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Best Orthopedic Dog Bed Reviews: A Comfy Way To Reduce Joint Pain

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Last Updated: November 27, 2024 | 9 min read | 6 Comments

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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.

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Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed with Pillow-Top Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed, Orthopedic Memory Foam
Big BarkerBrindlePetFusion

What’s An Orthopedic Dog Bed?

Dog sitting in orthopedic dog bed.
Photo by Kimberly Alt for Canine Journal, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2024.

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 Orthopedic Dog Bed with Pillow-Top

View Big Barker on Amazon

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.

ProsCons
Machine-washable removable coversExpensive
Open-cell foam technology releases heat for comfort and joint supportLacks 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.

Big Barker Support Graphic

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

Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam

View Brindle on Amazon

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.

ProsCons
Competitively pricedFoam thickness is not ideal for very large/giant breeds
Ideal construction of soft and supportive materialDoesn’t have cooling properties
100% waterproof encasement coverSome 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 Ultimate Dog Bed, Orthopedic Memory Foam

View PetFusion on Amazon

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.

ProsCons
Competitively pricedThe padding is not thick enough for larger, heavier dogs
Made with high-density foamSome 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

Dog laying in Petfusion dog bed.
Photo by Kimberly Alt for Canine Journal, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2024.

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

Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed

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.

ProsCons
Made with premium-grade egg grate foam that distributes weight evenlyMay 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

Casper dog bed

View Casper Bed on Amazon

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.

ProsCons
Excess material on top protects from digging and scratchingOn 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 Orthopedic Memory Foam Bed

View The Dog’s Bed on Amazon

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.

ProsCons
Made with premium-grade foam that holds its thickness over timeSome 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

BuddyRest, Crown Supreme Bed

View BuddyRest on Amazon

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.

ProsCons
Odor and stain-resistant fabric with a removable coverExpensive
Gel-infused foam keeps dogs coolDoesn’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

KOPEKS Orthopedic Memory Foam Bed

View KOPEKS on Amazon

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.

ProsCons
100% orthopedic-grade, hypoallergenic foamSeveral complaints that the bed and pillow don’t expand fully after unpackaging
Thick, waterproof inner liningZipper 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 Memory Foam Platform Review

View BarkBox on Amazon

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.

ProsCons
The machine-washable cover is easy to removeFoam thickness is not ideal for large breeds
Waterproof inner linerSome beds don’t fully inflate
Temperature-regulating gel foamComplaints of the liner not being waterproof
More affordable than many other beds
1-year warranty

Our Personal Experience With BarkBox Dog Bed

    Goldendoodle sitting on Barkbox bed.
    Photo by Jeff Butler for Canine Journal, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2024.

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.

The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease; it is not intended to offer any legal opinion or advice or a substitute for professional safety advice or professional care. Please consult your health care provider, attorney, or product manual for professional advice. Products and services reviewed are provided by third parties; we are not responsible in any way for them, nor do we guarantee their functionality, utility, safety, or reliability. Our content is for educational purposes only.

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