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Our big lab may love to share our bed at night. But he still needs his own bed where he can relax and settle down anytime he wants. No matter how much we love to keep him by our side, he still deserves the best things in life, and that includes a nice and comfy pet bed.
But not all dog beds are created equal. Not every single bed sold in the market can meet our lab’s special requirements. We want to make sure we buy the best bed for his needs and one that will suit our budget. But if shedding a few more dollars just to maximize his comfort, then it might be reasonable to settle for a better bed despite the higher price tag.
Buying a pet bed for a Labrador is no simple task. Dogs have different bed preferences and sleeping positions. For instance, one of our labs may love to curl up while sleeping, while his brother loves to sprawl when resting.
We need to take into consideration every aspect to ensure our pooch’s safety and comfort. If he is now aging, is nursing an injury, has orthopedic needs, or has chewing tendencies, then we need to be careful in choosing his next bed. But what are our best choices in the market?
Best Dog Beds for Labs
Here are our top picks!
- Best Overall: Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Runner-up: PetFusion Ultimate Pet Bed
- Best for Lab Pups: Armarkat Dog Pillow Bed
- Best Orthopedic: FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Best for Cuddlers: American Kennel Club Casablanca Round Pet Bed
- Best Budget: Milliard Premium Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Best Cot-Style Pet Bed: Frisco Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed
- Runner up Elevated Bed: Furhaven Pet Reinforced Cot Bed
- Most Hypoallergenic: Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam Pet Bed
- Best for Anxious Labs: Best Friends by Sheri Calming Cuddler
Best Overall: Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
Key Features:
- 100% Microfiber cover
- Premium quality orthopedic foam
- Handmade in the USA
- Machine-washable
- Comes in 3 sizes and 4 colors
Our big boy deserves one of the best pet beds in the market, making the Big Barker Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed an excellent choice. It has durable construction, is made from premium quality materials and comes in 3 sizes perfect for Labradors.
This 7-inch pillow top bed features a high-quality orthopedic foam, and a 100% microfiber cover we can easily machine wash. Thanks to its orthopedic foam, our pooch will feel a lot more comfortable and his pain can go away after 28 days of use. This is big enough to accommodate big dogs and our pooch’s mild chewing tendencies.
The bed won’t flatten overtime. But some pet parents reported that this can be a bit too hot for dogs during hot summer days. It is also more expensive compared to other dog beds on the list.
Runner-up: PetFusion Ultimate Pet Bed
Key Features:
- 4-inches orthopedic memory foam base
- Polyester/cotton blend
- Recycled polyfill bolsters
- Non-skid bottom
- Machine-washable cover
- Can support up to 150lbs
- Available in 4 sizes and 3 colors
If we require one of the best chew-proof dog beds there is, then we can consider PetFusion Ultimate Pet Bed. Its 4-inch orthopedic memory foam offers overall comfort and support for dogs with joint pain. With this bed, our aging lab will surely get the good night sleep he rightfully deserves.
This pet bed can hold up well against moderate chewers. It is water-resistant and very easy to maintain. We just wish the bed is a lot more waterproof.
Best for Lab Pups: Armarkat Dog Pillow Bed
Key Features:
- 100% poly fill
- Heavy-duty canvas cover
- Non-skid waterproof bottoms
- Machine-washable
- Can support up to 70 lbs.
- Comes in 3 sizes
Many pet parents love Arkmat’s Dog Pillow Bed thanks to its reasonable price. It offers everything we might want for a dog bed. It comes in sizes that can accommodate a regular sized Labrador, is durable and comfortable enough for our pooch, and is aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
This bed is better suited for lab puppies. This is since it doesn’t offer much orthopedic support. The non-0skid waterproof bottoms makes it a great fit for playful pups and young labs.
The cover is made from heavy-duty canvas but still offers comfort to our pooch. This is not a good fit if our dog loves to dig. He might rip the waterproof lining and it will no longer be water-resistant.
Best Orthopedic: FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Dog Bed
Key Features:
- Egg-crate foam
- Medical-grade orthopedic foam
- Faux fur cover
- 3-suede side bolsters
- Machine washable
- Comes in 5 sizes and 4 colors
The FurHaven Plush & Suede Orthopedic Dog Bed may be a bit pricey, but every penny is worth buying this dog bed. It is 5-inches thick and features an egg-crate foam and a medical-grade orthopedic memory foam. This means we can use it for our aging lab that is now nursing bone or joint issues.
