The Best Large Dog Beds: Updated

Written by Austin S.
Updated: November 18, 2022
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It’s not just you who needs a good night’s sleep every night. Although your pooch may seem quite content to snooze on the floor or on the couch, that doesn’t mean he won’t be happier when he has a space of his own. Dogs benefit from beds in more ways than one. In addition to providing security, they also provide orthopedic support for pets with aching joints. Even so, if you live with a large breed at home, not just any bed will do. As a matter of fact, big dogs tend to suffer from hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis in their joints. It’s especially true when they get older since some large dogs get overweight.

Apart from age, large dogs generally need a bed that is thick enough to prevent them from sinking to the floor. Their strength shouldn’t be underestimated either! Unlike a small dog bed, a large dog bed needs to be made of stronger materials to withstand wear and tear. With so many options available, how do you choose the right dog bed for your pooch? To help you choose the best large dog beds for your best friend, we’ve reviewed some of the best on the market.

  1. Big Barker 7" Pillow-Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
    • Features three layers: top and bottom layers made of 2" comfort foam and a 3" middle layer made of support foam
    • Designed specifically to comfort and support large dogs
    • Available in 3 sizes and 4 colors
    • Features a removable, washable cover
    • 10-year warranty
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  2. PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed
    • This orthopedic bed features 4" thick memory foam
    • Available in 4 sizes and 4 colors
    • Features a water-resistant, polyester blend cover and waterproof liners
    • The cover is removable and washable
    • The bolsters are filled with eco-friendly recycled "green" polyfill
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  3. K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot Elevated Pet Bed
    • Available in 4 sizes
    • The largest size can easily -- and comfortably -- fit a mastiff
    • Available in 4 colors
    • Elevated beds are particularly useful in hot weather, and this one features a mesh center for breathable airflow
    • The rest of the cot is constructed from durable, waterproof, heavy denier fabric
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  4. Majestic Pet Poly-Cotton Sherpa Bagel Dog Bed
    • This durable option is suitable for large dogs
    • Includes thicker padding and higher bolsters
    • The oval shape is better than round for large dogs that like to stretch out
    • Made of Poly/Cotton Twill
    • Stuffed with high-loft polyester fiberfill that maintains its shape after multiple uses
    Check Amazon

Top Picks: The Best Large Dog Beds Today

#1. Best Overall: Big Barker 7-Inch Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed

There is no doubt that the Big Barker 7-Inch Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed is the best large dog bed available on the market. There are three layers to this incredibly comfortable bed: two inches of comfort foam at the top and bottom, and three inches of support foam in the middle. Big dogs will find it comfortable and supportive. There is nothing comfier for your dog than this extra-large orthopedic pillow bed. In particular, dogs with joint problems will benefit from the orthopedic foam’s supportive properties.

Additionally, there is a large that measures 48 inches long and a giant that measures 60 inches long. Apart from its comfort and support, we loved that the Big Barker had a ten-year warranty that guaranteed 90% of its shape and support. Otherwise, you will receive a replacement free of charge. The bed also has a microfiber cover that can be removed. In addition to being machine washable, it is also very durable.

There is, however, one major drawback to the Big Barker, and that is its price. It seems like a luxury item instead of a necessity due to its cost. There is no doubt that it won’t be easy to fit into everyone’s budget. However, the Big Barker is a worthwhile purchase if you consider how much you might spend on replacement dog beds each year.

Pros and Cons of the Big Barker 7-Inch Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed

ProsCons
With this bed, you get a ten-year warranty and a money-back guarantee at any time.There is no doubt that this dog bed is expensive, with the giant size coming in at almost $440.
It is specially designed for larger breeds of dogs and is joint-friendly.
It has a machine-washable microfiber cover that is extremely soft.
Best Overall
Big Barker 7" Pillow-Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
  • Features three layers: top and bottom layers made of 2" comfort foam and a 3" middle layer made of support foam
  • Designed specifically to comfort and support large dogs
  • Available in 3 sizes and 4 colors
  • Features a removable, washable cover
  • 10-year warranty
Check Chewy Check Amazon

2. Best Bolster Dog Bed: PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

When it comes to large bolster dog beds, the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed is one of the best options. As with our first pick, this one is also an orthopedic bed. A four-inch thick memory foam layer provides comfort while reducing joint pain and increasing mobility.

The size ranges from small (21 x 16 inches, inner dimension) to jumbo which measures 42 x 33 inches (inner dimension). In comparison to the Big Barker, the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed is a tad smaller. We recommend getting the extra-large or jumbo size for dogs weighing more than 100 pounds, so they can stretch out without using the bolster. By doing so, your pup will be able to decide whether or not to use his “pillow” while he snoozes.

