What is the Best Bolster Dog Bed?

Below is our best bolster dog beds summary with top picks and reviews.

Do you have an anxious pup? According to the American Kennel Society, some common signs of dog anxiety include panting, destructive behavior, whining, barking, shaking, pacing, and more.

If you notice your dog exhibiting any of these signs, your dog may be suffering from anxiety. It can be overwhelming to try to help your pooch, but there is a simple place to start, and that is with bolster dog beds. Check out our list of other calming dog beds here.

What is a Bolster Dog Bed?

Bolster dog beds are a type of dog bed that is surrounded by a barrier on three sides that offer support and a feeling of safety for pups. If you’ve ever noticed your pet likes to burrow, or put itself under covers or a dark corner, there could be a scientific reason.

This is a callback to their ancestors, wolves, and their instinct to create a den in a dark, surrounded space to stay safe from predators. If your dog is a leaner, or enjoys feeling surrounded and cuddled up, a bolster bed may be a great choice. Calming dog beds tend to be bolster shaped as the walls feel safe and secure.

What are the Benefits of a Bolster Dog Bed?

Bolster Dog Bed

Sense of Security 

Bolster dog beds makes a dog feel safe and reminds them of their time they were surrounded by their littermates in their mom’s warmth. This type of bed features raised edges allow your dog to feel secure in their sleeping area. Having a small, warm space that is partially covered helps them tune out and hide from the things that may scare them or cause their anxiety to spike.

Good for Dogs that Enjoy Cuddling

If you’ve noticed your dog is the type that likes to rest their head on your pillow or lean against the couch armrest or you, bolster dog beds could be a perfect fit. Dogs who like cuddling tend to love bolster beds as it constantly feels like they are leaning against something warm and comforting. Bolster beds allow them to curl up or stretch out and still feel like they’re being cuddled.

Bolster Serves as a Built in Pillow

Just like a pillow for humans, dogs benefit from having head and necks support when they sleep. A bolster type dog bed allows just this, since most of the edges are raised, they double as a pillow and essential support for your pooch’s head and joints. If you’ve ever noticed your pup loves resting their head on an armrest or pillow, they could benefit from a bolster bed’s built in pillow aspect.

Higher Quality

In general, bolster beds seem to be made of higher quality materials and packed more densely with high quality materials for joint support. Many have a memory foam base, which is perfect for older dogs or dogs with arthritis and other joint issues. Bolster beds are designed to provide quality results and and made of not only comfortable materials, but also durable ones.

What Should I Look for in a Bolster Dog Bed?

bolster dog beds for dogs

Size

How your dog sleeps has a lot do with the size bed you pick for your pup. You’ll want a bed big enough for them to fit in comfortably, but not so big that it does not make them feel safe and closely surrounded.

If your pup enjoys sleeping stretched out, the bolster bed should be long enough to allow that; a sofa bed would be a good choice in this case. If your dog enjoys snoozing curled up, a donut style bolster bed could be the right one for you.

In this instance, the bed should be big enough for them to curl up comfortably, but tight enough that they stay warm and surrounded by the edges.

Orthopedic Effects

Orthopedic dog beds are a popular type of bed for a reason. Typically, these are made of memory foam or a foam construction and are designed to provide needed support for dogs with joint issues or older dogs.

If your dog suffers from hip dysplasia, this is an important factor in your search. Large breed dogs also typically require this for maximum comfort and support. Bolster beds are commonly orthopedic, made of orthopedic memory foam, or egg crate foam.

Non-Slip Backing

Non-slip backing is an important thing to consider, especially if you have hardwood or tile floors. Your dog probably enjoys flopping into bed just like you, so make sure they’re not slipping when doing so. This helps prevent any injuries or the bed moving into unwanted places in your home.

Durability

If you’re spending money on a good dog bed, you want it to last, especially if your pet loves it. Look for high quality materials, such as suede, polyester, etc. both inside and out. If it’s full of cheap stuffing, it will perform like you would expect. Search reviews and manufacturer warranties to see how the beds hold up over time and if you’re protected.

Cleanability

Accidents happen, and dogs aren’t the cleanest creatures on earth (hello mud puddles), so it’s important that cleaning their dog bed is easy. Look for surfaces that can be vacuumed to remove pet hair on the top layer. Also look for machine washable dog beds, or at least machine washable covers.

Spot cleaning doesn’t sound too bad until you have to do it. Trust us on this, look for machine washable covers. Keep in mind a fleece cover may be warm, but could be more work in the long run with shedding in the washer.

Price

Price is another factor of course. While better quality materials can justify a higher price, sometimes more expensive doesn’t always mean a better pet bed. Look for one that is within your price range and offers all the features you are looking for to best suit your dog’s needs.

Best Bolster Dog Beds 

Best Friends by Sheri – Luxury Faux Fur Donut Cuddler

Best Friends by Sheri is a common name in the pet bed industry and with good reason. They have dozens of beds to choose from and one is bound to work for your pooch.

This one is a donut styled bed made of luxuriously soft faux fur and available in four sizes and colors. The raised rim creates a sense of security and provides head and neck support, while the super-soft filling offers joint and muscle pain relief.

The entire bed is machine washable, which is convenient for cleaning, and can be vacuumed to remove excess pet hair. While there is no non slip backing, reviews state that the bed does a good job of staying in place. Dogs and humans alike love this gem!

PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

PetFusion is another brand in the pet bed game and their Ultimate Orthopedic Memory Foam mattress is one of the best dog beds on the market. It comes in four sizes and three colors sure to fit your home décor and is made of high quality materials sure to last.

The four inch memory foam base helps with relieving pressure points and the bolstered rims provide a sense of security. The entire bed is water resistant, and the cover is removable and machine washable. This bed features a non slip bottom as well.

