It’s heartbreaking when your dog shows signs of pain, distress, and discomfort due to age, musculoskeletal problems, or aftereffects of surgery. Naturally, you want to provide comfort and support—anything to make your dog feel better.
Medication to soothe the pain and stiffness in joints and muscles is one way to help. But what if your dog’s trying to sleep comfortably? That’s where a soft but supportive orthopedic dog bed comes in.
Check out our five picks of the best orthopedic dog beds to find the perfect therapeutical sleeping arrangement for your pooch!
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed
Best Budget:
FurHaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Deluxe Bed
Best Memory Foam:
Barkbox Memory Foam Platform Dog Bed
Best Overall
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed
The durable, high-density egg-crate foam mattress of the Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed provides dogs with unparalleled joint support and pressure relief. It distributes the dog’s weight evenly so your dog can sleep in any position it desires.
Not only does this bed’s 4-sided bolster design support and secure your dog, but it also soothes its anxiety. Bedsure’s dog bed is made of a velvety soft flannel fabric that will comfort your furry friend physically and mentally.
Dogs with joint problems and mobility issues need stability when getting into or out of bed. Luckily, the bed’s non-skid bottom takes care of that. It also has an easily removable waterproof cover that you can machine wash if your dog gets it dirty.
Pros
- Choice of six sizes from XS to XXL
- Foam and flannel are pet-safe and environmentally friendly
- Tested for canine approval
Cons
- Unknown warranty
- Replacement covers aren’t available
- Size chart requires a thorough check
Best Budget
FurHaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Deluxe Bed
The egg-crate foam of the FurHaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Deluxe Bed provides even weight distribution like the Bedsure dog bed. Unlike our top pick, this orthopedic bed for dogs is topped with silky faux fur, giving your canine more comfort.
This pressure-alleviating bed is ideal for older and disabled dogs who struggle with mobility. They’ll find it very simple to get into and out of bed with the step-on design.
Both the removable zippered cover and the foam mattress are easily washable. After a good spot cleaning, the mattress will continue supporting and cushioning your dog’s muscles and joints. It’s also capable of keeping a sleeping dog warm or cool depending on the season.
Pros
- Material alternates temperature needs as necessary
- Step-on design for easy entry
- Can fit in dog crates
Cons
- Not for dogs with chewing and scratching behaviors
- Not waterproof or water-resistant
- Silky fur top may cause staticky dog fur
Best Memory Foam
Barkbox Memory Foam Platform Dog Bed
High-quality comfort, support, and relief are available with the Barkbox Memory Foam Platform Dog Bed. There are two kinds of foam in this bed: a therapeutic high-density foam and a cooling gel memory foam. They’ll soothe body-aching conditions while keeping your dog at a comfortable temperature.
This platform bed enables dogs with mobility issues to not only easily step into it but also easily fall asleep. And its flat design allows your dog to comfortably spread out as the foam shapes itself to accommodate the body.
When it’s time for a washing, you can easily unzip the water-resistant cover and run it in the laundry. Because it comes in five sizes from small to double-extra large, you have plenty of options for your dog’s size!
Pros
- Two kinds of foam for pressure relief and cooling
- Hypoallergenic and dust mite-resistant
- Comes with a free dog toy
Cons
- Bed expansion takes 24–72 hours
- Water-resistant cover, not waterproof
- One-year warranty
Best Comfort
PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed
The PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed does more than just reduce dogs’ joint pain and improve their mobility and energy. Just like our first pick, this non-skid bed’s comfortable four-inch solid memory foam calms down dogs who suffer from anxiety.
Besides memory foam, this orthopedic bed for dogs is also made of breathable cotton and polyester. These combined materials in the ultra-premium base and wraparound bolster provide superior comfort, support, and security while your dog lounges.
Another feature of this comfortable bed is that its foam is CertiPUR-US certified. This indicates the verification of the absence of harmful chemicals like mercury, lead, and formaldehyde. It also comes with a water- and tear-resistant cover and offers a choice of colors to blend well in your home.
Pros
- Easy to spot clean and remove hair
- Replacement covers are available separately
- Safe material for dogs
Cons
- High-priced
- One-year warranty
- No size option for medium dogs
Best Design
Laifug Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed
This final orthopedic dog bed is a double pillow smart design, letting your dog choose either side to lay on. One pillowed side is three inches high, while the other side is 1.8 inches high. That gives your best friend two options in regarding the most comfortable head and neck elevation.
Wherever your dog is positioned, it’ll receive maximum comfort and support from the relieving super-soft memory foam. Also, the non-slip bed is not only for soothing joint and muscle problems but also for recovering from surgery.
Because Laifug strives to make a dog’s environment functional and comfortable, their foam retains 90% of the bed’s shape and support. This benefit is made to last for about three years! In addition, it’s protected with a waterproof, tear-resistant, and machine-washable removable cover.
