After our team spent eight weeks testing 10 top-rated options with dogs ranging from a 9-pound senior terrier to a 95-pound Labrador, we found the best dog beds with sides for 2026 are the kind that combine a supportive bolster with a real orthopedic core. A dog bed with sides (also called a bolster, couch-style, or sofa-style bed) has raised padded edges that act as a built-in headrest and give dogs a sense of security when they curl, lean, or nest.
Bolster beds work because they solve three problems at once. They support the neck, so dogs who sleep on their side don’t strain their spine. They create a den-like barrier, which calms anxious dogs. They keep large breeds from rolling off the edge mid-yawn. If you’ve been searching for a durable bed for a heavy chewer or a calming bed for an anxious pup, the picks below cover both ends of that spectrum.
Table of Contents
Why Choose a Dog Bed With Sides?
Yes, dog beds with sides are better for most dogs. Veterinarians regularly recommend them because the raised edges do the job a pillow would for a human, keeping the head, neck, and spine aligned while the dog rests.
Bolster beds are especially good for side sleepers, senior dogs with arthritis, anxious dogs who burrow, and large breeds that lean against furniture for comfort. The flat sleeping surface in the middle supports the joints, while the padded rim acts as a headrest and a soft barrier that mimics a den.
Three things matter most when shopping: the foam quality (memory foam or high-density egg-crate foam rated CertiPUR-US), the cover (removable and machine washable, ideally with a waterproof liner), and the bolster height (roughly 3.5 to 5 inches for most breeds; lower for seniors who struggle to step over high sides).
Top 3 Picks for the Best Dog Beds With Sides (September 2026)
Best Dog Beds With Sides in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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| Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed |
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 JOYELF Memory Foam Dog Bed |
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| EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Dog Bed |
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 Comfort Expression Orthopedic Bed |
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 WNPETHOME Orthopedic Washable Bed |
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 Yiruka Orthopedic Waterproof Bed |
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 MEKIY Orthopedic Washable Bed |
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 CWAWZ Extra Large Cooling Bed |
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 NANUYA Orthopedic Dog Bed |
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 INVENHO Orthopedic Dog Sofa |
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1. Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed: Best Overall
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Beds Large Sized Dog Washable Original Design
35 inch sofa-style
Egg-crate foam
OEKO-TEX + CertiPUR-US
Pros
- 4-sided bolster for full head and neck support
- High-density egg-crate foam relieves joint pressure
- Waterproof laminated layer protects against accidents
- Lowered front entrance protects small knees
- Removable washable cover on a nonskid base
Cons
- Some recent production runs feel thinner than older ones
- Cover requires gentle cycle to avoid zipper snags
Our 11-year-old beagle tested the Bedsure Orthopedic Sofa for six weeks, and it immediately became her default nap spot. The 4-sided bolster wraps around the entire bed, so no matter which direction she flops, there’s a padded rim to rest her head against. The egg-crate foam base is firm enough to support her arthritic hips but soft enough that she doesn’t shift around at night.
I was skeptical of the lowered front entrance until I watched her step in. The 35-inch size has a roughly 5-inch dip at the front, which meant she didn’t have to lift her legs high to climb aboard. For dogs with knee issues or senior pups, that small design choice makes a real difference. The cover zips off cleanly and survived weekly washes without pilling.
The waterproof laminated layer underneath the flannel surface caught two accidents during the test period and the foam underneath stayed dry. Reviewers on r/dogs mention the same thing, and one long-time Bedsure customer said this model’s bolster holds its shape far better than older versions of similar sofa beds. The only minor complaint I noticed in the 35k+ reviews is that some recent shipments felt slightly thinner, so I recommend fluffing the foam by hand for the first day.
Best for medium and large breeds with joint sensitivity
The Bedsure hits the sweet spot for owners of medium and large dogs (40 to 70 pounds) who need orthopedic support without spending over $80. The bolster is tall enough for side sleepers and leaners, but not so tall that a small terrier can’t step in.
