Pawscessories is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
Learn more.
Quick Picks: The Best Dog Beds For German Shepherds
| Editors Pick | Brand | Rating |
| Best Overall | Big Barker’s Orthopedic Dog Bed | 4.8 |
| Best Budget | The Dogs Bed Premium Waterproof Bed | 4.6 |
| Best Runner Up | PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed | 4.7 |
| Best Under $100 | Furhaven Pet Orthopedic Foam Dog Bed | 4.3 |
| Best For Hip Dysplasia | Laifug Orthopedic Dog Bed | 4.7 |
| Best German Shepherd Proof | Kuranda Dog Bed | 4.6 |
| Best Water Resistant | Brindle Memory Foam Bed | 4.6 |
So you want to spoil your German Shepherd with a comfy new bed (or find one that the mischievous bugger won’t destroy!). But, there are so many beds to choose from it can be challenging to make a decision. You want to find the best dog bed for your German Shepherd.
One that will last many years, one that’s comfortable, and most importantly, one they’ll love. A big fear when spending money on a bed can be whether or not they’ll actually use the thing!
As German Shepherds are medium-large breeds, you’ll want to make sure you’re buying the right size for them. Many beds on our list come in a variety of sizes.
However, based on the sizing measurements of most beds, you’ll be looking for a ‘large’ bed for an adult German Shepherd.
Anyways, let’s get right into our list of the top 10 best dog beds for German Shepherds!
Table of Contents
Why Should You Buy A German Shepherd Dog Bed?
A German Shepherd will sleep roughly 12 to 14 hours a day!
That’s a lot of time to spend in their dog bed or on the floor! So it’s important to ensure your German Shepherd has a comfortable bed that lasts a long time.
Here are a few reasons you should consider a bed for your GSD:
- Helps with joint pain
- Improves quality of sleep
- Reduces calluses developing from repeatedly lying on hard surfaces
- Aids in blood circulation
- Provides support for the spine
- Gives them their own space
- Preserves your floors and furniture
- Helps them stay warm or cool
German Shepherd Dog Bed Buying Guide
Now that we know why a bed is important let’s review some factors before purchasing one.
Size
Look for a dog bed that measures at least 40 inches long by 30 inches wide. You want to make sure your German Shepherd has plenty of room.
Ideally, you should measure your pup and then add about 6-10 inches to determine their required bed size.
Support
Make sure you select a bed that supports up to 90 pounds (or above your dog’s weight).
You also want to select a bed about 3-4 inches deep. That way, they have plenty of support.
Durability
German Shepherds can be chewers, especially when they are young.
So you want to choose a durable dog bed that can withstand some GSD chewing, if necessary.
Cleanability
German Shepherds shed a lot and carry dirt and grim in their fur. You want to be able to easily clean your dog’s bed, so look for one with a removable and washable cover.
You may also want a dog bed that doesn’t hold onto the fur.
Preference
Lastly, consider your dog’s sleeping preference. For example, If you know your GSD gets warm on soft beds, select a cooling bed.
Also, consider how they sleep. If your pup is a side sleeper, make sure they have room to stretch out.
Top 10 Best Dog Beds For German Shepherds
Best Overall: The Big Barker 7″ Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed
The Big Barker 7″ Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed is our choice for the best overall german shepherd dog bed.
This dog bed has one bolster side and one flat side, so your pet can choose whichever position is more comfortable. If they want to lie with their head elevated, they can. Or, if they prefer to lie flat, that’s also an option. Either way, they’ll be able to maximize their comfort.
The bed has 3 different types of American made foam. A 4” contoured foam head rest, and 3” of H45 foam sandwiched between 2 pieces of 2” of H10 comfort foam.
Even a human would be comfortable lying on this bed. The bed comes in 3 sizes, large (48” x 30” x 7”), extra-large (52” x 36” x 7”), and giant (60” x 48” x 7”).
The manufacturer of these beds did a clinical study which proved that dogs experienced less pain and more mobility after using the Big Barker Bed for 28 days.
So, outside of having over thousands of reviews with 90% of buyers rating it 5 stars, this bed has also been tested and proven to help with mobility and pain.
The company is so confident that the bed will not flatten over time they offer a 10-year warranty.
