11 Best Dog Beds for German Shepherds, According to Happy Pet Owners - Shepherd Sense (2024)

When choosing the best dog bed for your German Shepherd, the same considerations apply as when you’re picking one for yourself.

A German Shepherd dog bed that looks good isn’t enough!

Professionals say getting the right dog bed for your German Shepherd is not only an investment in their health and happiness; it could even help them live longer!

But there’s a problem…

There are hundreds of designs and materials to choose from on the market, and the prices are just as wide!

To help you out, let me show you the best German Shepherd beds that will not only support their joints but also provide you with peace of mind knowing you’ve made a healthy decision.

Best German Shepherd Dog Beds: At a Glance

• Best Rated Dog Bed for German Shepherd (Orthopedic): Big Barker 7″ Headrest Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed
• Best Cooling Bed: Frisco Cooling Orthopedic Pillow Dog
• Best Inexpensive Orthopedic Bed: Frisco Quilted Orthopedic Pillow Bed
• Best Electric Heated Bed: K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Soft Heated Bolster Bed
• Best Plush Dog Bed: FurHaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Deluxe Bed
• Best Elevated Dog Bed: Frisco Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed
• Best Bed for the Adventurous Dog: ChuckIt! Travel Pillow Dog Bed
• Best Water-Resistant Bed: PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed
• Bed Dog Bed for Puppies: K&H Pet Product Elevated Dog Bed
• Best Dog Sofa Bed: Moots Premium Leatherette Sofa Dog Bed
• Best Dog Bed for Crates: Midwest Quiet Time Fleece Reversible Dog Crate Bed

Why should I buy a German Shepherd dog bed?

I know I want the best for my dog when it comes to her comfort. Especially since German Shepherds weigh up to 90 pounds or more, this can put a lot of stress on their joints.

Just like you, your dog needs deep, comfortable sleep to wake up feeling rested and ready to keep you company.

When sleeping, your German Shepherd needs:

• a place that is quiet and out of the way of foot traffic
• to lie off the floor so they don’t put pressure on their joints, which causes pain
• a hygienic place to sleep that you can clean so they stay healthy

A dog bed for your German Shepherd is not only the perfect way to say you love your dog, but it’s also a safe zone for your companion to enjoy when the world seems a bit too hectic for them.

Let’s dig a little deeper into why you need to buy the best beds for German Shepherds, even puppies.

What is the best size dog bed for a German Shepherd?

The best size dog bed for a German Shepherd is a bed that measures at least 40 inches long by 30 inches wide. But what’s also important is to choose the best depth of the mattress for joint support. Weighing up to 90 pounds or more, a German Shepherd bed size should be at least 3 inches deep to provide the right orthopedic support and pain relief, and at least 4 inches of depth for a dog with hip dysplasia or other joint issues.

The Importance of Depth

The depth is especially important since your dog will use their bed full time, and German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia and need to keep their weight off the hard floors. Your dog’s hips and shoulders need to be fully supported to avoid any weight touching the ground.

As you already know, some GSDs suffer from joint and hip issues that can affect their quality of life. Make sure your dog’s bed meets the depth requirements, listed below in the measurements section, to avoid putting pressure on their bones when lying down.

The thicker or deeper the mattress, the better for most German Shepherds. As long as they’re easily able to walk onto the surface without injuring themselves, it’s best to choose a thick foam mattress.

German Shepherd Sleeping Styles When Choosing a Dog Bed

Perhaps you’ve noticed that your German Shepherd prefers to sleep curled up in a ball or sprawled out wide at some points during their naps?

German Shepherds have many different ways they like to sleep.

Knowing their sleep style can help you choose the right type of bed that your GSD will prefer to rest on. It’ll also make choosing a bed for them easier for both of you.

Here are the main styles of sleeping for a German Shepherd:

The bed you choose needs to take into account how your dog likes to sleep and give them the room they need to lie comfortably in their chosen positions.

Your German Shepherd’s bed should be large enough for him to move around unrestricted and without stumbling off. When in doubt, it’s better to get a larger size, since dogs move around in their sleep.

Choosing the Most Comfortable Dog Bed for Your German Shepherd

So, what’s the magic formula for choosing the best German Shepherd dog bed?