Its soft faux fur cover and 3 bolsters can make sleeping a lot more comfortable for our pooch. The non-skid bases keep the bed in place. We can easily machine wash the removable cover once it gets dirty.
This is one stylish dog bed that can match our interiors. We just wish the base is not that thin as it is. It is also a bit pricey compared to other pet beds.
Best for Cuddlers: American Kennel Club Casablanca Round Pet Bed
Key Features:
- Casablanca fabric
- 100% polyfill
- Round, bolster-type
- Machine-washable
- Comes in 10 colors
The American Kennel Club Casablanca Round Pet Bed can be a great choice if our pooch loves to cuddle up while sleeping. Its shape is ideal even for larger dogs who love to lean against something while resting. As for the durability, it can hold up very well despite the pressure of our pooch leaning on one side of the bed.
The covering can withstand general wear and tear and even some abuse. The cover is machine-washable. Considering the price, don’t expect a thick bed with orthopedic support.
Best Budget: Milliard Premium Orthopedic Dog Bed
Key Features:
- 4-inches memory foam base
- Non-slip dots on the bottom
- Eco-friendly and pet-safe
- Waterproof and antimicrobial cover
- Comes in 4 sizes
The Milliard Premium Orthopedic Dog Bed has an antimicrobial cover, which makes it a perfect choice for dogs with sensitive skin. It is made from chemical-free materials and 4-inches memory foam for maximum orthopedic support. its non-slip bottom stops the beds from skidding.
Don’t be fooled by its pricey and aesthetic appearance. The dog bed is priced cheap without taking the quality for granted. it comes in 4 sizes, allowing us to choose the right size for our pooch.
We just wish the cover is a lot more durable than it is. Some pet parents reported that the cover rips after some hard washes.
Best Cot-Style Pet Bed: Frisco Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed
Key Features:
- Powder-coated steel frame
- PVC-coated fabric sleeping surface
- Elevated design
- Water-resistant, machine-washable cover
- Comes in 3 sizes and 5 colors
If our lab prefers a cot, then we can consider Frisco Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed. Its durable construction is so easy to assemble and offers maximum comfort for both indoor and outdoor use. It keeps our pooch a few inches off the floor, which means he can enjoy a better view of his surroundings.
The frame may be lightweight, but it is sturdy enough for larger dogs. The fabric won’t sag even after months of usage. The cover is water-resistant and easy to wash.
We just wish the cot’s leg is made thicker and stronger. Some pet parents say the part where the leg meets the body snaps after a few months.
Runner up Elevated Bed: Furhaven Pet Reinforced Cot Bed
Key Features:
- Stainless steel
- Reinforced woven mesh fabric
- Allergen, fleas, mites, mold and mildew-resistant
- 6-inches elevation
- Can support up to 110lbs
- Comes in 5 sizes and 4 colors
Another pet cot worth considering is the Furhaven Pet Reinforced Cot Bed. It is one hypoallergenic pet cot that offers ultimate comfort to dogs. It is easy to clean, is resistant to dirt and allergens and is fleas, mold and mildew-safe.
Assembly is fairly easy. It also comes in a wide range of sizes and colors. Pet parents believe it is better if the cot itself is a lot more supportive and sturdier.
Most Hypoallergenic: Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam Pet Bed
Key Features:
- 100% waterproof encasement
- 2-inches comfort memory foam
- 2-inches high-density support foam
- Hypoallergenic
- Machine-washable
- Can support up to 75lbs
- Comes in 3 sizes and 6 colors
If we want a durable and waterproof bed for the love of our life, then we can choose the Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam Pet Bed. It has a waterproof cover protecting a layer of comfort memory foam and another of a high-density support foam. Our aging lab will surely appreciate the additional support they can get from the dog bed.
We don’t have to worry about accidents from ruining the bed, we can simply remove the cover and toss it in the washer. It is also naturally hypoallergenic, making is a great choice for dogs with allergies. We just wish it was made more durable to withstand chewing tendencies.
Best for Anxious Labs: Best Friends by Sheri Calming Cuddler
Key Features:
- Soft shag faux fur
- Airloft fibers
- Water-resistant bottom
- Raised rims for extra support
- Comes in 4 sizes and 4 colors
If our pooch suffers from anxiety, then he needs a calming pet bed like the Calming Cuddler from Best Friends by Sheri. It offers superior comfort while the raised rims and deep crevices helps give that feeling of safety and security. The soft shag faux fur mimics his mom’s fur, making him even more comfortable.