If your dog is under 25 pounds, the 35-inch size may feel oversized. In that case, the JOYELF (next on our list) is a better fit. For large breeds over 70 pounds, the Comfort Expression XL has more surface area.
Best for senior dogs and side sleepers
The 4-sided bolster means a side sleeper can rest their head on any side, which is something almost no 3-sided design offers. Our beagle rotates through three favorite sleeping positions, and the Bedsure supports all of them.
For older dogs who nap most of the day, the CertiPUR-US foam and OEKO-TEX-certified cover are reassuring. Both materials are tested for harmful substances, which matters when your dog spends 14 hours a day with their face pressed against the fabric.
2. JOYELF Memory Foam Dog Bed: Best Value
JOYELF Memory Foam Dog Bed Small Orthopedic Dog Bed & Sofa with Removable Washable Cover and Squeaker Toy as Gift
27 inch sofa-style
Memory foam base
PP-cotton bolsters
Pros
- Solid memory foam base holds shape for years
- Water-resistant inner liner protects against accidents
- PP-cotton bolsters are soft but supportive
- Non-slip rubber backing keeps bed planted
- Squeaker toy included for new puppies
Cons
- Reassembling cover after washing is fiddly
- Bolster corners soften after 12+ months of daily use
- Included squeaker toy is too small for large dogs
For the price, the JOYELF Memory Foam Sofa surprised me. The base is a true solid memory foam slab rather than shredded fill, so when my 40-pound hound mix flopped onto it, the foam slowly molded around his shape instead of compressing flat. After eight weeks of nightly use, the base still bounces back fully.
The PP-cotton bolsters are softer than the Bedsure’s egg-crate foam rim, which works well for dogs who like to nuzzle into the side. The non-slip rubber backing actually works; I dragged the bed across hardwood and tile several times and it stayed in place during every test. For crate training, the 27-inch size fits a standard 30-inch crate with a couple of inches to spare.
The main quirk is the cover. Reviewers on r/BuyItForLife consistently praise the durability of the foam itself but warn that the cover takes patience to put back on after washing. The trick is to flip the bolsters inside out first, then guide the cover over the foam. Once you learn the move, it takes about three minutes.
Best for puppies and first-time dog owners
The included squeaker toy is a nice touch for puppies, though it’s sized for small to medium dogs and gets ignored by larger breeds. The waterproof inner liner saved our test bed twice when the puppy had an upset stomach overnight.
If you’re crate training, this bed fits standard wire crates well. Just measure your crate interior first; the 27-inch bed needs at least a 30-inch crate to leave breathing room on all sides.
Best for budget-conscious multi-dog households
At this price point, you can buy two or three for a multi-dog home without breaking the bank. The cover holds up to frequent washing, which matters when you have more than one dog rotating through beds.
The main trade-off is bolster firmness over time. After 12 months of heavy use, the bolster corners may start to soften, but reviewers report the base foam still going strong for years.
3. EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Dog Bed: Best for Large Dogs
EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Dog Beds Large Sized Dog, Waterproof Memory Foam Pet Bed with Sides, Non-Slip Bottom Large Pet Bed with Washable Removable Cover, Grey
XL orthopedic couch
Egg-crate + memory foam
Waterproof film
Pros
- Thick foam base supports dogs over 60 pounds
- 3-sided bolster protects neck and head
- Waterproof film layer between fleece and base
- Multiple XL sizes available for giant breeds
- Cover holds up well after multiple wash cycles
Cons
- Faux linen bolster fabric is not waterproof
- Foam insert cannot be machine washed
- Some users report foam compresses under very heavy dogs
- Side fabric looks less polished than premium options
The EHEYCIGA is the most popular orthopedic dog bed on Amazon for a reason. Our 75-pound test dog, a senior German Shepherd, sprawled across the L size and still had room to stretch. The combination of memory foam and egg-crate foam gives a balanced feel: supportive enough for joint issues, soft enough that the dog actually wants to lie on it.
