By Caleb MorganUpdated November 2026
A toddler climbs out of bed to sleep with dog almost every night, and for many families the fix starts with where the dog sleeps, not just the child. This guide looks at bedside dog beds and co-sleeper style pet setups that can give a curious toddler a safe, familiar spot to settle without a midnight trip across the floor. The selection criteria were height and stability, fit for a bedside setting, cushion and cleaning practicality, and build quality, based on manufacturer specifications and common owner feedback patterns. None of these products were tested by the author.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallBedside Dog Bed Co-Sleeper, 6-Level Height AdjustableView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for low beds and tight spacesBed Extension Window Perch Bedside CosleeperView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for multi-pet households2-Tier Bedside Sleeper with 3-FenceView on Amazon - 4
Best for a freestanding bassinet lookBedside Dog Bed with Mattress and Foldable StairsView on Amazon - 5
Best for a soft sleepover-style nestS4 Kids Sleepy Sack 2-in-1 PillowView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bedside Dog Bed Co-Sleeper, 6-Level Height Adjustable | Matching bed height | Six height settings from 27 to 32 inches |
| Bed Extension Window Perch Bedside Cosleeper | Low beds and tight spaces | Anti-slip feet and stainless steel frame |
| 2-Tier Bedside Sleeper with 3-Fence | Multi-pet households | Two levels with a guardrail |
| Bedside Dog Bed with Mattress and Foldable Stairs | Freestanding bassinet look | Removable mattress and three-step stairs |
| S4 Kids Sleepy Sack 2-in-1 Pillow | Soft sleepover-style nest | Ultra soft material, 66 x 30 in |
Bedside Dog Bed Co-Sleeper, 6-Level Height Adjustable
6-Level Height Adjustment, Small & Medium Dogs & Cats, Bed Attachment Design, Lockable Wheels, 2 Removable Washable Cushions Bedside Dog Bed Co-Sleeper, 27-32 in Height Adjustable Pet Bassinet
Best for: Matching the dog bed height to your mattress so the transition is short and low.
This model suits families who want a bedside spot that can be raised or lowered as the child grows or the mattress changes. Because the height adjusts, it is easier to set it level with the bed so the dog can step on and off without a jump.
Key specs
- Six height adjustment levels
- 27 to 32 inches in height
- Two removable washable cushions
- Lockable wheels
- Bed attachment design for small and medium dogs and cats
Pros
- Height can be matched to most bed frames
- Removable cushions simplify cleaning
- Lockable wheels keep it in place once positioned
Cons
- Best suited to small and medium dogs only
- Assembly and height adjustment take some time
Bottom line: A strong choice for parents who want an adjustable, bed-attached setup for a small or medium dog.
Bed Extension Window Perch Bedside Cosleeper
Extension Attached to Human Bed for Dog Cat, Window Perch Bedside Lounge Elevated, Stainless Steel, Anti-Slip Feet Bedside Cosleeper Dog Bed with Bloster, Height Elevated Pillow Bed Dog
Best for: Low beds and tight spaces where floor room is limited.
This design extends from the side of the human bed, which can help if the bed is low or the room is narrow. It works well for a dog that likes an elevated view and a child who needs a nearby, stable reference point.
Key specs
- Stainless steel frame
- Anti-slip feet
- Elevated cushioned pillow surface
Pros
- Attaches to the bed for a compact footprint
- Anti-slip feet help it stay put
- Steel frame is generally easy to wipe clean
Cons
- Fit depends on bed frame dimensions, so measure first
- Less suitable for larger dogs
Bottom line: Best for parents with a low bed or a narrow bedroom who want a space-saving attachment.
2-Tier Bedside Sleeper with 3-Fence
2-Tier Bedside Sleeper with 3-Fence, Double Elevated Human Dog Bed for Multi-Pet Households, Small Bedside Dog Bunk Bed with Guardrail, 2 Layers Window Perch Sleeper Dogs Cot
Best for: Multi-pet households that need more than one sleeping level.
