As dogs age, it sometimes appears as though no matter how hard we
try, they still aren’t achieving the level of comfort they once
enjoyed when they were younger.
This
could be a result of a number of things, including joint problems,
circulatory problems, and – most common of all – arthritis. With
all of the latest technologies that have been developed for both
the aging human population, and within the pet care industry, there
is now a tremendous assortment of orthopedic beds out there that
can help ease the discomfort of arthritic dogs.
When
looking at an orthopedic bed for an arthritic dog, it’s important
to examine the product with a good knowledge of what you’re seeking.
The interior of most orthopedic beds designed for arthritic dogs
is reminiscent of the bottom of an egg carton. This design provides
a durable structure, with enough flexibility for comfort when pressure
is applied to it. This way, the structure remains strong and supportive,
but it is also comfortable to the dog lying upon it.
With
the popularity and efficacy of orthopedic beds with arthritic dogs,
the majority of companies have taken advantage of the aforementioned
structure to create their own interpretation of what will best benefit
your dog. However, other companies have added extra features, such
as state-of-the-art materials (for example, memory
foam) and heating systems.
If
your dog is indeed suffering from arthritis, or similar problems
that frequently come with age, you may also want to consider the
orthopedic beds that have the heat feature. The heat is extremely
soothing for aching joints, and arthritic bones. It also encourages
circulation, which is very good for a dog with circulatory issues.
Another
way in which orthopedic beds are good for arthritic dogs is the
fact that your dog won’t feel as motivated to try to climb up and
down on your furniture, since s/he has his or her own comfortable
bed on which to nap, sleep, or simply lay down.
Of
course, your dog doesn’t necessarily have to be arthritic to sleep
on an orthopedic bed. Orthopedic beds are good for dogs whether
they are arthritic or not. In fact, they are recommended for large
dogs, puppies, and older dogs of all breeds. In the case of larger
(and therefore heavier) dogs, you’ll want to invest in an orthopedic
bed that has extra thickness, ensuring that important pressure points,
like the elbows and hips, are protected, and the dog’s weight is
evenly spread throughout the orthopedic bed.
Orthopedic
beds, when used by non-arthritic dogs, are great for reducing the
occurrence of arthritis later in life. This, alone, is well worth
the cost.
Sizing
for orthopedic beds for arthritic dogs, and dogs that are perfectly
healthy should be done in the same way. Make sure that your dog
has enough room to move and shift however s/he wants while sleeping
or resting. It goes without saying that if a dog is squished in
his or her bed, s/he will not be receiving the full benefit of the
specially calibrated design, or will choose not to sleep there at
all.