It’s hard seeing your canine companion age. From slower movements to aching joints, witnessing time take a toll on your buddy can be painful. But you may be surprised just what a big difference a quality, arthritis-focused dog bed can make!
Today we’re outlining popular features you’ll find in orthopedic dog beds, as well as suggestions on the top-rated dog beds for senior arthritic dogs.
Best Dog Beds For Old Dogs: Quick Picks
- Big Barker [Best For Large and XL Dogs] A whopping 7″ of memory + support foam layers, designed to provide joint relief for large and extra-large dogs. Made in the USA with a 10 year “won’t flatten” guarantee.
- Brindle Memory Foam Mattress [Best For Dogs Under 75 lbs] 4 inches of memory + support foam for ultimate canine comfort, plus a removable, washable cover that’s also waterproof. Comes in several great designs and multiple sizes. Large fits maximum 75 lb dog.
- DogBed4Less Extra Large Orthopedic Dog Bed [Most Size Options] 4″ memory foam bed that includes waterproof liner along with two removable covers. Available in several colors and tons of different sizes for total customization.
What Makes a Good Dog Bed for Older Dogs?
Orthopedic dog beds have various features to make your senior canine snug and comfy in their old age. Some popular orthopedic dog bed features are:
- Memory Foam: Orthopedic dog beds with memory foam are highly recommended for senior canines. They help ease the pain of achy joints, and the stiff foam makes it easier for old dogs to get up after laying down.
- Warming Beds: Heated dog beds are another great choice for older arthritic dogs, as the warmth works to relieve your canine’s aches and pains. Some act similar to heated blankets and need to be plugged in, while others can be microwaved. Still others retain your dog’s own heat to keep them warm.
- Liquid/Stain Resistant As dogs get older, accidents become more frequent as bladder and bowel control deteriorates. Liquid and stain resistant dog beds can help provide a solution, so opt for an incontinence-friendly dog bed when available. Look for a bed with an orthopedic base, a waterproof lining, and a removable cover that can be taken off and washed.
5 Best Dog Beds for Arthritic Dogs
When keeping your aging or achy dog happy and comfy, you’ll want to consider a variety of dog bed options. We’re providing info on some of the top-rated dog beds – these beds are all fan favorites and come highly recommended.
We try to give info on what reviewers liked and did not like about each bed, so that you can get an honest, objective evaluation of each dog bed. Read our pros, cons, and customer reviews to see which dog bed will be best for your pooch!
1. Big Barker
The Big Barker Dog Bed wins our gold award for best dog beds for older dogs with arthritis or large dogs in general. It’s truly the creme de la creme for large and extra-large canines and will go a long way towards keeping bigger dogs comfortable as they age with the bed’s impressive support and design.
This award-winning dog bed is specifically designed for large and extra-large dogs, with 7" of foam support to protect joints and provide comfort!
- Medium: 48" x 30"
- Large: 52" x 36"
- Extra-Large: 60" x 48"
Features:
- Extra Support for Large Dogs. This bed boasts unparalleled comfort and support for large canines.
- Maximum Amount of Orthopedic Foam. 7 inches of high-quality comfort and support foam.
- 10 Year Guarantee. Comes with a guarantee that the bed will retain 90% of its shape for 10 years, or you’ll get your money back.
- Made in the USA. Handcrafted in the USA by skilled craftsmen.
- Easy to Clean. 100% microfiber cover is machine washable.
- Highest Quality + Stellar Customer Feedback. While at a much higher price point, this bed is highly recommended and receives rave reviews from customers.
You can read our full in-depth hands-on review of the Big Barker dog bed here!
The University of Pennsylvania has completed a clinical study that focused on Big Barker’s ability to reduce joint pain and improve mobility in big dogs with arthritis.
The study involved 40 dogs, each of whom were at least 3 years of age and 70 pounds in weight.
Dogs in the trial were evaluated weekly over the course of 28 days. An independent data analysis of these dogs showed the following:
- 17.6% enjoyed improved joint function
- 21.6% experienced a reduction in pain severity
- 12.5% exhibited reduced joint stiffness
- 9.6% displayed an improved gait
- 15.1% enjoyed an overall improvement in their quality of life
- 50% of the dogs exhibited a 13% decrease in nighttime activity
- 25% of the dogs exhibited at least a 33% decrease in nighttime activity
Additionally, owners saw improvements in their dog’s ability to walk, run, climb, and jump, as well as a decrease in limping.
PROS
The Big Barker is the best when it comes to providing extreme support for arthritic old dogs. It’s one of the only dog beds with a “giant” size for XXL dogs. In addition, the American-made memory foam is guaranteed to retain 90% of its shape over 10 years!
CONS
The only disadvantage with the Big Barker is that it comes at a higher price point than most other dog beds. However, as buyers have noted, you’ll never have to buy another dog bed again thanks to the great warranty and long-lasting quality.
2. BarksBar Snuggly Sleeper
The BarksBar Snuggly Sleeper features orthopedic foam and bolsters that makes it a great dog bed for seniors.
