Orthopedic Dog Beds

With their best interest in mind, we always want to choose the best things for our dog and their safety, health, and well-being. We want our pet dogs to be always happy, which means that they are feeling safe and secured, healthy and fit, and comfortable.

Just like as humans, as dogs age, they become more prone to orthopedic problems such as arthritis, bone injuries, soft tissue injuries, generalized muscle loss due to old age, and other joint problems. Because of this natural phenomena as dogs become older, it is important to give your loyal dog the comfort he needs and deserves.

Orthopedic dog beds are designed to support the joints, the back, and the overall body of dogs. An orthopedic dog bed is more than just your typical dog bed, because it addresses dogs’ orthopedic needs. It also takes away painful pressure points your dog may be experiencing. The foam of orthopedic dog beds molds to your dog’s body shape, and this gives him and his muscles and bones the right support. It also reacts to the dog’s weight such that it gives maximum support and comfort.

What features, then, puts Orthopedic dog beds apart from ordinary dog beds? Tracy McKenzie of the Animal Rehabilitation Center in Toronto said that dog beds that address orthopedic needs should have a high-quality foam (or very soft material) minimum of 2 inches, and should also accommodate the pressure points on the parts of the body where bony protrusions are. Unlike typical dog beds, what makes Orthopedic dog beds also special is that they do not usually become indented and lumpy; meaning, there is no requirement of fluffing them up at times.

An orthopedic dog bed uses memory foam, that is different from an ordinary and traditional mattress because it is able to respond to the weight and the shape of the dog. It molds perfectly to the body shape of every dog that it allows muscles, joints, the spine, and the whole skeletal system to comfortably rest in the most natural and cozy position. Not having pressure points means that there will be less discomfort and restless nights, and reduced pain.

Think about the times you slept on an uncomfortable bed or mattress, and woke up the next day stiff and with sore muscles… that is, if you even got to sleep in the first place. We do not want our dogs, our old dogs especially, to experience the same thing. So, as responsible pet owners, it is our duty to address the needs for good health and comfort of our dogs.

Here are two most important things you should consider before buying an orthopedic dog bed.

• Size of your dog: How big or small your dog is greatly affects your decision of choosing the best dog bed for your pet. It is important to make sure that the bed is enough for the dog to fully stretch. You may consult a bed sizing chart for your dog to determine which dog bed size is the most appropriate for your pet.
• Quality of the dog bed: Dog beds made from high quality materials do not only last longer, but also gives your pet the optimal comfort and support he needs and deserves.