Choosing the right dog sofa isn’t just about style — it’s about finding a size that works for your dog, your interior, and your daily routine. A well-sized dog sofa helps your pet rest comfortably while blending naturally into your living space.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right size dog sofa based on your dog’s measurements, your room layout, and how the sofa will be used day to day.
Measure Your Dog First (Not Just the Breed)
Breed guidelines are useful, but your dog’s actual size matters more.
What to measure
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Body length: from chest to base of tail
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Sleeping position: curled up or stretched out
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Shoulder height: helpful for raised or sofa-style beds
A good rule: the inner sleeping area of the dog sofa should be at least 10–20 cm (4–8 in) longer than your dog’s body length.
This ensures enough room to change positions without feeling cramped.
Consider How Your Dog Uses the Sofa
Dogs don’t all rest the same way. Observing your dog’s habits helps you choose the right format.
Common behaviors to note
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Curling up tightly → compact or round dog sofa
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Stretching out → rectangular or longer sofa
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Leaning against edges → sofas with side support
If your dog enjoys resting near you, a sofa-style bed placed in shared areas like the living room often works better than a floor cushion.
Match the Dog Sofa Size to Your Living Space
A dog sofa should fit your home — not overpower it.
Where will the sofa be placed?
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Living room (next to a sofa or wall)
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Bedroom (near the bed)
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Home office or quiet corner
Measure the available floor space and leave enough room for walking paths. As a general guide:
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Small spaces: compact or low-profile dog sofas
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Open rooms: medium to large dog sofas that visually anchor the area
A raised dog sofa can visually feel lighter than a bulky floor bed, even in smaller rooms.
Choose the Right Height for Easy Access
Height matters just as much as width and length.
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Low sofas are easier for small dogs
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Raised sofas help keep pets off cold floors
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Older dogs may need easier access
If your dog has difficulty jumping, pairing your dog sofa with dog steps can make access smoother without changing the sofa size.
Think About Future Needs
When choosing a dog sofa size, it’s smart to think long term.
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Will your dog grow?
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Will the sofa stay in the same room?
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Will it be used daily or occasionally?
A slightly larger sofa often provides more flexibility without sacrificing aesthetics.
When a Dog Ramp Makes Sense
For higher sofas or beds, especially in shared spaces, dog ramps can help your pet access their sofa safely and independently.
They’re particularly useful when:
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The dog sofa is elevated
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The sofa is placed near human furniture
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The dog prefers walking rather than jumping
If you want more details, you can read our article entitled "Dog Ramp vs Dog Steps: Which One Should You Choose?".
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
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Choosing based on breed only
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Ignoring sleeping position
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Selecting a sofa too large for the room
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Forgetting access height
A well-sized dog sofa balances comfort, proportion, and practicality.
Final Thoughts: Comfort That Fits Your Home
The right dog sofa size supports your dog’s daily rest while fitting naturally into your living space. By measuring your dog, understanding their habits, and planning around your room layout, you’ll choose a sofa that feels intentional — not intrusive.
Explore our collection of dog sofas designed for modern interiors, with sizes and styles made for everyday use.