Looking for the best orthopedic dog beds for large breeds?
While there are a ton of great choices out there, I know you don’t have time to research every one of them.
Plus, there are so many questions to ask yourself before shopping.
Not all orthopedic dog beds are created equal, after all.
Do you want something that supports a growing puppy’s frame?
Or perhaps you’re looking for dog beds for dogs with arthritis?
Don’t worry, I’ll take the guess work out by giving you my top five recommendations.
I’ll also give you some tips on what to look for in an orthopedic bed for large breed dogs in case you don’t love my choices.
Let’s get started!
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Top Features of the Best Orthopedic Dog Beds for Large Breeds
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Like I said above, not all orthopedic dog beds are created equal. What works well for a tiny dog won’t work for your larger pup.
Likewise, what works great for a growing puppy may not be supportive enough for your senior dog.
Let’s take a look at the features that you should consider as you shop, then I’ll give you my top 5 picks.
1. Support for your dog’s age and stage of life
When you’re deciding on the best orthopedic dog bed for a large breed, you want to think about your dog’s age and stage.
A puppy with growing bones will need support that conforms to his growing body, while a senior dog may need something with more even support. If your dog suffers from hip dysplasia, consider one of these best dog beds for hip dysplasia.
2. A bed that “grows” with them
Okay, so the bed itself doesn’t actually grow, but if you’re buying for a puppy, you want to make sure you get something that they won’t outgrow in a week.
Great orthopedic beds aren’t cheap, so you want to get the most mileage out of your investment!
You would be better off buying an XL dog bed now than getting a medium one today and a larger one in 6 months!
3. Something that can handle their weight
It may sound like common sense, but you want a bed that can support the highest end of your breed’s weight range, especially if they’re not full grown.
For example, a Great Dane can reach up to 175 lbs in weight, depending on the gender. Even if your Dane is only 150 lbs, you’ll want something that supports the full spectrum.
Larger breed dogs can actually continue to grow for up to 3 years, so don’t assume that he’s maxed out at age 2!
4. A bed that is hard to destroy
Even if you don’t have an aggressive chewer or digger, opt for a chew-proof dog bed for your large breed dog.
Why? Simple: high-quality large breed orthopedic dog beds are far from cheap.
If the bed can withstand chewing, it can likely also withstand your dog’s nails, “plopping” (my large dogs practically shake the house when they plop on their beds) and other wear and tear.
5. Your wish list of “other” features
Once you’ve narrowed down the top choices according to size, affordability, and indestructibility, it’s time to think about your other “wish list” features.
Do you need a bed that doesn’t take up a ton of space?
How about something that can easily be moved outdoors during the summer so your dog can hang out with you on the deck?
Maybe you want something that is self-heating (or electrically heated) so your dog stays warm in your draft house.
Make a list of all the “extras” that you want, and keep in handy as we go through my top picks. It’ll help you narrow down the list to just one choice.
Top 5 Orthopedic Dog Beds for Large Breeds
If these beds look familiar, there’s a reason for that: they’re typically among my top picks for just about any type of dog bed!
Check out the table, then we’ll take a closer look at why they work so well for large breeds.
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Editor's pick
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Main Features:
Made for large dogs, great support, made in the USA, 10-year warranty.
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Main Features:
Orthopaedic, antibacterial, water-resistant.
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Main Features:
Affordable, great for older large breed dogs
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Main Features:
Human-grade mattress material, bolster sides
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Main Features:
Chew-proof, super sturdy, can be used indoors or outside
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N/A
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$109.95
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$170.05
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1. Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
The Big Barker will always be one of my top recommendations for the best orthopedic dog beds for large breeds because they are specifically made for big dogs.
It just makes sense to buy a product from a brand that’s sole purpose in life is to create the exact thing you’re looking for, right?
PROS
- Their memory foam is designed just for large breeds. It’s even too strong for little dogs!
- It’s machine washable, making cleanup a breeze.
- Comes with a 10-year warranty that guarantees the bed will retain 90% of its shape
- Made in the USA with safe materials.
CONS
- Some may find it a bit pricey. I did at first, but the more I learn about orthopedic beds, the more I think it’s actually right in the mid-range.
- No waterproof liner! They sell one separately, but it’s not cheap.
- The cover can be tricky to remove.
Bottom line: I highly recommend the Big Barker for large breeds, especially since that’s what they’re made for. Even the greatest of the Danes can get comfy on this choice!
