If you have a senior dog or a dog with movement difficulties then you may want to consider an orthopedic dog bed.  Orthopedic dog beds come in different shapes and sizes and they’re designed to help dogs lie more comfortably, get up and down easier, and generally ease any pain they may be experiencing.  Here are some things to consider.

 

1. Who needs an ortho bed?  Senior dogs, dogs with arthritis or other joint problems, and dogs recovering from illness or surgery can all benefit from an orthopedic dog bed.  These beds are designed to provide extra cushioning where your dog is prone to feel pain.  Some beds are heated which can improve joint stiffness.  Some beds have a “memory foam” feature which further reduces joint strain.

 

You may also want to consider one of these beds if you have a younger dog who tends to develop calluses from lying on the floor.  Really any pet can enjoy an orthopedic bed and benefit from using one.

 

2. What kinds of beds are there?  Beds come in two basic designs.  One kind has a bolster or back guard and the other is open, like a normal dog bed.  Beds with bolsters usually cost more.  Your dog may prefer to lean against a bolster since it provides some support when he is trying to get up and down, especially if he has trouble rising from a lying down position.  However, many pets do just fine with the open design.  There are also some cuddling or nesting-type beds but these usually only come in sizes for small dogs.

 

3. What features should I look for?  The features you choose for your dog’s bed will depend on his condition.  For older dogs and dogs with arthritis or joint pain a heated bed is often desirable.  For dogs with arthritis and joint problems memory foam is usually a good feature.  For senior pets who may be incontinent it’s a particularly good idea to get a bed that has a waterproof liner and a removable cover so it can be washed.  Some beds offer the option to buy an extra cover.

 

All true orthopedic beds should provide medical-grade solid orthopedic foam.  This foam in the bed looks like an egg carton design.  It’s the same kind of foam that’s used for humans in similar situations.  If a bed doesn’t have orthopedic foam then it’s not really an orthopedic bed.

 

Beds should also be firm enough to make it easier for your dog to stand up when he’s been lying down.  When a bed is too soft it’s harder for your dog to get up again.

 

Orthopedic beds are not inexpensive.  They generally cost more than a typical pet bed but they do provide many more options for your dog.

 

Remember, no matter what kind of dog bed you use for your pet, you should place beds away from drafts and high traffic areas.  This is particularly important in the case of senior dogs since drafts and cold air can affect them more than younger dogs.  Cold air can also worsen joint pain and arthritis.

 

Some people like to have more than one bed for their dog so their pet has the option of moving from room to room.  When you go to a different room your pet can go with you without having to move his bed.  Or, you can simply move his bed to another room if you prefer.  But do try to keep your dog involved in family life even if he’s sidelined with age or joint problems.  Your dog likes to still feel like he’s part of the family even though he may not have the same mobility that he used to have.

 

If your dog is facing mobility issues due to age, arthritis or joint problems, you should talk to your vet to see what treatments might be available.  Some people prefer to try herbal or holistic treatments for their pets.  Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating many joint problems and in helping with arthritis.  Supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine may possibly help some dogs with arthritis and joint pain.

 

For senior pets there are some ways to make their lives more comfortable as they age.  It’s a good idea for your dog to begin having a senior check-up from your vet by the time he’s about seven-years-old.  This check-up can spot any problems before they become serious.  Examine your dog’s teeth regularly for problems.  Dental problems can keep your dog from eating and cause him to lose weight.  They can also lead to more serious problems if left untreated.

 

If your senior dog is not eating and his teeth are not the problem, remember that a dog’s senses begin to dull as he ages.  He can’t taste and smell food as well as he once did.  It’s a good idea to dress his food up a bit to make it smell and taste more appealing.

 

And, keep in mind that even senior pets need some regular exercise.  Even if you simply take your older dog for a walk around the yard each day, regular exercise will help your dog keep muscle tone and provide some interest in life.

 

An orthopedic dog bed is a good choice for senior dogs and dogs with arthritis and joint problems.  It can be part of an overall regimen for helping your pet cope with any problems he may be having.  Choose a good bed and keep your dog comfortable.  Your dog will thank you.