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The short answer: Both Big Barker beds are top tier for joint support, but the Headrest is better for dogs who love to rest their heads on something, while the Pillow Top is better for dogs who sprawl or prefer a flat, plush surface. The Headrest offers a raised bolsters, ideal for neck support and a sense of security; the Pillow Top provides a wide, flat sleeping area with extra cushioning. Choose based on your dog’s sleep position and age.
Big Barker is known for its clinical grade foam, which is designed to support joints and alleviate pressure points, especially for large breeds like Labs, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds. Their beds are tested to maintain shape for 10 years, and they come with a 10 year warranty, which is nearly unheard of in the dog bed industry. Both the Headrest and Pillow Top use the same base foam, so the core support is identical. The difference lies in the top layer and the bolsters.
If you are still exploring options, our best dog beds guide covers other top rated choices, but Big Barker is a solid investment for large dogs with joint issues.
The Big Barker Headrest bed features a raised bolster on three sides (the headrest is taller) and an open side for easy access. This design is perfect for dogs that like to curl up or rest their head on a raised surface. The bolster supports the neck and head, which can reduce stress on the cervical spine. It also gives a sense of security, similar to a den, which can help anxious dogs sleep better.
Ideal for: dogs over 50 pounds, especially seniors or those with arthritis, who need extra neck support. If your dog often sleeps with their head on a toy or the arm of the couch, they’ll love the headrest. The taller headrest is also great for dogs that like to prop their head up while lying down.
One downside: the bolster takes up space, so the sleep surface is slightly smaller than the Pillow Top. If your dog loves to stretch out fully, they might find the Headrest confining, but many dogs adapt quickly.
The Big Barker Pillow Top bed is a flat, rectangular bed with an extra thick, plush top layer (the “pillow top”) that is sewn on top of the base foam. This adds an extra layer of softness without sacrificing support. There are no bolsters, so the entire surface is open, making it ideal for dogs that sleep in every direction: on their back, side, or sprawled out. The flat surface also makes it easier for very large dogs to stretch and change positions without feeling restricted.
Ideal for: dogs that like to spread out, have a more independent sleep style, or run hot and want a cooler surface. The pillow top is also a better choice for dogs that like to dig or nest, as the plush cover can be easily removed and washed.
One downside: without a bolster, there’s no head or neck support. If your dog rests their head on objects, they might not be as comfortable. Also, the pillow top adds some height, so older dogs with mobility issues may have a slightly higher step up, but still manageable.
Support: Both have the same base foam, so joint support is equal. The Headrest adds cervical support, the Pillow Top offers uniform surface support.
Space: The Pillow Top has a larger flat surface area because it has no bolsters. Measure your dog’s sleeping length and compare to the bed dimensions. Big Barker offers sizes like Large (48″x30″) and XL (60″x40″). The Headrest uses some of that space for bolsters, so the effective flat area is smaller.
Maintenance: Both have removable, machine washable covers. The Headrest has multiple pieces (bolsters, base, cover) that may be slightly more cumbersome to wash, but it’s still manageable. The Pillow Top cover is a single piece, easier to remove and put back on.
Durability: Both are built to last with high quality stitching and zippers. The foam is the same, so long term support is identical.
Observe your dog for a few nights. Do they curl up in a ball? Then the Headrest is likely better. Do they stretch out like a starfish? Then the Pillow Top is the way to go. Do they rest their head on the side of their current bed? That’s a sign they want the Headrest. If they are a senior with arthritis, either works, but the Headrest may provide extra comfort for neck pain. If they are a puppy that will grow into a giant, the Pillow Top gives them more room to grow.
Also consider your home environment. The Headrest gives a cozy, nested feel, while the Pillow Top looks more like a mattress and can blend into any decor. Both are heavy and durable, so they won’t slide around much.
A: For many owners, yes. The clinical grade foam and 10 year warranty mean you won’t have to replace it as often as cheaper beds. If your dog has joint issues, the support can improve their quality of life. However, if your dog is a light sleeper or doesn’t have joint problems, you might be fine with a mid range bed.
A: You should not machine wash the foam. Only the covers are removable and washable. The foam can be spot cleaned with mild soap and water, but air dry thoroughly. The covers are designed to be durable and withstand regular washing.
A: The Pillow Top is generally better for back sleepers because it offers a flat, plush surface. The Headrest might cause the dog’s head to tilt if they lie on their back, which could be uncomfortable. But some back sleepers still enjoy the Headrest for the security of the bolsters.
In conclusion, both Big Barker beds are excellent. Think about your dog’s personality and comfort preferences. You can’t go wrong, but choosing the right shape will maximize their sleep quality. For more comparisons and alternatives, check our comprehensive dog bed guide.
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