The 11 Best Dog Bed For Dogs With Arthritis
- May 27, 2023
- By Dr. Deborah Fletcher
It's a terrible fact of life, but practically every dog gets old at some point, and aging leads to arthritis. It's not fun to see your best friend struggling to go up or down stairs, and it can be frustrating when they can't jump into your bed anymore.
That doesn't mean you can't make them feel comfortable. You can help your dog stay happy and energetic well into old age by purchasing a custom bed with plenty of cushions and support.
Today, BestForPets (bestforpets.org) will help you find the best dog bed for dogs with arthritis
Reviews
Best Overall: Snuggly Sleeper Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed by BarksBar
Snuggly Sleeper by BarksBar The is made of human-grade orthopedic foam and will give the ideal level of support for your dog’s hurting hips and back.
The bed features high edges to prevent your dog from rolling off at an inconvenient time, perhaps inflicting extra injury to their body. The rim is cushioned with cotton, so your dog will enjoy lots of comfortable support if they rest their head on it.
The bottom features a rubber backing that stops it from sliding when your dog steps on it on hardwood floors or tile.
The cover is also machine washable, which reduces the quantity of dog hair that accumulates on it. However, putting the cover back on over the foam is a major effort, so you might not want to wash it as frequently.
Any dog that is starting to creak in old age would be fortunate to have the BarksBar Snuggly Sleeper. It’s not ideal, but it’s about as near as a dog bed can go.
Pros
- Made from high-quality orthopedic foam.
- The high edges keep the dog from rolling off.
- The rubber backing prevents slipping.
- A padded rim provides lots of support.
- Cover is machine washable.
Cons
- It’s difficult to put the cover back on after washing it.
Premium Choice: Big Barker Orthopedic Pillow Top Dog Bed
If your dog’s comfort is your first priority, and you’re ready to put your money where their arthritic joints are, the Big Barker should be your top pick.
There is no getting past the fact that this is an expensive choice. However, because it is made for huge breeds, you get a lot of bed for your money. Smaller dogs will appreciate having lots of space to spread out as well.
The microsuede cover is both comfortable and stylish, so you won’t have to hide it when guests arrive. It has a 10-year warranty and assures that it will not flatten with time.
However, the cover is not resistant to rips and tears, so if your dog digs, you may want to look for another choice or layer a different cover over the microsuede.
There are three layers of foam — not including the molded foam atop the cushion — each designed to relieve pressure on your dog’s aching back and hips.
The Big Barker is not cheap, but it is well worth the price.
Pros
- Ideal for bigger breeds.
- Elegant microsuede cover
- A 10-year warranty is provided.
- Three layers of foam relieve pressure on the dog’s spine.
Cons
- The cover is prone to ripping and shredding.
- Extremely costly
Memory Foam Dog Bed by Barkbox
The Barkbox Memory Foam appears to be nothing more than a flat slab with no edges or features. However, because it is composed of therapeutic memory gel, it is far more comfy than it appears.
It is available in a number of sizes, so whether you have a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, you can find one that fits them.
It’s water-resistant in case of spills, but it can also be machine-washed if necessary. However, the zipper isn’t very good, so you can have trouble putting the cover back on.
The bed is 3″ tall, which raises your dog off the floor but does not make it impossible for them to jump on. It’s only available in gray, but that helps it go in with most decor while also effectively concealing hair.
To be sure, the Barkbox Memory Foam is a no-frills solution, but that doesn’t mean it’s not beneficial to your dog. In addition, the firm offers a subscription service.
If you join up for a Barkbox membership today, you can get a free bed (along with other wonderful items! Click here to learn more!
Pros
- Sizes range from small to large.
- 3″ memory gel thickness
- Water-resistant
- Fits in with most decor
Cons
- Only gray is available.
- The zipper is of terrible quality.
- Not the most appealing choice
Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed by PetFusion
Ultimate PetFusion
It’s like a large sofa for your dog — not that it’ll keep them away from your actual couch.
The base is made of 4″ memory foam, giving your dog plenty of room to sink before hitting the ground. It also includes a soft railing around the sides and back to keep your pup from rolling off in the middle of his nap.
The foam is absolutely exceptional since it is dense but forgiving, providing your dog with both cushioning and support.
It is also suitable for dogs with skin allergies, as it contains no nasty substances like as formaldehyde, lead, or even phthalates. It is unlikely to irritate the skin.
However, the bed is not without flaws. It’s incredibly noisy when the dog moves about, making it an unsuitable choice for your bedroom. The zippers aren’t fantastic, and it’s not waterproof at all.
Overall, the PetFusion Ultimate offers significant selling features, but its faults must also be considered.
Pros
- Foam is both supportive and cushioned.
- Excellent for dogs that suffer from skin allergies.