This bed comes with a removable cotton and polyester blend cover that is water-resistant. Waterproof liners are also included to prevent messes from seeping into the foam. Additionally, the bolsters are incredibly soft as they are made of recycled polyfill. Even though it’s not as comfortable as lying on memory foam, the bed itself is perfect for a night’s sleep. 

It has been reported, however, that the cover tends to collect fur and dirt. Although it’s easy to remove and clean, you might find yourself washing it frequently. Additionally, this bed is quite expensive. This is definitely not a budget-friendly option. However, because it’s got so many other benefits, the high price point isn’t a major dealbreaker. 

Pros and Cons of the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

ProsCons
There is a four-inch thick layer of memory foam on this bed.For a large dog bed, the bed is definitely on the expensive side.
The bolsters are made of recycled polyfill.The bed can show signs of loose fur and dirt immediately.
As the bed’s lining is waterproof, messes won’t seep into the foam.
Best Waterproof Bed
PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed
  • This orthopedic bed features 4" thick memory foam
  • Available in 4 sizes and 4 colors
  • Features a water-resistant, polyester blend cover and waterproof liners
  • The cover is removable and washable
  • The bolsters are filled with eco-friendly recycled "green" polyfill
Check Chewy Check Amazon

3. Best Elevated Bed: K&H Elevated Pet Cot

The K&H Elevated Pet Cot is the best option if you have a large dog and want an elevated bed. There are four different sizes of this elevated dog bed, including an extra-large model that measures 32 x 50 x 9 inches and is able to fit dogs up to 200 pounds. It is easily able to accommodate even a mastiff. There are four different colors available for the cot, so you can choose the one that most closely matches your decor.

Getting an elevated bed is great for keeping your pooch cool in hot weather. With the K&H Elevated Pet Cot, this can be taken to a whole new level. It has a breathable mesh center to improve airflow. Other parts of the bed are covered in a waterproof, heavy denier fabric that repels moisture, mold, mildew, and bacteria.

In addition to being extremely comfortable, the bed can also be used indoors and outdoors. Apart from comfort, the bed is also very easy to assemble. It is also very easy to clean. It is possible to wash the bed with a wet cloth or with a hose. Both methods work well. Additionally, the cot is very durable. Unlike our other picks, this one is definitely budget-friendly. While the bed is overall great, some customers reported that it rusts when left outdoors for extended periods of time.

Pros and Cons of the K&H Elevated Pet Cot

ProsCons
Assembling and disassembling the bed is very simple.It has been reported that leaving the frame outside will cause the frame to rust.
In addition to repelling water and mold, the mesh is also odor-resistant.
You can choose between four different colors.
Best Elevated Bed
K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot Elevated Pet Bed
  • Available in 4 sizes
  • The largest size can easily -- and comfortably -- fit a mastiff
  • Available in 4 colors
  • Elevated beds are particularly useful in hot weather, and this one features a mesh center for breathable airflow
  • The rest of the cot is constructed from durable, waterproof, heavy denier fabric
Check Chewy Check Amazon

4. Best Budget Dog Bed for Large Dogs: Majestic Pet Poly-Cotton Sherpa Pillow Pet Dog Bed

The Majestic Pet Poly-Cotton Sherpa Pillow Pet Dog Bed is a great option for those on a budget! The price of high-quality large dog beds can be astronomical. The reason for this is that many of them are made of memory foam. However, the Majestic Pet bed is a fantastic option that is both comfortable and affordable.  

Initially, it might appear that the premium high-loft polyester fiberfill won’t be thick enough to provide your pet with a very cozy feeling. In contrast to memory foam, premium high-loft polyester fiberfill flattens over time. Consequently, you might have a bed with a pet-shaped depression in the middle. However, as opposed to all the other budget-friendly beds, this one isn’t just three to four inches thick. There are eight inches of thickness to it because it’s “overstuffed”. In this way, your dog won’t feel the ground even if the bed flattens a bit. 

It’s also one of the largest pillows/beds we’ve seen. It measures 60 x 42 inches in the extra-large size. Sheepskin slipcovers are incredibly soft and machine-washable, making them easy to clean. No assembly is necessary as well. It’s as simple as opening the box! Additionally, it is quite portable. It is easy to take along with you on road trips. The only main downside to this bed is that cover is not removable for washing. This whole thing has to be washed in your washer because you can’t separate the bedding from the bed walls.

