Best Dog Bed for German Shepherds: 5 Reviews + Buying Tips! (2024)

Are you tired of having your German Shepherd hog the bed every night? Are you tired of having to vacuum dog hair off your bed every day? Does your German Shepherd seem to pace the floor at night like he’s looking for the perfect spot to lay his tired body down? If you’ve answered yes to even one of these questions, you may want to consider getting your German Shepherd his own dog bed.

Why Use a Dog Bed

You may be wondering if your German Shepherd really needs a dog bed. The answer is yes. Large breed dogs have a tendency to suffer from joint pain, especially as they get older. This is especially true with the German Shepherd dog. Many German Shepherds suffer from osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and hip and joint problems in general.

Additional stress is put on the joints and spinal cord from old age or excess weight gain that often came from age. This additional stress increases the chance of these problems. Sleeping on a high-quality dog bed can be very beneficial to your German Shepherd.

There are several benefits to having your German Shepherd sleeping on a good dog bed.

• Dog beds provide insulation against a cold floor
• Dog beds provide bones and joints with protection against hard floors.
• Softness of the bed provides a dog with a sense of comfort and security.
• Dog hair is on the dog’s bed and not your bed.
• More comfort for you in your bed when the dog is in his own bed.

Finding the Right Dog Bed for Your German Shepherd

Getting a dog bed can be a big step and one that should involve some research. If you were buying yourself a new bed, you probably wouldn’t buy the first bed you saw. Doesn’t your faithful, four-legged friend deserve the same consideration?

If you’ve ever watched your German Shepherd sleep, you may have noticed that he moves around a lot and seldom wakes up in the same position, or even the same spot, that he fell asleep. They stretch out, curl up or sleep in a relaxed position, so the dog will need a bed large enough to accommodate these different positions.

Here is an overview of dog beds and on how to find the best dog bed for your German Shepherd. Here are several things to look for in a bed.

What to Look For in a Dog Bed

• Bed should have sufficient padding for the dog’s comfort.
• Should be large enough to accommodate the dog when stretched out.
• Fabric should be comfortable.
• Fabric should be washable.
• Bed should be water-resistant or waterproof.
• Bed should have side bolsters for extra support and to rest his head.

What If My German Shepherd Has Special Needs?

Not all German Shepherds are created equal. Some might be young puppies while others might be senior dogs. Is the dog full of energy or somewhat shy and withdrawn? Will your dog spend a lot of time sleeping outdoors camping with the family?

Do you have more than one Shepherd, and do they enjoy sleeping together? Buying a dog bed that meets the needs of the dog is the best way to ensure your dog is happy and comfortable according to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA).

Considerations when choosing a dog bed for your German Shepherd

• If your dog enjoys cuddling with another dog, buy an extra-large bed or two beds and put them side-by-side.
• If your dog has joint or bone problems, consider getting an orthopedic or memory foam bed.
• If the dog will be sleeping outdoors at times, the bed should be of sturdy, durable and water-resistant fabric.
• A dog that is shy and reserved might be more comfortable in an igloo-type bed will allow him to hide in comfort in his own space.

How do I Get My German Shepherd Used to His New Dog Bed?

When you first bring your German Shepherd’s new bed home, the dog may instantly plop down and fall asleep in it. This may not mean that it’s suddenly become his best friend or that he even wants it for a bed. It only means that he’s trying it out because it’s something new and probably comfortable.

While some dogs take to a new dog bed right away, others may not want to give up their current sleeping spot. If your German Shepherd is a puppy, the transition will be much easier than if your dog is older. It is still possible to get an adult German Shepherd used to a new dog bed. This video may provide a little insight into getting your dog to give the dog bed a chance.

You may also want to try these tips:

• Put him in your room – Leaving your bed is a big enough adjustment without having to also leave your room.
• Put toys and treats in his bed – The dog will consider the bed a happy place.
• Toss a treat in his bed to encourage him to go to the bed – This lets him know good things happen in his bed.
• Praise him when he lays on his bed – Let him know you’re happy he’s on this bed.
• Be consistent – It’s important that you be consistent and continue to take him to his bed and not your bed. If you give in once, it’s like starting all over again.

5 Best Dog Beds for German Shepherds

The thought of getting your Shepherd a dog bed may sound easy, but you’ll want one that’s comfortable, durable and a good fit for your dog. It may seem like a daunting task with so many on the market today. Finding the right dog bed requires some research, which we’ve done for you! Here is a list of what I believe are the 5 best dog beds for German Shepherds.

PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

The PetFusion Ultimate is so comfortable; your German Shepherd will have little trouble transitioning from your bed to his own bed. A waterproof white liner surrounds the 6” solid memory foam base, which improves energy, mobility, and overall health and also reduces joint pain. The 65/35 polyester cotton twill bolsters are made with recycled polyfill for ultimate comfort.

Its non-skid bottom ensures it will not slip and slide each time your dog moves too quickly. The PetFusion Ultimate, which is available in small (20”x25”; large (28”x36”); X-large (34”x44”) and XXL Jumbo (40”x50”), can comfortably hold a 200+ pound dog. The machine-washable, zipped, outer cover is easily removed for cleaning.

• 2-year warranty
• Certified Skin Contact Safe
• Easy to clean
• Passes strict European REACH safety standards

Cons

• Pricey
• Low-quality zipper
• Poor customer service
• Retains a lot of dog hair
• Cover doesn’t appear to be waterproof despite being advertised as waterproof

KOPEKS Deluxe Orthopedic Memory Foam Sofa Lounge Dog Bed

The KOPEKS deluxe orthopedic memory foam dog bed will make your dog want to spend even more time sleeping than he probably already does. One thing that makes this dog bed so comfortable is the ultra-soft, micro-suede cover. It’s made of 100% orthopedic-grade, hypoallergenic memory foam with a sleeping surface of 5” memory foam and an edge of 7” memory foam, making it especially therapeutic.

Additionally, it’s water-resistant, zippered cover makes it very easy to maintain and clean. It even has a second liner for extra protection. The thick memory foam mattress is not only comfortable but also good for doges with arthritis, hip dysplasia or similar joint problems. It’s available in three sizes.

Pros

• Good buy for the money
• Anti-slip bottom
• Super comfortable
• Good customer service

Cons

• Zipper not high quality
• Sides too low
• Memory foam flattened over time

Snoozer Cozy Cave Pet Bed

The Snoozer cozy cave pet bed is ideal for Shepherds that like that cozy feeling from being covered and secure. Special design features that make the Snoozer such a comfortable dog bed include a machine washable poly/cotton exterior and cover and warm and fuzzy Sherpa interior. For the base, you can choose from an orthopedic foam insert, which provides extra comfort, or a cedar/poly mixture for overstuffed comfort.

It’s also available with a microsuede exterior. The Snoozer has often been nicknamed “the nesting bed” because it allows the dog to stay “under the covers”. The hood of the bed is kept raised by a thin plastic rod, making it easy for the dog to get in and out. It comes in three sizes.