Overview

The BarkBox 2-in-1 Donut Cuddler earns its name with a genuinely clever design: unzip the outer rim and it converts from a donut-shaped nesting bed into a flat lounging mat. Two beds in one, powered by a memory foam base that provides real comfort in either configuration. For small to medium dogs who alternate between curling up and stretching out, the versatility is practical rather than gimmicky.

The plush velvet-like cover and raised bolster rim create a cozy nesting spot that anxious dogs gravitate toward. The memory foam base gives it more substance than pure-fill donut beds like the Best Friends by Sheri. The limitations are clear: it tops out at medium-sized dogs, the cover is hand-wash recommended rather than machine-washable, and the 2-in-1 mechanism adds complexity that pure donut beds avoid. But at $46, you are getting genuine memory foam and a thoughtful design that justifies the modest premium over basic alternatives.

Features Deep-Dive

2-in-1 Convertible Design

The conversion mechanism is simple — a hidden zipper around the donut rim lets you fold the bolster flat, transforming the bed from a raised-edge nesting bed into a flat mat. In donut mode, the bolster provides about 6 inches of raised edge for dogs to rest their head against or burrow into. In flat mode, the same material adds extra surface area for dogs who prefer to stretch out. The zipper is sturdy and does not snag on the plush fabric, though some owners report it becoming harder to zip smoothly after 6+ months of use.

Memory Foam Base

Unlike many donut beds that rely entirely on polyester fill, the BarkBox includes a genuine memory foam base layer. This makes a noticeable difference in support — the bed cradles rather than collapses under the dog's weight. The foam is about 2 inches thick, which provides adequate support for dogs under 40 pounds but may not be sufficient for heavier dogs who need more substantial orthopedic support. The memory foam also retains warmth, which makes the bed particularly appealing during cooler months.

Plush Velvet Cover

The exterior cover has a soft velvet-like texture that feels premium relative to the price point. Dogs tend to knead and nest into the fabric, and the plush surface adds to the bed's cozy, den-like feel. The aesthetic is clean enough to fit into living room decor without looking like a typical pet product. The downside is maintenance: BarkBox recommends hand washing the cover to preserve the velvet texture, and machine washing can cause the plush to mat and lose its softness.

Pricing Analysis

At $46, the BarkBox 2-in-1 sits at the top of the budget tier. The memory foam base and convertible design justify the slight premium over simpler donut beds. Compared to the Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut at $70, you are paying $24 less and getting memory foam support that the Sheri lacks (it uses recycled polyester fill instead). The trade-off is that the Sheri comes in larger sizes and has a more established reputation for calming anxious dogs. If your dog is small to medium and you value the flexibility of two bed configurations, the BarkBox offers better value. If you need larger sizes or the proven calming effect of shag fur, the Sheri is worth the step up.

Who Is This For?

BarkBox 2-in-1 Donut Cuddler works best for:

• Small to medium dogs (under 40 lbs) who alternate between curling up and stretching out — the 2-in-1 design means you do not need separate beds for each sleep style
• Apartment dwellers with limited space who want one bed that serves multiple purposes rather than cluttering the floor with options
• Dogs who nest and burrow into raised edges — the donut configuration creates a secure, enclosed feeling that reduces anxiety for many dogs
• Owners who care about aesthetics — the velvet exterior looks more like a piece of furniture than a pet product

Who Should NOT Use This

BarkBox 2-in-1 Donut Cuddler might not be the right choice if:

• You have a large breed — the sizing maxes out at medium dogs around 40 pounds. Larger dogs will overflow the donut shape and compress the memory foam beyond its effective range. The PetFusion or Big Barker serve large breeds far better.
• Easy washing is a priority — the hand-wash recommendation is a real inconvenience compared to fully machine-washable options like the FurHaven or Bedsure. If your dog is prone to accidents or heavy shedding, the cleaning burden adds up.

Bottom Line

The BarkBox 2-in-1 Donut Cuddler is a thoughtful product that delivers genuine versatility. The memory foam base elevates it above fill-only donut beds, and the convertible design is practical rather than gimmicky. Ideal for small dogs who like variety in their sleeping arrangements.

FAQ

How durable is the 2-in-1 zipper mechanism?

The zipper is reasonably robust for the first several months. After 6-8 months of regular converting between modes, some owners report the zipper becoming stiffer or harder to align. Most people settle on one configuration and leave it, which eliminates the wear issue entirely. If the zipper fails, the bed still functions perfectly in whichever mode it is set to.

Is the memory foam thick enough for dogs with joint problems?

At approximately 2 inches, the memory foam provides noticeable comfort but is not thick enough for therapeutic orthopedic support. Dogs with diagnosed joint conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia need beds with 4+ inches of foam — the PetFusion (4 inches) or Big Barker (7 inches) are better suited. The BarkBox's foam is more about comfort than medical-grade support.

Can I machine wash it anyway?

You can, but expect consequences. Machine washing on a gentle cold cycle usually works once or twice, but the velvet cover will begin to mat and pill. The plush texture that makes the bed appealing will degrade noticeably after 3-4 machine washes. If machine washability is important to you, the FurHaven or Bedsure are better options designed to handle repeated machine washing.