If you have a large pup in your life, finding the right bed size can be a challenge. There is nothing better than to see your best buddy curled up and napping in a cozy, comfy dog bed after a long day of fetch. From elevated cots to memory foam cushions, large dog beds come in endless options for your big furball to get his snooze on. If you want a high-quality bed that provides therapeutic support, then the BarkBox 2-in-1 Memory Foam Dog Bed is an ideal choice for you.
Considerations before you buy a large dog bed
Doughnut dog beds
If you have a large dog that loves to curl up into an oversized ball of fur, doughnut beds are a great option. Their round shape sometimes has raised sides and features plush materials for maximum comfort. Some offer integrated padding, while others have rigid plastic to place your pet cushion in the center.
Orthopedic dog beds
An orthopedic dog bed may be the answer for large, older dogs that frequently shift when they sleep due to joint pain. These large dog beds are designed to keep your dog’s spine aligned while they sleep and are easy on the joints. The materials used are often memory foam.
Elevated dog beds
Outdoor naps can be a favorite for your pup, but laying on the hot or rocky ground isn’t ideal. Raised large dog beds are made of fabric or mesh which is stretched across a frame. It is raised on legs with space between the actual bed and the ground, allowing air circulation.
Before you land on a favorite large dog bed, check out the complete dog bed buying guide from BestReviews.
Large dog bed features
Ease of Cleaning
You’ll want to consider your dog’s activity level to determine how easily you can clean the dog bed. If your furry best buddy loves to get muddy or roll in the dirt, you may want to select a large dog bed with a removable cover that is machine washable.
Size
Large dog beds are offered in Large, X-Large and XX-Large sizes with varying measurements. To identify the correctly sized bed, measure your pup when lying down. The measurement should start at the tip of their nose and end at the base of their tail. In addition, you’ll want to measure from the bottom of their paw to the top of their shoulder. Once you have your measurements, add a couple of inches to get an ideal width and length for your dog’s bed.
Material
Depending on the style, there are various materials available. The softest beds have plush cotton layers with foam, memory foam or hollow fiber fillings. There are also raised beds that feature mesh or ripstop materials, which works well for large dogs who gnaw on their beds.
Large dog bed cost
Dog beds that accommodate larger dogs tend to fall on the pricier end of the scale. Depending on cushioning, size and overall material, they start as low as $30 and go as high as $300.
Large dog bed FAQs
Do I need to have a waterproof liner for my dog’s bed?
A. A large adult dog usually won’t need a waterproof bed liner, but if you have a puppy on your hands or a senior dog with incontinence issues, a waterproof liner can be useful.
Is a large dog bed with raised sides a good idea for my dog?
A. If your dog prefers to rest his head against something when sleeping (like the arm of a couch), a large dog bed with raised sides would work well.
Which large dog bed should I get?
Best of the best large dog bed
BarkBox 2-in-1 Memory Foam Dog Bed: available at Amazon
Our take: This high-quality memory foam bed offers an additional pillow layer for maximum comfort and works well for large dogs that need therapeutic support.
What we like: With a gel memory foam design, joint pain and body aches will ease thanks to this sizable therapeutic dog bed. Side pillows can be puffed up to provide additional comfort. This bed comes with a removable machine washable cover.
What we dislike: The cost is high, but so is the quality.
Best bang for your buck large dog bed
MidWest Homes for Pets Quiet Time 24-inch Bed: available at Amazon
Our take: The simple but generously sized design can be used inside large dog crates or used as-is on the floor.
What we like: With a non-skid bottom, this large dog bed stays put wherever you decide to place it. It is machine-washable and has an ultra-plush surface. The one-year warranty is a bonus.
What we dislike: The soft foam material inside is not as durable as memory foam models and may eventually lose its shape.
Honorable mention large dog beds
Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed: available at Amazon
Our take: The elevated bed style allows ventilation and cools your dog with its raised frame and breathable bed material.
What we like: Built for long-lasting support, the sturdy steel frame with rubber feet is stable and keeps your pet cool. It is lightweight, portable and ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
What we dislike: Assembly can be challenging and some dogs might like to chew the material.
Big Barker 7-inch Pillow Top Orthopedic Bed: available at Amazon
Our take: This high-quality, high-priced large dog bed offers multiple layers of cushioning and is ideal for dogs that require maximum therapeutic support.
What we like: The three layers of 7-inch therapeutic foam make this one ultra-supportive for large dogs, especially those that suffer from joint pain or arthritis. The soft microfleece cover is removable and easy to clean.
What we dislike: This large dog bed sits on the higher-end of retail pricing and is not available in pet stores.
FOCUSPET Donut Dog Bed: available at Amazon
Our take: Available in various sizes, this donut-style bed offers a calming, cozy feel with its luxurious faux fur surface.
What we like: The large donut bed design is ideal for those pups that like to curl up on a rainy day. It has a raised rim for head and neck support. The bed is lightweight and suitable for travel. It is machine washable and dryer safe.
What we dislike: The faux fur surface can become matted and clumped.
Rachel Pintarelli is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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