The importance of getting a dog bed

Investing on a good quality dog bed is one of the more important things a dog owner can do for their dog. A lot of people assume that getting a dog bed is an indulgence or a luxury. A good dog bed is far from that. Your dog needs a warm, supportive bed in just the same way that you do. A quality dog bed can provide security for your dog, as well as other far reaching benefits on their health and wellbeing. There are lots of different types of dog beds available. You can get small dog beds, large dog beds, quilted, water proofed and even fashionable dog beds!

One of the little understood benefits of a dog bed is the security it can provide for your dog. Many dogs suffer from anxiety and stress, especially when their owner is away for extended periods. Having a place that your dog can go to when they feel anxious or maybe when they just want some time-out can benefit your dogs’ emotional wellbeing. When you get your new dog bed, observe where your dog prefers to lie. Most dogs have a special area that they favor more than others. This is where you need to put your dogs’ new bed. This will be 'their spot'.

A good quality dog bed will provide insulation for your dog especially during the night. It will also provide essential support from a hard cold floor. Although dogs will sleep on a floor, it is often uncomfortable for them. This is usually the reason that they sneak onto the furniture the minute you leave the house. Your dog will be glad of a comfy warm bed of its own.

In a lot of dogs, as they get older they will start to suffer from joint pain, arthritis and hip problems. This can occur in much younger dogs too. These ailments are just as painful for your dog as they are for humans. If your dog sleeps on a hard floor, or in an area where cold draughts exist it can compound the problem. An additional problem here is that your dog will probably not be sleeping well, which can lead to other problems such as lethargy and unwillingness to go for walks and exercise. Luckily for your dog, you can get orthopedic dog beds which are specially designed to provide relief for your dog from such symptoms.

Something else you will need to consider when getting a new dog bed is what size bed to get. The rule of thumb here is to measure your dog from head to toe when it is in its natural sleeping position. When you have this measurement you must add about 5 inches. This will be the size of bed you need to get. If you find it difficult to measure your dog sleeping, try measuring with your dog standing. This will give you a slightly longer measurement but will give you a rough idea what size you are looking for.

If you invest in a good quality dog bed that is washable, it may last the life time of your dog. Buying a cheaper bed is a false economy as these will quickly wear out. You can be sure that your dog will appreciate a new bed and with the added benefits discussed in this article, it's well worth the investment.