Large Dog Bed – Great Reasons to Get One

Deciding to buy a large dog bed may be a good step in making sure that your large breed dog is a happy camper. When choosing a good bed, look for quality stuffing because a large dog can simply crush it flat – defeating the purpose. But, other than the stuffing, you should also consider purchasing a bed made from memory foam. This is a technology made from visco-elastic polyurethane which molds quickly to the shape of the body.

Healthy Joints

You may wonder why a healthy young dog needs a special bed when she’s perfectly fine sleeping on the floor. Actually, veterinarians don’t only recommend memory foam dog beds for elderly dogs and dogs suffering from arthritis but also for large dogs of any age. This is because large dogs such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Dobermans are at risk for hip dysplasia. Keeping your dog’s joints healthy and ensuring that she gets proper blood circulation from an early age will significantly reduce the chance of developing hip dysplasia when she gets older.

The Right Shape

Another feature to look for in a large dog bed is the shape. You know your dog and her sleeping patterns so choosing the right shape shouldn’t be difficult. It should depend on how she sleeps, like curling up or stretching out. You are looking for a bed that is big enough to support her entire body so measure her lying down and add about 12 inches so there will be adequate room.

Fur-free Couch

Just like humans, dogs want to be comfortable when they sleep. They toss and turn when they are seeking a comfortable sleep position just as much as we do, and disrupted sleep affects them just as it does us. You may notice that your dog has a preferred sleeping spot like on your bed or the couch. I don’t know many dog owners that like their dogs sleeping on the couch but you can’t really blame the dog if she doesn’t have a comfortable spot of her own to rest. I bet if you got your pooch a comfortable large dog bed then you’d have a fur-free couch.

Styles and Features

Large dog beds come in many styles and with lots of features. For instance, I prefer the bolster bed because my dog doesn’t like to be snuck up on, especially when sleeping. Bolster beds, with their high backs, give that safe cozy retreat and is great for keeping the wall clean and stops drafts. Also, it provides a place to rest the head if needed. Just as humans find it hard to sleep without a pillow, likewise, dogs prefer having something to place their head as well. Be mindful though that an aging dog or one that has joint pain may find it difficult to climb in a bed with bolsters on all four sides so in this case, ensure that there is at least one open side so that the dog can access the bed with ease.

Dogs basically sleep 14 hours a day so giving them a comfortable bed is something that a responsible owner should aim to do. The size, durability of the bed and the dog’s sleeping habits are important things to consider when buying a large dog bed.