As much as we love our big dogs, sharing a bed with them every night is just not practical. You’ll find yourself waking up cranky and sleep-deprived from all the moving about these dogs will put you through overnight.
Giving your dog his own bed to ensure that you both get a good night's sleep is recommended. However, finding the best dog beds for large dogs can be challenging if you don't know what features to choose.
These dogs have a specific set of requirements compared to smaller breeds, which must be met when choosing a bed for them. Not only must the beds be sized correctly, but they must also have sufficient support to hold the weight and cushion the joints of large dogs breeds like Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Labs.
So which is the best dog bed for large dogs to buy in 2019? We’ve compiled a comprehensive review to help you decide.
Table of Contents
Our top choice for the best dog bed for large dogs, the Big Barker 7-inch Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed, is comfortable, spacious, non-slip, and offers the best support to your dog. It’s also orthopedic with memory foam, which means that your large dog will enjoy the greatest comfort and support, easing the pressure on their joints and bones.
Here are some other choices:
This option is a winner for all large dog breeds, whether you have a Golden Retriever, Mastiff, Labrador, or otherwise. It has a firm therapeutic foam base mattress that comes with an incredibly generous 10-year guarantee that will take the weight of your large dog effortlessly.
We love the roomy design. This bed is spacious enough to allow your dog to change positions quickly and features a comfortable pillow-top for dogs who love to nest. It also features a pillow top design to ease any pressure on your dog’s neck.
The 7-inch edge can be too high for some older dogs with joint problems to navigate.
This best-seller is large enough for giant breeds such as Mastiffs, Great Danes, and St Bernards. Dogs have ample space to change sleeping positions effortlessly, and the size ensures they can stretch out as much as they like.
Go Pet's high-density orthopedic memory foam beds will keep your dog supported, secure, and comfortable! The bed will not pancake or flatten over time, and will gently relieve your dog’s aches and pains.
We love the two layers of protective fabric – a faux suede outer cover and waterproof cover. These outer covers protect the foam mattress and are both easily removed with zippers for quick cleanup in the washing machine. These beds are also fur-resistant, perfect for Golden Retrievers, who shed quite a bit.
Dogs may not take to these beds immediately as they can be quite stiff when new. If you can get your dog to break them in a bit, though, they are very comfortable.
This sturdy, simply-designed bed is large enough for your Golden Retriever. It is also waterproof, and fur resistant making it easy to clean and maintain.
These high-quality large dog beds give your dog the orthopedic support to ease arthritic, hip, and pressure point pain. As German Shepherds are prone to all the above, this bed is an excellent choice for these hard-working dogs.
We love the plush, durable, fully removable, and washable cover. It is easy to remove and will not shrink or fade in the wash. This bed also comes with a 2-inch orthopedic gel memory foam base on top of a 3-inch high-density support base. It has a low denier performance base that stops liquid from penetrating the mattress, too.
The outer cover does not hold up well to scratches and digs from your dog. This could be a problem if your dog is a digger.
This large bed dog is durable and easy to keep clean. German Shepherd dogs are active outdoor dogs, but you won’t have a hard time keeping this bed clean and fresh.
This firm and large memory foam mattress bed is the perfect bed for large dogs like Great Danes. It has two water-resistant and zippered covers that protect against accidents, and which can easily be removed and washed.
This bed is snuggle-friendly and will feel comfortable and luxurious to your big furry friend. The bed also has an anti-slip bottom to keep it in place, no need to worry about your dog scooting it across the floor when he flops down on it. It’s hypoallergenic, too, on top of being waterproof and a cinch to wash.
While this is an excellent mattress, it is a little on the expensive side. We feel that the quality justifies the price, but your budget is still a factor when shopping for a dog bed.
For gentle giants, you won’t find a better match than the KOPEKS orthopedic memory foam dog bed. It’s supportive, durable, and easy to keep clean. If it's in your budget, that is.