Pros
- Foam doesn’t flatten
- Compatible with any dog breed
- CertiPUR-US-certified material
Cons
- May have an unpleasant smell when unboxed
- Takes 24–48 hours to expand
- Removable cover is very thin
Orthopedic Dog Bed Buyer’s Guide
Bed and Dog Size
Your dog and its bed are two indicators of what size orthopedic bed you should purchase. Also, take your dog’s usual sleeping position(s) into consideration. If your dog likes to spread out, its body should still fit on the bed.
The wrong-sized bed for your small, medium, or large dog will defeat the purpose of easing your dog’s physical afflictions. Refer to size charts and take note of the bed’s measurements. You’ll need to compare them to your dog’s size so you can purchase the best-sized orthopedic dog bed.
Material
The first thing to consider material-wise is durability. Dogs like to chew, and their claws can tear into fabrics, so look for a tear-resistant orthopedic bed for dogs. Select one that’s waterproof, too; even if your dog is house-trained, it may have an accident in bed.
Stability is another factor to consider, so find a bed that has a non-skid underside. A dog with musculoskeletal problems should be able to stand up in or get in and out of bed without slipping.
Balance out the need for firmness and comfort in a foam mattress. You want it to be thick and firm so it doesn’t flatten after a few uses. However, you also want it to be soft enough that your dog will be comfortable as it rests.
Finally, does your dog have allergies? When skimming orthopedic dog beds, check their material to see if they’re hypoallergenic, meaning minimal chances of causing allergic reactions. Orthopedic therapy shouldn’t include another ailment for your dog to deal with.
Bed Design
This feature depends on your dog’s physical condition(s) and sleeping habits. You have a choice of either a flat bed or one with a bolster on one or more sides.
If your dog’s condition involves the neck or spine, you’ll want a bolstered bed that will support these areas. Even if neck and spinal support aren’t a concern, your dog may generally like raising its head when sleeping!
For dogs that love flattening and spreading themselves out in bed, a flat orthopedic dog bed is the best option.
Cleaning
Once your dog makes itself comfortable on an orthopedic bed, there’s going to be a mess at some point. If your dog is prone to accidents, a bed with a removable, machine-washable cover is your best choice.
If a removable cover isn’t available, find a bed with a surface that you can easily scrub with a damp washcloth. Most importantly, refer to the tags on both items for washing instructions so you don’t compromise the bed’s orthopedic features.
Orthopedic Dog Bed Frequently Asked Questions
How are orthopedic dog beds any different from traditional dog beds?
One thing that sets the two kinds of beds apart is the filling in them. Traditional dog beds are filled with polyester and egg-crate foam, which sink whenever a dog lays down. The filling will also move around easily and will put pressure on your dog’s muscles and joints.
Orthopedic dog beds are filled with memory foam that cushions and supports dogs’ joints and muscles. They may also be filled with egg-crate foam. Either way, they’ll have multiple layers of foam cradling and supporting your dog.
Can I use an orthopedic dog bed even if my dog doesn’t have muscle or joint problems?
Yes. Age and medical conditions aren’t the only reasons why any dog can benefit from an orthopedic bed.
How often do you and your dog go for a long run around the neighborhood or dog park? After that workout, your pooch could later experience muscle aches. And if your dog suffers from anxiety, some of our picks contain material that has calming effects.
Consider the cost, though, because orthopedic beds for dogs tend to be more expensive than traditional ones. By balancing that out with your dog’s physical needs, you’ll ultimately decide the right kind of dog bed.
How do I wash an orthopedic dog bed?
Check the tag of the bed to see if its removable cover is machine washable. If so, remove it and select the appropriate detergent and wash cycle.
For beds without removable covers (or with, but it’s in the laundry), spot-clean them with a damp wash rag. Spray a stain remover that’s dog friendly, or use apple cider or white vinegar for more natural approaches.
Air-dry the cover and mattress but not in direct sunlight or near heaters. Also, on a regular basis, vacuum up any dog hairs you find on the bed.
Will my dog take to an orthopedic bed as if it were a regular dog bed?
Not likely if it’s not their original bed. Dogs don’t adapt immediately to change as humans do; anything unfamiliar in their environment will be suspicious to them.
You can help your dog adapt to its new orthopedic bed by placing the bed in a familiar spot at home. Place your dog’s toys on the bed to encourage it to try it out. When it touches the bed or gets in it, praise it with treats, proud words, and pettings!
When would it be time to buy a new orthopedic dog bed?
It’s when your dog is sleeping on the floor, couch, or your bed instead of its own bed. It may no longer feel firm, or it’s not retaining its shape. Like regular dog beds, orthopedic ones eventually wear out and your pooch can no longer lay comfortably in it.
Your dog may have even developed an allergy to the bed’s material(s) at some point and won’t go near them. These instances warrant a new, quality orthopedic bed for your dog.
Soothe Your Dog With the Best Orthopedic Dog Bed!
Just like you support your loved ones with their physical afflictions, support your dogs with theirs, too. With your dog’s health and sleeping habits in mind, our five orthopedic dog beds will help you choose the best bed.
We recommend trying out the Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed to give your canine the best support and comfort it needs. It has plenty of size options; cushions and supports dogs’ joints and muscles evenly; and eases anxiety as needed! Visit our dog supplies page to discover more items to nurture or entertain your fur baby!