As your dog gets older, it's important to make sure they have the support they need. An orthopedic dog bed is designed to take pressure off their joints as they rest, and it may be beneficial for your dog, especially if you are noticing that they seem a little stiff and are having trouble getting out of their current bed.
“Orthopedic beds add an extra layer of support for dogs that have arthritis, achy joints, or mobility issues,” explains Dr. Tori Countner, DVM, owner of The Balanced Pet Vet. “Memory foam is ideal since it is a little firmer and prevents sagging so dogs can get up easier from their bed, and it gives extra support to joints."
We purchased and tested 21 of the most popular and top-performing orthopedic dog beds. Each one was sent to a volunteer tester, who introduced the orthopedic bed to their dog or dogs at home. While our dog testers tried out the beds, our human testers took careful notes. Following a testing methodology written in advance, our testers evaluated each bed for its support, quality, and how easy the bed is to clean.
Our favorite is the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed, which combines memory foam with a wraparound bolster for extra support. Plus, it has a removable cover that's machine washable. But there were also several other beds our testers loved, which may work even better for your dog.
Here are the best orthopedic dog beds.
Best Overall
PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed
Removable and machine washable cover
Bolstered edge serves as pillow
Available in a variety of colors
Low chew resistance
With a bolstered edge around most of the perimeter, the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed can accommodate your dog's unique sleeping habits.
"Every time she is in the bed, she uses the outer cushion as a pillow," said our tester, who has a senior dog at home. "She apparently loves it."
Over the course of our testing period, our tester's dog quickly began to bypass their former bed, preferring to rest and unwind on the Pet Fusion Ultimate Dog Bed. "We were immediately very impressed with the quality of this dog bed," our tester said. "The cushion seems as though it must be very comfortable. The material is very soft, yet feels very well made."
The bed makes use of memory foam to provide a medium firm feel and comprehensive support. The foam is CertiPUR-US certified, which means a third-party non-profit has verified that the foam used in PetFusion's construction does not contain mercury, lead, formaldehyde, or phthalates, and won't harm indoor air quality. The surrounding bolster is made with recycled polyfill—a little like a beanbag chair—so it will conform to your dog's shifting and snuggling.
The removable cover is water-resistant and machine-washable, and an additional waterproof liner surrounds the memory foam, so it easily stands up to drool and spills. Our tester found the bed easy to clean and made to last.
Price at time of publish: $119 for Large
Dimensions: 36" W x 28" L x 9" H for Large | Weight: 14 pounds | Cover Material: Cotton, Polyester, Natural Fabric, Synthetic Fabric | Sizes: Small, Large, X-large, Jumbo | Bed Type: Bolstered
Best Budget
FurHaven Ultra Plush Luxe Lounger Orthopedic Dog Bed
Removable and machine washable cover
Contour shape
Provides back and neck support
Available in a variety of colors
Doesn't feature a non-skid bottom
Cover is not water resistant
This reasonably priced orthopedic bed features a unique contour shape that sets it apart from other orthopedic dog beds. "My dog loves this simple, supportive bed," shared our tester. "The foam is at once supportive but also soft, and the sloping sides of the bed allow for my dog to rest her head comfortably."
The low profile and absence of bolsters will make it easier for smaller and older dogs to get in and out of the bed on their own. The orthopedic foam provides support and comfort, and the plush cover—which can be removed for cleaning, will make your dog feel cozy but not too warm. "The cover fabric is a soft, thin sherpa-type covering which was actually fine for summer."
The bed does not have any built-in support to keep it in place, so we recommend placing it against a wall if it tends to shift.
Price at time of publish: $45 for Large
Dimensions: 36" W x 24" L x 5.5" H for Large | Weight: 3 pounds | Cover Material: Polyester, Synthetic Fabric | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Jumbo, Jumbo Plus | Bed Type: Contoured
Best Chaise
FurHaven Two-Tone Deluxe Chaise Orthopedic Dog Bed
Removable and machine washable cover
3 bolstered sides
Soft, spacious, and supportive
Doesn't feature a non-skid bottom
Cover is not water resistant
If you aren't sure how your dog will take to a bolstered edge, this dog bed offers a chaise lounge style with a pillowed brim along two sides. "The raised edge along two sides of the bed gives my dog the opportunity to lay her head on it if she wants to," shared our tester.
The orthopedic egg-crate foam base is designed to relieve aching joints and pressure points, and the easy-to-clean, dual-tone cover is smooth yet durable. "The material the bed is made of is soft and the color is really rich and blends in well with our furniture."
With an approachable price, this spacious bed can accommodate larger dogs or homes with multiple dogs.