This dog bed is designed for keeping your large dog cool and cool in summer and warm in winter. It keeps your dog from touching the ground and is flexible, comfortable, lightweight, and environmentally friendly.
We love that this bed is large and flexible enough to take on the weight of a large dog. It is perfect for summer and winter outdoor use and is made of harmless materials that will not pollute the air quality of your home should you bring the bed indoors.
Crucially, the material is also parasite-resistant, which ensures if you leave it outside, then bring it in, you won't be bringing some unwanted guests with it. The materials used to make the bed are pet-safe and have low harmful emissions too.
The screws holding the bed together require constant tightening, which can be annoying. You might even consider replacing them if you’re handy.
If you need an outdoor bed for your large dog, then this Coolaroo bed will serve them well. It keeps your dog off the cold (or hot) hard concrete, and supports their body weight and joints effectively.
Get your pet a couch! This large sofa-style orthopedic bed is perfect for large dog breeds like Labradors and Labrador Retrievers.
We love the plush faux fur sleep surface. It is soft and gentle on your dog's paws and nose and enhances their burrowing and snuggling behavior as they sleep. The matching bolsters guarantee orthopedic support for your dog’s bones and joints while making for perfectly cozy headrests, too.
The foam is 3-inches thick, and we feel it could be slightly thicker for a more cushioning effect. This option is better suited for medium-large dogs, like Labs than giant breeds such as the Great Dane.
If you have a Labrador Retriever who needs a comfy, spacious bed, consider getting the Furhaven Orthopedic Sofa-Style Bed.
This Kurgo dog bed is the ultimate travel and camping dog bed for your large pup. The top is made of a quilted, waterproof, rip-resistant fabric that is durable, and the poly-fill provides ample cushioning for your pet.
We love the lightweight and waterproof qualities of this doggy travel bed. It is perfect for traveling or camping and will hold up to the elements. It is also non-slip and lightweight and rolls up very conveniently for storage.
While this bed rolls up easily for travel and storage, the Velcro straps can stick in unwanted areas. This isn’t a huge issue, but it's a little annoying.
Should you be on the road a lot with your dog, this Kurgo travel bed will serve them well and last quite a while.
This large dog bed is made with high-quality orthopedic foam that will support your dog with deep cushioning. This feature prevents and relieves pain on pressure points, bones, and joints.
We love the design of this bed. It is perfect for large dogs that need the ultimate support and comfortable, cozy space to curl up and sleep well. The cotton-padded bolsters contour to the neck and head safely and gently for the most comfort.
It also has a quilted, removable, machine-washable cover and a non-slip back and bottom to prevent the bed from slipping.
This bed is not entirely waterproof and can absorb some liquid. It also needs to be washed carefully. Some users report damage in the washer.
This memory foam bed is ideal for large dogs, especially skinny breeds, as it provides the ultimate support on prominent bones, joints, hips, and the entire body. It might, however, not be great for active outdoor dogs as it isn’t the easiest to clean.
This cute poly-cotton exterior/Sherpa interior cave bed is perfect for dogs of all sizes, but also larger dogs. It has a machine-washable cover and 3-inch orthopedic foam that provides ample cushioning for your dog.
We love the design! The cotton is easy to clean, and the Sherpa keeps your dog secure, safe, and comfy. It is available in all sizes, even for larger breeds such as Boxers, Dobermans, and Great Danes. Topped with an extra 2-inch layer of polyester batting and an extra deep sleep surface, this durable and cute bed is available in a variety of fabric colors and sizes.
We would love a thicker cushion of more than 3 inches, especially for giant breeds. It also isn’t chew resistant—skip it if you’ve got a big puppy still in the chewing stage.
If your large dog suffers from anxiety or likes to nest, then this cute and versatile dog bed was made for them.
Now that we’ve covered some of the best dog beds for large breed dogs, let’s explore why large breeds need a certain bed type in the first place as well as some points to keep in mind while shopping.
Dogs, just like human needs to be comfortable. A good night’s sleep keeps them functioning well during the day and helps to prevent bone and joint problems from developing in later life.
