Your dog deserves a good night’s sleep, especially as they get older and more susceptible to aches and pains like arthritis. Are orthopedic beds good for dogs? An orthopedic dog bed can help your dog sleep comfortably and wake up well-rested. My recommendations for the best orthopedic dog beds will help you find the right fit based on your dog’s size, sleeping habits, and other needs like waterproofing and cooling features. Learn about the best dog beds for arthritis, hip dysplasia, and more.
| Large | Medium | Small |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| Big Barker | Brindle | PetFusion |
What’s An Orthopedic Dog Bed?
These specialty pet beds provide extra relief with foam core for dogs recovering from surgery or suffering from chronic conditions such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, or other joint, bone, or muscle disorders, typically in senior dogs or dogs with mobility issues. The best orthopedic dog beds consist of memory foam, which conforms to your dog’s entire body to provide extra support to relieve pressure on a dog’s joints.
Best Orthopedic Dog Bed
I’ve separated these reviews into two sections to help you find top picks by size or by the special features you want.
For Large Breeds: Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed With Pillow-Top Review
Big Barker is as durable as they come. The company specializes in well-crafted large (designed for 50lb+ pups) orthopedic dog beds that won’t flatten under your dog’s hefty weight.
This dog bed consists of three layers of thick, 7″ American-made therapeutic foam designed for optimal weight distribution and comfort. It promises to protect joints and the most painful pressure points. The Big Barker meets CertiPUR-US standards for safe content, emissions, and durability and offers a 10-year “can’t flatten, won’t flatten” warranty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Machine-washable removable covers | Expensive |
| Open-cell foam technology releases heat for comfort and joint support | Lacks waterproofing |
| Pillow top for head and neck support | |
| Foam promises to retain 90% of its original shape & loft | |
| Specially designed for big dogs (50lbs+) | |
| 10-year money-back warranty | |
| Made in the USA |
Big Barker Support Foam Explained
The graphic below shows the differences between the Big Barker foam and other typical dog bed fill. Its support provides comfort and prevents sinking.
Pricing & Specs
- Giant: (60″ x 48″ x 7″): $399.95
- Sizes: Large, X-Large, and Giant
- Colors: Burgundy, Chocolate, Charcoal Gray, and Khaki
If you buy this bed, you may also want this Big Barker waterproof cover to protect your investment
Best Medium Orthopedic Dog Bed: Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam Review
The affordable Brindle 4″ solid orthopedic dog bed features 2″ of comfort orthopedic foam and 2″ of high-density support foam to provide soft support to relieve achy joints, arthritis, and hip dysplasia.
This bed retains its shape while consistently conforming to your dog’s weight and pressure. It’s also waterproof, naturally hypoallergenic, and resistant to dust mites.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Competitively priced | Foam thickness is not ideal for very large/giant breeds |
| Ideal construction of soft and supportive material | Doesn’t have cooling properties |
| 100% waterproof encasement cover | Some complaints about the cover ripping |
| The zippered velour cover is easily removable and machine washable | |
| 3-year warranty |
Pricing & Specs
- Medium: (34″ x 22″): $40.33
- Sizes: Small, Medium, and Large
- Colors: Charcoal Black, Khaki, Mocha Blue
You may also wish to protect against microorganisms with this anti-microbial removable waterproof cover.
Best Small Orthopedic Dog Bed: PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed Review
PetFusion’s Ultimate Memory Foam Dog Bed is an ideal combination of affordability and solid orthopedic support for small to medium-sized dogs. The solid, certified, high-density orthopedic foam and stuffed bolster provide comfort and relief from aching joints. And dogs can nestle their heads and legs under the bolster.
The bed is also available in larger sizes for bigger breeds. The cover is waterproof and easy to remove to toss in the washing machine.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Competitively priced | The padding is not thick enough for larger, heavier dogs |
| Made with high-density foam | Some complaints that the pad isn’t firm enough and the bolster isn’t tall enough |
| Inner waterproof liner | |
| Outer bolster for added support and nestling | |
| Easily removable cover for pad and bolster is machine washable | |
| 1-year warranty |
Our Personal Experience With PetFusion Dog Bed
My dog Sally loves lounging on this bed. Sometimes she is fully sprawled out on it, and other times she is curled up in a tiny ball. It’s one of her favorite places in the house.