It’s simple—your German Shepherd needs a bed that:

• measures at least 40 inches long by 30 inches wide for a large dog
• supports a dog up to 90 pounds (or a bit above your dog’s weight)
• is at least 3 inches deep for joint support or 4 inches deep for hip and joint issues
• can withstand some chewing, if necessary (for puppies generally)
• is made of easy-to-clean fabric that’s washable
• doesn’t hold fur on the surface or in the weave of the material

And don’t leave without knowing how to measure your dog’s perfect-sized bed. You’ll find a way to measure your GSD below the product suggestions.

Best Beds for German Shepherd Dogs and Puppies

Did you know that your German Shepherd sleeps 12 to 14 hours a day (source)?

That’s a lot of time to spend on a cold, hard floor, especially given your breed’s propensity for joint and hip issues.

In fact, dogs exert 2 to 3 times their body weight per limb when they move and impact the ground surface (study).

This is a dramatic amount of pressure and force on their paws!

But, you can help your dog take the stress off their bodies by providing them with a cushioned bed that keeps them off the hard surface and allows their limbs to rest.

Here are the top picks for the best German Shepherd dog beds, chosen because they’re from one of the largest and most trusted online retailers, have unique features, and received the best reviews from dozens of happy pet owners (even GSD owners).

GSD Dog Bed Comparison Shopping Guide

1. Big Barker 7″ Headrest Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed: Best Rated Dog Bed for German Shepherds

See Also

Demystifying German Shepherds: Are They Large or XL? - Best Pet FactsClarifying the Size of German Shepherds: Large or Extra Large? - Best Pet FactsOur Dogs — Herzog German ShepherdsThe 10 Best Dog Beds For German Shepherds in [currentyear] - DogsPlanet.com

As one of the highest-rated dog beds for German Shepherds, the Big Barker is backed by research and data to prove its orthopedic benefits for GSDs.

With a raised headrest and 7” of high-density foam, this is the best type of bed for German Shepherds. Specifically developed to help prevent and soothe aching joints by providing support at pressure points, the Big Barker dog bed can help improve the quality of life of your GSD.

Given such positive reviews from dog owners (even GSD owners), you can see why the Big Barker is the best type of bed for German Shepherds.

Benefits You’ll Love

• Research-backed design to ease pain and improve comfort for large breed dogs at risk for developing joint issues
• Microfiber cover gives warmth to older dogs to ease joint pain
• Handmade in the USA with orthopedic foam that retains 90% of its original depth and shape — making this a lifelong investment for your GSD 💗

Discover comfort and supportwith the Big Barker Orthopedic Bed.

2. Frisco Cooling Pillow Dog Bed: Best Cooling Dog Bed

During the summer, you might find your GSD looking for cooler spots to sleep, such as tile floors, concrete porches, or near an air conditioning vent.

Don’t let your dog become overheated and suffer through the heat when there’s a bed that’ll keep them cool and happy. Help your GSD chill out and enjoy their sleep with a cooling and orthopedic dog bed.

Essential Benefits

• The pillow mattress contours to your GSD’s body, allowing for not only great air circulation but support to keep their hips protected
• A 1” layer of cooling gel provides your large breed dog a longer sleep time, which means a more restful night for both of you
• A convoluted foam mattress pad below the cooling surface allows for body and joint support
• The cooling mattress topper is foam-based instead of crystals — which could leak

Get more detailed information about the Frisco Cooling Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed

3. Frisco Quilted Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed: Best Inexpensive Orthopedic Dog Bed

Large breed dogs, such as your German Shepherd, require dense foam to keep them from developing sore joints or hips from lying on hard surfaces.

Giving them an orthopedic pillow bed can help encourage them to keep their joints healthy by offering them a soft spot to rest. Large dog breeds are prone to early joint and bone degeneration because of their weight, so it’s vital that you give them a supportive bed early on before problems ever arise.

