The Best Orthopedic Dog Beds: Best Choice For Older Dogs Or Canines With Arthritis
This post contains affiliate links, and we may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on our links, at no additional cost to you.
Sleep is just as essential to dogs as it is to us. They function better with quality sleep, especially if they are older and living with debilitating conditions such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. Such dogs need a more comfortable sleeping spot to support their joints and bones.
Orthopedic dog beds are the perfect solution. These beds provide much-needed support to not only older and larger dogs but small dogs and puppies too.
We have taken the time to review the best orthopedic dog beds on the market to help you get the right choice for your pup. We have also included a detailed buying guide that will enable you to know before you shop, ensuring that you get the best deals available.
This Friends Forever Orthopedic dog bed is one of the best on the market for dogs that need firm, durable support. It is waterproof and particularly suitable for dogs that shed.
Key Features
Cushioned poly-fill bolster for the ultimate comfort
Water-resistant liner
Human-grade mattress foam
Removable, machine-washable cover
YKK zippers
Bed size: 36 x 28 x 9 inches
Mattress thickness - 4 inches
What We Like
We love the human-grade mattress. It is firm, durable, and keeps its shape remarkably well. The removable and machine-washable cover is easy to keep clean, too. While the thick foam mattress and non-slip design will keep your dog’s bed in place at all times, no matter how heavy the dog.
What We Don’t Like
The zippers are not very durable and keep malfunctioning.
Pros
Durable and long-lasting
Can fit one large dog, two medium dogs, and two small dogs
One-year manufacturer’s warranty
Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
It can be hard to reassemble after washing
The anti-skid bumps at the bottom of the cover come off after washing
This is one of the best orthopedic dog beds on the market. It gives firm support to especially larger breed dogs, managing any joint and bone conditions that they may have.
This orthopedic dog bed soothes joint pressure, which helps to reduce joint pain. The bed's cover is easy to keep clean as it is waterproof and machine-washable, and the mattress is made of high-density memory foam that will give your dog the firm support he needs.
Key Features
Therapeutic and orthopedic assembly
Removable, waterproof color
High-density memory foam
Bed sizes:
Small: 27 x 22 x 5.5 inches
Large: 36 x 28 x 9 inches
Extra-large: 46 x 36 x 10 inches
What We Like
We love the grip and reinforcement, as well as the fabric and stitching on this bed. It is a high-quality dog bed with premium-grade foam that gives excellent support. That it’s available in multiple sizes is also a convenient touch.
What We Don’t Like
The outer cover tends to shred in multiple places. This bed would be better if it came with at least one replacement cover.
Pros
Easy to maintain
Waterproof
Great customer service
Comes in different sizes and colors
Cons
Difficult to reassemble after cleaning
Outer cover durability is lacking
This therapeutic orthopedic bed is specially designed for older dogs. It has a thick memory foam that will soothe painful joint aches and is easy to assemble and keep clean.
This pet bed gives your dog the orthopedic support needed to ease joint and arthritic pain. It comes with a 2-inch orthopedic gel memory foam and a 3-inch high-density support base. All parts are removable and washable, and the low denier performance fabric stops liquid from penetrating the mattress.
We love the low denier performance yarns that are stain and moisture-resistant finish. If your dog has an accident, it won’t penetrate the mattress but bead up on the surface of the fabric instead. A more hygienic solution all-round!
What We Don’t Like
The outer cover does not hold up well to scratches and digging.
Pros
High-density foam provides relief for joint pain or arthritis
Resistant to urine penetration
Entirely waterproof
90-day money-back warranty
Cons
The outer cover is not rip-resistant
This high-quality memory foam bed will stay clean and hygienic for a long time. Should your pet have an accident, wipe the urine off the bed and wash it regularly.
This orthopedic dog bed features a 5-inch high-density mattress with an additional inch of low-density memory foam for the ultimate therapeutic comfort. This feature makes it perfect for older dogs struggling with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other pressure point-induced pains.
Key Features
Firm, premium-grade orthopedic mattress
Two covers per bed for easy maintenance
Outer waterproof cover with an inner waterproof liner
Bed size: 44 x 35 x 6 inches
What We Like
This bed has ample support for even the largest of dogs—up to 150 pounds. The extra outer suede cover and an inner waterproof liner the mattress also protect the foam from wetting or soiling.
What We Don’t Like
The accompanying outer cover is too slippery. For large, boisterous dogs, it will be hard to keep this bed in place.
Pros
It can support large dogs weighing up to 150 pounds
The foam mattress will not sag or pancake with time
An outer cover and extra inner waterproof liner protect the mattress entirely
Spacious enough for even the most massive dogs to sleep comfortably
Cons
Not non-slip
The crinkling noise from the inside waterproof liner can put off some dogs
If you’re looking for an extra-spacious bed for your large dog that will hold up to their weight over time, this bed is your best option. The extra thick mattress also gives soothing comfort against arthritis and other joint conditions.
This large orthopedic dog bed is made with high-quality human-grade orthopedic foam that’s supportive with deep cushioning and provides pressure relief on joints. The cotton-padded walls instantly contour to your dog’s neck and head for optimum comfort.