– Kimberly Alt, Rescue Dog Parent, Canine Journal Insurance Expert
Pricing & Specs
- Small: (25″ x 20″ x 5.5″): $69.95
- Sizes: Small, Large, and X-Large
- Colors: Chocolate and Slate Gray
If you buy this bed, you may also want this replacement cover, especially if your dog has a destructive streak.
Top-Rated Orthopedic Dog Beds For Special Features
Below, you’ll find my reviews for other top-rated orthopedic dog beds based on must-have properties for your pup, including the best dog bed for joint pain.
For Senior Dogs With Arthritis: Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed Review
View Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed on Amazon
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed is our pick for the best dog bed for senior dogs with arthritis. This bed has a 3-inch-thick high-density egg crate foam base and bolstered side pillows, so it’s extra comfy to snuggle up in.
Made of a soft flannel cover, it has a non-skid bottom and removable cover for easy cleaning. The interior foam is covered with a TPU protective cover to protect against accidents. It’s available in several sizes, small through XXL. Plenty of room to spread out while staying secure and cozy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made with premium-grade egg grate foam that distributes weight evenly | May be too big for smaller dogs |
| Bolstered sides for extra support | |
| Removable cover is machine washable | |
| Fabric is accident-proof |
Pricing & Specs
- Large: $36.79
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large and XX-Large
- Colors: Gray, caramel, green, lavender, hazel, dark grey, washed blue, turquoise, pink, black, brown.
Easy To Clean: Casper Dog Bed Review
Looking for easy-to-clean orthopedic dog beds? While many beds have removable covers, this bed from Casper is extra slobber-resistant. The double support mattress is specifically for dogs that like to dig and scratch with a rip-resistant microfiber blend material.
Made by the same people who produce Casper’s human beds, this mattress is all about luxury. Pressure-relieving is a bonus to this well-designed bed, no matter how tough your dog is on it.
Casper’s products have gone through hundreds of hours of testing as well as hundreds of prototypes to create the perfect sleeping surface for your sweet pup.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excess material on top protects from digging and scratching | On the expensive side |
| Supportive foam with small side bolsters | |
| Removable cover is machine washable | |
| Comes in smaller sizes for all-sized dogs |
Pricing & Specs
- Small: $224.00
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large
- Colors: Gray, sand, blue, eucalyptus.
For Hip Dysplasia & Pain: The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Foam Bed Review
The Dog’s Bed Premium Orthopedic Dog Bed consists of a 2″ base of high stability support foam with a 2″ covering of premium-grade, high-density orthopedic foam to provide contouring support for older dogs with arthritis pain, muscle stiffness, hip dysplasia, arthritis, and aching joints. It’s also great for growing young dogs, especially larger breeds that have a predisposition to joint conditions.
This dog bed is a perfect solution for most dogs who like to stretch out and laze — and can easily convert to an excellent orthopedic dog crate pad. It is low to the ground and can be accessed easily by dogs with mobility issues. Bolsters offer neck support and keep your pup from falling off. This bed comes with removable covers that can be washed and a waterproof mattress protector.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made with premium-grade foam that holds its thickness over time | Some customers say it flattens quickly |
| Waterproof mattress protector | |
| Easily removable and machine-washable outer linings | |
| Easy-wipe plush fur covers |
Pricing & Specs
- Large: (43.5″ x 34″ x 10″): $184.99 ($184.99 / Count)
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large and XX-Large
- Colors: Grey with black trim, Black fur, Black plush, tartan, Blue Denim, Blue and red, Grey, Stars and stripes, and more
With Bolster: BuddyRest, Crown Supreme Bed Review
The BuddyRest Crown Supreme dog bed is an excellent choice if your dog needs the added support of side and back bolsters. While expensive, this bed has a lot going for it. The orthopedic foam is gel-infused to regulate your dog’s temperature, and it can hold its shape for years.
