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Dog beds main page
How do you choose the
right type of dog bed for your best friend?
 What
is an orthopedic dog bed?
Orthopedic dog beds are specially designed
beds for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia and other painful joint
and bone ailments. Orthopedic dog beds are designed to provide more
support to aching joints than a standard dog bed and allow the dog
to rest comfortably. Ideally, an orthopedic dog bed will provide
proper alignment for the dog’s neck and back just like a good
quality mattress or pillow. Many of these beds are made from
combinations of foam, fiber fill, and high-grade memory foam.
Orthopedic dogs beds are usually thicker than standard dog beds and
will usually cost more than standard dog beds. Some beds come in
waterproof fabrics for dogs with incontinence.
Be careful when shopping for an orthopedic dog bed. Some
manufacturers market beds as orthopedic but the beds are no
different from their standard line, just higher priced. Be sure to
discuss with your dog’s veterinarian the special needs of your dog
and what types of beds and materials they recommend. Some orthopedic
dog beds may be too thick for a small dog to comfortably climb onto.
Other beds may be too soft and your dog’s ailment may require a
stiffer dog bed. Some orthopedic dog beds include built in electric
heating pads that may help ease tired or sore muscles but may
exacerbate swollen joints. Your vet can offer ideas to help you find
the perfect orthopedic dog bed for your dog.
As with all dog beds be sure to look for hidden zippers, reinforced
seams and removable, washable covers for easy cleaning. It is often
difficult to decide if your dog needs an orthopedic dog bed, when in
doubt it is better to buy a good quality standard dog bed than a
poor quality orthopedic dog bed.
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