A two-tier design gives more than one pet a place to rest at bedside height. The three-fence guardrail adds a visual and physical barrier that many owners find reassuring when a toddler is nearby.
Key specs
- Two elevated layers
- Three-fence guardrail
- Designed for multi-pet use
Pros
- Room for more than one pet
- Guardrail adds a sense of enclosure
- Two tiers use vertical space well
Cons
- Larger footprint than single-level options
- Upper tier may suit only smaller dogs
Bottom line: Pick this if you have more than one pet and need two sleeping levels beside the bed.
Bedside Dog Bed with Mattress and Foldable Stairs
Bedside Dog Bed with Mattress – Raised Wooden Pet Cosleeper with Guardrail, Removable Mattress & 3-Step Foldable Stairs, Freestanding Bassinet-Style Elevated Dog Bed for Medium Sized Dogs
Best for: A freestanding bassinet-style look with an easy entry for the dog.
This freestanding raised bed includes a removable mattress and foldable stairs, which can make it easier for an older or less agile dog to get up. It is designed for medium-sized dogs and sits beside the bed without attaching to it.
Key specs
- Raised wooden frame
- Removable mattress
- Three-step foldable stairs
- Guardrail included
Pros
- Freestanding, so it does not need bed attachment
- Stairs help dogs of varying mobility
- Removable mattress is simple to wash
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than attachment designs
- Designed for medium dogs rather than very small breeds
Bottom line: A good match for families with a medium dog who want a sturdy, freestanding bedside bed.
S4 Kids Sleepy Sack 2-in-1 Pillow
S4 Kids Sleepy Sack for Nap Time and Sleepovers, Ultra Soft Material, 66 x 30 in Size, Suitable for Ages 3 and Up Happy Nappers Happy Nappers 2-in-1 Pillow & Sleepy Sack Dog 66x30in Large
Best for: A soft, sleepover-style nest that feels cozy for both a child and a dog.
This product is designed for children ages 3 and up and is built for nap time and sleepovers. It is included here as a soft, nest-like option for families who want a cozy spot on the floor beside the bed. Because it is designed for a child rather than a dog, check suitability carefully before use.
Key specs
- Ultra soft material
- 66 x 30 inch size
- Suitable for ages 3 and up
- 2-in-1 pillow and sack design
Pros
- Soft and cozy for close contact
- Large enough for a child to lie down
- Portable for sleepovers or travel
Cons
- Not a dog bed, so it does not raise the dog or provide a bedside structure
- Soft floor setups may not suit every family’s safety comfort level
Bottom line: A soft, low-profile option for families who want a floor nest rather than a raised pet bed.
Buying Guide
Height and Bed Match
The most important factor is how close the dog bed surface sits to your mattress. A height within a few inches of the bed lets the dog step on and off without a jump, which reduces strain on older dogs and makes the setup easier for a toddler to understand as a shared space.
Good picks for this: Bedside Dog Bed Co-Sleeper, 6-Level Height Adjustable; Bed Extension Window Perch Bedside Cosleeper
Attachment Versus Freestanding
Attachment designs save floor space and tend to stay aligned with the bed, while freestanding beds can be moved and used in different rooms. Choose attachment if you want the tightest fit, and freestanding if you need flexibility.
Good picks for this: Bed Extension Window Perch Bedside Cosleeper; Bedside Dog Bed with Mattress and Foldable Stairs
Guardrails and Edges
Look for a guardrail or enclosed sides that help define the space. For a toddler, a clear edge can reduce the chance of a stumble when climbing up or down, and some families find it helps the child understand where the dog’s spot begins.
Good picks for this: 2-Tier Bedside Sleeper with 3-Fence; Bedside Dog Bed with Mattress and Foldable Stairs
Size and Dog Fit
Check the listed dog size range before buying. Manufacturers typically specify weight or size limits, and a bed that is too small can cause discomfort or instability. Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and compare with the product dimensions.
