Does your beloved dog struggle to find a comfortable spot to rest? Watching a senior dog move slowly or wince when they lie down is tough for any pet owner. Arthritis is a common problem for older dogs, and their usual beds just don’t cut it anymore. Hard, lumpy, or thin beds can make their joint pain worse, leading to restless nights and grumpy mornings.
Choosing the right bed feels overwhelming. You worry about spending money on the wrong product that won’t offer the support your furry friend truly needs. How do you find a bed that cushions sore joints while staying durable and easy to clean? Don’t worry; we’ve done the hard work for you.
This guide dives deep into the best features of orthopedic dog beds. You will learn exactly what materials offer the best relief and how to match a bed to your dog’s specific needs. Keep reading to discover the secrets to giving your arthritic companion the peaceful, pain-free sleep they deserve.
Top Dog Beds For Arthritic Dogs Recommendations
No. 1
EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Dog Beds for Extra Large Dogs 44x32Inch, Waterproof Memory Foam XL Pet Bed with Sides, Non-Slip and Egg-Crate Foam Big Dog Couch Bed with Washable Removable Cover, Grey
- MEMORY FOAM: The EHEYCIGA orthopedic dog bed features memory foam and egg crate foam to provide even support and pressure relief. It offers a good balance of softness and support, making it particularly suitable for elderly dogs to alleviate joint pressure.
- SOFA BED DESIGN: This bolster dog bed is designed with 3-sided bolsters to offer additional support for your pet’s neck and head, promoting restful sleep. The surrounding sides encourage your dog to snuggle in and enjoy a comfortable night's rest.
- WATERPROOF COVER: A waterproof film is positioned between the fleece surface and the bottom fabric, ensuring the dog bed remains dry. However, the faux linen sides are not waterproof.
- EXTREME COMFORT & MULTIPLE SIZES: The sleeping surface is covered with cozy fleece, creating a soft and inviting sleeping area for your pet. Whatever the size of your dog, we have a dog bed suitable for medium, large, and extra-large breeds.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Our dog bed features a removable and washable cover with a zipper closure, making it easy to clean. Remove the foam insert, and the cover can be washed in a machine. Please note that the foam insert is not washable. Allow the bed to expand for 24-48 hours after unpacking.
No. 2
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed Medium Size Dogs - Washable Small Medium Dog Cat Bed Waterproof, Comfort Cats Couch Sofa with Washable Removable Cover, Pets Bed with Nonskid Bottom, Grey, 28"
- Orthopedic Support: Our orthopedic cat sofa is designed to give your pet unparalleled support for a deep, dreamy sleep. High-density egg-crate foam helps distribute weight evenly and provides the perfect amount of pressure relief and joint support.
- Enhanced Comfort: The 4-sided bolster design promotes ultimate comfort and security, offering your pet a variety of cozy positions to snuggle. The cushioned bolster shape is deeply filled to support your pet’s head and neck for a more restful sleep. And the lowered entrance protects your pet's knees and promotes accessibility.
- Waterproof & Easy Care: The cover features a laminated waterproof layer that helps protect against spills and accidents. Simply unzip and remove the cover for quick machine washing and easy care.
- Tested & Pet Approved: This supportive Pet bed is wrapped in our velvety soft flannel fabric, offering soothing comfort that your furry friend will find cozy and relaxing.
- Pet Safe Materials: This standard 100 by OEKO-TEX(24.HCN.46956) certified pet bed consists of CertiPUR-US certified foam and luxurious flannel, creating a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend to rest and recharge. The non-skid bottom reduces slips and protects your dog.
