As large dogs, Labrador Retrievers are prone to orthopedic problems. Their large size and active nature put a lot of stress on their joints. With this, you should get your Lab a supportive bed to diffuse the pressure points on their joints. This way, the doggo can rest its aching body properly. For this post, I scouted for the best dog bed for a Labrador by trying over 25 different options in the market. Below are my top 7 picks:
| DOG BED | BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Our Top Pick! Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed | | Check Price |
| PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed | | Check Price |
| The Dog’s Bed Bolstered Orthopedic Dog Bed | | Check Price |
| Friends Forever Orthopedic Dog Bed | | Check Price |
| The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Dog Bed | | Check Price |
| Furhaven Pet Plush Orthopedic Dog Bed | | Check Price |
| Barkbox 2-in-1 Memory Foam Dog Bed | | Check Price |
Why a Labrador Retriever needs a bed
Labrador Retrievers are large dogs, often weighing between 55 to 80 pounds. They also belong to the Sporting Group as categorized by the American Kennel Club. This means that Labs are active and at high risk of developing various orthopedic problems, ranging from arthritis to hip dysplasia.
If you’re thinking twice about getting a bed for your Labrador, the following benefits will surely help you decide:
- It delays joint problems. While dog beds are not a cure for orthopedic problems, it will surely help delay joint issues like arthritis. It will also reduce your dog’s susceptibility to hip dysplasia.
- It will save your dog from discomfort. Sleeping on the hard and cold floor is uncomfortable. While your dog may look like it doesn’t mind, you should know better. It’s best to give the pooch a comfy bed to get proper rest.
- It will give you a full night’s sleep. Letting your Lab share your bed is not a wise decision. This is a large canine that can kick and scratch you all night. Also, experts have warned about the long-term effect of sleep loss due to pets on the bed.
- It will keep your dog warm. During a chilly night, a comfy bed will keep your Labrador toasty. It’s way better than sleeping on the floor or your couch.
- It will be your dog’s safe haven. It’s important to give your Labrador a spot at home where it can retreat and rest. A nice dog bed is an excellent option for this purpose.
If you don’t sleep on the bare floor, neither should your dog. The following dog beds are just some of the best picks for Labrador Retrievers.
Best Dog Bed For A Labrador – Top 7 Picks!
OUR #1 CHOICE
OUR TOP PICK: Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed
Product Name: Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed
Product Description: If you’re looking for the best dog bed for a Labrador Retriever, you should check the Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed. This is made for big dogs, all thank to its extra-large to giant sizes. It’s also clinically proven by the University of Pennsylvania to reduce pain and increase mobility among canines. Aside from that, it’s made of a micro-suede cover and four layers of foam. It has 4” of contoured foam, 2” of H10 comfort foam, 3” of H45 support, and another 2” of comfort foam. It’s made to last longer and hold its shape for years.
Offer price: $$$
Currency: $$$
Availability: InStock
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Summary
In addition, this dog bed won’t flatten easily, even if you have a heavy Labrador. In fact, this bed is covered by a 10-year warranty as proof that it’s durable and well worth the price. The 10-year “won’t flatten” guarantee has been proven by thousands of pet owners over the years.
Overall, the large size suits most Labrador Retrievers. It’s easy to clean since the cover is machine washable. There’s no off-gassing, and it remains cool even during the summer season. Your Lab will thank you for this dog bed!
Pros
Machine-washable cover
10-year ‘won’t-flatten’ guarantee
Clinically proven to ease joint pain
Cons
Not for aggressive chewers!
RUNNERS-UP
PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed
Another dog bed I swear by for Labradors is the PetFusion Ultimate Orthopedic Dog Bed. Like the one from Big Barker, this dog bed is made for large dogs. It’s available in large, extra-large, and 2XL Jumbo sizes.
Moreover, this orthopedic dog bed works well in easing the joint pain of your Lab. It’s also generously filled with raised bolsters to create a burrowing effect. This will help your Lab relax and rest. It has polyester, cotton, and twill filling, so it doesn’t flatten fast.
This PetFusion bed also has a non-skip bottom as well as a tear-resistant cover. You can also purchase replacement covers easily because PetFusion sells it separately.
The best thing about this bed is its CertiPUR-US memory foam. It doesn’t have chemicals, fire-retardant, phthalates, and other substances that will harm your dog. This is skin-contact safe, even for Labradors with allergies.
Aside from that, this dog bed has two zipper compartments that hide it from your dog. This extends the lifespan of the dog bed while keeping your doggo safe from injuries. However, you should operate the zipper gently since it tends to snag a bit, based on my experience.