Key Features
Ultra-soft polyester cover with a quilted design
Orthopedic foam base
Comfy cotton-padded rim cushion
Non-slip back and bottom cover
Bed size: 40 x 30 x 10 inches
What We Like
We love the design of this bed. While most large dog beds are simple mattress-style beds, the manufacturers of this bed have taken the time to design a sturdy but cozy bed. The bed comes with a quilted gray, removable, machine washable cover and a non-slip rubber backing and bottom to prevent the bed from slipping on floors or tile, too.
What We Don’t Like
This bed is not entirely waterproof and can absorb some urine or spilled liquids.
Pros
Ideal for one large dog or many smaller dogs
Soft and comfortable, perfect for dogs who love to snuggle
Rim cushion supports the dog’s neck area
Non-slip design
Cons
Not rip-resistant
Requires gentle washing otherwise it will shred
This orthopedic dog bed is purposely designed for large breeds. It’s incredibly spacious, comfortable, cozy, and heavy enough to stay in place with its non-slip design.
This solid, supportive, memory foam orthopedic bed is generously filled with recycled poly-fill bolsters. This feature keeps your dog supported yet cozy and comfortable.
Key Features
Solid 4-inch memory foam base
Base and bolsters provide optimal support and security
Water-resistant and tear-resistant cover
Non-slip bottom
Comes with replaceable covers
Bed size: 36 x 28 x 9 inches.
What We Like
We love the safe and comfortable material. With a blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, this bed is one of the coziest orthopedic beds on the market, perfect for dogs living with hip dysplasia.
The covers are water-resistant, removable, and washable, and there's an extra waterproof inner liner to protect the memory foam mattress. This bed is made with skin contact safe and breathable polyester-cotton blended fabric that's a dream for your dog.
What We Don’t Like
The zippers are not YKK and easily prone to failure.
If you're looking for a bed for your larger, older dog, and they need comfortable cushioning for their hip problems, then this bed will be a good fit. The cushioning is deep enough to support your dog, especially if they have hip dysplasia.
This Barker Orthopedic dog bed is the perfect pillow-top orthopedic option for your dog. It has a therapeutic foam base mattress that comes with a 10-year guarantee that will take the weight of your large dog without issues.
Key Features
Washable, microfiber cover
Therapeutic, orthopedic foam
Made in the USA
Comes in a variety of sizes and colors
What We Like
We love the pillow top that gives your dog much-needed neck support. This bed is spacious and firm, and the microfiber cover is removable and machine washable.
What We Don’t Like
The 7-inch edge can be too high for smaller dogs to navigate.
Pros
Easy to clean and maintain
Pillow top
Does not pancake or flatten with use
Quality American craftsmanship
Cons
Not entirely waterproof
It can be too high for smaller dogs to navigate, especially if they have joint problems
This pillow top orthopedic bed is perfect if your large dog needs extra neck support. The quality is up there, and that’s no surprise as it’s manufactured in Pennsylvania.
This comfy bed has deep walls that provide the perfect cozy space for your small dog. It has high-loft, recycled polyester fiber filling and a nest-like design that encourages dogs to curl up for a peaceful sleep.
Key Features
Raised rim design for pets that love to curl up
Lightweight and portable
Luxurious faux fur inner layer
Comes in beautifully natural colors
Pet safe materials
Bed size: 23 x 23 x 6 inches
What We Like
We love the design of this bed, as it is particularly suited to small dog breeds. The raised rim is perfect for dogs (or cats) that love to curl up as they sleep. This bed also provides orthopedic and joint support for older smaller dogs and has a non-slip bottom that keeps it in place.
What We Don’t Like
The filling could be more evenly distributed, and the cover could be a bit softer.
Pros
The perfect orthopedic bed for small breeds
Lightweight and portable
Easy to wash and maintain
Available in multiple natural colors to complement your home decor
Cons
Some owners find the inner lining hard and scratchy
The filling can be lumpy and uneven
If you need an orthopedic bed for your small dog, try out this MIXJOY Orthopedic donut bed. It provides sufficient head and neck support and promotes feelings of safety and security.
This affordable orthopedic bed features a high-quality memory foam mattress and a water-resistant cover that are both easy to wash and maintain.
Key Features
Ergonomic memory foam and gel foam
Waterproof, machine-washable cover
Therapeutic and orthopedic support
Comes in a variety of colors and sizes
What We Like
This affordable orthopedic bed is comfortable and accommodates any dog sleeping position. They come in four colors and four sizes to accommodate all breeds. Barkbox even includes a free toy to keep your pup happy.
What We Don’t Like
The bed arrives vacuum-packed, and you have to allow 72 hours for it to expand before using it. There’s also some slight odor before it’s had time to air out.
Relieves body aches, joint pain, hip dysplasia, and arthritis
Cons
Some beds fail to inflate
Slight odor
The sizing chart is off, so measure your dog before buying
If you need an orthopedic dog bed on a budget, this BarkBox bed is an excellent choice. It fits dogs of all breeds and all sizes and is easy to keep clean and maintain.
