The best large dog bed 2024: including elevated, cooling, and memory foam dog beds

German shepherd fast asleep in one of the best large dog beds
(Image credit: Getty)

Buying the best large dog bed will provide bigger canines with the room they need to stretch out in, ensuring there are no uncomfortable and cramped nights of sleep. If you’re wondering how to find the right one for your faithful companion, we’re here to help.

The best dog beds offer most breeds a comfortable setting for a good rest, but bigger breeds have their own requirements, being more susceptible to conditions like hip dysplasia and arthritis, as well as tending to suffer from more joint pain and mobility issues. This is where a large dog bed helps. 

Look for materials that cushion your dog's whole body, including the neck, down the spine, and every muscle and joint. Orthopedic dog beds are equipped for this, with the majority providing cushioning and even weight distribution thanks to memory foam. Bigger dogs suffering from upper body pain could benefit from a large bed with bolsters, relieving pressure on the spine by cradling the neck and head. 

Larger breeds can also feel the heat more, something that a raised dog bed can help with. If your dog is a big chewer, an option with no stuffing will give them nothing to sink their teeth into and destroy either. We'd always recommend an option that's easy to clean too - it will make life easier, especially if your dog is prone to incontinence. 

We all want the best for our four-legged friends, so to help you find the one that suits both your and your dog’s requirements, we’re sharing our favorite options. We've also consulted Dr. Hannah Godfrey BVetMed MRCVS, who answered some common questions owners ask when choosing a bed for a large dog.

PetsRadar's pick of the best large dog beds

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Golden retriever on the Frisco Plush Orthopedic Large Dog Bed

(Image credit: Amazon)

Frisco Plush Orthopaedic Front Bolster Bed

Best overall large dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: Medium, large, x-large
Style: Bolster
Materials: Polyester, polyfill, orthopedic foam, memory foam
Washability: Machine washable cover

Reasons to buy

+
Dip in front allows for easy entry
+
Orthopedic foam
+
Bolsters for lounging

Reasons to avoid

-
Not water-resistant
-
Not chewproof

For the best large dog bed that combines the most desirable features, check out the Frisco Plush Orthopaedic Front Bolster Bed. This bed touts its lowered front entry as unique, which may be helpful for dogs that might have difficulty climbing into a higher bed. It has three inches of foam - one inch of memory foam on top of two inches of orthopedic foam - to provide both comfort and support for your big pup’s joints. The bed is available in two neutral colors, beige, and gray. The extra large bed is 40 inches in length, which may not be big enough for a giant breed, but should be big enough for most large dogs. The Frisco Plush bed has an exterior of durable polyester, with a softer inner lining. The cover is removable for machine washing. Bolsters give large dogs room to lounge, and give it a more sofa-like look in your living room. Some customers cautioned that their dog didn’t like the bed because it was too firm, and that the lack of a waterproof or water-resistant lining is a negative for incontinent dogs or large puppies that are still learning.

A german shepherd relaxing on the Big Barker Orthopedic Large Dog Bed

(Image credit: Amazon)

Big Barker 7" Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large and Extra Large Breed Dogs

Best orthopedic large dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: Large, x-large, giant
Style: Pillow or bolster
Materials: Microfiber, memory foam
Washability: Machine washable cover

Reasons to buy

+
Built like a mattress
+
Comes with a money-back guarantee
+
Sized for large and giant dogs

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
-
Waterproof liner sold separately

Fans of the Big Barker rave about how much their dogs enjoy sleeping on this large dog bed. It’s made of the same kind of foam used in human mattresses, and owners who have tried out the bed themselves mention how comfortable it feels to them. The Big Barker dog bed has a full seven inches of foam, so no part of your dog’s body will touch the floor. The company provides a 10-year money-back guarantee if the bed loses more than 90% of its loft and shape, which lets you know how much they believe in their product. A guarantee of any kind is rare in the dog bed business. 

The giant size is 60 inches long and 48 inches wide, which is wider than a twin-sized bed and sized for breeds such as Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes. It comes in four colors, and has a microfiber cover that zips off for machine washing. Some owners complain about the lack of a waterproof liner, which is sold separately. However, if you’re concerned about accidents or big messes, it’s probably worth protecting your investment. Apparently not all dogs love this bed, but that’s going to be true of any dog bed that you buy. Check the refund policies! Big Barker also sells replacement covers, and there’s a version with a headrest as well. 