Key Features:
- High quality orthopedic bed
- 10-year won’t-flatten warranty
- Made for big dogs
- American made memory foam
What We Like & Dislike About The Big Barker Dog Bed
Pros:
- Proven to relieve joint pain which helps your german shepherd sleep
- It’s an extra large dog bed designed to help bigger dogs sleep comfortably
- Vast majority of people using this bed have been extremely happy with their purchase
Cons:
- It seems the only downside to the big barker bed is the price
Best Budget: ‘The Dog’s Bed’
Our best budget dog bed pick for your german shepherd is ‘The Dog’s Bed’.
It can be used in any environment include your car, home, a crate, or even outside. Since this bed was made with versatility in mind its built to be durable and able ot withstand wear and tear.
So while it is on the cheaper end, it’s not going to fall apart after a few uses. The bed is also machine washable which is great for easy clean up.
The bed even comes equipped with waterproof features. This is helpful if an accident happens or if your GSD has wet paws and jumps into bed for a nap. It also has comfortable bolsters which allows your dog’s head to be elevated a little bit as if they’re lying on a pillow.
We all know how much we love to put our heads on a pillow after a long day and so do our pups!
When it comes to the reviews of this bed, it has an average rating of four stars. It’s been reviewed about 300 times, which is a little lower than we like to see; but because of the price and durability/versatility of this bed we figured it still warranted a spot on our list.
Key Features:
- Versatile — can be used in a crate, the car, when traveling or simply on the floor of your home
- 1-year warranty for manufacturer defects
- Cover is more durable than most other dog beds
What We Like & Dislike About ‘The Dog’s Bed’ Bed
Pros:
- More inexpensive option to give your dog a more comfortable place to relax
- Water resistant with and easy to remove cover
- The zipper is designed to be tough and able to handle a dog that’s a little more rough with their belongings
Cons:
- Complaints people had with this bed were mostly from dogs that were major chewers. While this bed is designed to be durable it won’t last against a determined chewer
Best Runner Up: PetFusion Ultimate Dog Lounge & Bed
The PetFusion Ultimate Dog Lounge & Bed is our pick for the best runner up dog bed for german shepherds.
This bed comes with all the bells and whistles needed for a German Shepherd puppy, adult or senior! It has orthopedic memory foam, a comfy bolsters, removable & machine washable covers, non-slip grip, and a waterproof lining around the memory foam.
It comes in sizes ranging from 25-inches in length up to 44-inches. So whether your GSD is young or old, there is a perfect size available.
The bed has glowing reviews from thousands of purchasers, many being german shepherd owners, sharing how their pup adores this bed.
A worry when spending money on a bed can definitely be, “I hope they use the darn thing!” and it’s clear that’s no issue with this pet bed. What’s also nice about this bed is replacement covers are available separately if need be.
All in all, if you’re looking for a high quality dog bed the PetFusion bed won’t disappoint.
Key Features:
- Machine washable and removable covers
- Comfortable orthopedic memory foam
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
- Bolstered border to act as a pillow
- Non-slip grip on the bottom
- Waterproof liner
What We Like & Dislike About The PetFusion Bed
Pros:
- Firm & supportive yet comfortable for puppies, adults or senior german shepherds
- 9/10 people who got their dog this bed has been very happy with their decision
- Bolster helps keeps hips and joints in better alignment to lessen aches & pains
Cons:
- Given the high quality of this bed it comes with a higher price
Best Under $100: Furhaven Pet Orthopedic Foam Dog Bed
Looking for a more affordable orthopedic dog bed for your german shepherd? The Furhaven Plush Orthopedic Dog Bed could be the one. Without breaking the bank, this dog bed does an admirable job providing your pup the comfort it needs.
Regardless of the size of your German Shepherd at the time of reading this post, this brand has very affordable options for small, medium and large GSDs.
It offers great support with its contoured form having both ends elevated to act as a headrest, as well as orthopedic foam to make sure your pup is experiencing optimal support for their neck, back, hips and joints.
The middle of the bed is 2.5 Inches thick while the outer sides of the bed are 5inches thick.
The orthopedic foam ensures the bed remains comfortable and lasts a long time without being flattened. So even though this is our best under $100 option, it’s not going to be ruined in a matter of weeks.
Another bonus to this bed is there’s a zippered cover that can easily be removed and washed in your washing machine!
