JAck Russell Terrier

I’m sure that you’ll agree that no two dogs are exactly alike, even if they’re the same breed. In the same way, there is no single best orthopedic dog bed that is best for every dog. Price is definitely a consideration when choosing the right dog bed as well as the overall well-being of your favorite canine. If you’ve ever had to spend a night sleeping on a mattress that was way too soft, too lumpy, or in which the support had broken down, you have some idea what it’s like for your dog if he doesn’t have the right kind of dog bed to sleep on. When choosing the bed that will best fit his needs and your own, here are some things to keep in mind.

How To Choose The Right Size Dog Bed?

You will find there are dog beds for all sizes, shapes and breeds of dogs. Some smaller dog beds are about the size of a placemat while an x-large one can compare in size to your own mattress. All dogs need beds that give them the room to stretch out and move around while they sleep. The best way to figure out the size of bed you need is to measure your dog from head to tail while he’s stretched out sleeping. That will enable you to know the exact size necessary so your pet can have the best orthopedic dog bed for her.

When we talk about the best orthopedic dog beds, we mean beds for dogs that look like smaller versions of human mattresses. When you lift one, however, you’ll find that they are constructed to be much lighter and easier to transport if needed. When you go out to buy a bed, lift the different models to make sure that you’ll be able to move your pup’s bed in order to clean around it.

The Best Filling Materials

The same materials that give human mattresses their orthopedic properties are also being used to make beds for dogs. Memory foam is a relatively new material that keeps its shape for long periods of time without getting bunchy and lumpy like old-fashioned dog mattress materials did. Orthopedic dog beds usually have a type of coiled fiberfill inside them, but metal springs such as are found in many human mattresses are never used when making dog beds.

Dog Bed Coverings

In order to make your new orthopedic dog bed more durable so that it can withstand the use your dog is going to give it, the covering material used is more like what is used on patio furniture than it is like what covers your mattress. Usually the dog bed cover will be made of a durable polyester that holds up well and will clean easily. An important feature to look for when choosing an orthopedic dog bed is to select one with a removable cover so that you’ll be able to remove it and toss it in the washer when it needs cleaning.

One of the greatest things about dogs is that they seldom complain about anything. However, this same trait can lead to problems sometimes. For example, your pooch isn’t going to tell you that he isn’t getting a good night’s sleep on his old dog bed. If you watch carefully, you will be able to see the signs and be able to step in and help you faithful pal get the type of rest he deserves. With older dogs it is even more important that they have a quality dog bed due to the onset of ailments like hip dyslpasia that can cause him a lot of pain. The best way to help him sleep and to assuage his aches and pains is by purchasing an orthopedic dog bed for him that will allow him to sleep well all night every night.

What Makes Orthopedic Dog Beds so Special?

Most dog beds consist of nothing but a large pillow. Puppies might be all right with a bed like this, but older dogs need more support for their limbs and joints. Orthopedic dog beds, on the other hand, are made more like the mattress you use yourself. These mattresses offer firm support, are easy to clean, and retain their shape far longer than pillow-like beds do.

If you’ve ever slept on a bad mattress yourself, you already know what it can feel like. A mattress that is hard or unsupportive keeps you from getting the rest you need, so you can be at your best. You also won't get the support that is crucial and you will most likely wake sore and unrested. The main reason for these problems is that without getting the support you need from your mattress, your spine must do the work to support your body while you’re sleeping. Dogs, like people, feel the effects of poor mattresses and will benefit just as much as people do from having an orthopedic dog bed.

Can’t a Dog Just Sleep on the Floor?

You have no doubt noticed you dog drop down somewhere in the middle of the floor for an afternoon nap. And this is fine for a nap, but the floor won't allow your dog to get the kind of sleep at night he needs, particularly if he suffers from hip dysplasia or arthritis. Don’t be fooled into thinking that the floor will give your dog the firm sleeping surface he needs, even if the floor is carpeted. You won’t hear him complain, but an observant owner will be able to tell when their pet is feeling the effects.

For starters, most floors are too hard and uncomfortable for restful sleep. If you tried to nap on one sometime, you would more fully understand. In addition, they are far too firm, put too much pressure on various parts of the dog’s body, and don’t give him the comfort he needs to sleep soundly.

Do You Really Want to Spend the Money?

Some dog owners are reluctant to spend the kind of money it takes to buy the right orthopedic dog bed for their pet. Many of us are quick to spend foolishly on ourselves when our dogs are sleeping on the hard, cold ground or worse, a concrete pad? Adopting a dog involves making sure he is taken care of and overall responsibility for his well being. He gives you a lot of companionship and joy. You know you owe him the courtesy of a really good nights sleep?