We can simply toss the cover in the washer to clean the bed altogether. We just wish the bottom of the bed is not too thin. If we have hard flooring, our pooch might need more support to avoid discomfort.
Types of Dog Beds for Your Labrador
There are many types of dog beds we can consider when buying our Lab a bed. Here are some of them.
Standard dog beds
These are the type of beds that often contain foam padding or polyester filling. Most have removable covers and can be a good choice for all dog breeds. But then, these offer little support needed by bigger dogs, senior dogs and those with mobility issues or are in pain.
Orthopedic dog beds
These offer orthopedic support that most senior dogs, dogs with injuries and those with bone and joint issues. These can be a perfect choice if our pooch has arthritis. If our dog has pressure sores, an orthopedic bed provides better support than regular dog beds.
Elevated dog beds
Also known as pet cots, these are beds raised off the floor for about a few inches. They are often made from metal and mesh-fabric. This can be a good choice if we want a longer-lasting bed perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
Bolstered dog beds
Some dogs like cuddling while sleeping. Dog beds with bolsters give pups and cuddlers that extra sense of security.
Heated/Cooling dog beds
Some pet beds have heating/cooling features. This can be helpful if our pooch oftens too cold during the winter or too hot during summertime.
Things to Consider When Buying a Dog Bed for Labs
Size
One should never take size for granted when buying a dog bed. It makes sense to measure our pooch and find a bed that matches his measurements. We need to consider his preferred sleeping position as this can give us a clue what size and type of bed he will be comfortable sleeping on.
Don’t forget to consider where he sleeps. If he sleeps in his crate, it only becomes a must that we also consider the size of this crate. It needs to fit his crate and match his needs.
Convenience
It pays to check the washing instructions of the bed. This will make it easier for us to check if it is easy to clean and maintain. Note that some bed comes with removable covers while others will require us to wash the bed itself.
We also need to consider where we intend to place the bed. If we want something we can use both indoors and outdoors, then we want something that is lightweight and portable. A water-resistant pet bed is also a good investment as it means this requires less cleaning.
Durability
We want our dog’s bed to be durable. For dogs with chewing tendencies, we can choose a chew proof pet bed. These beds can withstand up to moderate chewing and digging thanks to their durable construction.
Most shelters prefer cot-style beds. This is since these types of beds keep dogs a few inches from the ground, are fairly easy to clean and are basically longer lasting than softer beds.
Materials
The kind of materials used can affect a dog bed’s durability and our dog’s comfort. For instance, beds with memory foams tend to be a lot more supportive. Orthopedic beds, on the other hand, offers orthopedic support for dogs with aging bones and joint issues.
Some dog beds tend to be water-resistant. It will benefit us if we invest in a water-resistant dog bed especially if we have a Labrador pup or a senior pooch that now has incontinence. This will make cleaning up after his mess a lot easier.
For dogs with sensitive skin, we want to make sure we buy a hypoallergenic dog bed. We don’t want dust, dirt or even molds and mildew from making his allergies flare up.
We also need to consider the type of material a dog bed is made of when buying one. Cot beds and crate beds are ideal for outdoor use. Plush beds are for indoors.
Design
Design doesn’t matter too much for some pet owners. But it won’t hurt to choose a dog bet that matches our interiors. If we can find the perfect bed that also looks aesthetically pleasing, then we are lucky.
Style
Some dog beds are made from crates and outdoor use. Others are strictly for indoors only. The type of bed we need to buy is one that can meet our dog’s needs, our budget and where we intend to place the bed.
Cot-style beds are beds that keep our pooch a few inches off the ground. Bolstered beds are perfect for cuddlers. Orthopedic beds are for dogs with orthopedic needs.
Waterproof
Some dogs like pups need more housetraining. Older dogs and those with injuries or mobility issues can have difficulty holding in their pee. Even if our pooch is perfectly healthy and has no incontinence issues, a waterproof bed will make our lives a lot easier.
Useful Extras
Some dog beds can have additional features. Although unnecessary, these can be good to have. Some can have bolsters which offers an extra sense of security to pups and cuddlers. Others have cooling or heating features that help keep dogs cool or warm as needed.
Smell
No one likes their bed to smell bad. The same goes for our pooch. If the bed has a strong smell out of its packaging, it might take a while before our pooch would want to use his bed.