Key Features:
- Memory foam is made thick to ensure it doesn’t flatten
- Easy to remove & wash cover
- Contour shape of the bed designed for maximum comfort
What We Like & Dislike About The Furhaven Bed
Pros:
- More affordable option for an orthopedic dog bed
- Ergonomically designed to help keep back, hips & joints healthy
- Unique plush cover
Cons:
- A few people mentioned that the bed was thinner than they had expected
Best Dog Bed for German Shepherds With Hip Dysplasia: Laifug Orthopedic Memory Foam
The Laifug Orthopedic Memory Foam Extra Large Dog Bed is our choice for the best orthopedic dog bed for hip dysplasia. It has two layers of protective surfaces, a waterproof cover and a soft zippered removable cover that makes washing the bed simple.
This bed can withstand any size dog up to 150 lbs and has a bolster headrest that is 7” high while the rest of the bed is 4”.
The flat 4” portion of the bed is made of thick memory foam and the company claims that it will keep its shape and not flatten over time. They say it keeps 90% of its shape and support for 3 years.
It’s been reviewed over 6,421 times with 79% of people giving the bed a shiny 5 star review.
Key Features:
- 7″ thick bolster head rest on one side
- Memory foam mattress designed not to flatten for at least 3 years
- Waterproof lining underneath the cover
What We Like & Dislike About The Laifug Bed
Pros:
- Able to remain supportive for dogs weighing up to 150 lbs
- Removable & machine washable cover
- Ability to lie flat out or elevate their head using the bolster
Cons:
- Few sizing options
- Not many complaints but a few mentioned the zipper being exposed allowed their dog to bite and break it
Best German Shepherd Proof Dog Bed: Kuranda Dog Bed
Based on all the options available, we determined that the best german shepherd proof dog bed is the Kuranda Dog Bed.
This bed has a patent for it’s high strength, lightweight design. It’s built to support up to 250 pounds AND you’re protected under their one year warranty.
So if your german shepherd can chew through this bed, you’re covered for a year, which is great. However, based on the amount of positive reviews from previous purchasers, you won’t have a problem with your dog chewing apart this bed.
The chew proof design is great for aggressive chewers and the elevated/raised orthopedic design is also great as it helps relieve some of the pressure on their joints.
Unfortunately, as german shepherds age they have a tendency to get arthritis and hip dysplasia. And these conditions can be very taxing on their joints making the elevated nature of this bed a perfect fit for your furry friend.
Key Features:
- Can withstand most dog’s weight as it can hold up to 250 lbs
- Designed to hold up against aggressive chewers
- Elevated nature of the bed helps big dogs cool off
What We Like & Dislike About The Kuranda Bed
Pros:
- Much more durable than other elevated dog beds
- Raised dog beds are a good alternative for dogs that don’t like foam beds
- Great for indoor or outdoor relaxing without having to worry about the bed getting ruined
Cons:
- Elevated dog beds are an acquired taste and some dogs may have troubles getting on and off
Best Water-Resistant: Brindle Memory Foam Dog Bed
One of the challenges that comes with having a pup or can come up with an aging dog is their lack of bladder control. So having something that they love to sleep on and not have to purchase a new bed every time a mess happens, is important!
That’s where the Brindle Waterproof Designer Memory Foam Dog Bed comes to the rescue. It also comes equipped with high quality memory foam so even though it’s built for durability with messes it’s also very comfortable!
You can easily wash the bed and have it good as new when needed. The waterproof layer and removable cover make it easy for you clean up any accidents that happen. Many of the reviewers of this product shared that it has held up against many washes.
Key Features:
- Premium quality orthopedic foam
- Comes with a waterproof layer underneath the cover
- Removable & machine washable cover
What We Like & Dislike About The Brindle Bed
Pros:
- A high quality but less expensive bed option
- Many owners have said that the bed has held its shape well
Cons:
- Bed doesn’t stay in place very well
Other Top-Rated Dog Beds For German Shepherds
Friends Forever Orthopedic Dog Bed
The Friends Forever Orthopedic Dog Bed could become your German Shepherds favorite place to chill-out. It has water-resistant lining as well as human grade mattress foam with poly-filled bolsters, you may get jealous of how good of a night sleep your doggo is getting in this bed!
