Dog Bassinet Bed: How to Choose a Bedside Bassinet for Your Puppy (2026)
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A new puppy alone in a crate across the room usually means crying at 2 a.m. A dog bassinet bed puts your puppy right beside you at mattress height. Your puppy can hear you, smell you and see you, and you can reach over to reassure them without bringing them into your bed.
Quick answer
- Puppies, toy breeds and cats up to 18 lbs: a bedside dog bassinet such as the Close To Me Nest ($99.95). Choose the Oval Nest if your puppy sleeps curled up.
- Puppies who will grow past 18 lbs (up to 33 lbs as adults): the Close2Me Pet Bed ($174.95), so you don't need to buy a second bed in six months.
- Breeds that grow past 33 lbs: use a bassinet only while they're small, or start with a crate or floor bed beside your bed.
What is a dog bassinet bed?
A dog bassinet is a small, walled pet bed that attaches to the side of your bed, like a baby's bedside bassinet. Most attach with a strap that runs under the mattress, and the height adjusts so the bed sits level with you. The walls give a small puppy something to curl against, which helps them feel secure.
Why a bedside bassinet helps puppies sleep
Puppies are used to sleeping in a warm pile with their littermates. In the first weeks at home, sleeping alone is a big change. A bedside bassinet keeps your puppy close, which many owners find shortens the "crying at night" phase. It also makes night-time potty trips easier, because you notice right away when your puppy wakes up.
What to look for
1. Weight limit for the adult dog, not just the puppy. Check the breed's expected adult weight. If your puppy will outgrow an 18-lb bassinet, a 33-lb co-sleeper may be better value.
2. Walls on every side. A small puppy feels safer with a wall to lean against. Padded sides also help stop a sleepy puppy from rolling out.
3. A secure attachment you can check. Look for a strap or belt that runs under the mattress and tightens. Check it by hand before bedtime.
4. A fit for your mattress. Measure your mattress thickness. The Close To Me Nest and Oval Nest fit mattresses 4–11.8 in thick and adjust in height, so they also work for low platform beds and nightstand-height beds.
5. A washable cover. Accidents happen during house training. Both Nest covers unzip and are machine washable.
Our dog bassinet beds compared
| Close To Me Nest | Close To Me Oval Nest | Close2Me Pet Bed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Puppies and toy breeds | Puppies who curl up, warm sleepers | Growing puppies, small-medium dogs |
| Max weight | 18 lbs | 18 lbs | 33 lbs |
| Sides / cushion | Soft padded walls | Breathable mesh surround | Comfy Pad included |
| Attachment | Under-mattress safety strap | Under-mattress safety belt | Tool-free, securing belt |
| Mattress fit | 4–11.8 in, adjustable height | 4–11.8 in, adjustable height | Adjustable height |
| Price | $99.95 | $99.95 | $174.95 |
How to set up a dog bassinet for the first night
- Fit it during the day. Attach the bassinet, tighten the strap and line it up with your mattress.
- Make it smell familiar. Add a blanket or toy from the breeder or shelter.
- Practice with naps. Let your puppy nap in the bassinet during the day with treats.
- Keep the same routine every night: a potty break, then the bassinet, then lights out.
- Reassure, don't rescue. A hand resting on the edge of the bassinet often settles a puppy without picking them up.
FAQ
Is a dog bassinet safe for puppies? Yes, if you use it within its weight limit, secure the strap tightly and line up the height with your mattress. Always check the attachment before bedtime.
Bassinet or crate: which is better for a new puppy? Many owners use both: a crate for daytime training and a bedside bassinet at night. The bassinet keeps your puppy within reach, and that closeness helps a lot of puppies settle.
What size dog bassinet do I need? Choose by your dog's expected adult weight. For dogs that stay under 18 lbs, choose the Nest or Oval Nest. For dogs up to 33 lbs, choose the Close2Me Pet Bed.
Will a dog bassinet fit my bed? The Close To Me Nest and Oval Nest fit mattresses 4–11.8 in thick and adjust in height. Measure your mattress before ordering.
Can cats use a dog bassinet? Yes. All three Furmates bedside beds are made for both cats and dogs.
When will my puppy outgrow a bassinet? Once they get close to the bed's weight limit. Small breeds often never outgrow an 18-lb Nest. For bigger breeds, plan to move them to a larger bed.