The Dog’s Bed Bolstered Orthopedic Dog Bed
If you want The Dog’s Bed, but with bolsters, you should definitely get this one. It’s made with memory foam to ease the pressure points of your dog’s body. It supports the elbow, hip, and the entire body while your Lab is asleep. Overall, this is an excellent bed to reduce your pet’s risk of developing hip dysplasia, arthritis, lameness, and orthopedic issues.
Moreover, this has a waterproof inner layer that will keep the foam dry even if your Lab has accidents. The cover is also machine-washable for added convenience.
This is a therapeutic bed designed to provide comfort and relief to your dog. It has bolsters that remain in shape despite years of use. The sleeping surface also has a faux-fur layer, so it’s soft and comfy to touch.
I really like the quality of this dog bed, and it’s very easy to maintain as well. It’s one of the best dog beds I’ve purchased in years.
If you have a senior Lab, this dog bed will be a perfect choice. It’s a fine dog bed that offers the best support that you can find on the market.
My dog gives this a seal of approval in all aspects, so it’s well worth the price.
Friends Forever Orthopedic Dog Bed
The Friends Forever Orthopedic Dog Bed is made for dogs up to 100 lbs. You can get it in small to XXL Jumbo sizes, so it’s guaranteed to suit your Labrador Retriever.
It has a polyfill bolster and a memory foam bed for optimal support. The cover is machine-washable, so it’s very easy to clean. Nevertheless, the cover is hair-proof, so you wouldn’t have to deal with stubborn hair and dander.
What I really like are the YKK zippers that really last long and doesn’t snag. Overall, this dog bed is made of human-grade foam and material, which gives your doggo a similar feel as sleeping on your own cot.
This dog bed also has bolsters that allow Labs to burrow and have a good night’s sleep. It also lays low to the ground, making it a topnotch option for senior Labradors.
Moreover, this is a comfy bed that you can get at a lower price. It doesn’t cut corners on the quality, so rest assured that your dog will remain comfy as it sleeps.
The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic Dog Bed
Another The Dog’s Bed that I recommend is the one without the bolsters. It’s made with memory foam with a waterproof inner layer. This is why it’s the perfect choice for senior Labs with incontinence.
Aside from that, the cover of this bed is machine-washable, so it’s very easy to maintain. Since it dries quickly, your Lab will remain comfortable all day long.
This has a heat-sensitive material that conforms to your dog’s body. It hugs the doggo’s body to remove the stress and pressure that will cause pain later on. This bed has enough space for your dog to stretch out without its paws or legs falling off the floor.
So far, my dog finds it comfortable. He’s a 70-pound Lab, and this bed doesn’t squash or become flat on the floor when he’s lying down. My friend also gave it to her dog that has undergone a hip operation.
But just like any bed, this one from The Dog’s Bed isn’t for aggressive chewers and diggers. Its material is soft and comfy, but it can’t put up with intense clawing and biting.
Other than that, this 6” bed is an excellent choice for Labrador Retrievers.
Furhaven Pet Plush Orthopedic Dog Bed
For furmoms and furdads looking for a comfy Lab bed, this one from Furhaven is right on the money. This is made of 5” orthopedic foam covered by a plush faux fur. It’s 53” wide and 42” deep, which is more than enough space for most Labrador Retrievers.
Moreover, this dog bed soothes pressure points on a dog’s body. You can also choose from Small to Jumbo Plus sizes to suit your growing Labrador.
My Lab loves the bolsters of this bed. Although it’s not as deep as other options, it still offers added support and comfort for a nervous pooch.
The best thing about this dog bed is its 90-day limited coverage on any material defect. It also has a 60-day worry-free program to protect your purchase. For its price range, I can say that this dog bed is already a catch.
The bonus part is that this dog bed comes in different colors and print designs. You can match your choice to the motif of your home.
However, you should know that this dog bed isn’t suitable for Labs with aggressive chewing habits. Like any foam bed, this can be shredded to pieces.
Barkbox 2-in-1 Memory Foam Dog Bed
As a big fan of Bark Box monthly subscriptions, I’m no stranger to this brand. They offer affordable yet high-quality pet supplies, including this 2-in-1 bed. It’s made of a memory foam bed with a therapeutic gel that keeps your dog comfy and cool.
This bed helps Labradors with arthritis, hip dysplasia, and joint problems. Its cover is soft too, which your Lab will enjoy using even for long hours of sleep. The cover is machine-washable, too, for added convenience.
Moreover, the main mattress of this dog bed is removable. You can slide it out of the bolster for easier cleaning. You can also choose from small to large sizes for the best comfort of your dog.
Aside from that, this Bark Box dog bed comes with a water-repellent liner in case your Lab gets accidents. You will also receive a free toy on your purchase of this dog bed. For me, that’s already a steal for such a low price.
