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Benefits and Types of Orthopedic Dog Beds

Like people, as dogs enter their senior years they can begin to experience aches and pains in their joints.  Unlike people, dogs can’t tell us when they are experiencing discomfort.  But the joint pain associated with diseases such as arthritis is just as painful for them as it is for us.  It is not that difficult to determine if your dog is suffering from joint pain.  And once you discover that your pooch is indeed experiencing joint discomfort, there are things you can do to ease their pain.

Some signs that may indicate your dog is suffering from joint pain or arthritis are as follows: lethargy, stiffness, reluctance to walk or play, lagging behind on walks, limping, difficulty rising from a resting position, yelping when touched, weight loss, diminished muscle tone.  Keep a close eye on your dog; they may not be able to tell you they are in pain, but they communicate in other ways.  If you think you dog may be suffering from joint pain it is always a good idea to pay a visit to your vet who may prescribe medication to help with the pain.

Once you have diagnosed the problem, there are actions you can take at home to help ease your dog’s pain.  One of the best things you can do is invest in an Orthopedic dog bed.  As dogs age, they tend to spend more and more time resting or sleeping.  It makes sense to give them a dog bed that will provide the most comfort for their aching joints.  Orthopedic dog beds provide the ultimate in support by eliminating pressure points.  These beds absorb the dogs weight and distribute it evenly which helps to ease pain in joints.  Unlike most standard beds, orthopedic dog beds are made with high density foam which provides the best in comfort.  

There are a few different types of orthopedic dog beds on the market today.  They all provide good support and comfort in my opinion.  The 3 main types of orthopedic dog beds are as follows:

1. Gel-Pedic Dog Beds: These beds combine a natural nesting shape and a patented gel foam material.  The gel foam molds to your pets body, easing pressure on legs and hips.  The gel will help to keep your dog cool in the summer, while the foam will help keep them warm in winter.  
2. Memory Foam Dog Beds: The high density foam in these beds helps to eliminate pressure points as well.  This foam allows your dog to sink in just enough to receive optimum support.  
3. Heated Orthopedic Dog Beds: In addition to having thick high density foam, these beds also have a unique thermostat that maintains a warm, even surface temperature to keep your dog cozy and warm.  These beds are especially good in winter.  In addition, the heater is usually removable fore washing.

Whichever orthopedic dog bed you choose, know that you are providing your senior pooch with the ultimate in comfort.  Not all orthopedic beds are created equal though.  So do your research and make sure you invest in a quality bed that is not only comfortable but durable as well.  An orthopedic dog bed will not cure your dog of joint problems or arthritis, but it will definitely help to ease the pain.

 

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