resistant materials.

Check For Wear

Inspect the bed monthly for signs of wear. Check seams for fraying, frames for rust spots, and fabric for tears or thin patches. Catching small damage early prevents it from becoming a bigger problem that requires full replacement.

Store Appropriately 

Store beds properly during extreme weather events. If you’re expecting a week of heavy rain or a heatwave, bringing the bed into a garage or covered area protects your investment. Outdoor beds are built tough, but they’re not indestructible.

Dry Completely

For foam-filled beds, ensure they dry completely after any moisture exposure. Damp foam breeds mould, creating health risks for dogs and unpleasant odours that permeate your outdoor area. If foam gets wet, remove it from the cover and let it air-dry in the sun for several hours.

Outdoor Beds Built for Australian Conditions

After 16 years designing beds specifically for Australia’s climate, Superior Pet Goods understands what works outdoors. Their range includes options for every need, from weekend patio lounging to full-time outdoor living.

Ripstop Dog Lounger

The Ripstop Dog Lounger combines water-repellent durability with soft-filled comfort. The reinforced fabric resists tearing*, while the recycled PET fibre filling (made from plastic bottles) and Australian memory foam provides cushioning that retains its shape. Zippered access makes washing straightforward – remove the cover, toss it in the machine, and you’re done. This suits dogs that split time between indoors and outdoors, needing comfort without sacrificing practicality. 

*While ripstop fabric is tough, it is not indestructible and will not stand up to motivated chewers.

Original Flea-Free Raised Bed

For elevated cooling and flea resistance, the Original Flea-Free Raised Bed uses shade cloth with an open weave that prevents pests from nesting. Air circulates freely underneath, keeping dogs cooler on hot concrete or tiles. The galvanised steel frame handles Australian summers without warping, and replacement covers are always available when the original wears out.

Canvas/Twill Raised Bed

The Canvas/Twill Raised Bed offers water and wind resistance for dogs in exposed outdoor areas. The tight weave blocks breezes while repelling moisture, making it suitable for verandas or patios that don’t have complete overhead cover. This option suits larger breeds or multiple-dog households where durability under constant use matters.

Hessian Raised Bed

Superior Pet Goods’ Hessian Raised Bed offers an eco-friendly alternative made from 100% biodegradable jute. When the cover eventually wears out, you can compost it or use it as a garden weed mat. The natural fibres have inherent heat resistance, and if the material stretches over time, sun exposure tightens it back up naturally.

All raised beds in the range feature the same robust 1.2mm galvanised steel frame, designed to prevent rusting from the inside out – crucial in humid or coastal areas where metal corrosion happens quickly. The covers attach with Velcro tabs for easy fitting and tightening, so you can swap covers seasonally or replace worn ones without tools or complicated assembly.

Alternative Option: Ortho Dog Mat

The Ortho Dog Mat works brilliantly for dogs that don’t need elevation but require joint support. The 10cm convoluted Australian foam provides cushioning for arthritic dogs or those recovering from surgery, while the water-repellent cover protects the foam from light moisture. It’s lightweight enough to move between outdoor and indoor spaces, ideal for dogs that follow you from deck to lounge room throughout the day.

Creating the Perfect Outdoor Rest Spot

• Location matters as much as the bed itself. Choose a spot with partial shade so your dog can escape direct sun during the hottest part of the day. 
• Ensure the area has good drainage. Decking, slightly raised ground or paved areas work better than low-lying spots where water collects.
• Keep the bed away from sprinkler systems or areas where you hose down regularly. 
• Consider wind exposure. Protected areas under eaves, on covered decks, or against fence lines shelter beds from harsh weather.
• Add a water bowl nearby, but not directly next to the bed. 

For dogs that spend long periods outside, rotation also prevents overuse of a single spot. Having two bed locations – one in the sun, one in the shade – lets your dog choose based on temperature and time of day.

Ready To Upgrade Your Outdoor Bed Setup?

Leaving a dog bed outside successfully comes down to three factors: choosing materials designed for outdoor use, protecting the bed from extreme weather, and maintaining it regularly. Water-resistant doesn’t mean weatherproof, but proper outdoor beds can handle typical Australian conditions when used sensibly.

Your dog deserves comfortable rest wherever they spend time. With the right outdoor bed and a bit of common sense about when to bring it inside, you can give them that comfort without constantly replacing soggy, worn-out bedding.

Superior Pet Goods has been crafting Australian-made outdoor beds since 2009, with galvanised steel frames that handle our harsh climate and replacement covers that extend your investment. Whether you need elevated cooling, water-resistant lounging, or eco-friendly durability, there’s an option built specifically for Aussie conditions.