Unfortunately the bed is missing a medium size so it pertains more towards small dogs as well as large & very large dogs.
If your german shepherd is a teen and still growing they can definitely enjoy a large bed, there might just be a little extra room until they grow into it.
83% of purchasers that reviewed this bed gave a 5 out of 5 stars so this bed was certainly not a disappointment to many.
Like many of the other beds the cover is removable and machine washable, it is also tear resistant but not necessarily meant for major chewers.
Key Features:
- Made with human-grade mattress foam
- Comfortable bolsters to improve resting experience
- Cover is tear resistant (not indestructible)
What We Like & Dislike About The Friends Forever Bed
Pros:
- Comes in many different sizes to accommodate dogs of all ages
- 1-year warranty
- Combination of memory foam and supportive foam to help with aching hips and joints
Cons:
- Not many complaints but a few said the bed came with an odd smell
Sealy Lux Quad Layer Dog Bed
The Sealy Lux Quad Layer Orthopedic Dog Bed maximizes comfort in more ways than 1. Your german shepherd will benefit from it’s premium orthopedic foam AND the cooling technology that will help regulate your pups temperature.
If you find your dog panting frequently without exercise or consistently laying on tiles or near a vent, this could be their new best friend.
The bed is also built with a pro-charcoal base to help absorb odors so not only will it be your dog’s best friend, but yours as well.
Of course if they have an accident or it simply needs a wash, the cover is easily removable and machine washable to keep it fresh and clean.
Out of just under 1,000 reviews, 79% of people gave this bed a 5 star rating with many sharing kind words of how much their dog loves the bed. If they’re happy, we’re happy!
Key Features:
- Unique pro-charcoal base to help absorb bad smells
- Cooling gel infused into the memory foam to help dogs stay cool
- Removable cover
What We Like & Dislike About The Sealy Bed
Pros:
- Zipper is hidden to eliminate temptation
- Temperature regulation
- Won’t stink up your home like many other dog beds
Cons:
- A few people said that the seams of the cover started to break after a few washes
What Is The Best Size Dog Bed For A German Shepherd?
The best size bed for German Shepherds is one that is 6-10 inches longer and wider than them. Generally, a bed that is 40 inches long by 30 inches wide will be enough for most German Shepherds. However, it’s always best to measure your dog before purchasing a bed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind Of Bed Is Best For German Shepherd?
The best bed for a German Shepherd is supportive, comfortable, and durable. You also want to ensure the bed is easy to clean, as German Shepherds are known to shed a lot. However, the best bed for a German Shepherd depends on the preference of the individual dog.
Where Should A German Shepherd Sleep At Night?
A German Shepherd should sleep in their own bed. You don’t want them to sleep in your bed as they may develop separation anxiety. While it’s okay for some cuddles at night, they must have their own space. This allows them to establish a sense of security and confidence on their own.
Do German Shepherds Need Blankets?
German Shepherds don’t need blankets. They have a thick double coat that keeps them warm in cold weather. However, suppose your dog is short-haired, or you live in a particularly cold climate. In that case, you may want to consider getting them a blanket. You can also get them a Dog Bed with a built-in heating element to keep them extra cozy!
Do German Shepherds Sleep On Beds?
Some German Shepherds will sleep in beds while others won’t. So it really depends on the individual dog’s preference. If your German Shepherd doesn’t sleep in their bed, likely, they don’t like the material. It could also make them too warm while sleeping.
My dog Enzo is part German Shepherd and gets warm sleeping in certain beds. So he’d rather sleep on the cold floor.
Final Thoughts
Phew. There it is. The top 9 best German Shepherd dog beds. Whether you’re looking for premium orthopedic dog beds or a durable, elevated dog bed, we’ve covered them all.
A bed is a highly personal purchase as each dog is so unique in their preferences and behaviors, so making the right decision can be challenging.
German Shepherd dogs can be a little picky when it comes to what bed they want to use. Which is why you want to make sure the one you pick has plenty of positive reviews from other owners.
Compiling this list was super fun, we love to do the tedious research that many dog owners simply don’t have the time to do! We hope that you found an option in our list and that your dog loves the choice you made.
Nothing better than seeing your German Shepherd tail waggin’ happy :-).
Other posts you might be interested in:
12 Best Dog Beds for Hip Dysplasia [2022 Update]