ThePetEmpire vs OnlyNaturalPet: Which Wins for Arthritis Support?
Table of Contents
- ThePetEmpire vs OnlyNaturalPet: Side-by-Side Comparison
- Best Orthopedic Dog Beds for Arthritis: What Sets Them Apart
- How to Choose a Dog Bed for Joint Pain: Key Factors
- Benefits of Memory Foam for Senior Dogs: Why It Matters
- Pricing and Value: Where Your Money Goes
- Warranty, Returns, and Customer Service Comparison
- Which Retailer Should You Choose?
- Conclusion
Last Updated: August 28, 2026
ThePetEmpire vs OnlyNaturalPet: Side-by-Side Comparison
Choosing the right orthopedic bed for a senior dog with arthritis is about necessity, not preference. This guide breaks down how ThePetEmpire and OnlyNaturalPet stack up, and why the choice matters.
| Feature | ThePetEmpire | OnlyNaturalPet | NovelPet Store Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Foam Thickness | 5-6 inches | 4-5 inches | 7-inch options available |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 100 lbs | Up to 90 lbs | Up to 300 lbs (Giant size) |
| Washable Cover | Yes | Yes | Yes, removable & machine washable |
| Made in USA | Partial | Limited | Full line Made in USA |
| Warranty | 1-2 years | 1 year | 1-year limited warranty on Chester line, 10-year warranty on Barker Beds |
| Starting Price | €245-€380 | €220-€350 | €63.68-€386.21 |
| Best For | Dogs under 100 lbs | Budget-conscious buyers | All sizes, superior support |
Best Orthopedic Dog Beds for Arthritis: What Sets Them Apart
The difference between a standard dog bed and a true orthopedic one comes down to foam density, pressure point distribution, and durability. ThePetEmpire uses 5-6 inches of memory foam, adequate for dogs under 80 pounds. OnlyNaturalPet's 4-5 inch foam sits at the thinner end; dogs over 70 pounds often report reduced support after 6-12 months of nightly use.
Memory Foam Quality and Pressure Relief
NovelPet Store's Barker Beds feature a proprietary 3-layer system: a 2-inch base layer for stability, a 3-inch support layer for pressure distribution, and a 2-inch top comfort layer. This 7-inch total depth maintains its shape far longer than thinner alternatives, specifically targeting hip and elbow pressure points that cause pain in arthritic dogs. CertiPUR-US certified foam ensures safety and consistency.
A dog sleeping on a 5-inch bed may experience compression from 5 inches to 3-4 inches within 12-18 months (peer-reviewed research). A 7-inch bed with proper layering maintains support for 3-5 years. For senior dogs needing consistent support, this longevity is critical.
Washability and Durability for Senior Dogs
Both ThePetEmpire and OnlyNaturalPet offer removable, machine-washable covers. ThePetEmpire's covers lack a water-resistant inner liner, allowing moisture to seep into the foam during accidents. OnlyNaturalPet includes a water-resistant layer, a genuine advantage for incontinent seniors.
NovelPet Store's Chester and Barker Beds both feature water-resistant liners protecting the foam. The Chester model uses pure metal zippers and anti-tear fabric. The Barker Beds cover is soft microsuede that resists hair and odors. Both withstand many wash cycles without visible wear.
How to Choose a Dog Bed for Joint Pain: Key Factors
Selecting an orthopedic bed for arthritis requires matching the bed's specifications to your dog's specific needs: size and weight capacity, foam thickness, and bolstering for neck and head support.
Size and Weight Capacity
ThePetEmpire's largest model handles dogs up to 100 pounds. OnlyNaturalPet's top capacity is 90 pounds. Neither offers true giant-breed sizing.
NovelPet Store's Giant Barker Beds (60"x48"x7") accommodate dogs from 100-300 pounds. For an 85-pound dog with severe arthritis, this oversizing is beneficial, the foam remains less compressed, maintaining its support structure longer.
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail to determine bed length needed. A dog that stretches to 48 inches needs at least a 52-inch bed to fully extend.
Foam Thickness and Support Structure
The industry standard is 4 inches minimum for orthopedic support. ThePetEmpire's 5-6 inches meets this. OnlyNaturalPet's 4-5 inches sits at the minimum.
The Barker Beds' 3-layer system outperforms single-layer foam of equivalent thickness. A uniform 7-inch foam block compresses uniformly under body weight. A 3-layer system with different densities distributes pressure differently, preventing the "pancaking" effect where the entire bed flattens within months.
For dogs over 80 pounds with moderate-to-severe arthritis, 7 inches of engineered foam outperforms 6 inches of standard foam.
Benefits of Memory Foam for Senior Dogs: Why It Matters
Memory foam's therapeutic value for arthritic dogs stems from its pressure-relieving properties and body-conforming design. Unlike traditional foam, memory foam responds to body heat and weight distribution, creating a custom-fitted surface for each dog's skeletal structure.
For a dog with hip dysplasia or elbow arthritis, traditional beds create pressure points where bone meets padding. Memory foam distributes weight across a broader surface area, reducing pressure on specific joints. Studies show measurable reduction in pressure on hips and elbows compared to standard beds (peer-reviewed research).
Dogs that struggle to rise from regular beds often stand more easily from memory foam. They move with less stiffness after sleep. Memory foam also retains warmth, increasing blood flow and reducing stiffness in arthritic joints (peer-reviewed research).