- The rail stops the puppy from falling over.
Cons
- Loud substance
- Zippers of poor quality
- It is not waterproof.
Orthopedic Dog Bed Friends Forever
The Friends Forever Orthopedic, which comes in four different colors, is filled with poly-fill and should provide enough of cushion for your dog to lounge on.
The thick bolster provides comfort for your dog, but it also takes up a lot of space, which may make some dogs to feel confined.
The cover features a non-skid bottom and is fur-resistant, so it should stay in place without becoming hair-encrusted.
It does have a foul stench out of the box, which will take some time to eliminate. The foam also loses its supportiveness with time, and while it is machine-washable, don’t be shocked if it breaks apart after a spin cycle.
For the time being, the Friends Forever Orthopedic is a good alternative. If you want something more durable, you might consider a different model.
Pros
- A thick bolster provides support.
- Cover made of fur
- Non-slip base
Cons
- Out of the package, there is a strong odor.
- Over time, the supportiveness fades.
- After washing, the cover comes away.
- Bolster takes up room.
Memory Foam Dog Bed by Dogbed4less
The Dogbed4Less Memory Foam is ideal for dogs that tend to overheat since the gel-infused foam regulates temperature extremely well.
This makes it a great choice for usage outside, particularly in hotter regions.
The fake microsuede cover is waterproof — until you wash it, that is. Then it becomes porous, enabling any liquid to pass through. It’s also a pain to put it back on once you’ve taken it off.
The bed has a tendency to collect scents, which is problematic when it cannot be cleansed. The foam is also exceedingly soft, which leads some dogs to sink so deeply into it that they may struggle to come out.
The Dogbed4less Memory Foam is an excellent bed, although it may be better suited for dogs that have not yet developed arthritis.
Pros
- Temperatures are tightly regulated.
- Excellent for outdoor use
Cons
- Is not waterproof after washing
- It is difficult to replace the cover after it has been removed.
- Odors are trapped.
- Because of its extreme softness, it is difficult to get out of.
Orthopedic Dog Bed The Dog’s Balls Bed
The Dog’s Balls Bed is a low-cost alternative that may make your dog feel a little better. There are 12 color combinations to pick from, all of which are both appealing and machine-washable.
However, because it is little, your dog will have to fold themselves up to fit on it. It is not waterproof, and the material is stiff and loud.
The main concern, though, is the thinness of the foam. It’s not much better than sleeping on a blanket, so it won’t help your dog much. Also, you must allow it to expand after removing it from the package, and it frequently grows unevenly.
However, if your dog’s arthritis isn’t severe, this may be all they require. However, for dogs with more severe ailments, The Dog’s Balls Bed may not be adequate to relieve their discomfort.
Pros
- Affordably priced alternative
- There are 12 distinct hues to choose from.
Cons
- Small and suffocating
- The material is stiff and loud.
- It is not waterproof.
- The foam is thin.
- It has an irregular expansion pattern.
Oscar Orthopedic Dog Bed from Happy Hounds
Oscar for Happy Hounds
The is a huge box of pillows with reversible designs, allowing you to simply switch it over if it becomes damaged or unclean. While this will help keep it looking nice, it will not relieve your dog’s hurting joints.
Cleaning is a nightmare after both sides have grown filthy. It is machine-washable, however you may need to wash it multiple times before you see a change. Putting the cover back on might sometimes be difficult.
Larger dogs will sink all the way to the floor since the foam isn’t very sturdy. The seams are also not the strongest, so if your dog likes to reposition themselves frequently, they will give way sooner or later. It thins out with time and will pancake after a few months.
The Joyful Hounds Oscar isn’t the finest bed for arthritic dogs that we’ve discovered, but it’s better than most conventional mattresses for keeping your dog pain-free.
Pros
- Reversible style
Cons
- Cleaning is difficult.
- It is difficult to replace the cover.
- Larger dogs will fall to the ground.
- Seams are not long-lasting.
- Pancakes with time
Buyer's Manual
You want to get things right the first time when purchasing a bed for your chronically arthritic dog. For one thing, you don’t want your closest buddy to suffer any longer than necessary, and for another, these things might be costly.
With that in mind, we’ve put together a quick guide to help you decide which choice is best for your dog.
How Can a Good Bed Aid Arthritis in My Dog?
The fundamental notion is that the foam or other bedding material supports your dog’s weight gently, reducing stress on their painful joints. This is especially good for larger dogs (who are more prone to suffer from arthritis or hip dysplasia in the first place), but it can help dogs of all sizes.
The beds are also far more forgiving than the ground, so your pooch is less likely to wake up with aches and pains after a lengthy slumber.
But it’s crucial to remember that a dog bed, even a really wonderful dog bed, can only do so much. Expect no miracles, since the bed will not “heal” any of your dog’s ailments.