- Small: 26" x 20"
- Large: 40" x 30"
Features:
- Several sizes, can fit dogs up to 100 lbs. With a small and a large option, you can choose the best fit for your dog and for your space.
- Removable, machine-washable cover. Removable cover allows for easy machine washing when your dog gets it dirty.
- Wrap-around bolsters. Perfect for dogs that like to curl up or lean.
- Non-slip bottom to prevent sliding. Non-slip bottoms are great for seniors dogs, offering more stability as your dog gets in and out of the bed.
PROS
Owners love the thick orthopedic base, and the bolsters make this bed extra cozy for snugglers.
CONS
Not big enough for XL or giant-sized dogs.
3. PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed
The PetFusion Pet Bed is a high-quality pet bed with a 4-inch-thick memory foam base and raised edges to provide additional comfort and security for dog who like to curl up when they sleep.
A premium bolster bed featuring a thick memory foam core and durable cover.
- 25" x 20" x 5.5"
- 36" x 28" x 9"
- 44" x 34" x 10"
- 50" x 40" x 13"
Features:
- Water- and tear-resistant cover to help ensure it lasts for a long time
- Includes a 12-month limited warranty to protect against manufacturer defects
- Non-skid bottom prevents the bed from sliding around on the floor
- Removable, zippered cover is completely machine washable
- Comes in several sizes including Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large.
PROS
Unlike some lesser-quality beds, which use shredded memory foam for the filling, the PetFusion bed features a solid, 4-inch-thick memory foam pad. Additionally, the bolsters offer additional comfort for dogs that like head support.
CONS
Although the PetFusion Pet Bed feature a solid memory foam slab, the bolsters are filled with recycled polyfill, rather than memory foam. This isn’t a huge issue for most (as the headrest is not where dogs need major joint support), but it’s worth considering. Some owners have noted that the fabric cover is fairly thin; fortunately, PetFusion sells replacement covers, so this shouldn’t be a big problem.
4. Brindle Memory Foam Mattress
Rectangular bed for standalone use or inside of a crate, with 4" of foam at a mid-tier price
- Small: 22" x 16"
- Medium: 34" x 22"
- Large: 46" x 28"
The Brindle Memory Foam Mattress is a top mid-priced dog bed that provides plenty of memory foam and support for arthritic older canines.
Features:
- 4 Inches of Foam. 2 inches of comfort memory foam and 2 inches of support foam.
- Removable Cover. Soft velour fabric cover can be zipped on and off for easy, machine washable cleaning.
- Hypoallergenic. Naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites.
- Warranty. Comes with 3-year warranty.
- Various Sizes. Comes in three sizes – small, medium, large.
- Medium Price Point. The Brindle Memory Foam Dog Mattress is at a mid-range price point that isn’t exactly cheap, but won’t break the bank either.
PROS
This dog bed is made of high quality foam and is designed to conveniently fit in regularly crates, making it a great bed for your dog’s kennel. This bed is also waterproof and easy to clean, which is always a plus!
CONS
Some owners complain of strong, chemical odor coming from the bed, but this seems to dissipate quickly after a day or two.
5. DogBed4Less Orthopedic Dog Bed
While not a major brand name, this DogBed4Less Orthopedic Dog Bed comes highly recommended online, with two layers of fabric and a hefty batch of memory foam for canine comfort.
This orthopedic bed features 4-inches of gel-infused memory foam and comes in several sizes, including XL sizes for larger canines.
- 35 x 20
- 37 x 27
- 40 x 35
- 47 x 29
- 55 x 37 | 55 x 47
Features:
- 2 Layers of Fabric. External zipper cover + waterproof internal zipper cover.
- Double Sided Cover. Removable, reversible external cover made of stain-resistant, machine washable microsuede fabric. 2nd layer cover is waterproof for easy cleaning.
- 4 Inches of Memory Foam. 4 inches of 3.2 lb density orthopedic memory foam.
- Free Bonus Cover. Comes with free extra bed cover.
- Medium Price Point. This mid-priced dog bed is a fairly affordable option and is available for purchasing online.
PROS
Owners note that this bed is made of quality support foam that keeps senior dogs comfy. It’s also great at retaining body heat to keep your dog warm, so likely a good choice for dogs that tend to be cold. As a bonus, this orthopedic dog bed also comes with a free bonus cover!
CONS
Some owners complain that the waterproof lining is not as waterproof as expected.
Choose A Special Bed For Your Senior Dog
If you’re still at a loss for what dog bed to choose, we suggest going with our Senior Dog Top Pick: The Big Barker!
Big Barker Recap: With unparalleled customer opinion (owners adore it), unmatched quality, and a 10 year guarantee, it’s no surprise this senior dog bed came out on top.
More Senior Dog Information: If you have a senior dog and are looking to provide them comfort, we also recommend checking out our list of recommended pet stairs, which are great for helping elderly canines get around.
Also consider reading our selection of the Best Dog Foods For Senior Dogs and our Senior Dog Care 101 Guide on more tips and tricks for taking care of your aging canine!
Do you have a favorite dog bed you want to recommend that isn’t on the list? Let us know in the comments!
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