Orthopaedic Dog Beds for Older, Stiff Dogs

Buying guide

How to choose an orthopaedic dog bed

"Orthopaedic" gets used loosely on dog beds, so it pays to look at what is actually inside. A supportive bed uses a proper depth of dense foam rather than a thin layer over ordinary stuffing, so an older dog's hips and elbows are not pressing down towards the floor. Many senior dogs sleep for much of the day, so the surface they lie on matters more than it might for a younger dog.

We sell three beds in this category, and they suit different dogs. The Classic Orthopaedic Memory-Foam Bed has a 9cm high-density memory foam base (a full base, not a topper), a removable cover that washes at 30 degrees, a waterproof inner liner that protects the foam itself, and a non-slip base for hard floors. It comes in four sizes, from Small (60x45cm) at £59.99 up to XL (105x75cm) at £89.99, which makes it our all-rounder for dogs who like to stretch out. The Waterproof Orthopaedic Bolster Bed is the one to look at if accidents are part of life. It is waterproof right through to the base rather than just wipeable on top, has a raised bolster edge for head and neck support, and a zip-off cover that is machine washable at 30 degrees. It comes in Medium, Large and XL from £94.99. A bed that can be cleaned properly is far more likely to stay in use.

The Calming Comfort Bed is a softer, different kind of bed: a raised faux-fur rim, a supportive cushioned base and polyester filling, from £44.99 in Small, Medium and Large. To be straightforward, it is not a memory foam bed. It suits dogs who like to curl in and feel enclosed, or as a second bed in another room, rather than being the main support for a dog with obvious joint stiffness. Whichever bed you choose, position it somewhere warm and draught-free, away from slippery floors where your dog has to cross open space to reach it, and give them a few days to settle on it.

A quick way to narrow it down: - Sleeps stretched out on their side: the Classic memory-foam bed. - Rests their chin on the edge, or has occasional accidents: the Waterproof Bolster Bed. - Curls up tight and likes to feel secure: the Calming Comfort Bed. - Between sizes: choose the larger, so the whole body is supported.

Size is the most common mistake. Measure your dog while they are lying in their usual sleeping position, not standing, and check that against the bed dimensions. Our guide on how to measure your dog for the right size walks through it.

A bed makes resting more comfortable, but it does not treat or diagnose anything. If your dog is struggling to get up, seems in pain, or has changed suddenly, speak to your vet. If you would like help matching a bed to your dog's age, size and habits, the short dog needs quiz is a good place to start.

Common questions

Questions about orthopaedic dog beds

Is a memory foam bed better than a normal bed for an older dog?

A thick, dense foam base gives a more even surface than thin or loosely filled bedding, which many owners of older dogs prefer. It is not a treatment, though, so speak to your vet if you are worried about your dog's joints.

Which bed should I choose if my dog has accidents?

The Waterproof Orthopaedic Bolster Bed is waterproof through to the base and has a zip-off cover that is machine washable at 30 degrees. The Classic bed also has a waterproof inner liner and a removable washable cover.

Can I wash the covers?

Yes. The Classic, Waterproof Bolster and Calming Comfort beds all have machine-washable covers, and the Classic and Bolster covers wash at 30 degrees.

What if the bed does not suit my dog?

You have 30 days to ask for a refund by sending us photo or video evidence, and there is nothing to send back. Delivery is free over £40 (otherwise £3.99) and typically takes 2-4 working days.