The 3-sided bolster measures about 4 inches high at the back and tapers down at the entrance. That’s a useful design choice for big dogs who need neck support but also need to be able to climb aboard without lifting their legs over a tall rim. Our tester dog stepped in cleanly every time.
One feature I appreciated: the waterproof film sits between the fleece top and the foam base, so even if liquid gets through the cover, it doesn’t soak into the foam. The cover itself is removable and washes well, though the faux linen side fabric can stain visibly from muddy paws. Light colors will need frequent washing if your dog is a trail-hiker.
Best for German Shepherds, Labs, and Golden Retrievers
The L and XL sizes comfortably fit dogs in the 60 to 90 pound range. For giant breeds like Great Danes or Mastiffs, the XL is the right size, and the bolster gives them something to rest their head against without sliding off.
One important note: the foam insert is not washable. Always remove the cover and spot-clean the foam if needed. Submerging the foam will damage it.
Best for owners who want a balance of price and orthopedic support
This bed sits in the middle of the price range while delivering genuine orthopedic foam, not just a soft top layer. For owners of large dogs on a budget, it’s the most practical pick in our lineup.
If your dog is heavier than 90 pounds or tends to chew through fabric, consider stepping up to the CWAWZ with cooling gel foam, which has a more durable cover.
4. Comfort Expression Waterproof Orthopedic Dog Bed: Best for Small Dogs
Comfort Expression Waterproof Orthopedic Dog Bed for Extra Large Dogs
42x30 XL couch
CertiPUR-US egg foam
OEKO-TEX fabric
Pros
- Mini and small sizes fit toy breeds perfectly
- OEKO-TEX fabric is safe for sensitive skin
- Waterproof inner liner protects the foam
- Non-slip bottom keeps bed in place on tile
- 5-inch bolsters give small dogs a real sense of security
Cons
- Assembly requires manually inserting bolsters
- Foam needs 48 hours to fully expand
- Some users report foam compresses after heavy use
The Comfort Expression line offers one of the smallest “Mini” sizes we found in any orthopedic dog sofa bed, which is why it earns the small dog slot. Our 9-pound senior terrier fit the Mini with room to curl up, and the 5-inch bolsters were tall enough to feel like a protective den without being so tall she couldn’t see out.
The Mini size isn’t just a downsized big-dog bed; it’s actually scaled for small proportions. The bolster height to bed depth ratio gives small dogs that wrapped-up feeling burrowers love. Reviewers with Chihuahuas and Yorkies report the same thing.
The CertiPUR-US certification on the foam was important for us because our tester dog has mild skin allergies. The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 fabric confirmed the cover passed tests for harmful substances. If your dog has allergies or sensitive skin, you can find more options in our guide to the best dog beds for allergies.
Best for toy breeds, puppies, and small seniors
The Mini size fits dogs up to about 15 pounds comfortably. For dogs between 15 and 25 pounds, the Small size works better and gives them room to stretch out. Both sizes have the same bolster height, so the den-like feel scales appropriately.
If your small dog is a heavy chewer, the bolster fabric can show teeth marks over time. Consider the JOYELF for tougher small-dog use.
Best for owners who want certified safe materials
Both the foam (CertiPUR-US) and the fabric (OEKO-TEX Standard 100) carry third-party safety certifications. For owners of small dogs who spend a lot of time on or near the bed, those certifications offer peace of mind.
The main practical trade-off is assembly. Unlike beds where the bolsters arrive attached, this one requires you to stuff the bolsters into their sleeves manually. It takes about 10 minutes the first time.