Most large dog breeds are also prone to joint and hip ailments like arthritis, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. As these dogs age, they also tend to put on weight, which can create additional painful pressure points.
The best dog beds for large dogs help to alleviate the muscle stiffness and joint pain that comes with these conditions. So although a good bed is not as essential to a dog as food and water, it helps towards improving your dog’s quality of life and prolonging their lifespan.
Large dogs, naturally, need large-sized beds! Always measure your dog first to obtain their correct measurements before you buy the bed. Most large-sized dogs are made for dogs weighing 50 pounds or more, and start at 36 – 41 inches in length and 23 – 27 in width.
Once you have measured your pup, choose a bed that is slightly larger than your pet. This sizing will accommodate any change in sleeping positions and shifting as your dog sleeps.
Your dog’s whole body and limbs must fit into the bed. Sleeping with their limbs hanging over the bed can create pressure points, which could turn painful later on in life.
Select a mattress that’s thick enough to support your large dog. Pick beds with memory foam rather than poly-fill to support your dog’s shoulders, hips, and overall body weight.
The best dog beds for large dogs are at least 4 to 5 inches thick, with some having an additional top layer bringing the dog bed thickness to 6 to 7 inches.
As your dog gets older, however, they may experience joint problems, so also be mindful of not going for a bed that's too thick.
Dogs are animals, and it's only natural that the dog bed will get dirty over time. Try to choose beds that feature removable, machine-washable covers. Some beds also come with two covers, to allow your dog to use one as you wash the other.
Off-the-ground dog bed designs boost airflow in and around the bed, which keeps your dog cool. These beds are useful when used outdoors both in the hot summer months or cooler autumn months.
An elevated bed is also parasite-resistant and will not quickly get dirty.
A dog's age will often determine the type of bed they need. Large dogs will tend to put on weight as they get older.
Their bed should progressively get heavier with a thicker mattress to accommodate their growing weight. Also, these dogs will need a bed with more support that doesn't put pressure on their bones and joints. Orthopedic beds work best for large breeds as they prevent and manage arthritis, hip, and elbow conditions and provide much-needed relief.
Always make a point of consulting your local vet before buying a bed for a larger dog that may have preexisting conditions. This action will ensure that you get your dog the bed that will best suit their needs.
How your dog sleeps is vital in determining the type of dog bed to get for them. Dogs have several sleeping positions, which include on their belly, side, tummy, or on their back with their paws up in the air.
However, some dogs prefer warmth and sleep snuggled up with their favorite human or toy, curled up into a ball.
These sleeping styles will determine the type of bed that will suit them. Bolstered, sofa-style, or tent beds suit dogs that prefer to curl up and burrow, while mattress-style beds are more for dogs who sleep sprawled out over the bed.
Look for beds with a non-slip bottom. With larger dogs that tend to shift positions as they sleep, you'll find the bed moving around quite a bit. Most non-slip dog beds have a rubber, textured surface on the bottom to keep them in place.
Bolstered beds reduce the amount of sleeping space provided while mattress-style beds are roomy and spacious.
Large dogs need a lot of room as they sleep, but still, need to feel cozy and warm. Bolstered beds also provide your dog with an area to place and support their neck area. Consider your dog's preferences when choosing the dog bed style.
Budget is an important consideration, no matter the size of your dog. However, it is not always wise to go for the cheapest bed out there. Large dogs have more demands than smaller breeds, and consequently, their beds tend to cost more.
Be prepared to spend a little more to get the best value out of bed for your large dog.
We hope you thoroughly enjoyed reading our review of the best dog beds for large dogs. Hopefully, this review and buying guide has given you ample information to know what to look for before you dig into your pocket and buy a large dog bed.
So, head on out and get that bed for your German Shepherd, Labrador, or Retriever, and rest assured that your precious pet is enjoying a good night’s sleep. Once you have, drop back by and let us know how it holds up. We love hearing from our readers.
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