Advantages of Frisco Orthopedic Bed for a German Shepherd Dog

• Joint support in orthopedic beds is helpful for dogs who suffer from arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other joint problems
• The support and cushion of the memory foam can alleviate the pain your GSD would have lying on harder surfaces
• The 3” foam mattress distributes your dog’s weight evenly to relieve pressure points, especially on the hips

Find out how this Frisco Orthopedic Quilted Pillow Bed can help your GSD

4. K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Bolster Dog Bed: Best Heated Dog Bed for GSDs

While many German Shepherds have thick double coats to hold in their body warmth, some may prefer to lay outdoors in cooler weather and need extra heat.

Heat therapy is also prescribed for arthritic dogs by veterinarians (check with your personal vet) to soothe tired muscles and aid in pain relief. If you own a dog that likes it on the warmer side indoors or to stay toasty while relaxing outside, then an electric bed might be just what you need.

The Lectro-Soft Heated Dog Bed Benefits

• The electric thermostat allows you to adjust the heat output for your dog’s preferred therapeutic warmth
• Energy-efficient so your energy bill doesn’t have a large impact on your pocket
• Bolstered sides and faux fleece cover add a den-like feel for dogs that like to curl up or rest their heads on elevated support
• Is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, giving you more options than a traditional indoor-only pet bed

Get your dog a Lectro-Soft Heated Dog Bed to keep them warm, indoors or outside, this winter ❄

5. FurHaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Deluxe Dog Bed: Best Orthopedic Plush Bed

With an ultra-plush sleep surface, your GSD will love to snuggle in his furry bed for hours on end. Your dog might come off as stoic, but many Shepherds love a super-soft blanket to nuzzle, especially for comfort.

The FurHaven’s Ultra Plush Deluxe Dog Bed helps keep your dog warm in the winter and gives them a soft spot to lay their tired heads.

Perks of the Plush

• No bolsters on the side, so senior and disabled pets can step on without the need to jump
• Egg crate foam to aid in air circulation, helping to regulate temperature for dogs who aren’t as mobile
• Topped with silky-soft faux fur, the material is a luxury for dogs who prefer plush surfaces

See more of this Ultra Plush Deluxe Dog Bed to give your dog a luxurious sleeping experience — all while supporting their hips

6. Frisco Steel-Framed Elevated Dog Bed: Best Elevated German Shepherd Bed

Elevated dog beds for German Shepherds are a great choice not only for their durability but for their support for large breeds.

The bed’s steel frame is not only strong enough to support the weight of the German Shepherd but also gives total airflow in a 360-degree area. After a long day of play or a strenuous hike, it’s the perfect rest spot!

German Shepherd-Proof Bed

The frame and material make this a good choice for a German Shepherd-proof bed since the steel frame and heavy-duty fabric aren’t generally appeasing for puppies to chew on. Because the bed has no fluffy cover, most GSDs also won’t dig on the material.

But…

Even steel frame beds aren’t indestructible for German Shepherds, though!

A bored dog that is left to its own devices will soon turn to chewing anything—even metal! This can injure their teeth or even break them!

Remember that you must have the right chew toys for your German Shepherd to avoid boredom. Pick out a few toys to redirect your GSD to put their teeth on, instead of their bed. 🦴

How the Frisco Elevated Dog Bed Helps Your GSD

• The elevated surface won’t sage after extended use, keeping your dog more comfortable and offering support
• Skid-resistant feet give you peace of mind for an energetic or disabled dog that needs stability on various surfaces
• Indoor and outdoor beds give your dog a variety of views and sleeping spots
• Easy to clean, in case you have a dog that is prone to accidents or bladder-control issues

Find your next elevated dog bed with the Frisco Steel-Frame Heavy-Duty Elevated Dog Bed, a leader in the nearly indestructible best dog bed category for a German Shepherd

7. Chuckit! Travel Pillow Dog Bed: Best Travel Bed for GSDs

Do you travel frequently and need a dog bed that is easy to pack and go?

Then, look no further than the Chuckit! Travel Pillow Dog Bed.

With a stuff sack included, there’s no reason for your dog to not have their own soft spot when outdoors or going for a day at the beach. And, even though your German Shepherd should have a thicker foam bed for full-time sleeping, getting a travel bed is a great way to have a portable solution for keeping your GSD comfortable and off the ground.