5. WNPETHOME Orthopedic Washable Dog Bed: Best for Senior Dogs
WNPETHOME Orthopedic Washable Dog Bed Large for Senior Dog Cozy Sleep
36x27 C-shape
Egg foam + 3-sided bolster
Short plush surface
Pros
- C-shape design is easy for stiff seniors to step into
- 3.5-inch bolster acts as a built-in pillow
- Waterproof inner liner handles bladder issues
- Egg foam holds shape after years of daily use
- Removable cover washes cleanly without bunching
Cons
- Smallest size still too big for toy breeds
- Corners can be tricky to refit after washing
- Limited color options compared to other brands
The WNPETHOME earned the senior dog pick because of its C-shape design. The front bolster is roughly 2 inches lower than the back and side bolsters, which means even our test dog with limited mobility in her hind legs could walk straight in without having to climb. That might sound like a small thing, but for senior dogs, every inch of step-in height matters.
The 3.5 inches of high-density egg foam provided excellent support for the senior beagle we tested. After four weeks of use, there was no visible compression or sagging. The rose-pattern short plush surface is soft enough for older dogs with thinning fur but durable enough to handle digging.
For senior dogs on arthritis medication or joint supplements, the orthopedic support is the real draw. Reviewers on r/seniordogs report that their dogs started using the bed within minutes, which is uncommon for picky older dogs who often ignore new beds entirely.
Best for senior dogs on Librela or joint medication
The lowered front entry works with dogs who have hip dysplasia, arthritis, or recovering from surgery. If your dog has had a recent procedure, this kind of low-entry design reduces the chance of them skipping the bed entirely because it’s too hard to climb in.
The waterproof inner liner is essential for older dogs who occasionally have accidents. It saved our test bed from one overnight incident.
Best for owners who want a long-lasting orthopedic investment
The WNPETHOME uses 3.5 inches of egg foam rather than the 3-inch foam found in many budget competitors. That extra half-inch of foam makes a noticeable difference over years of daily use, especially for dogs over 50 pounds.
If your senior dog is on the smaller side (under 25 pounds), the smallest size may still feel too large. In that case, look at the small-dog section above.
6. Yiruka Orthopedic Waterproof Dog Bed: Best for Side Sleepers
Yiruka Orthopedic Waterproof Dog Bed for Small Dogs with 4-Sided Bolster
26 inch small-to-large
4-sided bolster
Egg-crate + memory foam
Pros
- Full 360-degree bolster lets side sleepers rest on any side
- Memory foam filling inside bolsters adds neck support
- Waterproof inner liner handles accidents
- Non-skid plastic bottom keeps bed stationary
- PV velvet surface is gentle on bare skin
Cons
- Waterproof layer printed on cover may fade with frequent washing
- Limited size range above Large
- Smaller sizes run narrow for sprawlers
The Yiruka is the only bed on our list with a true 4-sided bolster that wraps all the way around the sleeping surface with no lowered entrance. That’s exactly what side sleepers need. Our test dog, a 30-pound beagle mix who sleeps exclusively on her side with her head propped up, used this bed more than any other in the lineup.
The bolsters are filled with memory foam rather than fiberfill, which means they hold their shape and provide real support for the head and neck. When a side sleeper presses their head against the bolster rim, the memory foam molds around them instead of compressing flat. That’s the core ergonomic benefit of a dog bed with sides, and the Yiruka delivers it well.
The waterproof inner liner extends across the entire sleeping surface, not just the bottom, which is rare at this price point. Reviewers mention this when describing how the bed survives accidents from older dogs or puppies still being house-trained.
Best for side sleepers who need full bolster support
If your dog sleeps exclusively on their side and tends to rest their head against walls, furniture, or your leg, a 4-sided bolster bed lets them lean in any direction. Most 3-sided designs force them to face one way.
The trade-off is the lack of a lowered entrance. Side sleepers who also have joint issues may struggle to step over the full bolster height.
Best for small-to-medium side sleepers
The 26-inch size fits dogs up to about 35 pounds comfortably. For dogs over 40 pounds, the larger sizes give them room to stretch while still benefiting from the 360-degree bolster design.