However, providing your dog with a high-quality bed is far better than forcing them to sleep in inconvenient conditions, so you’ll likely feel that a nice dog bed is worth every penny you paid for it.
What Is the Best Material for an Arthritic Dog Bed?
We recommend one with a foam pad; while memory foam is popular, it is not the only viable option. Any type of foam will do as long as it is both comfortable and supportive.
The goal is to have enough foam to give lots of padding when your dog lays down, since you don’t want their sore joints lying on your cold, hard floor. However, too much cushion — or padding that is so soft that your dog sinks deeply into it — can be harmful since it might make it difficult for your dog to get back up after lying down.
The thickness is also essential. Some mattresses are so thin that no matter how well the foam functions, your dog will not get the support they require. Some foam slabs, on the other hand, are so thick that your dog may struggle to get upon them, especially if they are a smaller breed.
A gel pad is another option worth investigating. These may keep your dog cool in the summer and warm in the winter, which may reduce discomfort if they become more arthritic in particular conditions.
What about the front cover?
Coverings for dog beds come in a variety of materials. The type of material isn’t as significant as long as it performs a few critical functions.
The most vital aspect is that the cloth is long-lasting, especially if your dog is harsh on his or her bedding. No material can hold up to a power chewer that has been let to go to town on their bed, but you don’t want a material that is so thin that the tiniest slip will send a claw through it.
Strong material not only extends the life of the bed, but it also keeps your dog from getting to the real bedding below. Almost any form of bedding material may be harmful to dogs if they consume it, causing a life-threatening obstruction in their digestive tract.
If your dog continues to nibble on the bed, you may need to remove it from them, or you may just need to change the cover if it becomes worn.
Aside from that, the simplicity of washing is a vital consideration. Most covers are machine-washable, although some might be a headache to reattach to the bed (think about putting a queen-sized fitted sheet on a king-sized bed). You might want to get one that hides hair nicely so you don’t have to clean it as frequently.
Of course, loose fur isn’t the only thing to be concerned about. A waterproof cover is also necessary, especially if your dog has incontinence. You don’t want their urine to leak into the mattress, so choose an exterior material that repels liquids.
What other features should I consider?
Dog beds come with a surprising variety of features, and some are absolutely worth considering.
Certain beds include a heating element, which an elderly dog suffering from joint problems may appreciate. The warmth can help relieve discomfort, but be careful not to let your dog gnaw on a heated bed, as this could result in electrocution.
Elevated beds, on the other hand, can help keep your dog cool by allowing air to circulate beneath them. These can also help keep your dog warm in the winter if kept outside, as it creates a barrier between them and the chilly ground. Just keep in mind that an elevated bed may be more difficult for your dog to enter and exit.
Many mattresses, like the back of a sofa, have a broad border, or bolster, that goes around the edges. This isn’t just for show; the bolster can safeguard kids from rolling out of bed and harming themselves. However, the bolster would typically reduce the amount of accessible area for them to extend out.
Check the bed’s bottom to determine whether it has any anti-skid materials on it, especially if the bed will be stored on a surface like tile or hardwood. When your dog steps on the bed, you don’t want it to fall out from beneath them, since this might result in a major injury.
What Can I Do Else to Help My Dog’s Arthritis?
This is a question for your veterinarian, who will have a better understanding of your dog’s unique problems. They may also be able to prescribe pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
They may advise your dog to undergo physical therapy, such as laser treatments or walking on a water treadmill. These can assist to develop muscle and enhance joint flexibility. A massage may also be advised.
Losing weight can usually assist since it lessens the overall strain that the joints are supposed to endure. Ideally, your dog should be thin and trim before developing arthritis; if they are, the arthritis may not manifest at all. Certain supplements, such as glucosamine and omega fatty acids, may also be beneficial.
Unfortunately, in most situations, arthritis is not an issue that can be solved. All you can do is attempt to keep your dog comfortable and do everything you can to prevent the problem from worsening.
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong with the BarksBar Snuggly Sleeper if you want a bed that will keep your dog as comfortable as possible. It will be as comfortable and supportive as your bed, if not more so, because it is made of human-grade orthopedic foam.
Consider the Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut Cuddler if you want a high-quality choice that won’t break the budget. It’s really soft with just the proper amount of firmness, and it’ll even keep your dog warm.
It’s not easy to see your dog become old and creaky, but luckily, you can make them as comfortable as possible with an excellent dog bed. The solutions in these evaluations are all excellent for assisting elderly dogs in remaining mobile and active, ensuring that you spend as much time as possible with your canine.
BestForPets (bestforpets.org) hopes our evaluations and guide assist you in finding the best dog bed for dogs with arthritis.
Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.
Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher
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