Check out our complete Big Barker dog bed review to learn more.
2. BuddyRest Juliet Dog Bed
BuddyRest makes a lot of great orthopedic dog beds, but for large breeds I prefer the Juliet.
The simple flat design without bolsters or sides means it’s easier to buy a bed that grows with your dog.
PROS
- Odor-absorbing Crypton fabric resists everyday wear and tear
- Kevlar stitching holds the entire bed together and keeps it from busting apart when your dog plops.
- 5 inches of gel-style memory foam to keep your big dog comfy and cool
- Made in the USA
CONS
- One of the priciest BuddyRest beds, and among the most expensive on this list
- Not exactly the most stylish option
- Warranty only covers manufacturing defects, not dog-related damage
Bottom line: I would buy the BuddyRest Juliet bed for an adult dog that’s past the chewing stage and that needed a supportive bed.
Even though the Crypton fabric resists wear and tear, it’s not chew-proof, ergo not destruction-proof.
3. KOPEKS Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed
KOPEKS is a good option if you’re on a tight budget, as it’s the most affordable bed on this list.
Don’t let that fool you, though: it’s one of the most highly-rated orthopedic beds on multiple pet retailer websites.
I’d suggest going with the Jumbo XL because it’s actually closer to the large size in other brands.
PROS:
- It’s made with 100% orthopedic grade hypoallergenic memory foam.
- Soft & cuddly machine-washable micro-suede cover.
- Includes a water-resistant removable liner beneath the top cover.
- Anti-slip rubber bottom
CONS
- The sizes are a bit off compared to most other beds. For a large breed, you need the jumbo XL.
- Liner is more water-resistant than water-proof.
- Possibly not made in the USA (information isn’t disclosed)
- Cover may get wrinkly, which isn’t good for older dogs with aging skin
Bottom line: Again, this is an ideal choice for an older dog, since it’s not really as durable as, say, the Big Barker.
Still, if you have a small budget, it’s a great option.
- Waterproof, built in head rest, no-slip bottom
- Foam takes a few days to fluff up
4. Friends Forever Dog Bed
PROS
- Made with human-grade materials for the utmost safety
- Comes with a water-resistant liner to keep accidents from seeping through
- Machine-washable cover resists wear and tear
- Non-skid bottom to keep it in place.
- Comes in subtle and stylish color options
CONS
- It’s made in China. Not my favorite place to get pet products from!
- The zipper isn’t the most durable and may break easily.
- Kind of stinky out of the box, like most inexpensive memory foam tends to be. It should be fine once you air it out, though.
Bottom line: I prefer this option for an older large breed dog that’s past the puppy chewing stage.
Like the KOPEKS, make sure you pay close attention to the sizes. A large is about the size of a medium in other brands.
5. All-Aluminum Kuranda with Heavy-Duty Vinyl
Another popular choice, this one is ideal if you need something that is as chew-proof as humanely possible!
As long as you get the all-aluminum with the heavy duty vinyl, the chances of your dog destroying this bed is virtually nil.
Along with the indestructible nature, it has other fantastic features that make it a top pick for orthopedic beds for large breeds.
PROS
- Simple, stuffing-free design makes it harder to destroy (and doesn’t leave a mess behind if your dog does break it)
- Incredibly sturdy frame can support even the largest of the large breeds
- The material is allergy-friendly, which is a must for dogs with sensitive skin
- Cheapest bed (cost-wise) on this list, which is amazing considering it’s also the most indestructible bed here!
CONS
- Can be tricky to assemble, especially if you lack patience like I do!
- It’s so different from standard beds that your dog may not like it.
- Legs are not adjustable, although you can ask for different lengths if you order over the phone through their website.
Check out our full Kuranda Dog Bed review for more details.
Bottom Line: I would 100% recommend this bed for large breed dogs of all ages and life stages. Even without stuffing, it helps distribute your dog’s weight evenly and take pressure off joints.
I also love that replacement parts are totally reasonable. Even the fabric won’t break the bank if you need to replace it.
My Recommendation
If I had to narrow it down to just two picks for the best orthopedic dog beds for large breeds, I’d have to go with the Big Barker and the Kuranda.
Although they are completely different as far as style goes, either one would work great for my own large breed dogs.
My Pharaoh Hound would do well with the Kuranda because she’s destructive, while my Pit would love the Big Barker.
How about you? Do you have any other choices for the best orthopedic dog beds for large breeds? Share below!