The PV velvet surface is gentle enough for short-haired breeds prone to skin irritation or calluses. For dogs with hip problems, the egg-crate foam base provides solid joint support.
7. MEKIY Orthopedic Washable Dog Bed: Best Calming Design
MEKIY Orthopedic Washable Dog Bed with Bolster for Medium to Large Dogs
36x27 U-shape bolster
28D egg foam
2-year warranty
Pros
- U-shaped bolster creates a wraparound nest feeling
- 28D high-density foam resists compression over time
- OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certified materials
- Two-year warranty covers defects and foam issues
- Waterproof cover handles anxiety-related accidents
Cons
- Foam and bolsters feel softer than premium orthopedic options
- Color runs more blue than gray in person
- Vacuum-sealed foam takes time to break apart for assembly
The MEKIY’s U-shaped bolster is the closest design to a calming donut bed without being a full donut. Our anxiety-prone test dog, a rescue terrier who tends to pace at night, settled into the U-shape within two nights. The wraparound geometry seems to mimic the feeling of being held or tucked in.
The 28D foam density is on the higher end of what we’ve seen in this price range, which means it resists compression better than softer 25D foams. After six weeks of nightly use from a 50-pound dog, the foam still bounced back fully.
The 2-year warranty is unusual for a bed at this price. Most competitors offer 90 days to one year. The warranty card is included in the box and covers foam defects, cover stitching, and zipper failures.
Best for anxious rescue dogs and puppies in training
The U-shape gives anxious dogs a clear “safe zone” to nestle into. Many rescue dogs sleep better on beds with raised sides because the bolster mimics the walls of a crate or den, which reminds them of sleeping with their littermates.
The waterproof cover handles anxiety-related accidents, which is common with newly adopted dogs adjusting to a new home.
Best for owners who want warranty coverage
If your dog is tough on beds (digging, nesting, scratching), a 2-year warranty gives you a safety net. Most competitors only offer 90 days.
The main trade-off is initial assembly. The foam arrives vacuum-sealed and needs careful handling when breaking it apart. Once assembled, it’s solid.
8. CWAWZ Extra Large Dog Bed: Best Cooling Memory Foam
CWAWZ Extra Large Dog Bed, Orthopedic Dog Bed with Cooling Gel Memory Foam, Waterproof XL Pet Bed with Removable Washable Cover, 42″ Pet Sofa Couch Dutch Velvet with Bone Toy, Light Gray
42 inch XL
Cooling gel memory foam
Dutch velvet cover
Pros
- Cooling gel layer regulates temperature for hot-sleeping dogs
- 4-inch foam base provides premium orthopedic support
- Dutch velvet cover is luxuriously soft to the touch
- Waterproof TPU liner protects the foam from accidents
- Bone chew toy included for new dog owners
Cons
- Bed takes 48-72 hours to fully expand after unboxing
- Higher price point than most competitors in this size
- Some users report retaining odor over many months
The CWAWZ is the only bed in our lineup with a true cooling gel layer infused into the memory foam. Our heat-sensitive test dog, a 70-pound Lab who pants through most summer nights, slept noticeably cooler on this bed than on the standard memory foam options we tested.
The 4-inch foam depth is the thickest in our roundup, which makes a real difference for dogs over 70 pounds. When a heavy dog lies down, the foam needs enough depth to compress without bottoming out against the floor. The CWAWZ gave our test dog that “floating” support that lighter beds can’t match.
The Dutch velvet cover is one of the softest materials we tested, but it does require some maintenance. Velvet attracts pet hair more than microfiber or flannel, so we used a rubber glove to lift hair between washes.
Best for hot-sleeping breeds and thick-coated dogs
If your dog is a Husky, Golden Retriever, or other thick-coated breed that overheats at night, the cooling gel layer makes a noticeable difference. It’s not as cold as a true cooling mat, but it disperses body heat more effectively than standard memory foam.
The cooling effect works best in well-ventilated rooms. In a hot, unventilated space, no bed can fully compensate.
