A good night’s rest is essential for our dog’s comfort and well-being, and this is where some of the best orthopedic dog beds can come to the rescue.
Taking care of our pets is an integral part of being a pet parent. This becomes even more true for our furry friends in their golden years — dogs of all breeds can develop mobility issues as they age.
Designed to provide support and comfort tailored to their unique needs, these beds are like a dream come true for our dogs of all sizes, offering that extra cushion that they need. But with so many orthopedic beds available in the market — from memory foam ones to gel — which one should you choose?
What to Look for in Orthopedic Dog Beds
You should be familiar with several features while looking for the best orthopedic dog bed. We’ve made a list of the most important ones you should consider before making a purchase.
Size and Shape
This is the most important thing to consider. When choosing an orthopedic dog bed, measure your dog’s size and observe their sleeping habits. The bed should be large enough to accommodate your dog comfortably and allow them to stretch out fully while sleeping. Additionally, pay attention to the bed’s shape, whether it’s rectangular, round, or bolstered, and choose one that matches your dog’s preferred sleeping position for a good rest.
Material and Durability
The materials used in orthopedic dog beds play a significant role in their comfort and durability. Most beds are made from high-quality foam, such as memory foam or specialized orthopedic foam. These materials provide optimal support for your dog’s joints and muscles, alleviating pressure points and promoting better sleep quality. Look for beds with thick, dense foam that are well constructed for maximum comfort and longevity.
Also, consider the material of the bed cover — a waterproof or water-resistant cover for orthopedic dog beds is a good choice for dogs who are prone to accidents or spills. These materials help protect the mattress from moisture and stains, ensuring that your dog can use it for months on end. And here’s the best part: a removable, machine-washable cover makes cleaning a breeze, saving you time and effort.
Non-skid Bottom
Look for orthopedic dog beds with a non-skid bottom to prevent the bed from sliding around on smooth surfaces. They are a stable and safe option that ensures the bed stays put even during active sleep or play sessions. Whether placed on hardwood floors, tile, or laminate, a non-skid bottom makes you worry-free and prevents accidents for your pooches.
Temperature Regulation
If you live in warmer climates, you must consider beds with features designed for temperature regulation, such as cooling gel-infused foam or breathable fabrics. These help prevent overheating, which is especially useful for dogs prone to excessive panting. A bed that keeps your dog cool and comfortable is definitely the right choice.
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How to Know If My Dog Needs an Orthopedic Dog Bed
If you pay close attention to your pooch’s overall activity and mobility, you should be able to recognize some of the signs or symptoms listed below:
Observe Changes in Your Dog’s Mobility
This is the most obvious one. If you notice difficulty standing up, climbing stairs, or reluctance to jump, remember that an orthopedic bed can provide the relief your dog needs.
Notice Signs of Discomfort
Our four-legged companions are smart creatures who will mostly let their discomfort be known. This can manifest as restlessness, whimpering, or stiffness, especially after lying down. Additionally, they can come across as more irritable and restrict their activities.
Consider Age and Breed
Senior dogs and large breeds are more prone to joint issues and may benefit from orthopedic support. However, consult your veterinarian, who knows your dog’s specific needs and can recommend suitable bedding options.
Check for Existing Health Conditions
Arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other orthopedic issues may require specialized bedding for relief.
Do Orthopedic Dog Beds Work?
Orthopedic dog beds work wonders for your furry friends, especially as they age. They effectively help your dog feel their optimum best by providing support to their joints. Here are some of their benefits:
Joint Relief
Orthopedic beds are specifically designed to cushion your dog’s joints, reducing pressure and discomfort, especially for older dogs or those with arthritis.
Improved Sleep
Proper support can lead to better sleep quality, allowing your dog to wake up feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to take on the day.
Potential for Increased Mobility
By easing joint pain, an orthopedic bed may help improve your dog’s mobility and flexibility. This is particularly important for a dog to feel independent and happy.
Prevention
While primarily beneficial for older dogs, using an orthopedic bed early on can potentially help prevent joint issues in younger dogs.
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The Best Orthopedic Dog Beds to Buy in 2024
We at DogTime would like to help you pick the best orthopedic bed for your four-legged companion, ensuring they remain comfy, active, and happy. Armed with all the knowledge about orthopedic dog beds and their many benefits, you’ll be able to choose one from our list that suits your pup best.