No. 3
Sunheir Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large Dogs - Big Waterproof Dog Crate Bed with Removable Washable Cover, Egg Crate Foam Support, Anti-Slip Bottom, Deluxe Plush Pet Bed Mat (Grey)
- WARM PLUSH SURFACE - The dog bed is designed with a luxury plush Sherpa top and a slip-resistant bottom, providing extra coziness for dogs to sleep comfortably
- WATERPROOF & MACHINE WASHABLE COVER - This removable cover is constructed with a three-layer fabric design for ultimate comfort and protection. The top layer is made of soft, luxurious plush to keep your dog cozy. Sandwiched in the middle, a TPU waterproof barrier effectively blocks liquids from seaching the inner foam, ensuring it stays dry. The sides are reinforced with durable, scratch- and bite-resistant technical fabric for long-lasting use. It is recommended to clean up in time to protect the health of the dog
- RELIEVE STRESS WITH EGG-FOAM - The orthopedic dog beds filled with 3 inch thick High-Density egg foam, to help dog relieve pressure on the spine, muscles, and joints when resting and relaxing on the pet bed
- DESIGNED FOR PETS - Rectangle shaped mattress is perfect for pets to stretch out when its sleep. It also can be placed on living room, any elevated dog bed & dog bed trampoline or in a crate & pet house
- ABOUT PACKAGING - PLEASE NOTE that the pack was compressed,we suggest putting it for 48 hours to best status after openning
No. 4
EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Dog Beds Large Sized Dog, Waterproof Memory Foam Pet Bed with Sides, Non-Slip Bottom Large Pet Bed with Washable Removable Cover, Grey
- MEMORY FOAM: The EHEYCIGA orthopedic dog bed features memory foam and egg crate foam to provide even support and pressure relief. It offers a good balance of softness and support, making it particularly suitable for elderly dogs to alleviate joint pressure.
- SOFA BED DESIGN: This bolster dog bed is designed with 3-sided bolsters to offer additional support for your pet’s neck and head, promoting restful sleep. The surrounding sides encourage your dog to snuggle in and enjoy a comfortable night's rest.
- WATERPROOF COVER: A waterproof film is positioned between the fleece surface and the bottom fabric, ensuring the dog bed remains dry. However, the faux linen sides are not waterproof.
- EXTREME COMFORT & MULTIPLE SIZES: The sleeping surface is covered with cozy fleece, creating a soft and inviting sleeping area for your pet. Whatever the size of your dog, we have a dog bed suitable for medium, large, and extra-large breeds.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Our dog bed features a removable and washable cover with a zipper closure, making it easy to clean. Remove the foam insert, and the cover can be washed in a machine. Please note that the foam insert is not washable. Allow the bed to expand for 24-48 hours after unpacking.
No. 5
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Beds Large Sized Dog - Washable Large Dog Cat Bed Waterproof, Comfort Dogs Couch Sofa with Washable Removable Cover, Pet Bed with Nonskid Bottom, Grey, 35"
- Orthopedic Support: Our orthopedic cat sofa is designed to give your pet unparalleled support for a deep, dreamy sleep. High-density egg-crate foam helps distribute weight evenly and provides the perfect amount of pressure relief and joint support.
- Enhanced Comfort: The 4-sided bolster design promotes ultimate comfort and security, offering your pet a variety of cozy positions to snuggle. The cushioned bolster shape is deeply filled to support your pet’s head and neck for a more restful sleep. And the lowered entrance protects your pet's knees and promotes accessibility.
- Waterproof & Easy Care: The cover features a laminated waterproof layer that helps protect against spills and accidents. Simply unzip and remove the cover for quick machine washing and easy care.
- Tested & Pet Approved: This supportive Pet bed is wrapped in our velvety soft flannel fabric, offering soothing comfort that your furry friend will find cozy and relaxing.
- Pet Safe Materials: This standard 100 by OEKO-TEX(24.HCN.46956) certified pet bed consists of CertiPUR-US certified foam and luxurious flannel, creating a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend to rest and recharge. The non-skid bottom reduces slips and protects your dog.
No. 6
BFPETHOME Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large Dogs-Big Waterproof Sofa Dog Bed with Removable Washable Cover, Washable Pet Bed with Waterproof Lining and Nonskid Bottom,Pet Bed for Large Dogs
- ORTHOPEDIC FOAM DOG BED: This dog couch is made of orthopedic egg foam, the thick dog bed helps cushion pressure points, and supports the dog's joints and muscles evenly. Therefore the orthopedic dog beds can ease the discomfort of anxious older dogs, and dogs with arthritis and promote better sleep at night.
- L-SHAPED DOG BED: This X large dog bed adopts L shaped design, the dog beds Soft and comfortable rails provide extra support for our pet's head and neck, and the dog sofa bed has no railings on two sides, providing plenty of room for pets to stretch out. The dog beds for large dogs allow pets to be more soothed and relaxed and to fall into a deep sleep.