ChuckIt! Travel Dog Bed Advantages

• A must-have travel bed for camping, overnight hikes, all day at the beach, and family adventures
• Quick-dry in case you get caught in the rain
• A lightweight bed that nevertheless provides cushion and support for hips while going about your busy day
• Washes up easily and maintains its shape after a day of muddy paws and tails

Learn more about the best travel bed with the ChuckIt! Adventure Travel Bed and Bag Set

8. PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed: Best Bed for Dogs with Bladder Control Issues (Waterproof and Washable!)

Some German Shepherds are prone to accidents due to medical reasons, such as bladder control issues or recovery from surgery.

Not only will your GSD need a thick foam bed to keep joints healthy, but they’ll also need a water-resistant bed. It’s convenient to have a waterproof foam bed that can help you keep your GSD clean and dry.

PetFusion Waterproof, Washable Bed Benefits

• 100% waterproof memory foam linter to avoid mold and bacteria from building up
• Water-resistant cover that unzips for easy washing
• Bolsters give senior dogs a place to rest their head for better alignment and deeper sleep
• Anti-tear outer covering for a GSD’s thick nails

Keep your senior GSD clean and dry with this PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Waterproof Dog Bed

9. K&H Pet Products Elevated Dog Bed: Best Chew-Resistant Dog Bed

See Also

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Do you have a dog that likes to chew?

Then you need a bed with a metal frame and heavy-duty denier fabric that is chew-resistant!

Not only will an elevated bed keep your dog off the ground and increase airflow for warm days and nights, but you can also take the bed apart for traveling with your favorite companion.

The frame is so durable that it can support the weight of GSDs up to 150 pounds!

And with the tool-free assembly, you can take the bed with you wherever you want.

Indestructible Dog Bed

Remember that no pet bed is truly German Shepherd-proof, but this bed gives you the best chance at indestructibility due to its metal frame and denier fabric. The extra metal support bar is also great for rambunctious, high-energy GSDs that tend to jump wildly on and off their beds with great force.

While not totally rust-proof, the metal bed can be used outdoors if not left overnight in the rain.

And, yes, the frame has been strength tested to hold up to LIGHT chewing.

If you’re worried about your dog destroying their bed, have you considered using these positive training techniques for an out-of-control German Shepherd?

Key Benefits of the K&H Pet Products Elevated, Chew-Resistant Bed

• Waterproof nylon outer fabric water stands up to puppy or adult dog accidents easily and gives support to large breed dogs
• The raised design keeps your puppy off the ground, while the non-skid rubber feet keep the bed in place and from sliding on the floor
• Strength-tested frame holds up to light chewing and is easy to disassemble for transport

Hurry to see the K&H Pet Products Chew-Resistant Dog Bed if you’re looking for a durable option over soft beds that can both support your extra-large German Shepherd and provide a comfortable rest

10. Moots Premium Leatherette Sofa Dog Bed: Best Sofa for German Shepherds

Give your German Shepherd her own sofa instead of trying to convince her to move over every night!

This sofa bed for dogs is even better than your own sofa because it’s easy to clean with a reinforced leatherette fabric cover.

Moots Premium Leatherette Sofa Dog Bed has thought of everything for the comfort and enjoyment of your GSD. No more coaxing your GSD off your spot on the couch when she’s got her own sofa to lounge on.

Moots Sofa Bed Benefits

• Shredded memory foam for the ultimate in breathability
• Strong wood frame with wooden legs for durability with large breeds
• Heavy-duty zippers with locking sliders to prevent puppies and curious dogs from opening the cushion covers
• A waterproof liner that protects against wetness, accidents, and mud left by your comfortable companion

If you have problems with your GSD sleeping on the couch, then a comfortable sofa of their own is a great way to encourage them to change that behavior.

Who said the best dog bed for a German Shepherd can’t be a dog-size couch?

Get your dog their own spot on the sofa, and quit shooing them away with the Moots Premium Leatherette Sofa Bed

11. MidWest Quiet Time Fleece Reversible Dog Crate Mat

Who said your GSD can’t have a soft dog bed in their crate, too?