Price at time of publish: $45 for Large
Dimensions: 36 x 27 x 7.5 inches (large) | Weight: 3.8 pounds | Cover Material: Polyester, Synthetic Fabric | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Jumbo, Jumbo Plus | Bed Type: Chaise
Best Fuzzy
Paw Brands PupRug Faux Fur Orthopedic Dog Bed
Removable and machine washable cover
Available in a variety of colors
Non-slip bottom
Waterproof memory foam liner
Removable cover must air dry
If your furry friend enjoys cuddling up on a fuzzy blanket, then they'll quickly take to sleeping on this faux fur memory foam dog bed. Our tester and their dog were immediately impressed with the overall quality of the bed: "it's light, easy to use, comfortable, and my dog was so thrilled with it." Our tester found the lightweight design of this bed to be appealing, and as they moved it to different areas of their home, their dog would follow. "I even put it on our couch and he would lie on it there."
The orthopedic bed resembles the look of a furry rug which can add a decorative element to your space. It comes in three sizes to appeal to a variety of breeds. "The size was fantastic for my large dog and our smaller foster dog, both dogs ended up using it and enjoyed laying on it."
Price at time of publish: $189 for Large/X-Large
Dimensions: 50" W x 30" L x 5" H for Large/X-Large | Weight: 8.2 pounds | Cover Material: Faux Fur, Synthetic Fabric | Sizes: Small/Medium, Large/X-Large, Giant | Bed Type: Rug
Best Cooling
Sealy Lux Quad Layer Orthopedic Dog Bed with Cooling Gel
Gel foam keeps dogs cool
Charcoal-infused foam absorbs bad odors
Available in a variety of colors
Waterproof cover is very easy to clean and dry
Three bolstered sides with low profile for entry
Cover wrinkles easily
Waterproof fabric lacks cozy appeal that some dogs need
Applying a cooling element has been shown to help reduce inflammation in joints, according to Dr. Tori Countner of The Balanced Pet Vet, so an orthopedic bed with built-in cooling gel can provide an extra level of comfort for your aging dog. The Sealy Lux Orthopedic Dog Bed is made with memory foam and cooling gel to dissipate heat while your dog is resting.
"The low entry point is nice for an older dog," shared our tester who has an 11-year-old dog in their home.
The bed features 3 bolstered sides where your dog can rest their adorable head like a pillow. To combat wear and tear from spills, the cover is waterproof and it can be removed for machine washing and drying. "This removable cover washed really well in the washer and dried on low relatively quickly." Yet our tester felt the waterproofing took away from the plush environment their dog needed so they added a soft cozy blanket.
The base of the bed is made with charcoal to help absorb odors, and it's available in several sizes and four color options.
Price at time of publish: $127 for Large
Dimensions: 32" W x 42" L x 8" H for Large | Weight: 14.26 pounds | Cover Material: Polyester, Cotton, Natural Fabric, Synthetic Fabric | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large | Bed Type: Bolstered
Best Removable Cover
L.L. Bean Therapeutic Dog Couch
Removable, machine-washable cover
Available in a variety of colors
Cover is 100% cotton with antimicrobial treatment to minimize odor
Bolsters on three sides
Oversized "dog couch" can fit more than one dog
Assembly of bed can be difficult
Low chew resistance
If your dog enjoys bringing in bones, treats, toys—whatever they might find— to their bed, then this easy-to-clean, supportive bed with a removable cover will appeal to you. The L.L. Bean Therapeutic Dog couch features memory foam on the inside and comes with a durable yet soft cover made from 100% cotton.
To keep the bed tidy, the cover is easily unzipped and cleaned. "It emerged from the washer/dryer unscathed," remarked our tester who has three large dogs in their home, and the trio put the bed to good use for our research. "My dogs loved this bed from the moment I put it down." With open-cell foam, this orthopedic bed is designed to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. "The bed itself is firm-yet-soft and the sides are fluffy, which my dogs like for resting their heads on, burrowing into, and using as light support when on their backs."
It's priced higher than other beds that made our list, but L.L. Bean's guarantee allows returns for items that didn't meet expectations for up to one year after purchase.
Price at time of publish: $319 for Large
Dimensions: 44" W x 34" L x 12" H for Large | Weight: Not provided | Cover Material: Cotton | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large | Bed Type: Bolstered
Best Chew Resistant
K9 Ballistics Tough Orthopedic Dog Bed
Removable, machine-washable cover
Non-skid bottom
Scratch, dig, chew, and water resistant cover
Certified B-Corporation
Made in the USA
Available in a variety of colors
Assembly of bed can be difficult, especially with the larger versions
If your dog tends to gnaw on plush items, then this is the orthopedic dog bed for you. The cover is resistant to scratching, digging, chewing, and water. "
The bed's outer cover is durable and seems to hold up well to the dogs jumping on and off of it," shared our tester who has two large dogs with chewing habits at home.
