Orthopedic Pet Beds For Larger Dogs: Why Dogs Need a Good Night's Sleep
Dogs sleep between 12 to 18 hours a day, depending on age. Like humans, they need good quality slumber to help them rest and repair their bodies. A study published in a 2017 edition of Scientific Reports found that good quality sleep improves a dog's memory and can make them smarter.
So, if you want your best friend to ace his next trick training session, start by giving him a comfortable place to sleep. Here are some things to consider before buying a bed for your four-legged friend.
What to Look for in an Orthopedic Pet Bed for Larger Dogs
An orthopedic bed is a great choice for large or senior dogs because it cradles joints and muscles to encourage better sleep and may even alleviate pain. Consumer Reports assessed three of the top-selling dog beds - including one orthopedic and one lifted bed - to find out which are the most durable - easiest to set up, and most aesthetically pleasing. Trixie, an 8-year-old Pit Bull weighing 56 pounds, Zuzu, a 1-year-old Shih Tzu weighing 11 pounds - and Blake, a 4-year-old Labradoodle weighing 36 pounds, were recruited to test each bed for comfort and durability.
Veterinarians recommend Barker Beds for their orthopedic support that helps reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and speed recovery after surgery or injury. All of their orthopedic dog beds are made with 7 solid inches of 4.5-pound density - human mattress grade, certified-safe foam. The Super Orthopedic Lounge Dog Bed is designed to provide comfort and support for aging pets. It features a 7" convoluted foam pad, which provides extra cushioning that's soft on joints but supportive enough to prevent sinking. The bed's raised sides provide extra support for hips and a place for the head to rest.
Features That Matter in an Orthopedic Bed
- Machine washable cover. The Super Orthopedic Lounge Dog Bed has a cover that easily pulls off and can be washed in the washer. The water-resistant base stays behind to keep the floor clean and dry.
- Waterproof barriers. The bed has waterproof side walls and top under the Sherpa fur. The bottom of the bed also has a waterproof barrier to protect flooring.
- Durable construction. The bed is well-made and the zippers are strong. "Bully Beds are guaranteed to hold their shape and stability for a full 20 years."
- Comfy fur. This bed's convoluted foam is covered with soft Sherpa fur, which adds warmth and comfort.
How to Choose the Right Bed for Your Dog
The Original Orthopedic Bully Bed measures 48" x 30" x 7". This size is perfect for larger dogs, but if you have a smaller pooch - there are several other smaller sizes available. This bed is heavy, which is great because it means that it will stay put on the floor. Because of its weight, it may not be the best option for someone on the second story of a multi-story home.
The Super Orthopedic Lounge Dog Bed is a great choice for large or older dogs. The bed's high sides allow a dog to prop his head up for added comfort while sleeping. The convoluted foam used in this bed is also beneficial to a dog during the day because it encourages sitting up, which improves posture and balance.
It can also be used as a yoga block for doing physical therapy exercises with your dog. A dog bed can't cure any medical conditions, but it can certainly help alleviate some symptoms. This bed may also help prevent some issues from developing in younger dogs because of increased circulation and improved blood flow.
Consumer Reports tested three beds that are easy to clean. This bed - however, has a removable cover that can be washed in the washing machine. The waterproof base, which stays behind, can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Should You Let Your Dog Sleep With You?
A study published in the 2017 edition of the Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed that having a dog sleep in your room improves your sleep, but having that pup sleep in the bed with you doesn't. An orthopedic pet bed for larger dogs may provide the best of both worlds: encouraging your dog to sleep near you - but not on you, for a better night's sleep for both of you.
References
- Barker Beds for their orthopedic - bigbarker.com
- orthopedic dog beds are made - bullybeds.com
- Orthopedic Lounge Dog Bed has - shop.akc.org