BEST OVERALL
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed
BEST FOR LARGE DOGS
FurHaven Orthopedic Dog Bed
BEST FOR MEDIUM DOGS
Pitpet Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed
BEST EXTRA LARGE
JOYELF Memory Foam Dog Bed
BEST PLUSH BED
WNPETHOME Washable Dog Bed
BEST NON-BOLSTERED
PETMAKER Orthopedic Dog Bed
BEST PREMIUM
Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed
BEST OVERALL
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed
PHOTO CREDIT: Bedsure
Why We Love
Made from CertiPUR-US-certified orthopedic foam
Bolsters on all sides for safety and comfort
Non-slip bottom
The waterproof inner liner protects the foam
Available in a variety of sizes and colors
Machine-washable covers
But…
It may be hard to put the cover back on
When comfort meets design, you know you have a winner on hand. The Bedsure Orthopedic bed is our top choice for dogs facing joint health issues. It is made from CertiPUR-US-certified orthopedic foam that helps in even weight distribution and cushions your furry friend’s joints, providing support when they are lying down and while getting up. Because they come in a wide range of sizes, you can select one that is suitable for your dog, no matter how large or small they are.
The bed’s design features a bolstered edge on all four sides that your beloved pooch can rest your head on, making it very relaxing for them. A front opening in the bolstered border helps your dog get on and off the bed easily. The covers are available in a wide range of colors and are made from soft flannel fabric that your dog will love to lie on. While its waterproof liner ensures that the mattress remains protected from spills and accidents, cleaning the covers is also a breeze since it’s machine washable.
BEST ORTHOPEDIC BED FOR LARGE DOGS
FurHaven Orthopedic Dog Bed
PHOTO CREDIT: FurHaven
Why We Love
Made from certified orthopedic foam
Bolsters on three sides for easy access
Egg crate foam helps keep your dog cool
Quilted-design covers
Machine washable covers
Available in a wide range of colors
But…
Does not feature a non-slip base
Suitable for dogs up to 55 Lbs, the sofa-bed style orthopedic bed from FurHaven is bolstered from three sides, providing easy access and a cozy snoozing experience for your furry friend. The bolsters are filled with recycled fluff, making them lightweight but offering enough support for your dog to nestle within. Made from egg-crate foam, which is also CertiPUR-US certified, the bed provides support for your pooch’s joints, eases pressure points, and enhances airflow so that they can enjoy a restful night’s sleep.
The removable cover features a quilted design that is comfortable for your dog and great to look at. When dirty, simply toss the cover in the washing machine; it will come out looking and feeling clean and fresh. Choose a cover color that best suits your decor aesthetics, and be assured that your precious pup is sleeping in one of the most comfy beds out there.
BEST ORTHOPEDIC BED FOR MEDIUM DOGS
Pitpet Orthopedic Sofa Dog Bed
PHOTO CREDIT: Pitpet
Why We Love
Made from thick egg crate foam
Plush velvet and flannel material
Machine washable cover
Bolsters on four sides
Waterproof liner
Non-slip bottom
But…
The zipper on the cover may not be great
If you want to give your furry friend a luxurious sleep experience while also taking care of their tired and overworked joints, then this sofa dog bed from Pitpet is the right choice for you. Made from plush velvet and soft flannel and featuring a non-slip bottom, the bed is perfect for medium-sized dogs who weigh up to 35 Lbs. It also features bolsters on four sides with a front opening that allows your dog to snuggle within the bed safely.
The thick and firm foam is extremely joint-friendly, and the egg crate design reduces heat retention and keeps your furry BFF cooler and more comfortable during sleep. If you have a senior dog using the bed who is prone to accidents while sleeping, the waterproof liner on the bed will ensure that the foam remains clean and dry. The zippered cover is machine washable and won’t lose its shape even after many washes, making it easy to clean, durable, and long-lasting.
BEST EXTRA LARGE ORTHOPEDIC DOG BED
JOYELF Memory Foam Dog Bed
PHOTO CREDIT: JOYELF
Why We Love
Ideal for extra-large breeds
Fluffy bolsters on all four sides
Waterproof liner to protect the memory foam
Non-slip backing
Machine washable cover
Comes with a bonus squeaky toy
But…
Premium price point
Larger breeds are more prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia and arthritis, and as such, they can start using one of the best orthopedic dog beds for hip dysplasia even when they are younger to possibly prevent the onset of such diseases. This bed from Joyelf is perfect for extra large dogs, not just due to its size but also because it uses memory foam as the base of the bed, providing them with support and comfort as they sleep.
It features fluffy cotton-padded bolsters all around the bed, which only slightly tapers in the front, making it a very cozy and safe space for your pooch to be in their dream world. Plus, its removable, machine-washable cover is very convenient to clean. With its non-slip backing that ensures the bed remains stable, this bed is a great choice for your gentle giants. The bed comes with a separate squeaky toy as a gift that your dog can cuddle with. It’s too cute, we say!