Pros and Cons of the Majestic Pet Poly-Cotton Sherpa Pillow Pet Dog Bed  

ProsCons
This is an incredible price for the size of bed you get.It is not possible to remove the cover, so you have to be able to wash the entire bed in your washing machine.
This bed has a thick eight-inch layer of material that does not give the impression of being flimsy.
This bed does not require assembly.
Best Calming Dog Bed for Large Dogs
Majestic Pet Poly-Cotton Sherpa Bagel Dog Bed
  • This durable option is suitable for large dogs
  • Includes thicker padding and higher bolsters
  • The oval shape is better than round for large dogs that like to stretch out
  • Made of Poly/Cotton Twill
  • Stuffed with high-loft polyester fiberfill that maintains its shape after multiple uses
Check Amazon

How to Choose the Best Large Dog Beds

While it’s true that dog beds aren’t essential to the health of most dogs, they do provide them with a comfortable and safe place to rest. Dog beds come in many different designs, as you can see from a quick search on the internet. When you have a large-breed dog, finding the right bed can be challenging. Given how much time your pup spends in his bed, choosing a high-quality large dog bed is really important. Similarly to humans, dogs also have their own preferred sleeping positions. However, when there are so many options available online for dog beds, it can be quite overwhelming to choose the right one.

If you’re looking for a great large dog bed for your pup, there are four main factors to consider: 

  • Size 
  • Easily cleaned 
  • Durability 
  • Padding thickness and material 

Let’s take a look at each factor in more detail: 

Size

There are many types and sizes of dog beds. You need to consider size when choosing one for your big dog, since it’s the key feature you need to take into account. Make sure your dog’s entire body fits comfortably across the bed, plus a couple of extra inches. Furthermore, you should consider your available space. The bed should fit easily wherever you plan to place it.

Easily Cleaned

For quick and convenient cleaning, choose a bed with a removable cover you can throw in the washing machine. It is particularly important if your dog has skin problems that require frequent bed cleanings.

Durability

Changing your dog’s bed once a year is not only frustrating but also expensive. Make sure your dog’s bed is durable enough to support him. Furthermore, his weight can cause furniture to wear down more quickly. Choosing a dog bed made from high-quality materials will ensure that it will last for a long time. It might not be a good idea to use foam or a similar type of cushioning on a bed for a chewer. Ideally, you’ll want something more durable. You may want to choose a bed made of PVC pipes or a steel frame and high-density polyethylene fabric. Although nothing is completely chew-proof, a “gnawy” dog would have difficulty destroying that kind of material.

Padding Thickness and Material 

The bed you choose for your dog should be able to handle its weight since your dog is likely quite heavy. You need a bed that won’t sag or flatten after being used for a while. If you want your dog to be comfortable, choose a thick dog bed that will support his pressure points. It is generally recommended that padding thickness be at least four inches.

It is also important to consider the type of material. A layer of memory foam two inches thick can provide more support than a layer of polyester filling four inches thick. Furthermore, memory foam keeps its shape for a long time. You may think it’s a luxury, but your dog will appreciate the comfort it receives. Unless you can squeeze the bed and feel your fingers touch it, the material will not provide enough support for your dog, according to experts.

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About the Author

Growing up in rural New England on a small scale farm gave me a lifelong passion for animals. I love learning about new wild animal species, habitats, animal evolutions, dogs, cats, and more. I've always been surrounded by pets and believe the best dog and best cat products are important to keeping our animals happy and healthy. It's my mission to help you learn more about wild animals, and how to care for your pets better with carefully reviewed products.

The Best Large Dog Beds: Updated FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is the best dog bed for large dogs?

The best dog bed for large dogs is one that provides both comfort and support. It should help relieve pressure points and aching joints. It should also allow your dog to comfortably lie down in all his natural positions – curled up or sprawled across the entire bed. The best overall dog bed should also be easy to clean with a removable cover. More importantly, it should be made of materials that will retain its shape for a very long time. In our humble opinion, only one dog bed fits all those requirements – the Big Barker.

Do dogs prefer firm or soft beds?

Ultimately, it will depend on your dog’s preferences. It doesn’t matter how hard you coerce them, some dogs refuse to climb into a bed. Nevertheless, experts agree that a dog’s bed should be firm enough to support its body and joints, but soft enough to make them feel safe and comfortable.

Should a dog bed be bigger than the dog?

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to buying a dog bed for them. Each dog sleeps in a different position, and its personality must be taken into consideration as well. To prevent any discomfort for a dog that likes to stretch out, a larger bed with plenty of space is the best choice. It will also be beneficial for dogs with joint problems to have an over-sized bed with plenty of extra space.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.