Overall, my dog loves the fluffy feeling of this dog bed. It also looks stylish, which is an added perk if you’re conscious about your home design.
How to choose a dog bed for a Labrador Retriever
With thousands of dog beds in the market, it can be difficult to find the best one for your Lab. To help you out, I listed these important considerations:
✔️Type
The first thing you should consider is the type of dog bed you’re going to get. Labrador Retrievers are big dogs that require ample support. However, not all dog beds in the market can provide this. To give you an idea, here are the different dog bed types and what suits your Lab best:
- Standard bed. This one is made of foam with a cover. It’s flat and rectangular with no bolsters or raised edges. This is an excellent choice for Labradors since it’s usually made of memory foam. Also, senior Labs with poor mobility will find this bed easy to use.
- Bolstered bed. This is similar to the standard bed but with added bolsters. The bolsters offer a sense of security to your dog since it allows the Lab to burrow.
- Orthopedic dog bed. This can be a standard or bolstered bed but made of memory foam. It’s a heat-sensitive type of foam that conforms to the shape of your dog’s body and whenever heat is applied to it. This disperses pressure points, making it a top choice for arthritic Labrador Retrievers.
- Dog cot. Unlike foam beds, dog cots have a frame and a durable fabric sleeping surface. This is a common choice for outdoor dogs and aggressive chewers.
- Donut dog bed. This is a very plush, round bed with raised sides. It’s the best choice for dogs that love to curl. However, if your Lab has orthopedic issues, donut beds are the best options.
✔️Size
Next, check the size of the dog bed you’re going to get. This is very important because Labradors are large and heavy. The rule of thumb is that your dog should lay on the bed with all its four paws in. If any of the paws can’t fit on the bed, your choice is too small.
Also, I suggest getting an adult-sized dog bed even if your Lab is still a puppy. This breed grows fast, and before you know it, your pooch has outgrown the small bed you bought a few months ago.
The following are the common sizes used on dog beds:
- Small – suitable for dogs up to 40 lbs.
- Medium – suitable for dogs up to 60 lbs.
- Large – suitable for dogs up to 120 lbs.
- Extra-large to giant – suitable for dogs up to 120 lbs. and up
To be sure, check the dimensions of the bed as well as its thickness. For Labrador Retrievers, a dog bed that’s at least 5 inches is thick is a good choice.
✔️Foam type
I always recommend orthopedic foam to ensure that your Lab is comfortable and pain-free. You can also look for memory foam with therapeutic gel. This gel layer regulates temperature, so your Labrador remains cool during hot days.
✔️Cover material
Next, check the cover of the dog bed. It should be skin-friendly and gentle on your Lab’s coat. The cover should also be machine-washable, so you wouldn’t have to do manual work when cleaning your dog’s bed.
✔️Price and warranty
Lastly, consider how much you’re willing to spend on your Lab’s bed. Cheap options are convenient, but they will not last for long. It’s best to invest in a durable unit that your dog can use for years. In fact, some dog beds even have a ‘won’t flatten’ guarantee, although it will come at a higher price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where do Labs like to sleep?
A: Each Labrador Retriever has different preferences as to where they would sleep. Most prefer a dedicated dog bed where they can enjoy some me-time. Meanwhile, other Labs like staying near their owners, especially if they are raised to be clingy. It’s best to give the doggo its own bed with ample support and right size.
Q: Do Labradors sleep a lot?
A: Just like any dog, Labrador Retrievers will sleep for almost half of the day. Meanwhile, puppies will usually spend up to 20 hours snoozing. The sleeping hours of a Lab depends on each dog as well as the habits of their owners. Just like with humans, dogs need to receive ample sleep to support their growth and rest its body.
Q: Why does my Lab sleep at the foot of my bed?
A: This is mainly due to the pack bond of dogs. They protect the members of their pack by staying nearby. Sometimes, it could be due to separation anxiety and clinginess. Other dogs will become overprotective of their owners and follow them around, even if it means sleeping at the foot of the bed every night.
Q: How often should I change my Labrador’s dog bed?
A: You should change your dog’s bed once it has lost its support, and once the material is disintegrating. Aside from that, you should wash the bed once a week to remove dander, saliva, and dirt that will cause a bad smell. Regular washing will also extend the lifespan of your dog’s bed.
Q: Do calming dog beds really work for Labs?
A: Calming dog beds have bolsters that give a dog a sense of security. It serves as a burrow, which mimics the natural habitat that dogs seek in the wild whenever it sees danger. It works for most dogs, but it’s not the sole solution for anxiety and behavioral problems. Training goes a long way in these situations.
Final words
The best dog bed for a Labrador will keep your doggo comfortable and safe at night. Instead of letting the pooch suffer, a soft bed will support its aching joints. Just make sure that you get one with the right features, size, and material.
