I came to this point of my life (I guess the word is ‘old’) when I can tell how good sleep I’ll have judging by a look thrown on the hotel mattress. I believe you too can make a difference between a high quality and a low quality mattress, and you always choose the best. Well, I also believe my (your) dog deserves a good night sleep as much as I do.
What Is An Orthopedic Dog Bed?
You might be already familiar with orthopedic mattresses for people, and it’s pretty much the same when it comes to mattresses for dogs. There’s no one final definition for both, so let’s go with the Wikipedia one that claims orthopedic mattresses are those “designed to support the joints, back, and overall body.”
One trick you can use to tell whether your dog’s bed is orthopedic is by squeezing it – if you can feel your fingers on the other side, the mattress is probably not offering your dog the support it needs.
The high quality orthopedic beds are the thickest ones. They are made out of super-thick, high-quality foam which makes them good in distributing a dog’s weight and offering balanced and firm support.
What To Look For:
There are a few things you should keep in mind before choosing a mattress for your dog. Observe your dog in its napping positions in different periods of the day, and:
- If your dog sleeps in a ball position and likes cuddling – he’ll enjoy a nesting bed
- If your dog likes to ‘hide’ when sleeping enjoy deep beds, or bolster beds.
- If your dog likes using a pillow to support its head, it might prefer a bolster bed.
- If it likes sleeping turned on the side, it will also enjoy a bolster bed.
- Dogs that flop down and spread wide will enjoy rectangular beds.
- All dogs, regardless of their size will enjoy a bigger bed.
- Measure your dog from nose to tail before choosing a size, don’t trust directions according to breed. Always choose a dog that’s at least 12 inches wider than its size.
Types Of Dog Beds
Regardless of the mattress you choose, you should also know the basic different types of dog beds out there.
Puppy beds
Just like beds for bigger dogs, there are different puppy beds. Donut type of beds or nest types are ideal for puppies since they give them a sense of security and safety. You must know or have notices how puppies like sleeping close to each other in order to feel another presence and feel safer. Those beds are perfect because of their raised edges that puppies can cuddle against.
Small dog beds
Just because your dog is of a small breed, it doesn’t mean that its needs haven’t changed. Puppy beds are for puppies, and if your dog is no longer a pup then you should get something that fits it better. Those dogs love the small dogs beds that look like human beds. Just don’t forget to check how tall the bed is, since it can be a real problem for smaller dogs to hop in in very tall ones.
Large dog beds
If your dog is a large breed one and you managed to teach it to sleep in its own bed and not yours, you can simply get them any bed you think they’ll like. Just check if it fits in it properly, and if it’s comfortable. And if your dog a very, very large one, some people before you even got their large dog a human kids bed.
Top Orthopedic Dog Beds
Big Barker 7″ Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
This American hand-made orthopedic bed is made for large and extra large dogs. It’s available in Large, XL and XXl sizes. It claims that the foam retains 90% of its original shape. It’s made of 100% microfiber, it’s soft to the touch and machine washable. You can read my full review on Big Barker here.
Why It’s So Popular:– Easy to clean- Comes in different sizes- Comfortable for (very) big dogs- Very well made, high quality
Check price and more details here
Keep In Mind:– Some dogs might find it too soft
Kopeks Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed
This is a 7-inch thick density memory foam with 3 inch thick pillow dog bed and a waterproof removable liner cover. It is great for pets with arthritis, muscle problems, hip dysplasia and joint and muscle stiffness. It’s made of 100% memory foam.
Why It’s So Popular:– Easy to wash- Suitable for big dogs- Very good for dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia
Check price and more details here
Keep In Mind:– Might take a couple of days to open up completely- Some people complain that the cover is not really waterproof as stated
Supportive Gel Orthopedic Dog Bed
This is a 5 inch bed that helps relieve arthritis or joint pain. It’s made in the USA and comes with a fully removable, waterproof cover that protects the interior from all fluids. The canvas is made out of 100% cotton.
Why It’s So Popular:– Comes in different sizes- Waterproof cover, easily washable- 5 inches thick- Made of very good material and high quality
Check price and more details here
Keep In Mind:– Some customers complain about the quality of the waterproof cover
K&H Deluxe Orthopedic Bolster Sleeper (S/M/L/XL)
The base foam is 3 inch thick and orthopedic, and it’s supportive bolster is filled with polyfill made from recycled bottles. The cover is made out of velvet and can be easily removed and washed. Same goes for the bolster which can be unzipped in order to remove the polyfil liner.
Why It’s So Popular:– Comes in 4 different sizes- Removable cover- 3 inch foam- Customers are very satisfied with the quality of the foam
Check price and more details here
Keep In Mind:– Not so easy to remove the cover and clean
Happy Hounds Oscar Orthopedic Dog Bed
The Oscar Orthopedic Dog Bed comfortably supports elderly dogs or dogs with arthritis, joint pain or other needs. It has durable, double-sewn boxed edges with decorative cording. It’s cover is water resistant, removable and machine washable. Cushion dimensions are +/- 2 inches.
Why It’s So Popular:– Very light for its size- Easily washable- Offers great price for the quality- Great for elderly dogs or dogs with arthritis, joint pain or other needs
Check price and more details here
Keep In Mind:– Not as waterproof as advertised
Laifug 45DHI Premium Memory Foam Orthopedic Extra Large Pet/Dog Bed
This bed comes with a 2-sided protective cover and durable waterproof inner cover zippered cover that quickly removes for washing. It’s great for dogs that suffer from arthritis, muscle stiffness, joint and hip dysplasia. The foam of the bed 2 inch thick and is free of harmful substances.
Why It’s So Popular:– Comes in different colours- Removable cover, easy to wash- Great for dogs that suffer from arthritis, muscle stiffness, joint and hip dysplasia
Check price and more details here
Keep In Mind:– Cover is not waterproof- Foam is not as thick as other beds
Serta Orthopedic Quilted Pillowtop
This is a comfortable and supportive bed, suitable for big dogs, and made of orthopedic foam. It’s easy for cleaning and the cover comes off easily for laundering. It’s size is: 47in x 39in x 4in.
Why It’s So Popular:– Good for big dogs- Feels solid and high quality- Easy to wash and remove cover
Check price and more details here
Keep In Mind:– Cover is not waterproof
Conclusion
Regardless if you’re considering an orthopedic bed for your dog because it’s been old and sick, or just out of love, I do support you. Your pet deserves the best. Just don’t forget to choose wisely what fits it best.
