A dog spends 12–14 hours a day sleeping. For a Boerboel, the quality of that surface directly affects joint health, sleep quality, and behaviour. Thin padding on a hard floor is a slow-developing health problem for large breeds.
With an average lifespan of 11 years, joint issues often appear earlier in Boerboels than in longer-lived breeds. Investing in a quality orthopedic bed from adulthood — not just when problems appear — is the right approach.
We selected the best beds for Boerboels across four categories — orthopedic, calming, elevated, and travel — based on size match, washability, durability, and long-term value.
Disclosure: We earn a small commission on qualifying purchases. This doesn’t affect our rankings.
Quick Comparison: Best Beds for Boerboels
| Bed | Price | Type | Award |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Barker 7” Orthopedic Dog Bed | $239.95 | orthopedic | 🥇 Top pick |
| Friends Forever Orthopedic Dog Bed Lounge | $79.99 | orthopedic | |
| FurHaven Ultra Plush Luxe Lounger | $44.99 | plush | |
| PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed | $119.95 | orthopedic | |
| Casper Dog Bed | $125.00 | orthopedic |
What Boerboels Need in a Dog Bed
Size
Boerboels typically need beds measuring 42–54 inches. Measure your dog stretched out and add 10 inches. Don’t be fooled by “large” labelling — always check the actual dimensions.
Joint support
For large breeds like the Boerboel, orthopedic foam of at least 4 inches is the minimum. Budget beds with 1–2 inches of polyester fill provide almost no benefit and compress within weeks.
Washability
Monthly washing is usually sufficient. Still choose a removable, washable cover.
Waterproofing
An inner waterproof liner (under the removable cover) protects the foam from accidents, spills, and wet paws. Non-negotiable for large breeds who spend time outdoors.
Our Top Picks
1. Big Barker 7” Orthopedic Dog Bed — Best Orthopedic for Boerboels
$239.95 | ★★★★★ 4.7/5
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The only dog bed backed by a clinical study — worth every cent for large breed seniors
Why it’s right for Boerboels:
- Best long-term investment
- Clinical study backing
- Won’t flatten over time
Watch out for:
- Very expensive upfront
- Heavy and bulky
Long-term value: A quality orthopedic bed lasts 3–5 years and directly reduces vet bills associated with joint deterioration. The cost per day is typically under $0.20.
2. Friends Forever Orthopedic Dog Bed Lounge — Best for Anxious Boerboels
$79.99 | ★★★★★ 4.5/5
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Best mid-range orthopedic — great for dogs who don’t need clinical-grade support
Features:
- Premium memory foam
- Waterproof inner lining
- Removable washable cover
Signs your Boerboel needs a calming bed: Circling before lying down, sleeping pressed against walls, panting at night, whining, or refusing to settle in their current sleeping area.
3. FurHaven Ultra Plush Luxe Lounger — Best Elevated/Outdoor Option
$44.99 | ★★★★☆ 4.4/5
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Best affordable comfort bed — ideal for dogs who just want cozy
- Ultra-plush velvet top
- Egg crate foam base
When to choose elevated: Warm climates, dogs who overheat, outdoor use, or dogs with joint problems who find it easier to rise from an elevated surface.
4. PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed — Best Travel Bed
$119.95 | ★★★★★ 4.6/5
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Best certified orthopedic — CertiPUR-US foam gives confidence in materials
- CertiPUR-US certified foam
- Water resistant liner
Boerboel Bed Sizing Guide
| Your Boerboel’s Length | Bed Size Needed |
|---|---|
| Up to 28” | Medium (36”) |
| Up to 34” | Large (42”) |
| 34”+ | XL (48”+) |
Measure nose-to-tail while your Boerboel is fully stretched out, then add 10 inches.
Joint Health & Sleep: What the Research Says
Dogs with adequate sleeping surface support show measurably lower signs of joint pain. For large breeds like the Boerboel:
- Hard floors increase joint inflammation over time — concrete is the worst
- Orthopaedic foam 4”+ thick reduces peak pressure on hips and shoulders
- Memory foam conforms to body shape but may provide insufficient resistance for heavy large breeds — thicker orthopedic foam is often better
- Elevated beds reduce floor-level temperature and improve air circulation — beneficial in warmer climates
The Big Barker brand is the only dog bed backed by a published clinical study showing reduction in joint pain and improved mobility in large breed dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How big should my Boerboel’s bed be? A: Measure your Boerboel from nose to tail while sleeping, then add 10 inches. For Boerboels that curl, consider a calming or donut-style bed sized to their body.
Q: At what age should I switch to an orthopedic bed? A: Ideally from adulthood (18 months). Don’t wait for arthritis to appear — prevention is significantly more effective than treatment.
Q: How often should I wash my Boerboel’s bed? A: Monthly washing is usually sufficient. Still choose a removable, washable cover.
Q: Do dogs actually prefer orthopedic beds? A: Most dogs actively choose orthopedic beds over thin padding once they experience the difference. You’ll notice more restful sleeping, less position-changing overnight, and easier rising.
Q: Where should I put my Boerboel’s bed? A: Away from drafts and direct heat vents. Boerboels prefer sleeping where they can see the main room entrance — place the bed against a wall with a sightline to the door.
Q: Is a cheap bed better than no dedicated bed? A: Barely. A $15 polyester-fill bed that compresses within weeks is only marginally better than a blanket on the floor. If budget is a constraint, look for mid-range foam options (FurHaven, Friends Forever) rather than budget-tier polyester.
Q: My Boerboel destroys beds. What survives? A: Elevated mesh beds (Coolaroo, K&H) are the most destruction-resistant. Alternatively, line a crate with a thick orthopedic mat that can’t be pulled out.
Our Verdict
For most Boerboel owners, the orthopedic option — Big Barker 7” Orthopedic Dog Bed — is the highest-value bed investment. The joint health benefit alone justifies the cost over cheap alternatives.
Add a calming bed (Friends Forever Orthopedic Dog Bed Lounge) if your Boerboel shows any anxiety signs, or an elevated option (FurHaven Ultra Plush Luxe Lounger) for warm climates or outdoor setups.
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