Best Dog Beds for Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary ailment affecting the hip joint. As the cartilage and bone wear down, limited mobility, arthritis, and even muscle atrophy result. The condition is more prevalent in larger breeds, like German Shepherds and Labs, who experience pain and may struggle to move around. So, finding comfortable dog beds for hip dysplasia with support and cushioning is essential.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a dog bed for hip dysplasia. First, memory or orthopedic foam is a good choice, as it contours to the body and helps distribute weight evenly. Second, look for a bed with raised sides, as this can help to prevent your dog from rolling onto its sore hip. Finally, choose a bed that is easy to get in and out of, as your dog may have difficulty maneuvering.

We considered all three when compiling our picks of beds dog beds for hip dysplasia. Any will help your dog find a comfortable place to rest and ease discomfort.

1. L.L.Bean – Therapeutic Dog Couch

It’s pretty much in the name, isn’t it? L.L.Bean’s Therapeutic Dog Couch is custom designed for dogs with hip dysplasia. From the supportive bolsters to the memory-foam base, this bed offers relief and promotes better sleeping.

Users can lean against the back wall or hang their legs over one of the side bolsters. But no matter the sleeping position, they’re supported from below with a custom mattress. The bottom is open cell memory foam, so it does more than just bounce back – it circulates warmth in the winter and cooler air in summer.

Bottom Line – L.L.Bean is a luxury brand of beds for dogs with hip dysplasia, so you’ll pay more for this one. However, with the custom features and one-year satisfaction guarantee, it’s well worth it. The bed is also antimicrobial treated to keep odors at bay, and you can buy an optional waterproof liner to protect the valuable orthopedic mattress.

2. Coolaroo – Elevated and Affordable for Hip Dysplasia

Coolaroo’s elevated dog bed doesn’t have bolsters for support, but the side rails will do the trick. The Coolaroo model resembles a cot with canvas stretched over a steel frame.

Your aching pup can get into bed easier with 8” of elevation, and the canvas will sink slightly in the middle, allowing the side rails to brace the back. It’s like sleeping in a hammock where the material supports your body from all angles.

Bottom Line – Assembly is required, but Coolaroo is an affordable yet quality option for dogs with hip dysplasia. It cleans easily with a damp cloth or hose and comes in various colors. There’s even a Coolaroo “on the go” if you and your best furry friend are road warriors.

3. Big Barker – 7” Orthopedic Headrest Edition

Big Barker is another brand that ticks all three boxes with dog beds for hip dysplasia – orthopedic mattress, bolster support, and height.

The 7” Orthopedic Headrest dog bed is about as good as it gets for giant fur babies, even ones without the limitations of hip dysplasia. The triple-layer OrthoMedic™ foam is ultra-supportive, and, as the warranty states, it “can’t flatten, won’t flatten.”

While all Big Barker dog beds are excellent, the Headrest Edition provides a single bolster on one end. So, there’s plenty of room to move around, but that solid, built-in pillow provides valuable back, hip, or neck support.

Bottom Line – Whether you’re interested in the Headrest Edition or not, Big Barker is a brand you should check out if you have a large or giant dog with hip dysplasia. Its entire line of products is designed to improve the quality of life in larger breeds, and an official clinical study verified the results.

4. FurHaven – Luxe Lounger

FurHaven is another relatively affordable brand with an expansive collection of dog beds in all shapes, sizes, and materials.

The Luxe Lounger has a unique design that dogs with hip dysplasia find comforting. It’s got graduated bolsters on two opposite ends. They’re different than most bolstered beds, though, as they’re not removable pillows. Instead, the structure of the model is curved, so the ends are higher.

You’ll custom-build the Luxe Lounger, selecting from three types of mattresses – Orthopedic Foam, Memory Foam, and Cooling Gel Foam. And there are four color options – espresso, clay, stellar blue, and gray.

Bottom Line – We typically promote FurHaven’s Goliath line for larger dogs, especially ones with arthritis and muscle pain. And, you can’t go wrong with a Goliath. However, larger dog beds tend to be pricey, and we wanted to suggest a few good options on the more affordable end, like the Luxe Lounger.

Tip: If you like the structure of the Luxe Lounger but want a more upgraded model, FurHaven also has an Ultra Plush version.

5. FurHaven – Two-Tone Deluxe Chaise

We’re returning to FurHaven for our fifth pick of the best dog beds for hip dysplasia, as the brand’s Deluxe Chaise provides a different bolster configuration.

Instead of a sofa setup or opposite-end bolsters, the Deluxe Chaise has two sides of bolsters that form an “L.” It’s an excellent model for any dog with joint or muscle pain. The low-profile bolsters are just high enough to support the back and can also be used to remove neck or leg discomfort.

Bottom Line – Like L.L.Bean’s Therapeutic Dog Couch, FurHaven’s Deluxe Chaise is both style and substance. It’s an attractive model with plush faux fur covering a dual-layer orthopedic mattress but is still on the more affordable end of the spectrum for large and jumbo-sized dog beds.

What Is Hip Dysplasia in dogs?

Hip dysplasia is a primarily hereditary condition emerging in younger large and jumbo breed dogs, like German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers. The hip socket is out of alignment during the growth stage, so the cartilage and bone start to wear. Hip dysplasia leads to arthritis, reduced mobility, and muscle atrophy.

Are Some Dog Breeds More Prone to Hip Dysplasia Than Others?

Yes. Larger breeds tend to develop hip dysplasia more than smaller pups. This condition is most common in Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds.

Can a Dog Bed Help with Hip Dysplasia?

A dog bed isn’t a cure for hip dysplasia. However, the right dog bed can be instrumental in reducing pain.

What Should I Look for in the Best Dog Beds for Hip Dysplasia?

The best dog beds for hip dysplasia include three key features: height (to make it easier to get in and out of bed), bolsters (for back and leg support), and a quality orthopedic or memory foam mattress (to cradle the body and support the joints.) The combination is key to a better night’s sleep.

Are There Elevated Beds for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia?

There are plenty of elevated bed options for dogs with hip dysplasia. Some resemble cots with canvas stretched over a metal frame, such as those made by Kuranda and Coolaroo. Then, others just have more heft. For example, Big Barker is known for its 7” orthopedic dog bed collection.

Tips for Buying the Best Beds for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia

Focus on the “big 3” – To provide as much relief for your fur baby as possible, look for dog beds with elevation, an orthopedic mattress, and at least one bolster or some type of back support.

Sofa-style beds provide options – A sofa-style dog bed is ideal for dogs with hip dysplasia. It features a higher back that your pup can lean against to keep pressure off the hip, combined with side bolsters for joint support.

Look for layers – A double or triple-layered mattress is ideal in a dog bed for hip dysplasia. Combination mattresses provide memory foam spring back and a more supportive layer or layers.