There are also times when the material used is an odor magnet. This is why it is important that we buy a pet bed that is easy to clean and maintain. If the materials used require regular cleaning, this could mean the bed itself absorbs odors easily.
Consider the materials used when making a pet bed purchase. Read reviews and do enough research. This will give us an idea on what past experiences other pet parents have with their pet bed of choice in terms of smell.
Orthopedic Memory Foam
Some dogs suffer from bone and joint issues, mobility issues or even injuries. If this is the case with our lab, then we want something that offers orthopedic support. Luckily, there are tons of high-quality orthopedic beds available in the market.
Budget
Pet beds come in all sorts of sizes and shapes. The materials used can dictate the price. But not all cheap-priced dog beds are of low-quality.
Not all expensive dog beds are the best ones in the market. Luckily, we can choose from many pet beds available that match our budget and his needs.
Allergies
For dogs with allergies, we need to be careful in choosing beds. The good news is, manufacturers are now selling hypoallergenic beds. Check the materials used and make sure the bed is easy to clean, is dust and allergen-resistant and waterproof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a special bed for my Labrador?
Labradors require a special bed due to their large size. We need to find our pooch a pet bed that is of the right size and the right type. We should not settle for anything less when our precious anything but the best.
Our Lab needs a bed spacious enough to accommodate his growing size. He also needs adequate cushioning to ensure he gets that restful sleep he deserves. If he has a special condition, these should also be taken into consideration when making a pet bed purchase.
How many hours do Labradors sleep?
Most adult Labradors sleep for about 12-14 hours each day. Our pooch could be sleeping longer hours if he is still a growing pup, is now in his senior years or is in pain. They can rest up to 18 hours each day.
Is it bad for a Labrador to sleep in my bed?
There is nothing wrong in sharing beds with our pooch. But then, he needs his private space as much as we do. By giving him his own bed, we don’t need to worry about him lacking space or him falling off our bed.
If he is nursing an injury, or is in pain, then he requires a special bed of his own. This will ensure his comfort and safety. If he is too old to jump on our bed and can no longer safely go up his pet ramp, then it is wise to give him his own bed.
Even healthy dogs and pups can benefit from dog beds. Providing our pooch with his own bed will give him a spot he can claim as his own. This will give him a better sense of privacy and he can rest on his bed whenever he feels tired or wants to escape his annoying human.
What size dog bed do I need for a Labrador?
The size of the bed we are to invest in should be based on his size. If we have a Lab puppy, then we can invest in a bed large enough to accommodate his breed’s average size. Pups grow fast and the last thing we need is a bed too small after only a few weeks or months.
We need to check his sleeping position to find the right size of bed. Most Labs sleep while curled up while others simply want a bolster to lean on. Others tend to move around while sleeping which makes it crucial to find the right bed at the right size.
We also need to consider if we intend to place his bed on the floor or inside his crate. If we have a small living space and he prefers the floor, we need to find the right size for him that will also fit our available space. If we want to place the bed in his crate, then it becomes a must that we measure the crate to make sure the bed fits.
Should Labradors sleep inside or outside?
Labradors have different preferences. Some are okay with sleeping outside. Others prefer sleeping near the rest of the family.
Note that our pooch needs a comfortable place to sleep, be it outside or inside. If it is too cold or hot outside, then it only makes sense to let him sleep indoors. But if he prefers the outdoors, it is our job to make he stays warm or cool depending on the weather.
Conclusion
We got the number one dog under our wing and he deserves nothing but the best. This means we only ought to provide him with the best pet bed that suits his needs and preferences. We can’t just give him the first bed we come across.
When making a dog bed purchase, there are many things we need to consider. Some crucial ones include the size, materials used, quality, durability and waterproof features. We should take into consideration his preferred sleeping position, if he has any health conditions and other special considerations.
There are also other factors that need to be taken into account like our budget and the bed’s function. Some beds are pricier than the others. If we are not short in budget, then we should look at the quality instead of the price.
Where we intend to put the bed is another consideration. If he prefers sleeping in his crate, then we must find a bed that can fit his crate and will still offer the support he needs. If he often takes a nap outside, then we want a weatherproof dog bed that can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
There are so many dog beds available in the market. We know our pooch better than anyone when it comes to his sleeping position, size, bed preferences, etc. We should consider all these when making a dog bed purchase to make sure we buy the best fit for our precious Lab.