K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Elevated Large Dog Bed

(Image credit: Amazon)

K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Elevated Dog Bed

Best durable large dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: Small, medium, large, x-large, giant
Style: Cot
Materials: Ripstop ballistic nylon, aluminium frame
Washability: Wipe or hose clean

Reasons to buy

+
Chew proof for most dogs
+
Variety of sizes
+
Good for crates

Reasons to avoid

-
Sags in the middle
-
Can still be destroyed by tenacious dogs

Okay, it’s not really possible to make an entirely “chew proof” or indestructible dog bed. If a dog really wants to dig or tear a hole into a bed, nothing will stop him. According to reviews, however, the K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Elevated Dog Bed comes as close as possible to being chew proof. The seller claims that they had to design their own fabric for the bed because Kevlar wasn’t strong enough. This bed can be used indoors and outdoors, and is advertized as being especially good for dogs who are kept in crates or kennels. It should fit well - measure first of course - and will keep them off the floor of the crate with no gaps. The giant sized bed is 50 inches long. Some sellers have complained that the bed sags too much for very heavy dogs, and that it can move because the legs aren’t skidproof. K9 Ballistics does claim a 120-Day warranty, meaning that if your dog chews through it within 120 days of purchase, they will replace the fabric. 

Bedsure Large Dog Bed

(Image credit: Amazon)

Bedsure Large Dog Bed

Best reversible large dog bed

Specifications

Size offered: Medium, large, x-large, xx-large
Style: Pillow
Materials: Oxford fabric and egg-crate foam
Washability: Machine washable cover

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable
+
Versatile
+
Relieves joint pain

Reasons to avoid

-
Not suitable for heavy chewers

Your dog is going to love lazing about on this high-density egg-crate foam pillow, which evenly distributes your pets’ weight, alleviating pressure on their bones, supporting their joints, and relieving muscle pain. 

Available in a range of generous sizes, your pooch will be able to sprawl out comfortably and the versatility of the bed’s pillow shape means it can easily be popped in a crate, the back of a car, or in any room of your home.

The standout feature is the reversible design, which has a super-soft fleece on one side to provide warmth in the winter months and Oxford fabric on the other to keep your furkid cool in the summer.

Durable enough to hold up to light to moderate chewers and scratchers, it has a removable zippered cover that’s machine washable, making cleaning a breeze. This is a wonderful no-fuss dog bed at a great price. 

A golden retriever lying on a SUPERJARE Outdoor Large Dog Bed

(Image credit: Amazon)

SUPERJARE Outdoor Dog Bed, Elevated Pet Cot with Canopy

Best outdoor large dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: Large, x-large
Style: Cot
Materials: Oxford cloth, mesh, steel
Washability: Machine washable cover

Reasons to buy

+
Portable
+
Cooling
+
Indoor/Outdoor use

Reasons to avoid

-
Difficult to assemble
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Can’t be kept outside

Many large dog breeds thrive in the great outdoors, and enjoy adventures at beaches, lakes and more. The SUPERJARE Outdoor Dog Bed not only provides them with a cool and comfortable place to sleep, it has a canopy to keep them shaded. The bed part is a cot elevated about nine inches off the ground, which might help keep your doggy cleaner than lying directly on the ground. Air can circulate through the mesh openings. The metal tubing has supports so the bed won’t tip when your dog throws themselves on top for a snooze. A tent-like frame supports the canopy, which should help keep it from collapsing. One note though, the canopy isn’t waterproof or even water-resistant. Both your bed and the dog should be brought inside when the rain hits. Some customers complained that the metal tubing held water, but that’s probably why the seller suggests that you not keep it outside. In addition, the sun will fade the fabric and the bed won’t last as long. 

The SUPERJARE Outdoor Dog Bed comes with a carrying bag, and is available in brown, grey, and silver grey. The large bed should hold a dog weighing up to 100 pounds, and the x-large up to 120 pounds. The x-large bed is 48 inches long by 36 inches wide, so it might not be big enough for a giant breed. 