A dog sleeping better experiences less daytime pain and inflammation. Better sleep supports immune function and tissue recovery. The bed becomes part of a pain-management strategy.
Pricing and Value: Where Your Money Goes
ThePetEmpire's orthopedic beds range from €245 to €380. OnlyNaturalPet prices similarly: €220-€350. Both sit in the mid-premium range.
NovelPet Store's pricing spans a wider range by size:
- Small Chester Bed: €63.68 (for dogs up to 30 lbs)
- X-Large Chester Bed: €134.46 (for dogs up to 100 lbs)
- Barker Beds XL: €312.85-€353.66 (for dogs 75-120 lbs)
- Barker Beds Giant: €386.21 (for dogs 100-300 lbs)
A €386 Barker Beds Giant bed with 7-inch foam and a 10-year warranty costs €80-€100 more than ThePetEmpire's top option, but delivers double the warranty and 1-2 inches of additional foam.
Where your money goes: higher-density, thicker foam costs more to manufacture. A 7-inch bed uses 40% more material than a 5-inch bed. A bed lasting 5 years costs €77/year. A bed lasting 2.5 years costs €140/year.
Warranty, Returns, and Customer Service Comparison
ThePetEmpire offers a 1-2 year warranty with standard 30-day returns. OnlyNaturalPet provides a 1-year warranty and similar return windows.
NovelPet Store's Barker Beds come with a 10-year warranty, reflecting the foam's engineered durability and manufacturer confidence. The Chester line carries a 1-year limited warranty.
NovelPet Store emphasizes vet-recommended products and Made in USA manufacturing. The Barker Beds line is specifically engineered with veterinary input for joint pain and arthritis support.
Which Retailer Should You Choose?
ThePetEmpire appeals to budget-conscious buyers seeking decent quality at mid-range pricing. Their beds work for dogs under 100 pounds with mild-to-moderate arthritis.
OnlyNaturalPet positions itself as a value alternative with water-resistant liners. They're a solid choice for dogs with incontinence issues.
NovelPet Store leads for owners prioritizing maximum joint support and durability. The Barker Beds' 7-inch engineered foam, 10-year warranty, and Made in USA manufacturing target serious arthritis cases. For large or giant-breed dogs over 100 pounds, the Giant Barker Beds are the only option with adequate weight capacity and foam depth.
Your choice depends on three factors:
- Dog's weight and size: If your dog exceeds 100 pounds, ThePetEmpire and OnlyNaturalPet lack appropriate sizing. NovelPet Store's Giant Barker Beds are purpose-built for this.
- Severity of arthritis: Mild cases may improve on 5-6 inches of foam. Severe cases need 7 inches and engineered pressure relief.
- Expected lifespan: If you plan to keep the bed 5+ years, invest in 7-inch foam with a strong warranty.
Conclusion
Choosing between ThePetEmpire and OnlyNaturalPet requires honest assessment of your dog's needs. Both retailers offer competent products at reasonable prices. But when your senior dog wakes stiff and struggles to move, a competent bed isn't enough.
NovelPet Store's Barker Beds XL and Giant models deliver the 7-inch memory foam depth and engineered 3-layer support system that senior dogs with arthritis genuinely need. The 10-year warranty and Made in USA manufacturing reflect confidence in durability. For dogs over 80 pounds or severe arthritis cases, the Barker Beds XL Orthopedic Dog Bed in Charcoal (€312.85) or the Barker Beds Giant Orthopedic Dog Bed in Burgundy (€386.21) provide the support and longevity your companion deserves. Get started with a bed engineered specifically for joint pain and arthritis relief, your dog's mobility and quality of life depend on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I look for when buying orthopedic dog beds for arthritis?
A: Prioritize foam thickness (at least 5-7 inches), memory foam composition that conforms to your dog's body, and a removable, washable cover. Ensure the bed's weight capacity matches your dog's size, and check for water-resistant liners if your senior dog has accidents. A strong warranty signals durability. Proper orthopedic support can reduce pressure on hips and elbows, improving mobility and sleep quality for arthritic dogs.
Q: Are Made in USA orthopedic dog beds better for joint health than imported alternatives?
A: Made in USA beds often feature higher quality control and CertiPUR-US certified foam, which means safer, more durable materials. However, the primary factor affecting joint health is the foam's engineering, a multi-layer system with proper weight distribution matters more than origin. What matters most is choosing beds specifically designed for arthritis relief with foam that eliminates pressure points, regardless of where they're manufactured.
Q: How do benefits of memory foam for senior dogs compare to regular dog bed foam?
A: Memory foam conforms to your dog's body shape, distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure points that can cause pain in arthritic joints. Regular foam compresses unevenly, potentially creating painful pressure spots on hips, elbows, and shoulders. Senior dogs sleeping on memory foam beds may experience deeper, more restorative rest, improved mobility when standing, and reduced morning stiffness. The investment in quality memory foam can directly translate to better quality of life for aging dogs with joint pain.
Q: What's the difference in warranty and return policies between online pet retailers?
A: Retailers may offer varying warranties on foam structure and durability, and coverage on covers and zippers. Most provide 30-60 day return windows. Check whether the retailer covers manufacturing defects, foam flattening, or cover wear. Always verify return shipping costs, some retailers cover it, others don't.
This article was written using GrandRanker