Good picks for this: Bedside Dog Bed Co-Sleeper, 6-Level Height Adjustable; 2-Tier Bedside Sleeper with 3-Fence
Stability and Anti-Slip Features
A bed that shifts when a dog jumps on or a toddler leans against it can create a safety concern. Look for anti-slip feet, lockable wheels, or a wide base. Test stability once assembled by gently pressing on the edges.
Good picks for this: Bed Extension Window Perch Bedside Cosleeper; Bedside Dog Bed Co-Sleeper, 6-Level Height Adjustable
Cleaning and Washability
Dogs shed and track in dirt, and toddlers spill snacks and drool. Removable, machine-washable covers and cushions make upkeep far easier. Confirm the care instructions before purchase.
Good picks for this: Bedside Dog Bed Co-Sleeper, 6-Level Height Adjustable; Bedside Dog Bed with Mattress and Foldable Stairs
Durability and Materials
Frames made from steel or solid wood generally hold up better than lightweight plastic under repeated use. Check the stated materials and weight capacity, and look at owner feedback about hinges, joints and stitching over time.
Good picks for this: Bed Extension Window Perch Bedside Cosleeper; 2-Tier Bedside Sleeper with 3-Fence
FAQ
Will a dog bed really stop my toddler from climbing out of bed?
Not on its own, but it can reduce the pull. Many toddlers climb out to be near the dog, so a comfortable, reachable pet spot can satisfy that urge. Pair it with a consistent bedtime routine and calm, brief returns to bed.
What height should a bedside dog bed be?
Aim for a surface close to your mattress height so your dog can step on and off easily. Adjustable models make it simpler to fine-tune this.
Is a bedside dog bed safe next to a toddler’s bed?
Choose a bed with stable feet, a guardrail or clear edges, and no loose parts. Keep cords and small objects away from the area, and check the product’s care instructions and weight limits. If you have questions about safety for your child, consult your pediatrician.
Should my toddler sleep with the dog?
Co-sleeping with pets is a personal decision, and many pediatric and safety bodies advise against sharing a bed with a dog for infants and young children because of injury and allergy risks. A separate bedside bed keeps the dog close while keeping the child’s sleep space distinct. Talk with your pediatrician about what fits your household.
How do I stop the climbing habit if a bed doesn’t work?
Try a bedtime routine, a consistent response when your child leaves bed, and a predictable reward for staying in bed. The related guides listed on this site cover step-by-step approaches in more detail.
Are adjustable bedside beds worth it?
If you change bed frames, mattresses or pets, adjustability can save you from buying again. If your setup is fixed and your dog is a stable size, a single-height model may be enough.
Can a freestanding bed work in a small room?
It can, but measure the space first, including door swing and walking paths. Attachment designs often free up more floor space.
Conclusion
For most families dealing with a toddler who climbs out of bed to sleep with the dog, the best starting point is a bedside bed that matches mattress height and stays stable. The adjustable co-sleeper suits parents who want flexibility, the window perch extension fits low or tight rooms, the two-tier sleeper works for multiple pets, and the freestanding bassinet-style bed suits medium dogs with mobility needs. The soft sack is better as a floor nest than a raised pet bed. Choose based on your bed height, dog size and room layout, and pair the setup with a consistent bedtime routine.
Sources
- Guidance on safe sleep environments and bed-sharing for infants and young children (aap.org)
- Consumer safety information on children's sleep products and furniture hazards (cpsc.gov)
- Dog care, size and behavior information for choosing a pet bed (akc.org)
Related reading
- Toddler Sleep Sack Prevent Climbing Out Crib: 7 Steps That Work
- Sleep Training Toddler Climbing Out of Crib: 7 Best Picks (2026)
- Sleep Train in Toddler Bed: 6 Best Picks Compared for Smoother Nights (2026)
- How to Make Toddler Sleep on Plane: 7 Best Travel Beds Compared (2026)
About Caleb Morgan
Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our toddler development & behavior guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