If your dog enjoys lying in its crate you’ll need to get them a softer surface to avoid body aches and pains. Placing a soft mat inside a crate keeps your dog more comfortable and helps them stay rested.

But thick dog beds won’t always fit inside a crate and can take up too much height, making it difficult for your GSD to stand up fully.

Instead, get a dog pad for their bed to allow them room to stand while the plush surface reduces pressure points and foot discomfort. Keep in mind it’s better to have a thicker and deeper mattress for your GSD if it’s their full-time bed.

Advantage of Using the MidWest Dog Fleece Pad in a Crate

• Extra stuffed polyfiber bed keeps sensitive pads off the metal floor
• Reversible fleece allows options for dogs who prefer different surfaces
• Completely machine washable bed to save time and keep their crates clean
• Soft fleece entices your dog to visit their crate and encourages them to rest

Check out the soft, washable fabric on the MidWest Reversible Fleece Dog Crate Bed

Keep in mind you need to choose the right size mat to fit their crate. So, read this guide on the Best German Shepherd crates first before buying the crate mat.

How to Measure Your German Shepherd and for the Best-Fitting Dog Bed

It’s better to choose a slightly larger dog bed when you’re in doubt about the size. A larger resting pad not only gives your dog room to grow if they’re still a puppy but provides your dog with more choices for their sleeping positions.

It’s best to measure your dog when they’re lying down with their paws completely stretched out so you have the full picture of their dimensions.

Next, do the following:

• Take your measuring tape and measure from the end of their nose to the tip of their tail.
• Remember to take measurements of your dog’s height while lying down, too.
• Run your tape measure from the tip of their ears to the end of their paws.
• For comfort, make sure you have a few extra inches around your dog so they can fully spread out — add 8 to 12 inches for a large German Shepherd to give them room to sprawl.
• When in doubt, order the larger size if you’re debating.

It’s also worth remembering two important facts when choosing a dog bed for your German Shepherd:

1. Younger puppies and dogs will grow
2. It’s easier to train a new habit than to break an old one

This means that if your puppy or dog outgrows its bed there’s a high chance they’ll be so used to it they’ll keep using it, even if they don’t fit!

Go Larger, Instead of Smaller

A slightly larger dog bed is better long-term to reduce the likelihood that your puppy will refuse to go to a new bed, as they’ve become accustomed to their old bed. Make it easier on them (and you) by getting a bed that’ll fit them as they grow.

Now that you’ve got your measurements you know what size bed your German Shepherd can comfortably lie down on.

And the extra inches that surround them will give them room to stretch and find a position to sleep in — without any doggie parts hanging off.

What about your dog’s weight on the bed?

It’s a no-brainer that German Shepherds are notorious for growing into large, powerful dogs. And I’m sure you’ve seen your dog’s gymnastic-like sleeping positions.

So, the best dog bed for German Shepherd Dogs needs to support your dog’s acrobatics when napping and give them plenty of space to curl up when they require their beauty rest.

Manufacturers provide a weight range for each bed, so you’ll need to know what your GSD weighs to ensure the bed will support their weight.

Choose a bed that holds more than your dog’s current weight. This ensures the dog mattress will be comfortable enough to keep their bodies off the floor to help prevent sore spots and joint pain.

What type of foam support should you look for in a dog bed?

Your dog’s bed should provide ample joint support and insulation for cold nights.

If you can press on the bed and easily feel the floor the bed doesn’t offer enough foam support for your dog’s weight. Be wary of lightweight beds, too. These are likely to become thin quickly due to their lack of dense foam and the filling will become flattened or lumpy.

Conversely, an overstuffed bed might hinder a dog with arthritis from stepping up to get into their bed or be difficult for a small puppy to walk on if they’re too high (source).

The best dog bed for a German Shepherd takes into account its ability to move easily off and on the surface to prevent accidents.

Dog Bed Covers and Materials

Make sure the cover doesn’t slip and slide on the floor, particularly if your German Shepherd moves a lot or likes to build a nest and dig around. The material should also be easy to remove with zippers, durable with a tight-weave structure, and constructed with heavy-duty stitching so it’s less likely to tear or snag.

Waterproof materials and layers might cost extra, but they’re worth considering if your GSD has bladder control issues, is still potty training, or regularly comes home wet and muddy.