Best for owners willing to invest in premium support
At this price, you’re paying for the cooling gel, the 4-inch foam depth, and the Dutch velvet cover. For dogs over 70 pounds or dogs with serious joint issues, the extra thickness is worth it.
The 48 to 72-hour expansion time is annoying but normal for memory foam that ships compressed. Plan ahead and unbox the bed two to three days before your dog needs to use it.
9. NANUYA Orthopedic Dog Bed: Best Budget Pick
NANUYA Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large Dogs, 36 x 27 Inch, Light Grey
36x27 orthopedic
3-inch egg foam
3-sided bolster
Pros
- Most affordable orthopedic option in our roundup
- CertiPUR-US foam with OEKO-TEX certified cover
- Non-skid bottom keeps bed planted on smooth floors
- Two zippers make assembly and disassembly straightforward
- Waterproof layer on cover catches minor accidents
Cons
- Touch fastener that joins components may weaken over time
- Foam is 3 inches rather than the 4 inches in premium picks
- Limited size options for toy breeds
The NANUYA delivers genuine orthopedic support at one of the lowest prices we found for a 36×27 bolster bed. For owners who want CertiPUR-US foam and OEKO-TEX fabric without paying premium prices, this is the strongest value pick.
The 3-inch egg foam is on the thinner side of the orthopedic spectrum, but it’s high-density, which means it holds its shape better than 3-inch low-density foam. For dogs under 60 pounds, the support is more than adequate. For dogs over 70 pounds, you may want to step up to a 4-inch option like the CWAWZ.
The two-zipper design makes assembly easier than most competitors. Reviewers consistently mention how simple it is to put the cover back on after washing, which is a recurring pain point with similar beds.
Best for first-time bed buyers on a budget
If you’ve never bought an orthopedic dog bed before and aren’t sure whether your dog will use it, starting with a budget-friendly pick like the NANUYA is a smart move. The cost is low enough that you can upgrade later if needed.
The certifications (CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX) give you the same material safety as beds that cost twice as much.
Best for medium-sized breeds under 60 pounds
The 36×27 size fits dogs in the 30 to 60 pound range comfortably. For dogs under 25 pounds, the bed will feel oversized. For dogs over 70 pounds, the foam depth may not be sufficient.
The touch fastener design that joins bolster components is the main concern. After 18+ months of use, some reviewers report the fastener weakening. For owners who wash the cover weekly, this is worth noting.
10. INVENHO Orthopedic Dog Bed: Best for Chewers
INVENHO Orthopedic Dog Beds Large Sized, XL Washable Dog Sofa with Egg-Crate Foam, Waterproof Lining and Non-Skid Bottom
42x32 C-shape sofa
4-sided bolster
Egg foam + fish-scale plush
Pros
- C-shape design with full 4-sided bolster wraps the dog completely
- Fluff-filled bolsters are tough and resistant to scratching
- Fish-scale plush surface holds up to digging behavior
- Waterproof inner liner protects foam from chewing-related damage
- Available in XXL-PLUS for giant breeds
Cons
- Foam has a mild chemical smell on first unboxing
- Bolster feels softer than premium competitors
- Long-term durability questioned by some heavy chewers
The INVENHO is our pick for the best dog beds with sides for dogs who dig, scratch, and chew before settling in. Our test dog, a 60-pound pit mix who actively destroys soft toys, couldn’t shred the bolster fabric after eight weeks of nightly use. The fish-scale plush pattern seems to discourage chewing because there’s no obvious corner or seam to grip.
The C-shape design gives a wraparound feel similar to the WNPETHOME but with a 4-sided bolster rather than 3-sided. That means there’s a bolster behind the dog’s back as well as at the sides, which provides extra support for dogs who lean.
For owners of dogs with behavioral chewing, we also recommend checking our guide to dog beds for aggressive chewers for even tougher options. The INVENHO handles scratching and nesting but isn’t truly indestructible.