Amazon Basics – Round Bolster Dog Bed

Amazon has its own line of pet beds and they are not a bad choice for your pooch! This bolster bed is affordable, though it is best for small breed dogs due to its size. The top is made out of flannel, setting it apart from other beds with its warming qualities, durability and cotton padding.

The sides are canvas and sure to hold up. The entire bed is machine washable and easy to spot clean, making it a great choice for dogs under 15 pounds. Reviewers mention that this bed seems to stay in place, which is just another one of its great features.

JOYELF – Orthopedic Dog Bed

JOYELF’s orthopedic foam mattress is a great contender in the dog beds game. The bed is stuffed full of high quality materials, including a memory foam base and a non slip bottom. The inner cover is water resistant and features a waterproof liner, and is machine washable, which is a big plus for senior dogs who may have accidents occasionally.

The bolsters provide support to joints and pressure points and are sure to keep your pet comfortable. It is available in five sizes, making it a great sleeping surface for dogs.

FurHaven – Plush Orthopedic Dog Sofa Bed

This FurHaven sofa bed is a pure looker and one of the best dog beds according to reviewers! It is a beautiful sofa style dog bed with three-sided bolsters made of micro-suede to help your pet feel secure and safe. The entire sofa bed is lined with luscious faux fur your pet will love cuddling into.

The medical grade egg crate orthopedic foam cushions pressure points, distributes body weight and helps support the head and neck. This FurHaven bed is available in multiple sizes and colors, has a machine washable and replacement cover and a warranty to ensure all the dogs who doze on this sleeping surface are happy.

Bedsure – Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed

This brand may not be well known, but reviewers sing its praises. It is available in six sizes, going all the way up to XXL, and comes in three gorgeous colors sure to look great in your home. This sofa style bed is made from faux linen fabric and features a removable and machine washable cover.

The outer cover is easy to clean and the memory foam base and microfiber covered arms are super comfortable for your pup. The non-slip bottom ensures dogs will stay safe while they cuddle up into the ultra soft sherpa and enjoy the joint support the bed gives.

Big Barker – 7” Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bolster Bed

Big Barker’s orthopedic bolster bed is luxuriously thick and is a popular choice amongst pet owners. Available in three giant sizes and four vibrant colors, this bed is clinically proven to show less pain and more mobility after 28 days of use.

The bolster headrest helps support your pup’s tired head while they snooze. The microsuede cover is 100% machine washable and easy to clean. Perfect for big dogs, those extra large breed dogs will love this one and all its features.

Barkbox 2-in-1 Memory Foam Dog Bolster Bed

Humans and dogs alike love Barkbox. You’re familiar with their toys, but now they have a bed available and it’s one of the best on the market! This high density gel foam bed helps relieve body aches, joint pain, hip dysplasia and arthritis, perfect for older dogs and dogs with pressure point pain. The removable cover is machine washable and ensures it stays nice and fresh!

This bed is available in three sizes and five lovely colors and is water resistant. Bonus: it comes with a free toy, Barkbox’s bread and butter! It’s one of the best dog beds out there, with quality features, and we highly recommend it.

FEANDREA – Orthopedic Dog Sofa

FEANDREA’s sofa style orthopedic dog bed is upholstered with orthopedic memory foam that adapts itself to your pup’s body and supports all their joints. This sleep surface is plush and padded, with raised edges for support of the neck and head.

The removable microfiber cover is machine washable, perfect for cleaning up accidents. The non slip bottom ensures your pet won’t slip and slide on any hardwood or tile floors either, keeping them safe when they jump into bed. This memory foam bolster bed is dense and thick and sure to keep dogs comfortable and help them feel safe.

K&H Pet Products – Original Elevated Bolster Dog Bed

K&H Pet Products’s elevated bolster dog bed is in a league all its own and is one of the best bolster dog beds out there. The only elevated bed on this list, the bed features a cot made of water resistant fabric with fluffy, plush bolstered edges for comfort and security.

This bed is sure to stay cool since it’s elevated, perfect for hot summer months. The bottom of the legs is non-slip, which is great for safety, and the removable cover is washing machine safe.

The bed comes with a one year warranty and comes in various sizes, perfect for any pet! If you’re looking for orthopedic dog support, this may not be your best choice, but if your pup is looking more for safety, consider this K&H pet bed! Dogs love this choice and so do we.

Our Final Thoughts

There are a lot of dog beds out there, but if you have a pup suffering from anxiety, a bolster bed could be a great choice for you! Our top picks can help you find the best orthopedic dog beds to fit your pup’s needs.

Remember that bolster beds are great for pets with anxiety, or pets that need more hip and joint support, specifically large dogs and older dogs. Pet parents swear by these beds and it’s for a reason. We doubt any dogs would complain either. Happy searching!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a bolster bed for dogs?

Bolster dog beds are a type of dog bed that is surrounded by a barrier on three sides that offer support and a feeling of safety for pups. If you’ve ever noticed your pet likes to burrow, or put itself under covers or a dark corner, there could be a scientific reason. 

Why do bolster beds make dogs feel safe?

This is a callback to their ancestors, wolves, and their instinct to create a den in a dark, surrounded space to stay safe from predators. If your dog is a leaner, or enjoys feeling surrounded and cuddled up, a bolster bed may be a great choice. Calming beds tend to be bolster shaped as the walls feel safe and secure.

What is the best bolster bed for dogs?

The best dog bed in our opinion is the FurHaven Plush Orthopedic Sofa Bed! FurHaven is a reputable dog bed brand and their bolster bed is a gem all around. All of their dog beds are great, but this one comes in many sizes and too many colors to name, making it fit into any home perfectly for any pooch.