- SOFT SURFACE&WATERPROOF: The surface of the large dog beds is made of soft and cozy high-quality fluff. The pet bed is pleasant to the touch, non-pilling, and gentle on sensitive dogs' skin, noses, and paws. There is a waterproof layer in the dog couch bed mezzanine cover to prevent liquids from dampening the egg foam.
- SIZE(DOG BEDS FOR LARGE DOGS): The dimensions of this L dog bed are 36.0"L x 27.0"W x 3"Th. Large dog beds for large dogs up to 55 lbs. If you want more space for your pet, it is recommended to choose a larger size dog bed.
- EASY TO CLEAN&NON-SLIP: The sofa dog bed comes with a removable and washable dog pillow cover to ensure that the big dog bed can be easily cleaned. The washable dog bed has a durable zipper that allows for easy removal and reattachment. The non-slip rubber particles of the waterproof dog bed bottom hold it in place on the floor without sliding.
No. 7
BFPETHOME Dog Beds for Large Dogs, Orthopedic Dog Bed for Medium Large Dogs,Big Waterproof Couch Pet Bed with Removable Washable Cover
- MADE FOR COMFORT:High density egg crate foam orthopedic dog bed supports your fur baby's muscles and joints, relieves joint pain, a great choice for elderly or sick dog pets. they will love a day in the large dog bed.
- COZY ROSE PATTERN PLUSH: The sleeping surface of the large size dog bed features luxurious rose pattern plush, soft and cozy plush provides a calming and anti-anxiety feel, allowing pets to fall into a deep sleep faster and gentle on the pet's nose and paw.
- SOFA DOG BED DESIGN: The washable large dog bed is designed with U-shaped. 3 side 3.5 inch side pillow provide extra support for your pet's neck and head, allowing pets to rest better in the dog bed. The fence-like design makes the puppy feel more secure lying in it.
- DIMENSIONS (DOG BEDS FOR MEDIUM DOGS): large Dog Bed 36" x 27" x 6.5" (3.5" bolstered side ) for medium and large dogs up to 60 lbs. For dogs that like to roll around, sizing up will be more comfortable.
- WATERPROOF DOG BED & REMOVABLE DOG BED: The 3 side zippers on the dog bed cover make it easier to remove or put together for quick cleaning and easy care. The waterproof inner layer protects the egg foam from leaking urine and drool, allowing your puppy to use it with confidence at any time.
No. 8
WNPETHOME XL Extra Large Dog Bed, Washable Dog Couch with Removable Waterproof Cover, Orthopedic Large Pet Sofa Bed with Bolster Sides for Sleeping
- 【Secure & Soft】The large dog sofa cover is made of high-quality velvet, providing comfort and skin-friendliness that dogs love. The ultra-soft fence design creates a sense of safety, while the soft pillows surrounding the large dog bed promote easier sleep for your dog.
- 【Washable Dog Bed】This Large dog couch is equipped with high-quality zippers with a detachable and washable feature, Dog sofa cover which not only makes it convenient for pet owners to clean but promotes a cleaner and more hygienic environment for pets.
- 【Orthopedic Dog Bed】The big dog bed adopts high-density egg crate foam distributes weight evenly like melted butter on toast, Providing perfect pressure relief to reduce joint pain and arthritis discomfort.
- 【Waterproof & Anti-slip】This waterproof dog couch cover prevents urine, water, saliva, vomit and other liquid into the foam and can be easily clean. Anti-slip design at the dog sofa bed bottom prevent it from sliding.
- 【Large Dog Beds Size】41 x 28 x 7 inches, Suitable for dog weighing less than 80 pounds, After opening the package, place it in the air for about 6 hours, and the dog couch with sides will rebound and become full.
Choosing the Best Dog Bed for Your Arthritic Friend: A Buying Guide
Arthritis is tough on our beloved dogs. It causes pain and stiffness, especially in older pets. A good dog bed can make a huge difference in their comfort and daily life. This guide will help you pick the perfect supportive bed for your furry senior.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on features that offer true support and warmth. These elements directly impact your dog’s joint health.
1. Orthopedic Support
- Thick Padding: The bed needs to be thick enough so your dog doesn’t sink to the hard floor. Aim for at least 4 inches of supportive material for medium to large dogs.
- Even Weight Distribution: The best beds spread your dog’s weight evenly. This reduces pressure points on sore hips and elbows.