The cover is made from K9's proprietary ripstop ballistic fabric that is designed to be tough yet cool to the touch for sleeping. With a water-repellent finish and a waterproof backing, the bed can withstand the wear and tear that comes from a dog living their best life.
"The cover is easy to remove if needed for cleaning, and the bed foam is soft and comfortable for my dogs." The orthopedic foam is made without any glue to keep it from flatting over time. If your dog does devour their new bed, K9, a company committed to producing zero waste, will replace it within 120 days after purchase.
Price at time of publish: $209
Dimensions: 40" W x 34" L x 5" H for Large | Weight: Not provided | Cover Material: Proprietary Ripstop Ballistic Fabric | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, Giant | Bed Type: Rectangle
Best for Small Breeds
Frisco Plush Orthopedic Front Bolster Cat & Dog Bed w/Removable Cover
Removable, machine-washable cover
Designed for dogs and cats
Bolstered perimeter
Assembly of bed can be difficult
"As soon as I took out this bed, both my dog and cat were obsessed. I barely had a chance to put it down before they started trying to get in!" noted our tester. Your small-sized senior (dog or cat!) will have no problem catching up on their beauty rest in this bed. Regardless of their preferred sleeping style—curler, sprawler, leaner, or all of the above—the wrap-around bolster makes it easy for a dog to find the right spot for lounging and snoozing. "It looks as cute as it’s cozy, so you can place it in any room of the house."
The design of this orthopedic bed features a built-in entry dip to make getting in and out more approachable—which is very important for a dog with mobility issues or stiff joints. The cover can be removed and machine-washed for easy care, but the bed itself should never be submerged in water.
Price at time of publish: $50 for Medium
Dimensions: 25" W x 21" L x 7" H for Medium | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Cover Material: Polyester, Synthetic Fabric | Sizes: Medium, Large, X-Large | Bed Type: Bolstered
Best Bolstered
K&H Pet Products Pillow-Top Orthopedic Bolster Pet Bed
Removable, machine-washable cover
Fluffy, cloud-like design
Bolstered perimeter
Not water-resistance so dog needs to be potty trained
Only available in one color
If your dog likes to snuggle up, then they'll enjoy this fluffy bed with bolstered edges. Described as "over-stuffed," the orthopedic foam base features a pillow-top sleeping surface. "This bed is clearly high-quality," observed our tester as their 20-pound dog settled in for a nap. "The cloud-like design is surprisingly sturdy and the sides are supportive and don't sag."
The bed comes in three sizes for small to large breeds who enjoy a cozy slumber, but our tester did note that it might be difficult to remove stains. The cover isn't water resistant, but the bed can be dismantled, with zippers at the base and the bolsters, and cleaned in a washing machine.
Price at time of publish: $103 for Large
Dimensions: 36" W x 28" L x 9.5" H for Large | Weight: 6 pounds | Cover Material: Polyester, Synthetic Fabric | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large | Bed Type: Bolstered
Best for Large Breeds
KOPEKS Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed
Water-resistant, machine-washable, and removable cover
Available in a variety of colors
Non-slip bottom
Waterproof cover makes crinkle sound
If your dog is on the bigger side, then the KOPEKS Orthopedic Dog Pillow is the one for you. Its plush suede cover will provide comfort and the anti-slip bottom will secure the bed in place. "My dogs melt into this bed," exclaimed our tester who has two considerably-sized canines, each weighing 90-95 pounds. "The support is great and the bed itself has a fluffy top and nice sides as well."
Your dog will feel pampered with a built-in headrest and memory foam designed to take the pressure off their joints and promote more restful sleep. If you have a dreamer that tends to drool, the water-resistant cover is easy to spot clean, but it can also be unzipped and laundered. "Anyone with a larger dog, this is one of the best beds I have come across!"
Price at time of publish: $90 for Large
Dimensions: 35" W x 28" L x 5.5" H for Large | Weight: 9 pounds | Cover Materials: Suede, Natural Fabric | Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large | Bed Type: Chaise
Best for Crates
Milliard Quilted Padded Orthopedic Dog Bed
Fits in standard dog crates
Non-slip bottom
Machine-washable cover
Not available for small crates
For senior dogs who are crate-trained, the Milliard Orthopedic Dog Bed is perfectly proportioned to fit into their personal safe space. It’s made from supportive egg crate foam that is designed to provide orthopedic support for aging pooches. "This bed has great support for him," remarked our tester who has a 13-year-old doggo with hip dysplasia. "He can very comfortably lay down fully [and] stand up much more efficiently."