Overall Rating - 4.6/5
Buyer’s Guide – What You Need to Know When Buying an Orthopedic Dog Bed
Just like humans, older dogs have trouble getting up in the morning. They suffer joint pain and need the support an orthopedic dog bed can give.
Arthritis and hip dysplasia are also prevalent in older dogs, particularly large-breed dogs. These conditions can make it difficult for your dog to get up off the floor or out of bed in the morning.
If your dog suffers from stiff joints, you must make an effort to provide them with a good orthopedic dog bed. This action will not only prevent their health problems from getting worse but will also expand their lifespan.
Here we break down the particular benefits of the best orthopedic dog beds and how to correctly choose one.
The Benefits of an Orthopedic Dog Bed
An orthopedic dog bed is one that is designed to provide the ultimate support for the joints, bones, and body of your dog. The foam base of the bed molds itself around your dog, holding its shape and providing the much-needed support.
These doggy beds cost more than regular dog beds because they are high-quality and long-lasting. They also provide vital support to your dog that may be ailing from arthritis, hip dysplasia, or pressure point pain. These benefits include:
Orthopedic beds offer firmer support for dogs with arthritis and other joint problems. These beds gently relieve joint pain and stiffness as your dog sleeps or rests on the bed.
Senior dogs have an easier time getting up from orthopedic beds. These beds can hold 90% of their shape over ten years and won’t pancake or flatten under pressure with time.
Orthopedic dog beds are more comfortable for dogs. The memory foam and low denier performance conform to the dog's body, and should they pee on the bed, the urine will not penetrate the mattress but bubble up on the cover.
These beds are especially useful if your dog’s just come out of surgery. Such dogs can benefit from an orthopedic mattress’s support during the recovery process.
If your dog has a great deal of health issues, it may even be worth it to speak with your veterinarian about specific features that may help.
What to Look for in an Orthopedic Dog Bed
If you’re ready to get an orthopedic dog bed, there are a few qualities you need to look out for, and some vital factors to consider.
Waterproof Materials
Look for an orthopedic bed with waterproof materials. As dogs get older, they become incontinent and are bound to have accidents. Waterproof materials with a low denier performance will stop the urine from getting to the mattress and make clean up far easier. As a bonus tip, if you want to put the bed on a carpeted area, place a waterproof mat under it, so any urine that dribbles off is easy to deal with.
Machine-Washable Covers
Removable and machine-washable covers make maintaining your dog’s bed a breeze. Try to buy beds that come with two covers so that when one is in the wash, the other can be used by your dog.
Non-Slip Qualities
An orthopedic bed with a non-slip back and bottom will ensure that your bed stays in place at all times. This feature stops the bed from sliding across the floor as your dog adjusts the position or from slipping out from under your dog.
Mattress Thickness
The best orthopedic dog beds have a memory foam mattress thickness of 5-inches or more. Anything thinner won’t provide adequate support or conform to your dog’s body, especially if you have a larger breed dog. The heavier your dog is, the thicker the foam you’re likely to need.
Cushioning and Padding
Beds with extra back and side cushioning bolsters, and padding, as well as pillow tops, are cozier and more comfortable for your dog. If your dog likes curling up as they sleep, look out for these convenient features.
Space and Size
Choose an orthopedic dog bed that is spacious and roomy. It will give your dog ample room to spread out and change sleeping positions. To decide on the right size, remember to measure your dog while in a laying position, preferably the one he sleeps in.
Budget
Consider the price of the bed when shopping for an orthopedic dog bed. Be careful to balance quality with price. Cheap can be expensive in this case, so be prepared to spend a little more to get the best orthopedic dog bed for your large dog.
Final Thoughts
The best orthopedic dog beds may cost more than standard dog beds, but they do provide the best support, enabling your dog to get a good night's sleep.
This support and comfort are vital for older dogs that may be suffering from hip or joint pain. However, it doesn’t hurt to give your puppy the best orthopedic dog bed, and start them off early with good sleeping habits, as well as prolong their lifespan—just wait until after the chewing stage is over.
We hope the information in this review will help you to choose the best orthopedic bed for your furry friend. If you purchase a bed from our roundup, we'd love to hear your experience with it in the comment section below.
Dog beds vary just as much as dogs. The variety and quality available nowadays are astounding, which can make it very difficult to pick one. To find the best dog bed for your dog, you’ll need to consider their age, weight, sleeping style, and temperament. Dogs can sleep for up to 85% of the day […]
At first, having my Lab sleep in bed with me was fun, but after waking up multiple times with her fur in my nose and mouth, even when she’s not in bed with me, I figured it was time she got her own bed. OUR TOP PICK My search took a lot of trial and […]
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 […]
PetFashionWeek provides comprehensive resources for everything you need to know about your dog. We research and review the dog related products so you don’t have to. Let your furry friend be at their best with our professional tips.
We may earn commission on eligible purchases you make using our links at no additional cost to you.