The Big Barker dog bed was born out of a love for dogs and a frustration with the lack of quality options available for large breeds. In 2006, Eric Kane, a dog lover and entrepreneur, founded Oh My Dog Supply, a company dedicated to finding high-quality dog products made by small manufacturers.
Through Oh My Dog Supply, Kane became an expert in the dog bed industry, realizing that most beds weren’t supportive enough for big dogs. This was especially concerning for Kane, whose own Great Dane, Hank, was diagnosed with hip dysplasia as a puppy.
Determined to find a solution, Kane spent years researching and developing the Big Barker bed. He partnered with American manufacturers to create a bed made with high-quality, orthopedic foam that could withstand the weight and pressure of large dogs.
The Big Barker was officially launched in 2012, and it quickly gained a loyal following among dog owners. The bed’s unique design, featuring a supportive foam core and elevated base, was lauded for its ability to reduce pain and stiffness in dogs of all sizes.
In 2019, Big Barker partnered with the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine to conduct a clinical study on the effectiveness of the bed. The study found that dogs who slept on Big Barker beds for just 28 days showed significant improvements in pain, mobility, and quality of life.
Today, Big Barker is a leading brand in the orthopedic dog bed market. The company offers a variety of bed sizes and styles to suit the needs of all large and extra large dogs. They are also committed to using sustainable and eco-friendly practices in their manufacturing process.
Here are some key milestones in the history of Big Barker:
- 2006: Eric Kane founds Oh My Dog Supply.
- 2012: The Big Barker bed is launched.
- 2014: Big Barker begins offering a 10-year warranty on all beds.
- 2015: Big Barker expands its product line to include the Headrest and Sofa beds.
- 2016: Big Barker is named one of Inc. Magazine’s 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies.
- 2019: Big Barker partners with the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine to conduct a clinical study on the effectiveness of the bed.
- 2020: Big Barker launches the Junior bed for dogs under 50 pounds.
- 2021: Big Barker launches the Backseat Barker bed for SUV use.
The Big Barker dog bed is a testament to the power of innovation and compassion. It is a product that was created out of a genuine desire to help dogs, and it has made a real difference in the lives of countless furry friends.
The Big Barker dog bed is an orthopedic dog bed designed for large and extra large dogs. It is made with American-made foam that is clinically proven to reduce pain and stiffness, improve joint function and gait, and help dogs sleep better. The bed is also elevated, which helps to protect dogs’ joints and keep them cool.
The Big Barker dog bed comes in a variety of sizes and styles, including:
- Standard: 48″ x 36″ x 7″
- Headrest: 48″ x 36″ x 7″ with a 6″ headrest
- Sofa: 48″ x 36″ x 7″ with a 12″ bolster
- Junior: 36″ x 28″ x 4″ for dogs under 50 pounds
- Backseat Barker: 52″ x 28″ x 4″ for SUV use
The Big Barker dog bed is a bit more expensive than other dog beds on the market, but it is also backed by a 10-year warranty. It is a great option for dog owners who want to provide their furry friend with the best possible sleep.
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Big Barker dog bed:
Pros:
- Clinically proven to reduce pain and stiffness
- Improves joint function and gait
- Helps dogs sleep better
- Elevated to protect joints and keep dogs cool
- American-made foam
- 10-year warranty
Cons:
- More expensive than other dog beds on the market
- Not as portable as some other dog beds
If you are looking for a high-quality orthopedic dog bed for your large or extra large dog, the Big Barker dog bed is a great option.
The Big Barker is a premium memory foam dog bed that has outstanding Amazon reviews. I purchased an large size Big Barker to test out myself to compare against others in the market place. You will pay a premium for this dog bed but if you have a large dog, few others offer the support and durability of the Big Barker.
Ordering Your Big Barker
The Big Barker is sold exclusively through Amazon. Thankfully it is Prime eligible and doesn’t take all that long for it to arrive at your door. 2 days for Prime customers. It also arrives in a box much smaller than the bed itself. Below is a video of me unboxing the be bed and you can see how quickly it takes shape. I also purchased the waterproof cover that goes over the foam and inside the top cover.