Best for dogs who scratch and nest before sleeping
Many dogs circle, scratch, and dig at their bed before lying down. The INVENHO’s fish-scale plush and fluff-filled bolsters hold up to this behavior far better than smooth microfiber covers, which can pill or tear under claws.
If your dog is a moderate chewer (scratches but doesn’t aggressively bite through fabric), this bed will last two to three years.
Best for giant breeds who need XXL sizing
The XXL-PLUS size fits dogs over 100 pounds, including Great Danes and English Mastiffs. Few competitors in this price range offer a true giant-breed size with a 4-sided bolster.
The main trade-off is the initial chemical smell on unboxing. Foam off-gassing is common in vacuum-sealed beds. Let it air out for 24 to 48 hours before letting your dog use it.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Bed With Sides
Choosing the best dog beds with sides comes down to matching four features to your dog: foam quality, bolster height, cover material, and bed size. Here’s what to look for in each category.
Foam quality matters most for orthopedic benefits. Look for CertiPUR-US certified memory foam or high-density egg-crate foam with at least 3 inches of depth for medium dogs and 4 inches for large breeds. Cheaper shredded foam compresses within months and stops supporting your dog’s joints.
Bolster height affects how easily your dog can step in. For senior dogs and small breeds, a 3 to 4 inch bolster with a lowered front entrance is easier to climb. For young, healthy dogs and side sleepers, a 4 to 5 inch full bolster gives better neck support.
Cover material determines durability and washability. Removable, machine-washable covers with hidden zippers are essential for managing shedding, accidents, and general grime. A waterproof inner liner is the single most useful feature for puppies, seniors, and any dog with occasional bladder issues.
Bed size should match your dog’s length from nose to tail, plus 6 to 12 inches of extra room. A bed that’s too small forces your dog to sleep with their legs hanging off the edge, which defeats the orthopedic purpose. Measure your dog while they’re lying flat and add room for stretching.
Best Dog Bed for Side Sleepers: What to Look For
Side sleepers are dogs who curl on their side or lie fully extended on their side with their head propped up. For these dogs, a bolster acts as a built-in pillow, and the height and firmness of that bolster determine whether it provides real support or just feels like decoration.
The best dog beds with sides for side sleepers have bolsters at least 3.5 inches tall, filled with memory foam rather than loose fiberfill, and ideally running along all four sides of the bed. A 3-sided design forces the dog to face one direction; a 4-sided design lets them rotate through their favorite sleeping positions without losing head support.
Firmness matters more than height. A soft bolster collapses under the weight of your dog’s head, which means their neck has to support itself. A memory foam bolster holds its shape and gives the neck something to lean against. This is the single biggest ergonomic difference between a budget bolster bed and a quality one.
If your dog sleeps exclusively on their side and tends to rest their head against walls or furniture, look for a 4-sided design like the Yiruka or INVENHO. If they sometimes sleep curled up and sometimes stretched out, a 3-sided design with a lowered front entrance offers more flexibility.
How We Chose the Best Dog Beds With Sides
Our team spent eight weeks testing 10 top-rated bolster and orthopedic dog beds with a panel of six dogs ranging from a 9-pound senior terrier to a 95-pound Labrador. We focused on three areas of evaluation: durability, comfort, and cleanability.
For durability, we tracked bolster shape retention after eight weeks of nightly use, foam compression after repeated weight loading, and cover integrity after weekly wash cycles. Beds that showed visible sagging or tearing within the test period were ranked lower regardless of their initial appeal.
For comfort, we observed which beds our test panel chose voluntarily. Dogs consistently chose the Bedsure, the Yiruka, and the INVENHO for daytime naps, which we interpreted as a strong comfort signal. We also tested bolster support by gently pressing the bolsters to simulate a dog’s head resting against them.
For cleanability, we ran each removable cover through five wash cycles and inspected for pilling, zipper failure, and color fading. We also tested waterproof liners by pouring small amounts of liquid on the surface and checking whether it reached the foam underneath.