The rectangular bed comes in three sizes, small, large, and extra-large sizes which fit into 36", 42", and 48" crates, respectively. The soft quilted pillow top is very inviting for dogs, and easy to remove and clean in the washing machine and dryer for humans. Plus, the bottom features small rubber grips to keep the bed from shifting around while your dog gets cozy.
Price at time of publish: $70 for Large
Dimensions: 42" W x 27" L x 4" H for Large | Weight: 4.32 pounds | Cover Materials: Suede, Natural Fabric | Sizes: Small, Large, X-Large | Bed Type: Rectangle
The PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed is a great choice to support and soothe all types of dogs. It comes in four sizes—Small, Medium, Large, and Jumbo, its made from memory foam, and it features a cushy bolster around the edge. Plus, a non-slip base helps prevent the bed from moving as your dog gets up. If you think the bolstered sides might make it difficult for your dog to get in and out, then you should consider our pick for Best Chaise, the FurHaven Two-Tone Deluxe Chaise Orthopedic Dog Bed. It has two bolstered sides and comes in a variety of colors to blend in with your space.
What to Look for in an Orthopedic Dog Bed
Size
First off, determine the size that's best suited for your pet. Most dog beds are available in numerous sizes, ranging from small to XXL. Dog bed sizes aren’t always consistent between brands, so it’s important to check both a bed’s recommended weight, as well as its dimensions, to ensure your dog will fit in it comfortably.
Materials
Orthopedic dog beds are designed to provide superior support to your dog’s joints, and to do this, they need to be made from high-quality materials. “Material such as memory foam helps support joints and limbs while laying down and provide stability when getting up from the beds,” explains Dr. Tori Countner, DVM, owner of The Balanced Pet Vet. “The bed should have a non-slip underside or should be placed on non-slip flooring to prevent instability when standing up.”
Style
When it comes to dog beds, the two main styles to look for are flat beds and bolster beds. “Some dogs like flat beds, others prefer a bolster along the sides to feel safe or rest their heads on,” says Dr. Countner. “Some dogs like a cooling pad/gel built in since their joints can be inflamed and run warm.”
How We Tested
We selected 21 of the latest, top-performing orthopedic dog beds available and sent each one to a real home with a real dog (sometimes dogs!) for real-world testing.
Each of our canine test subjects was observed as they napped, snacked, played, lounged, and slept (wish we could see their dreams!) on a select orthopedic dog bed. Their human companions gather insights about the restful action they witnessed over the course of 3 weeks, and then shared their feedback within the following categories: Support, Quality, Size, Ease of Cleaning, and Value. They were also asked if they would recommend the best they tested.
Equipped with this first-hand information, we ranked and categorized our top picks to simplify your search for the perfect orthopedic dog bed to suit your senior pup's needs, habits, and preferences.
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What makes a dog bed orthopedic?
Orthopedic dog beds provide more support than average dog beds. They’re often made from memory foam, which cushions pressure points while still supporting joints, and they can help reduce pain for dogs with arthritis, still joints, and other health problems associated with aging.
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How do I know when my dog needs an orthopedic bed?
Orthopedic dog beds are most popular with senior dogs, but they’re also beneficial for dogs with certain medical problems. “Dogs with arthritis, painful joints, trouble standing up, mobility issues, or pressure sores can benefit from an orthopedic bed,” says Dr. Countner. “If your dog is in pain or getting older, consider getting an orthopedic bed to make them more comfortable.”
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How do you wash an orthopedic dog bed?
To wash an orthopedic dog bed, you’ll want to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically entails removing the cover, which may be able to go in the washing machine—you’ll want to consult its care tag to see what cycle to use. Most orthopedic dog beds have memory foam inside, which can only be spot cleaned.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This roundup was written by Anna Mejorada, a writer for The Spruce Pets, who shares her home with a pomeranian named Gidget. Before researching and writing about pet products for a living, Mejorada embarked on a self-mandated, ongoing quest to find the optimal items for her dog. She is now delightfully devoted to helping humans discover and select the most favorable products for their pets.
A previous version was written by Camryn Rabideau, a lifelong animal owner who’s tested numerous dog beds in her career as a product tester. Before writing this article, she interviewed Dr. Tori Countner, DVM, owner of the Balanced Pet Vet, for information on what to look for in an orthopedic dog bed. To select products, she prioritized beds made from high-quality memory foam that feature non-slip bases. The Spruce Pets team also tested top products with our own dogs.