As your dog gets older, it’s likely that he may develop Canine Arthritis or Hip Dysplasia, especially if he is overweight or a larger breed. You may not be aware of the different types of dog beds and what it is that your dog might require.
An orthopedic dog bed can be used as a way to delay the onset of some common problems in older or overweight dogs, such as Hip Dyslpasia and Arthritis. There are some breeds that are susceptible to these problems and you may wish to purchase an orthopedic dog bed to give your dog comfort before it’s too late. Orthopedic dog beds support the dog’s joints and help alleviate the pain of Hip Dysplasia and Arthritis.
There are a few different types of orthopedic dog beds, different fillings are used. Memory foam is made from durable, elastic foam and has the ability to form to the shape of the dog and mold itself to the dog’s contours, then it restores to its original shape. You can also get gel-filled mattresses although the memory foam is better as it conforms to the body. Most orthopedic dog beds are constructed from a wooden frame with the memory foam mattress inserted.
Orthopedic Dog Beds are lower to the ground which reduces the injuries sustained from jumping up and down from a bed or couch. Because the memory foam is light weight, the whole bed is reasonably easy to move around as it is not too heavy.
If you have a large dog, it’s best if they have a large dog bed of their own. When you find that your dog is constantly getting on the sofa and making a mess with all the dog hair, it’s definitely time to invest in a large dog bed. These days you can get large dog beds that look like real furniture so they don’t look out of place in your home.
Larger breeds need extra cushioning as they are prone to Arthritis and Hip Dysplasia, therefore sleeping on the floor isn’t really an option with a large dog. When buying a large dog bed, you need to think about how your dog sleeps. Does he curl up or spread out, possibly a little of both depending on the weather and other factors.
Once again memory foam beds are the best option, they have a higher price tag but last a lot longer than the cheaper dog beds and they are great for relieving aches and pains. Different material designs are also available so you should be able to find one that fits in with your decor so they can look like part of the furniture rather than a sloppy old mattress or sofa. Covers can also be taken off for ease of washing.
Specialised dog beds are also needed for small dogs. Dachshunds and other breeds with long backs are frequently troubled by back problems, usually caused by jumping therefore a dog bed all of their own, close to the floor is essential.
Even with a coat of fur, some dogs still feel the cold, they need a little extra warmth to get them through the night. As your dog gets older, it may be feeling arthritic and be in some pain, therefore a heated dog bed may be just what the doctor/vet ordered.
Heated dog beds keep a constant temperature and are designed to keep the temperature at a safe level at all times. Heated dog beds have controls that give you several setting choices. Some more expensive brands are thermostatically controlled thereby keeping a consistent temperature, varying only by a degree or two. Heated orthopedic dog beds are great for older dogs or dogs with Arthritis or Hip Dysplasia providing warmth in the colder months, the orthopedic dog beds are made from memory foam and the warmth from a heated dog bed can loosen the muscles and make them more comfortable. You can also get heated mats for outside use, pillow beds with an internal heater and oval beds for smaller breeds. There is also the thermo-wave microwavable dog bed warmer that is placed in the microwave and then into your dog’s bed and will stay warm up to twelve hours.
You need to check how comfortable the heated dog bed is, the last thing your dog wants is to be able to feel the heating materials through the mattress. The mattress stills needs to be of a hardy material with a good, solid foam – memory foam is the best.
You will need to look out for the cord, look for a steel-wrapped cord or simply cover it with some hose or conduit just in case your dog is a ‘chewer’. Look out for a heated dog bed with a removable cover for ease of washing, preferably it will be machine washable. The cover also needs to be of a durable material to keep any clawing or biting in check.
Waterproof dog beds are also available, they have a tough polyester cover which will keep out moisture – much the same as your outdoor furniture. After a bath, getting home from the beach after a swim or getting stuck in the rain during a walk, you’ll be thankful for having a waterproof dog bed.
We all want the best for our dogs, we give them the best food, toys and veterinary care but sometimes neglect the basics. A good dog bed is a necessity and may even prolong your best friend’s life.
Dianne Crane is a wife, mother of two and an Internet Marketer. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, pets and also likes to cook.
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Orthopedic Dog Beds [http://www.awesomedogbeds.com/dog-beds/which-dog-bed-is-best-for-your-dog/].
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