Beyond our own testing, we aggregated more than 110,000 verified reviews across the 10 products and cross-referenced forum discussions on r/dogs, r/seniordogs, r/BuyItForLife, and breed-specific forums to identify recurring praise and complaint patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dog beds with sides better than flat beds?
Yes, dog beds with sides are better for most dogs. The raised bolsters support the head and neck, which reduces spine strain, and they create a den-like feeling that calms anxious dogs. Veterinarians recommend them especially for senior dogs, side sleepers, and breeds that lean when they rest.
What is the best dog bed for a side sleeper?
The best dog bed for a side sleeper is one with a 4-sided bolster filled with memory foam, at least 3.5 inches tall. A full 4-sided design lets the dog rest their head on any side as they rotate positions, and memory foam filling holds its shape better than loose fiberfill. Our top pick for side sleepers is the Yiruka Orthopedic Waterproof Dog Bed.
Are bolster beds good for dogs with arthritis?
Yes, bolster beds are good for dogs with arthritis when paired with proper orthopedic foam. Look for CertiPUR-US certified memory foam or high-density egg-crate foam with at least 3 inches of depth. A lowered front entrance is also important so arthritic dogs can step in without lifting their legs high.
How high should the bolsters be on a dog bed with sides?
Bolster height depends on your dog’s size and mobility. For small dogs and seniors, 3 to 4 inch bolsters with a lowered front entrance are ideal. For medium to large healthy breeds, 4 to 5 inch bolsters give better head and neck support. For side sleepers, taller is generally better as long as the dog can step over the front bolster.
Do dogs prefer round or square beds with raised sides?
Most dogs prefer square or rectangular beds with raised sides because the shape gives them room to stretch out while still providing a bolster on every side. Round bolster beds work well for true curlers who ball up tightly, but sprawlers and side sleepers generally choose rectangular designs.
What dog beds do vets recommend for senior dogs?
Veterinarians typically recommend orthopedic dog beds with CertiPUR-US certified memory foam or egg-crate foam, a lowered front entrance for easy access, a waterproof inner liner for accidents, and a removable washable cover. Our top pick for senior dogs is the WNPETHOME Orthopedic Washable Dog Bed because of its C-shape design and 3.5-inch egg foam base.
How do I clean a dog bed with raised bolsters?
Most quality dog beds with sides have a removable cover that unzips and can be machine washed on a gentle cycle. The foam insert should not be machine washed; instead, spot-clean it with mild soap and water and let it air dry completely. Trapped pet hair in bolster crevices can be removed with a rubber glove or pet hair removal tool.
Which dog beds with sides are best for crate training?
For crate training, choose a bed that fits the crate interior with 2 to 4 inches of space on each side. The JOYELF Memory Foam Dog Bed at 27 inches fits a standard 30-inch crate well. Make sure the bed is thin enough that the dog can stand up in the crate without their head touching the top.
Final Verdict
After eight weeks of testing and more than 110,000 reviews analyzed, our top pick for the best dog beds with sides in 2026 is the Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed. Its 4-sided bolster, CertiPUR-US egg-crate foam, OEKO-TEX-certified cover, and lowered front entrance make it the most well-rounded option for the widest range of dogs.
For owners on a budget, the JOYELF Memory Foam Dog Bed delivers real memory foam and durable construction at a lower price. For senior dogs, the WNPETHOME C-shape design is the easiest to step into. For side sleepers, the Yiruka’s 4-sided memory foam bolster provides the best neck support. And for hot-sleeping large breeds, the CWAWZ’s cooling gel layer is the strongest premium pick.
Whatever your dog’s age, size, or sleep style, the best dog beds with sides combine a supportive orthopedic base with raised bolsters that act as a headrest and a sense of security. Choose based on your dog’s specific needs, and you’ll have a bed they’ll use every night for years.