If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line dog bed, chances are you’ve heard of the Big Barker.
In our Big Barker orthopedic dog bed review, we’ll talk about all the features that helped make it so popular.
We’ll also discuss all the pros and cons (because even the best dog beds have drawbacks).
I’ll even give you a few of my favorite alternatives in case you decide that the Big Barker isn’t for you!
Let’s check it out!
Big Barker Bed Review
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Already know you want a Big Barker? Check out the table to find the right size!
| Size | Where to Buy | |
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Large (48 X 30 X 7) |  |
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Extra Large (52 X 36 X 7) | |
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Giant (60 X 48 X 7) | |
Okay, now let’s talk features, pros, cons, and alternatives to the 7″ Orthopedic Dog Bed style.
Top Features of the Big Barker 7″ Orthopedic Dog Bed
We’re going to spend a lot more time on the features as we get into the pros and cons, but let’s just take a peek at the ones that matter the most.
- As the name implies, the Big Barker 7″ Orthopedic bed is a dog bed made of bone- and joint-friendly materials, namely: memory foam.
- The 7″ refers to the depth of the memory foam.
- Basically, if you took a ruler and measured from the floor to the top of the main part of the bed (not included the head rest), it would be 7″, give or take a millimeter.
In addition, Big Barker promises:
- A bed that’s specially made for large dogs
- Memory foam that retains its shape and won’t turn into a pancake
- Materials made in the USA
- 10-year warranty to back it up.
As I said, we’ll delve into these a bit more in a minute. First, I think it’s a good idea to figure out if this is even potentially the right bed for your dog, as it’s not for every breed.
Which Dogs Benefit Most From the Big Barker Dog Bed?
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While the Big Barker is great for dogs of all ages (and most sizes, with a few exceptions below), it’s best for:
- Dogs who need the extra support that memory foam provides, including those with joint issues like arthritis
- Large, XL, and giant-breed dogs (think Golden Retriever to Great Dane)
- Pet parents who put “must have memory foam” at the top of their dog bed wish list.
- Dogs who sleep indoors
The Big Barker Bed is not ideal for:
As we’ve seen, the Big Barker is made specifically for large dogs. If you have a small breed dog, honestly, it’s way too much bed for them.
It’s also not ideal for dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors, as this bed won’t really hold up against the elements.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Big Barker may not be right for you, either. It’s not the cheapest bed. It’s also not the most expensive, though!
Now, let’s talk pros and cons!
Pros and Cons of the Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed
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While the Big Barker Dog bed definitely has some major pros, it also has some downsides. Let’s check out the detailed pros and cons.
Pros
1. Super comfy for dogs who need extra support
First and foremost, this bed is super comfy and supportive for older dogs, dogs with joint issues, and even just your growing puppy!
- It’s not just made with memory foam, it’s made with therapeutic foam. This is the same type of foam used in those expensive beds and couches for people!
- The bed is so supportive that even you could get comfy on it!
- The memory foam is “open cell,” so it allows air to circulate through it and keeps cool, compared to other “closed cell” foam that traps heat.
2. Designed for big dogs
As someone who has always had big dogs, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate Big Barker focusing their attention on the larger breeds.
I feel like everything is made for tiny “purse dogs” these days. Even the dog chews section of mass retailers is stocked full of “tiny,” “toy,” and “small dog” treats. It’s frustrating!
Big Barker’s beds are made just for large breeds. They do make a different small dog version (below in alternatives), but the 7″ Orthopedic bed is ONLY for large breeds.
If you think that’s not fair, just take a stroll through a pet supply shop and tell me again how “unfair” it is to have just one thing made specifically for large pups. 😀
3. Keeps its shape, guaranteed!
Memory foam is great…until it turns into a pancake. I’ve seen it happen with both dog beds and my own memory foam toppers.
- Fortunately, the memory foam in Big Barker beds is designed to keep its shape (up to 90%).
- If it doesn’t, they’ll give you your money back- even if it’s 9 years, 11 months, and 29 days later!
4. Made in the USA
After all the scares with sub-par products made in certain countries, I am very neurotic about choosing pet supplies that are made in the USA, Canada, and a few other very select countries.
The Big Barker beds are handmade in a small California workshop that’s been making artisan furniture for over 30 years. The materials are also sourced from the USA.
5. Easy to clean
When my German Shepherd was still with us, she started losing control of her bladder towards the end. Unfortunately, the dog beds we had then weren’t exactly easy to clean.
The machine washable, non-shrink microfiber cover on the Big Barker comes off easy, thanks to the zipper surrounding 75% of the bed.
They also offer a collection of liners and covers to help you extend the life of your Big Barker.
Cons
1. Not the most stylish option
While I think it looks fine (especially the burgundy), I’ve never really been all that picky about dog bed colors. My house isn’t exactly professionally designed.
If you’re looking for splashy bed with fun fabrics, you’re not going to love the style. It’s a bit plain for those with more exotic tastes.
It does come in four colors, though, including: burgundy (my favorite), gray, brown, and beige.