Big Barker Findings
This bed is very similar in construction to some of the memory foam human mattresses I have reviewed. Although not as thick, the foam is CertiPur Certified which means that it is free of the following:
- Made without ozone depleters
- Made without PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP (“Tris”) flame retardants
- Made without mercury, lead and other heavy metals
- Made without formaldehyde
- Made without phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission
- Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million)
The vast majority of dog beds I see listed on Amazon are made in China. The Big Barker is Made in the USA. There’s no mystery about what’s inside. My dog is 13 years old and she sleeps most of her days. That means I want her to be sleeping on something that isn’t going to be harmful to her health.
Here’s a video of the inside of the mattress. The foam is not as soft as a typical memory foam mattress. It pushes back rather quickly. So, this is a mattress that you dog will sleep “on” rather than “in”.
Here’s how the Big Barker handles motion transfer. As you can see it has a little bit of bounce to it but still does a good job of containing motion. This probably doesn’t matter much for dogs since they sleep alone but still something to consider.
My Big Barker Recommendation
The Big Barker is a well-made bed but commands a high price. At $199 for a large plus $69 for the waterproof membrane, this is certainly an investment. However, you can expect this dog bed to last MUCH longer than a cheap bed made in China where the contents are uncertain. It also is substantial enough to support big dogs. A human under 160 lbs could easily sleep on this without having to worry about bottoming out.
If you have a dog that likes to rest their head against the arm of a couch or on a pillow, they also make a pillow top edition. Old dogs sleep much more than humans and investing in a quality bed will dramatically enhance their quality of life.
Disclosure: We aim to highlight products and services you might find interesting, and if you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue.
What Makes Big Barker So Popular?
Big Barker’s popularity stems from a combination of factors, including:
Proven Effectiveness:
- Clinical Study: A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine confirmed Big Barker’s effectiveness in reducing pain and stiffness, improving joint function and gait, and aiding sleep in large dogs with arthritis.
- Veterinarian Recommendations: Many veterinarians recommend Big Barker due to its orthopedic support and durability, especially for senior dogs or those with joint issues.
High-Quality Materials and Construction:
- American-made foam: Big Barker uses high-density, American-made orthopedic foam that is designed to last and provide proper support for large dogs.
- Elevated design: The elevated base helps keep dogs cool and off the ground, reducing pressure on their joints.
- Durable covers: Big Barker covers are made from tough materials that are resistant to scratching and chewing.
- 10-year warranty: Big Barker offers a 10-year warranty on all their beds, demonstrating confidence in their product’s quality and longevity.
Positive Customer Reviews and Buzz:
- Dedicated following: Big Barker has a loyal following of satisfied customers who praise the bed’s comfort, durability, and positive impact on their dogs’ health.
- Strong online presence: Big Barker has a strong online presence with positive reviews on various platforms, boosting its credibility and attracting new customers.
- Positive media coverage: Big Barker has been featured in various media outlets, further increasing brand awareness and trust.
Focus on Large and Extra-Large Breeds:
- Fills a market niche: Big Barker caters specifically to the needs of large and extra-large breeds, which can be challenging to find suitable beds for.
- Tailored sizes and styles: Big Barker offers a variety of bed sizes and styles to accommodate different sizes and preferences of large breeds.
Customer Service:
- Responsive and helpful: Big Barker is known for its responsive and helpful customer service, addressing inquiries and concerns promptly and efficiently.
Investment in Dog’s Wellbeing:
- Marketing message: Big Barker positions itself as an investment in a dog’s health and happiness, resonating with owners who prioritize their pet’s well-being.
While Big Barker may not be the most affordable option, its commitment to quality, effectiveness, and a niche market has garnered a loyal following and established it as a leading brand in orthopedic dog beds for large and extra-large breeds.
Here is a table of all Big Barker dog beds and their prices:
Dog Bed | Size | Price | Image |
---|---|---|---|
Big Barker Headrest Edition | 48″ x 36″ x 7″ | $399.95 | |
Big Barker Sleek Edition | 48″ x 36″ x 7″ | $279.95 | |
Big Barker Sofa Edition | 48″ x 36″ x 7″ | $279.95 | |
Big Barker Junior Headrest Edition | 36″ x 28″ x 4″ | $129.95 | |
Backseat Barker SUV Edition | 52″ x 28″ x 4″ | $179.95 | |
4″ Orthopedic Crate Pad | Various | Starting at $59.95 |
Please note that the prices listed above are the base prices for each dog bed. The actual price of a dog bed may vary depending on the size, color, and style that you choose. Additionally, Big Barker often offers discounts and promotions, so you may be able to find a dog bed for a lower price than the listed price.
