Senior Dog Beds – What to Shop for with an Older Dog

Senior dog beds are so much nicer for your older dog.  Puppies may be able to sleep anywhere but your older dog might need more help being comfortable.  If your dog is getting older or you’re adopting an older pet, that means aching joints, sore muscles, and a greater interest in nestling into a warm, cozy bed. Older dogs also need more support because they’re more prone to aches and pains when they get up from a long nap. Firmer mattresses are also ideal because they allow senior dogs to stand up much easier.

Orthopedic Senior Dog Beds

Orthopedic beds are made from memory foam, so they offer a firmer and more supportive surface than you will get with most standard dog beds. They can cost a bit more than the cheap dog beds that you see in stores or online, but they’re worth every dollar if they stop your older dog from suffering with unnecessary aches and pains. Here are some of the best options available today:

• Big Barker 7" Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed: Big Barker dog beds are designed specifically for large and extra-large dog breeds, so your size options are large, extra-large, and giant. The design is a thick, flat surface with a slight raised headrest at the top. The best feature is the 10-year guarantee that protects you if the bed doesn’t maintain its shape by at least 90%.
• Dogbed4less Extra Large Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed: This is a memory foam bed much like the Big Barker, but it comes with a waterproof liner and soft cover. The design includes an 8-inch headrest.

Raised Senior Dog Beds

Raised senior dog beds allow your dog to step up into the bed rather than dropping down. This is easier on the joints and may help some dogs with back problems or other health issues. They don’t provide as much cushioning and support as orthopedic beds, but you can add softer dog mattresses on top if you just need the elevation to keep your dog comfortable. Here are our top recommendations:

• Kuranda All-Aluminum Raised Dog Bed: Aircraft-grade aluminum legs and frames make these beds the best options for large dog breeds. The flat surface has orthopedic feature and comes in a few color options. The bed is resistant to abrasion, and the material won’t catch or pull your dog’s fur.
• K&H Manufacturing Original Pet Cot: This raised bed has a mesh insert designed to keep large dogs cool and cozy. It comes in large and extra-large sizes that will accommodate most big dogs.

Warming Dog Beds

If your older dog can burrow into a warm bed, they may find some relief for aches and pains. You may not use this as your dog’s primary bed, and they may still benefit from having a therapeutic or raised bed in the home. Here are a couple options that you might consider:

• HapiGo Self-Warming Pet Bed Cushion: This is a thin cushion that you can use inside a dog crate, on top of household furniture, on the floor, or anywhere that your dog likes to rest. You don’t have to plug it in because heat is generated by your dog’s body heat naturally.
• Easyology Large Thermal Pet Warming Bed: This is a warming insert that allows your dog to maintain his or her own body heat when inserted inside the cover or another pet bed. Consider it a natural heating pad for an older dog with aching joints and muscles.

Finally, keep in mind that accidents are more likely to happen with senior dogs. If you can find a dog bed that comes with a waterproof lining and a removable cover that you can toss in the washing machine, cleaning up those messes won’t feel like such a chore. You may also make your own covers and absorbent liners, or hire someone to make it for you. Adding a thin, waterproof pad or blanket to the top of the bed is another option.

Related Articles:

• Extra Large Dog Beds – Tips and Recommendations 
• Best Dog Beds for Large Dogs - Our Top Choices