2. It’s a bit pricey
Perhaps the biggest con is the price, which starts at well over $200 for the large and hits into the high $300-range for the giant.
Keep in mind that it comes with a 10-year warranty. If you’re used to buying just one new bed every year, over time you’ll actually save money.
Still, I know a lot of us don’t have an extra $200-300 laying around to spend on a dog bed, so it’s definitely a drawback.
3. Not made for small dogs
I know that I said this was a pro, and it definitely is for me.
However, if you have a small dog and really want this bed, chances are it’s just not going to be a good fit. Literally.
If you’re thinking, “So what? I can still get it for my chihuahua, he’ll just have more room,” think again.
The foam is calibrated for big dogs, so it will feel hard and stiff to your toy breed. Plus, huge beds don’t exactly invoke feelings of security for the little guys.
4. Your dog just might not like it
A couple of years ago, when my Lab/Collie was still with us, I bought a fabulously thick and luxurious dog bed to support her aching joints.
Sadly, she wouldn’t touch it. It was just too high for her. It ended up becoming a very expensive cat bed!
I’m very leery now about buying expensive dog beds because I don’t really have the extra money to blow on something that my dog hates.
If you’re worried about this, too, I recommend buying a cheap dog bed that is similar in height to the Big Barker. If your dog uses it, great, move on to the better bed.
If not, well, at least you know!
If this Big Barker bed review has you convinced that the 7″ Orthopedic bed is right for your dog, head over to Amazon to grab the right size for your dog!
Not really feeling it? Read on for some alternatives!
Big Barker Dog Bed Alternatives
Big Barker makes a few different types of dog beds, so let’s talk about those, first. Then I’ll give you a few other alternative brands that I really like, too.
Other Big Barker Dog Beds
| Bed Style | Where to Buy | |
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Big Barker Sleek: Similar to the Big Barker, minus the head rest. A great option for those who want something a little more sleek. |  |
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Barker Junior: The small dog edition features 4″ of memory foam. |  |
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Big Barker Crate Bed: Orthopedic 4″ crate pad that comes in four sizes for all dog breeds. |  |
1. Big Barker Sleek
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The Big Barker Sleek is pretty much the same as the bed we’ve been talking about so far, minus the head rest.
- It’s a good option for those who just don’t like the look of the other bed, or for those who have dogs who simply prefer a flatter surface.
- Price-wise, you’ll spend up to $50 less on the sleek model, so that’s definitely a major consideration.
2. Barker Junior
While the 7″ Big Barker is designed for big dogs, they didn’t leave small dog parents out in the cold.
- The Barker Junior features 4″ of memory foam specially calibrated for dogs between 20-40 pounds.
- Like the Big Barker, it comes in three different sizes, so make sure you choose the right one for your pooch.
3. Big Barker Crate Pad
For those who just need something comfy for inside the crate, the Big Barker Crate Pad is a great option.
- The 4″ thick pad comes in sizes ranging from small to XL, so it’s not ideal for, say, a Great Dane, but a good option for just about all other size dogs.
- The cover is 100% waterproof, a must for crates!
Other Orthopedic Dog Beds
1. Best Big Budget Alternative: OMG Dog Bed
If you have a high budget and want the absolute best possible orthopedic dog bed, you’ll love the OMG bed from DogOnIt.
- It features all-season 7″ of memory foam that supports up to 300 lbs, so even the most gigantic dog breed can get comfy on it!
- The foam itself is made up of three different layers, including a gel layer, core foam, and a medical-grade memory foam base.
- It’s 100% non-toxic and comes with a Lifetime Warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- However, the price definitely reflects these fabulous features, making it the best option for those who have a no-holds-barred budget.
2. Best Mid-Range Alternative: Buddyrest
We recently did a full Buddyrest dog bed review, so check that out.
- If you recall, Buddyrest offers multiple options that come in right around the mid-range price (under $200 for some of the styles).
- These beds are quite durable, thanks to their Crypton fabric.
- They’re also super comfortable and supportive, with different styles for different needs.
3. Best Budget-Friendly Alternative: PetBed4Less
For this alternative, I narrowed beds down by 4 stars and up, then tried to find one that fit my criteria for “budget-friendly.”
I’m going to be honest with you, it’s incredibly hard to find a really good large dog bed under $100.
- PetBed4Less is an exception. They offer a great therapeutic memory foam bed made with the same material found in human mattresses.
- While the largest size does come in slightly over the $100 mark, the smaller sizes are well within “budget-friendly” ranges.
- The foam isn’t quite as thick as the higher-end alternatives, but still very cozy and comfy for even achy dogs.
Conclusion:
Let’s sum up this Big Barker bed review so you can get to shopping, shall we?
Bottom line, I love the Big Barker. I think it would be a great fit for my Pharaoh Hound, since she needs extra support due to her lack of body fat.
However, I will admit that it’s not exactly in my price range right now, and I can totally empathize if it’s not in yours.
If you do have wiggle room in your budget, though, you really can’t go wrong with this dog bed!