Joyelf Large Dog Bed

(Image credit: Amazon)

JOYELF Large Memory Foam Dog Bed, Orthopedic Dog Bed & Sofa with Removable Washable Cover

Best waterproof dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: Small, medium, large
Style: Bed
Materials: Memory foam
Washability: Removable washable cover

Reasons to buy

+
Super-soft memory foam
+
Easy to clean
+
Waterproof cover

Reasons to avoid

-
Sides are not very supportive

If your dog is prone to a few little accidents in their old age then this bed is perfect for keeping them dry. The bed itself is super-soft and made from memory foam, which does take a few days to plump out, but once it does this is the ultimate luxury bed for your dog. This is perfect for larger dogs with joint problems and it has a big fluffy bolster for relaxing against too. The sides are not the most supportive if your dog likes to lean or sit with their head supported, but it would make a comfy pillow when it comes to sleeping.

The bed can hold dogs up to 100lbs and the bottom of the bed has a built-in rubber backing which will stop this large dog bed from sliding around when they're trying to get comfy. The cover is removable and machine washable so it’s super easy to clean regularly and it won’t get misshapen in the wash either. The bed also features a waterproof liner which protects against any accidents and keeps this dog bed fresher for longer.

The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Large Dog Bed

(Image credit: Amazon)

The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Dog Bed

Best memory foam large dog bed

Specifications

Sizes offered: S-XXXL
Style: Mattress
Material: Memory foam, faux fur, plush

Reasons to buy

+
Great range of sizes
+
Incredibly supportive
+
Provides pain relief and comfort

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive 

This luxurious orthopedic dog bed offers a solid 2-inches of high density memory foam over a 4-inch base of stability support foam for a comfortable sleep surface that will leave your canine companion feeling like they're sleeping on a cloud.

Available in a range of generous sizes and colors, this stylish mattress-style bed will blend seamlessly into any home and the therapeutic design makes it ideal for senior dogs or any pup suffering from joint pain or mobility issues.

Providing the ideal mix of comfort, support and relief, this bed is geared towards dogs with joint conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, patella luxation, osteochondritis and other conditions and is also great for dogs recovering from surgery.

The bed comes with removable covers, making it a breeze to wash and keep clean, and it has a waterproof mattress protector to catch any accidents associated with incontinence. It's not the cheapest bed on the market, but the high quality design and materials makes it well worth the investment.

Dr. Hannah Godfrey BVetMed MRCVS
Dr Hannah Godfrey

Dr Hannah Godfrey is a small animal vet who graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2011 and began work straight away at a busy mixed practice. Initially, she treated all species, but focussed on small animals from 2014. She has a passion for soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, and canine and feline dentistry, having completed additional training in these areas.

Do large dogs need a dog bed?

Bigger dogs have specific needs, as they are at a higher risk of mobility and joint problems. A large dog bed helps here, with the best on the market providing the necessary cradling and support to allow our four-legged friends to evenly distribute their weight while they rest.

What type of bed is best for a large dog?

The best large dog beds are tailored to the needs of the bigger breeds, providing space and support so our pups to stretch out in comfort. The key here will be picking an option that supports the dog's muscles and joints. Look for ones with bolsters if your dog needs its neck and head cradled too, as these can take the pressure off the spine. 

Dr. Godfrey advises avoiding the more traditional style of dog bed for a larger breed. These will be full of padding, which, if your dog is a chewer and destroys their bed, could lead to “a gut blockage”. As well as this, they can “make it hard for your dog to cool down in warmer weather, and many don't provide enough support for a heavy dog.” 

For Dr. Godfrey, a “well-ventilated raised bed could be the better option”, as “they provide support without any stuffing to chew”.

Are raised beds good for large dogs?

Raised dog beds for larger breeds not only allow your pup to enjoy a supported sleep in comfort, but have the additional benefit of helping to keep your dog cool during the warmer months.

Dr. Godfrey adds “A large dog can rest comfortably on a raised bed without aches and pains from the pressure points contacting the ground. This is especially important for dogs with arthritis and joint pain.”

“Large dogs are also more likely to get warm in the summer, so a raised bed with no padding or stuffing will allow more ventilation, keeping your dog cooler.”

Shanna Tyndall

Shanna Tyndall has been writing and editing for the web and print for most of the 2000s. She is also a happy life-long cat owner and acquired a cat-like dog seven years ago. She believes that pets are generally better than people.