2. Easy Access
- Low Entry Point: Arthritic dogs struggle to step high. Look for beds with a low side or a ramp if needed. This makes getting in and out much easier.
- Bolster Placement: Some dogs like bolsters (raised edges) for head resting, but make sure they aren’t too high, which blocks easy entry.
3. Temperature Regulation
- Warmth Retention: Cold floors make arthritis worse. A bed that traps gentle warmth helps soothe stiff joints.
- Breathability: Conversely, the bed must not overheat your dog in the summer. Good airflow prevents sweating and discomfort.
Important Materials Matter
The materials inside and outside the bed determine its support level and how long it lasts.
Support Core Materials
- Memory Foam: This is the gold standard for arthritis beds. It molds perfectly to your dog’s body shape. High-density memory foam offers superior, long-lasting support.
- Egg Crate Foam: This foam has peaks and valleys. It offers good cushioning and airflow. It is often a budget-friendly alternative to solid memory foam.
Cover Materials
- Durable Fabric: Dogs move around, and covers get dirty. Choose tough, chew-resistant fabric like heavy-duty canvas or microfiber.
- Waterproof Liner: Older dogs sometimes have accidents. A waterproof liner protects the expensive foam filling from moisture and odors.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all orthopedic beds are created equal. Pay attention to construction details.
Quality Boosters
- High-Density Foam: Low-quality foam breaks down quickly, turning the bed flat. High-density foam keeps its shape for years.
- Removable, Washable Covers: Hygiene is crucial. A zipper that allows you to easily remove and machine-wash the cover significantly improves the user experience.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Polyester Fill (“Batting”): Beds stuffed only with soft, fluffy polyester offer comfort but zero orthopedic support. These beds quickly flatten under your dog’s weight.
- Weak Seams: If the stitching is weak, seams will burst quickly, exposing the foam or causing the bed to fall apart.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where the bed will go and how your dog uses it daily.
Home Use Cases
- Main Resting Spot: If this is the primary bed, invest in the thickest, highest-quality memory foam you can afford.
- Travel or Secondary Bed: For a secondary spot, a slightly thinner egg crate foam bed might be adequate and easier to move.
Ease of Cleaning
You will clean this bed often. If the cover is difficult to remove, you might put off washing it. A bed that is easy to clean encourages better hygiene for your senior pet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Arthritic Dog Beds
Q: How thick should an orthopedic dog bed be?
A: For large or very arthritic dogs, aim for at least 4 to 6 inches of supportive foam. Small dogs need less, perhaps 3 inches.
Q: Is memory foam always better than regular foam?
A: Yes, for arthritis, memory foam is usually better because it conforms to the body. Regular foam compresses too easily and does not offer targeted joint relief.
Q: How do I know if the bed is too hot for my dog?
A: If your dog constantly moves off the bed or prefers lying on the cool floor, the bed might be trapping too much heat. Look for beds advertised with “cooling gel” technology or open-cell foam.
Q: Can I put an old blanket on top of the new bed?
A: Yes, if your dog loves a specific soft blanket, place it on top! This adds a familiar scent and an extra layer of coziness without taking away the underlying support.
Q: How often should I replace an orthopedic dog bed?
A: A high-quality memory foam bed can last 5 to 8 years. If the foam starts sagging significantly or you see lumps when your dog stands up, it is time for a replacement.
Q: Are heated dog beds safe for arthritic dogs?
A: Yes, gentle, low-level heat helps circulation and eases stiffness. Ensure you buy a bed specifically designed for pets, which regulates temperature safely and avoids overheating.
Q: What is the difference between a bolster bed and a flat mat for arthritis?
A: Bolsters offer a headrest and a sense of security. Flat mats are often easier for very stiff dogs to climb onto because there are no high sides to step over.
Q: Do I need a waterproof liner?
A: It is highly recommended. Older dogs sometimes have bladder control issues. The liner protects the expensive foam filling from urine, which can ruin the foam and cause bad odors.
Q: What if my dog still refuses to use the new bed?
A: Try placing the new bed right next to their old favorite spot for a few days. You can also put a highly favored toy or treat on the new bed to encourage positive association.
Q: How do I clean the foam itself if the cover is removed?
A: You should spot-clean the foam using a mild soap and water mixture. Never fully submerge memory foam, as it takes forever to dry and can cause mildew inside.