Not every dog bed labeled “orthopedic” actually supports your dog’s joints. The best orthopedic dog beds use high-quality memory foam designed specifically to relieve pressure from sensitive areas like your pup’s hips, elbows and spine, without flattening after a few months of use. Beds like the Casper Dog Bed, our top pick overall, evenly distribute your dog’s weight and provide comfort that standard beds simply can’t match—especially for senior dogs, large breeds or pups recovering from surgery.
If you’re wondering whether your dog needs better support, start by observing their sleep habits. “Discomfort may not always be obvious,” says Dr. Jennifer Bruns, veterinarian at PetSmart Veterinary Services. “Dogs may avoid their bed entirely or prefer lying on the floor if the bed is not supportive enough.” Small behavioral clues like these can reveal if your pup would benefit from an orthopedic upgrade.
To help you choose a dog bed that’s right for them, we’ve included a range of tested and expert-approved picks, like the Orvis RecoveryZone ToughChew Couch Dog Bed, which is durable enough to survive dogs who might normally shred up a bed in days, and the Sealy Lux Pet Dog Bed, designed specifically to keep pups cool. Whatever your dog’s needs, the right orthopedic bed can noticeably improve how comfortably they sleep and the ease with which they move afterward.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted team is made up of pet parents who regularly research, test and recommend pet products, including the best dog beds, the best dry dog food and the best dog leashes. For this guide to the best orthopedic dog beds, we relied on firsthand experience with many of these beds, plus extensive research and consultations with veterinary experts.
- This story was written by Forbes Vetted home and kitchen editor Kelly O’Sullivan, a longtime dog lover whose own two dogs—a Labrador retriever and a mixed breed—have tested multiple beds featured here for months or even years.
- This story was edited and overseen by Forbes Vetted managing editor Emmy Favilla, our resident pet expert who regularly covers pet content, maintains a wide network of veterinary professionals and whose large-breed dogs also tested several beds in this guide, including the Casper and Big Barker.
- We consulted veterinary experts Jennifer Bruns, DVM, MPVM, of PetSmart Veterinary Services, and Dr. Aimee Warner, a veterinary surgeon and resident veterinarian at Waggel, for guidance on what makes a bed truly supportive for joint health, durability and overall comfort for dogs.
- We regularly update this guide to ensure our recommendations remain current, accurate and relevant. This version was last reviewed and published in June 2025.
How We Chose The Best Orthopedic Dog Beds
To find the best orthopedic dog beds, we combined long-term personal use, in-depth product research and insights from trusted veterinary professionals to ensure each recommendation is worth your investment.
- We prioritized beds personally tested and recommended by Forbes Vetted editors and their dogs, including long-term experience with our own pets and trusted veterinary suggestions.
- We spoke with veterinarians to learn exactly which features, like foam density, bolster construction and material durability, are most important for dogs dealing with joint issues, senior pets or pups recovering from injuries.
- We carefully evaluated each bed’s size range, shape, material quality, ease of cleaning and overall practicality, highlighting beds suitable for a variety of breeds, lifestyles and households.
- We carefully considered reviews and ratings from other pet parents, only recommending beds that consistently receive strong feedback, with at least a 4-star average consumer rating.
What To Look For In The Best Orthopedic Dog Beds
Buying an orthopedic dog bed involves more than just choosing one labeled as “orthopedic.” To ensure your dog benefits from improved joint health and comfort, here’s what veterinary experts recommend looking for.
Supportive, High-Density Foam
The most important feature in an orthopedic dog bed is the foam. Look specifically for high-density memory foam or a multilayered orthopedic foam base that’s firm enough to prevent sinking. Bruns says true orthopedic beds “provide proper joint support and even weight distribution to minimize pressure points on sensitive areas like hips and elbows.” Waggel’s resident veterinarian Dr. Aimee Warner adds a simple test: “Push your hand into the foam,” she says. “If it slowly comes back and maintains its shape, you’re likely seeing real support and not just marketing.”
Bolstered Edges And Easy Access
Bolstered edges around the bed, like those you see on picks like the Casper and Bedsurebeds on this list, aren’t just decorative. “Side bolsters are a welcome addition, especially for dogs who curl up or need head and neck support,” says Warner. But accessibility also matters, particularly for older or mobility-challenged pets. Bruns advises pet owners to choose a bed that’s easy for dogs to step onto, noting that low-profile designs without steep edges or high bolsters minimize strain and reduce discomfort.
Washable, Durable Covers
Orthopedic beds typically represent a bigger investment, so it’s important that they’re both durable and easy to clean. According to Warner, washable covers are essential—especially for older dogs prone to accidents or those recovering from procedures. “Neglecting to seek out washable covers can be a hygiene nightmare,” she says. Look for beds with removable covers that are machine washable (like every pick on our list) and ideally water-resistant to resist drool, dirt and accidents. Regularly cleaning and occasionally rotating the bed will also help extend its lifespan and keep your dog’s sleeping area clean and comfortable.
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