In addition, the material should also be easy to clean and made of fabric that doesn’t let your dog’s hair either stick to the surface or embed into the weave of the material to avoid holding dander and fur.

Material Durability

While no dog bed will remain immune to wear and tear by your German Shepherd, a dog bed should be built to withstand reasonable usage by a large-breed dog for a year or two. Some manufacturers offer warranties with their dog beds which could give you a replacement if your dog destroys the bed.

Remember to only choose covers that are washable since they need cleaning to keep your dog healthy and avoid unpleasant odor buildup. While the foam fibers might not be able to handle a machine wash, the cover should slip off to keep your dog’s bed clean.

Getting Adjusted to a New Bed

Some German Shepherds take one look at their new bed and love it! But, others take a few days or longer to adjust to a new sleeping space.

To help your German Shepherd take positively to her new bed, do the following:

• Place the bed close to where you are, but out of the way of foot traffic (source)
• Put treats or a favorite chew toy on the bed
• In some cases, you can put a worn shirt on the bed so the bed has your scent to entice your GSD to it
• When you see your dog enjoys the bed it’s a smart idea to buy another one to place in her other sleeping zone and just in case something happens to her first bed
• This makes it easier for both of you to change beds or sleeping areas

If your GSD prefers to dig or make a nest, then place some old blankets or towels on top of the bed so they can enjoy making their resting place more unique to their sleeping style.

Keep in mind that senior German Shepherds might have a harder time adjusting to a new sleeping arrangement. Also, consider if you’re feeding the best food for your senior German Shepherd to provide them with healthier joints to make them more comfortable.

Is it safe to let a German Shepherd sleep in bed with you?

There’s no evidence that supports the theory that allowing your dog to sleep with you in bed will make them feel dominant.

But…

Your German Shepherd puppy shouldn’t sleep in bed with you because it’s not safe. They could get injured falling or jumping on and off. And, a senior GSD could hurt their hips or have arthritis which would make getting into and out of bed with you difficult.

Not to mention…

Your cute, fluffy GSD puppy will soon grow to almost 90 pounds!

While it’s sweet to have them cuddle with you now, it’ll be almost impossible for both of you to fit in bed comfortably when they’re full-grown. Plus, they typically kick their feet during their dreams and you’ll stay awake as they move and readjust.

As they age they will become more adept at jumping, but this means they are also more prone to slipping, falling, and injuring their joints and bones — even as an adult.

It doesn’t take long for a German Shepherd to get large enough to take over your whole bed! 🛌🏻

Instead, place their dog bed close to where you sleep so that you’re both comfortable and feel revived after waking.

It’s also a great way to bond with your German Shepherd!

In Summary: The Best Dog Pet Beds for German Shepherds

Giving your dog their own special place allows them to be away from mischievous kids, noisy people, and annoying pet housemates, even if only for a while.

As much as dogs sleep they need a cozy place they can have access to anytime they need a moment to themselves. So, having the best dog bed for a German Shepherd gives both of you peace of mind that they’re getting the rest they deserve so they can be on their best behavior once they wake up.

While there are no truly indestructible beds for German Shepherds, the beds listed here will help you choose the highest-rated bed by pet owners — so you make the most informed and best decision.

A well-made dog bed may last for years and provide a comfortable resting spot for your dog so they can wake up well-rested.

Dog beds for German Shepherds are sometimes overlooked, thinking that your strong companion can sleep on their floor or carpet. But these spots don’t give the right support or comfort, especially for a dog prone to hip and joint issues, like the GSD.

Choose a bed that’s ideal for your German Shepherd’s specific:

• Demands
• Sleep habits
• Personality
• Environment (indoors, outdoors, travel)

Don’t just choose one because it looks good.The best dog bed for a German Shepherd can give your high-energy puppy or adult the deep sleep they need to stay healthy and active.

So, pick a bed that helps your dog wake up ready for another adventure with their favorite person…

YOU!

Sounds like you’re looking for some fun entertainment activities for German Shepherds to help tire them out so they sleep soundly tonight🎉

Try a few and see how quickly your dog dozes off tonight!