The Crypton performance fabric stays clean, repels odors, and doesn’t need washing as often as many other covers. You get a 10-year warranty to boot.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Odor and stain-resistant fabric with a removable cover | Expensive |
| Gel-infused foam keeps dogs cool | Doesn’t have an inner waterproof liner |
| 10-year warranty | |
| Handmade in the U.S. |
Pricing & Specs
- Large: (40″ x 30″ x 11″): $399.99
- Sizes: Medium, Large, and X-Large
- Colors: Champagne beige, Dark chocolate, Fathom gray
Waterproof: KOPEKS Orthopedic Memory Bed Review
The KOPEKS Orthopedic Dog Bed is made with high-end, mattress-quality materials that are easy on your dog’s sore joints. This bed has two water-resistant zippered covers that are easy to remove and wash. And the soft, micro-suede cover is super comfy for your dog.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% orthopedic-grade, hypoallergenic foam | Several complaints that the bed and pillow don’t expand fully after unpackaging |
| Thick, waterproof inner lining | Zipper tends to break easily for some customers |
| Pillow-top for head and neck support |
Pricing & Specs
- Large: (35″ x 28″ x 5.5″): $89.95
- Sizes: Small, Large, and Jumbo XL
- Colors: Chocolate Brown, Gray
Cooling Orthopedic Dog Bed: Barkbox Memory Foam Platform Review
BarkBox is known for its dog subscription boxes, but it also has an orthopedic foam platform bed. The mattress is excellent for orthopedic joint relief and has a waterproof lining and a machine-washable cover that’s easy to remove.
At 3 inches, the bed isn’t as thick as others in this review, but it claims to help relieve body aches, joint pain, hip dysplasia, and arthritis. The bed comes vacuum-packed in a box and inflates fully after 72 hours. One perk is that it comes with a BarkBox squeaker toy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The machine-washable cover is easy to remove | Foam thickness is not ideal for large breeds |
| Waterproof inner liner | Some beds don’t fully inflate |
| Temperature-regulating gel foam | Complaints of the liner not being waterproof |
| More affordable than many other beds | |
| 1-year warranty |
Our Personal Experience With BarkBox Dog Bed
My Goldendoodle Gary is very happy with this bed. I’ve even found my 2-year-old human son sneaking in a nap on it! They could probably afford to have a larger size; the XL is almost too small for all 90 lbs. of Gary, but he is a huge dog. They included an orange squeaker toy as a surprise, and he loves playing with it!
– Jeff Butler, Goldendoodle Dog Parent, Canine Journal Partnerships & Analytics
Pricing & Specs
- Large: (22″ x 35” x 3”): $44.99
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large
- Colors: Blue, Grey, Sand, Espresso
Is It Time For An Orthopedic Pet Bed? (Video)
Check out the video below to learn how to spot the signs and symptoms of dog joint pain and arthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions
I see a lot of questions about orthopedic dog beds and have addressed a few of the most common ones below. If I didn’t get to yours, or you have a bed to recommend, let me know in the comments.
Are Orthopedic Beds Worth It For Dogs?
Yes, orthopedic dog beds are often worth it. For dogs with mobility issues or pain, these beds can help relieve painful symptoms and, in some cases, help prevent the damage from worsening. Not all beds offer the same support, so be sure to discern your pups’ needs and purchase a bed that works for their unique situation.
What Is The Best Material For An Orthopedic Dog Bed?
Memory foam, high-density orthopedic foam, and gel foam are the top materials. Memory foam shapes your dog’s body, and orthopedic foam provides extra support to their limbs and joints. They offer support and comfort. Many dog beds combine these materials to provide your dog with complete support.
What Kind Of Bed Is Best For Dogs With Arthritis?
Memory foam dog beds, or those with a memory foam topper, are a top pick for dogs with arthritis. NASA actually developed memory foam, and its unique properties make it a perfect material to reduce pressure on the body and joints. It can get hot, so a gel foam bed may be a better choice if you have a heavily coated pup.
More On Doggy Joint Pain
It’s devastating for a pet owner to watch your dog deteriorate and suffer from arthritis or hip dysplasia. Getting an orthopedic dog bed is just one step you can take to give your pup the relief he deserves. Of course, be sure to see your vet if your dog is symptomatic. We also have a more in-depth review of dog beds and a comparison of elevated dog beds that are not necessarily orthopedic.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Sally has over 20 years of experience in human health sciences communications, including 10 years as an expert on pet health conditions and treatment. She’s part of a team of dedicated canine professionals and long-time dog owners at Canine Journal. We test and research the best pet products, not only for our own pups but for all of our readers.