Big Barker Complaints
While Big Barker dog beds are generally well-regarded, there have been some complaints from customers. Here are some of the most common issues raised:
Price: Big Barker beds are significantly more expensive than many other dog beds on the market. Some customers feel that the price is not justified, especially considering that there are other high-quality dog beds available for a fraction of the cost.
Size: Big Barker beds are only available in a limited number of sizes. Some customers have found that the beds are not large enough for their dogs, while others have found that they are too large for their living space.
Chewing: The covers of Big Barker beds are not chew-proof. Some customers have reported that their dogs have chewed through the covers, which can be expensive to replace.
Shipping: Big Barker beds are only shipped within the United States. Customers who live outside of the United States will need to find another source for a Big Barker bed.
Customer service: Some customers have reported having difficulty reaching Big Barker customer service or getting their questions answered.
It is important to note that these are just a few of the complaints that have been reported about Big Barker dog beds. It is also important to remember that many customers are very happy with their Big Barker beds and find them to be worth the investment.
Here are some additional things to consider when reading about Big Barker complaints:
- The vast majority of Big Barker customers are happy with their beds.
- Many of the complaints that have been reported are about the price of the beds.
- Some of the complaints may be due to user error, such as not choosing the right size bed or not properly supervising the dog while they are on the bed.
- Big Barker is a small company, and they may not always have the resources to provide the same level of customer service as a larger company.
Overall, Big Barker dog beds are a high-quality product that can be a great investment for dog owners who are looking for a supportive and comfortable bed for their furry friend. However, it is important to be aware of the potential downsides of these beds before making a purchase.
Dog Beds Similar to Big Barker
Several dog beds offer similar features and benefits to Big Barker, catering to large and extra-large breeds. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Orthopedic Support:
- PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed: Features solid memory foam, a non-skid base, and a wraparound cushion for headrest. More affordable than Big Barker, but some owners report durability issues with zippers and covers.
- Casper Dog Bed: Combines pressure-relieving memory foam with durable support foam. Designed by the Casper mattress team, but the mattress might be too thin for large breeds.
- FurHaven Quilted Faux Fur Velvet Goliath Chaise Lounge Dog Bed: Luxuriously soft with orthopedic foam and elevated design. Specifically designed for large breeds like Bullmastiffs and Great Danes.
- Bully Beds Bully Bed Orthopedic Waterproof Dog Beds: Memory foam mattress similar to Big Barker, but comes with a 20-year warranty and non-toxic CertiPUR-US certified foam.
Elevated Design:
- Yeti Dog Bed: High-end option with a waterproof, chew-resistant exterior and elevated sleeping surface. More expensive than Big Barker, but some users report concerns about breathability.
- Orvis Memory Foam Bolster Bed: Elevated design with bolsters around the edges for support and comfort. Comes in a variety of colors and sizes.
- FurHaven Pet Bed Two-Tone Faux Fur Suede Deluxe Chaise Lounge Dog Bed: L-shaped bolsters offer support and a cozy nook for cuddling. Affordable option with soft materials and easy-to-care-for features.
Cooling features:
- Newton Baby Dog Bed: Waterproof and machine washable cooling cover with a supportive foam core. More expensive than Big Barker, but the open weave cover promotes airflow and cool sleep.
- Kuranda All-Weather Elevated Dog Bed: Durable vinyl bed with a slatted bottom for air circulation. Affordable option with chew-resistant and weatherproof features.
Other factors to consider:
- Price: Big Barker beds are on the higher end, so consider your budget when comparing alternatives.
- Size and weight of your dog: Choose a bed that can comfortably accommodate your dog’s size and weight.
- Your dog’s chewing habits: If your dog is a chewer, opt for a bed with a durable cover or consider adding a protective mat.
- Warranty: Big Barker offers a 10-year warranty, while other brands may offer shorter warranties or none at all.
Ultimately, the best dog bed for your furry friend depends on your individual needs and preferences. Weigh the pros and cons of each option and consider factors like price, features, and durability before making a decision.
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1 thought on “Big Barker Dog Bed Review”
I rescued a young dog from the shelter. I wanted him to have a superior dog bed that didn’t leave lumps after a few days. I’m so glad I found Big Barker’s website. I got wonderful service and a dog bed that my dog absolutely loves. Thank you Big Barker!!!