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BEST PLUSH ORTHOPEDIC DOG BED
WNPETHOME Washable Dog Bed
PHOTO CREDIT: WNPETHOME
Why We Love
Ultra-soft, short plush cover
Non-slip backing
Waterproof liner
Machine washable cover
Made from high-density egg crate foam
Available in a wide range of sizes
But…
The soft plush may attract dust
Some beds just look more inviting than others, and that is the case with this orthopedic bed. Made from high-density egg crate foam, this bed from WNpethome is great at supporting your pooch’s joints, and its skin-friendly short plush cover ensures they feel like they are enveloped in a warm hug while they sleep. It is also available in varying sizes, which are suited for dogs of different sizes — ensuring no dog gets devoid of sleeping on such a luxurious bed.
The bed features a C-shape design of bolsters, which opens in the front so that your senior dog can easily get on the bed without having to jump over the bolster. With a non-skid bottom, it stays securely in place, and its waterproof liner ensures the foam remains unaffected by any spills. You may think that such a plush cover would be difficult to clean and wash, but you simply have to put it in a washing machine, and it will be as good as new.
BEST NON-BOLSTERED DOG BED
PETMAKER Orthopedic Dog Bed
PHOTO CREDIT: PETMAKER
Why We Love
Flatbed design
Made from two layers of different foams
Ideal to use in crates
Non-skid backing
Sherpa top sheet to keep the dog warm
Machine-washable cover
But…
No bolster to support the neck and head
Made from two types of foam — a 2-inch memory foam at the base and 2 inches of high-density foam on top, this flat orthopedic bed provides exceptional support to dogs with joint issues, especially arthritis. That is not to say you cannot use it for younger, healthier dogs. Because they do not have bolsters, these beds are easy to use in crates, kennels, or anywhere you think will benefit from a more compact bed design. The smallest size can accommodate puppies or toy breeds, making it one of the best orthopedic dog beds for small dogs.
If you live in colder climate regions, you will appreciate the cover, which has a top sheet of sherpa fabric — ideal for keeping your furry friend warm and comfortable for a good night’s sleep. The cover also has a non-skid bottom, ensuring the bed does not slide around, and a zipper that goes around, making it easier to remove and machine wash. Available in various colorful patterns, you will surely find one that suits both your beloved pooch and your aesthetic preferences.
BEST PREMIUM ORTHOPEDIC DOG BED
Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed
PHOTO CREDIT: Big Barker
Why We Love
3-layer-design
Durable microfiber material
Studied to show positive results on mobility
Headrest on one side
Machine-washable
10-year warranty
But…
Very expensive
Finding the right-sized bed for your extra-large or giant breeds can be a bit challenging. But Big Barker dog beds come in sizes suited to large, extra large, and giant dogs, ensuring no one gets left behind from enjoying a blissful sleep. Benefitting from three layers, this bed pomises to alleviate joint pain and improve mobility. It also features a headrest on one side of the bed for added support and comfort.
Made from durable microfiber material, it is built to last. The cover is made of microsuede, which is not only good to look at but can also be washed in the machine, ensuring it keeps looking smart in your home. Additionally, the cover fabric is smell-and-digging-resistant, which will not rip even when your extra large or giant dogs exhibit nesting behavior before settling down to sleep.
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How We Chose the Best Orthopedic Dog Beds
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best orthopedic dog beds by assessing factors such as size and shape, materials, temperature regulation, cost, and overall durability. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
Do orthopedic dog beds make a difference?
Yes, orthopedic dog beds are designed in a way that is especially effective in providing support and comfort to dogs with joint pain or arthritis — making sure your furry friend sleeps well.
What to look for in an orthopedic dog bed?
When choosing an orthopedic dog bed, look for supportive foam, a waterproof liner, durable material, and a washable cover. Ensure it’s the right size for your dog and has a non-skid backing to provide stability and safety while your dog snoozes.
What are the disadvantages of orthopedic mattresses?
One disadvantage of orthopedic mattresses is they can be more expensive than regular beds. Additionally, some dogs may not like the firmer feel, and orthopedic beds may not fit well in certain spaces due to their thickness.
How thick should an orthopedic dog bed be?
While it depends on individual use, a general rule is that an orthopedic dog bed should be around 4 to 6 inches thick to provide adequate support and cushioning for your dog’s joints and muscles.
Is orthopedic foam or memory foam better?
Orthopedic foam is often better for dogs as it’s firmer and provides more support for their joints, while memory foam molds to their body shape but may be too soft for some dogs.
Are expensive dog beds worth it?
Yes, if they offer durability, superior comfort, and support for your dog’s health. However, please consider your budget and your dog’s specific needs before making a purchase that will likely pinch your pocket.
What is the difference between a regular bed and an orthopedic bed?
Even the best dog beds have a basic design and provide minimal support, while orthopedic beds are specially designed with firmer foam to support dogs’ joints and muscles.
