It is upsetting for many of us to see our dogs feel anxious or afraid. We try our best to help them feel safe and secure in our homes. Calming beds for dogs are one tool you can use to help your dog feel more relaxed and offer them a safe space where they can feel comfortable.
This post will look at calming beds for dogs, what they are, how they work, the benefits to using one, what to look for when buying one for your pup, types of calming beds for dogs, and a few examples of calming beds available.
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What Are Calming Beds For Dogs?
Calming beds for dogs are beds specifically designed to create a safe and relaxing space for your dog to sleep.
How Do Calming Beds For Dogs Work?
Calming beds for dogs are made with a plush material and have high sides. When your dog lays in the bed, your dog is surrounded by the plushness. This is designed to mimic the feeling of being nestled by their mother, helping them feel safe and more relaxed.
What Are The Benefits of Calming Beds for Dogs?
Calming beds for dogs can help with sleep issues, anxiety reduction, and provide joint support. By addressing these key areas, calming beds provide a more comfortable and secure environment for your dog.
Promoting Better Sleep
Calming beds create a soothing environment, making it easier for dogs to relax. The soft, plush materials used in these beds are designed to provide comfort. The donut shape and raised edges can give your dog a sense of security, which is important for settling down to sleep.
If your dog has trouble sleeping, a calming bed can make a significant difference. It can help them feel safe and protected, leading to more restful sleep. Better sleep improves your dog’s overall health and mood.
Reducing Anxiety And Stress
Dogs that suffer from anxiety or stress can benefit from calming beds. Since they are made to mimic the feeling of being cuddled, they can be very comforting. The cozy, enclosed space can help reduce nervous behaviors and promote relaxation.
Anxiety in dogs can be caused by many factors including loud noises, separation, and unfamiliar environments. A calming bed can provide a consistent and secure place for your dog to retreat to when they feel scared or overwhelmed, helping to manage their stress more effectively.
Support For Joint Health
Calming beds can also support joint health, especially in older dogs or those with arthritis. They often feature memory foam or other materials that conform to your dog’s body, providing extra support where it’s needed most.
This extra support can help alleviate pain and discomfort in joints. Providing a comfortable and supportive bed can improve your dog’s mobility and quality of life. Over time, consistent use of a proper bed can lead to fewer joint-related issues and better overall physical health for your dog.
Do Calming Beds For Dogs Really Work?
Calming beds are designed to soothe dogs who experience anxiety or nervousness. They often feature raised edges or soft, plush materials to create a cozy and secure environment.
Dogs with mild anxiety might benefit the most. The structure of these beds, like high sides, can make dogs feel protected. This helps reduce their overall stress levels.
Raised rims on calming beds can provide extra support for your dog’s neck and spine. This can be especially helpful for dogs with joint pain or arthritis.
While some dogs feel noticeably calmer, others may not respond as well. It often comes down to your dog’s individual needs and preferences.
If your dog deals with anxiety, a calming bed might be a helpful addition. Pairing it with training and other anxiety-management techniques can offer the best results.
What Should I Look For When Buying A Calming Bed For My Dog?
When selecting a calming bed for your dog, certain features can enhance its effectiveness. Factors such as material quality, proper sizing, the ease of cleaning, and the bed’s durability and safety.
Quality Of Materials
Choose beds made from high-quality, pet-safe materials. Look for soft, plush fabrics which offer comfort and warmth. High-grade materials ensure the bed remains cozy and inviting, providing soothing effects that help reduce anxiety.
Fabrics should also be breathable to prevent overheating. Additionally, non-toxic materials are important, especially if your dog tends to chew on things (like our dog!). Comfortable stuffing, like memory foam, adds extra support for your dog’s joints.
Appropriate Sizing
Proper size is important for your dog’s comfort and the bed’s effectiveness. Measure your dog when they are lying down to determine the best fit. The bed should have enough space for your dog to stretch out fully but also offer enclosed sections where they can snuggle.
Many calming beds come in various sizes, often suitable for dogs ranging from small to extra-large. The right size helps your dog feel secure and reduces anxiety. A bed that is too small or too large can negate the calming effects.
Raised Sides
Raised sides can offer your dog a place to lay their head for a more restful sleep.
It can also help to decrease anxiety and provide a safe and secure place to be.
Ease Of Cleaning
Ease of cleaning is a practical feature to consider. Opt for beds with removable, machine-washable covers. Regular cleaning keeps the bed hygienic and fresh, which is important for your dog’s health. Some beds are completely machine washable, making maintenance even simpler.
Easy cleaning ensures the bed remains a pleasant and safe space for your dog.
Durability And Safety
Durability ensures that the calming bed lasts longer, providing continuous comfort for your dog.
Choose beds with sturdy stitching and high-quality zippers. Reinforced seams add to the bed’s lifespan, withstanding regular use and occasional rough handling from your pup.
Safety is equally important. The materials should be hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals.
The bed should have non-slip bottoms to prevent accidents. Reliable construction prevents your dog from accidentally ingesting stuffing or other parts of the bed.
By focusing on these key features, you can find a calming bed that not only soothes your dog’s anxiety but also offers longevity and practicality for daily use.
Types Of Calming Beds
There are several types of calming beds available for dogs that cater to different needs. Some provide extra support with orthopedic features, while others focus on warmth and enclosure to help soothe anxious pups.
Orthopedic Calming Beds
Orthopedic calming beds are designed to provide maximum support for your dog’s joints and bones. These beds often feature memory foam or egg-crate foam, which molds to your dog’s body shape, offering relief from pressure points. This is especially beneficial for older dogs or those with arthritis.
Donut And Bolster Beds
Donut and bolster beds are designed with high, cushioned edges that surround your dog.
These beds create a snuggly, secure feeling, reducing anxiety. Dogs can rest their head on the bolsters, providing neck and head support.
The high walls of these beds can help your dog feel protected, making it easier for them to relax.
Heated And Cooled Beds
Heated and cooled beds offer temperature regulation to keep your dog comfortable year-round.
Heated beds typically use safe, low-wattage heating elements or self warming techniques to warm the bed. This can be very soothing, especially for dogs with joint pain.
Cooled beds usually contain a gel or water-filled insert that absorbs heat from your dog, helping them stay cooler in warmer weather.
These beds are great for dogs that get anxious due to temperature changes and need a consistent environment.
Integrating A Calming Bed Into Your Dog’s Routine
Introducing a calming bed to your dog can improve their relaxation and sleep quality. You need to consider the best placement for the bed, encourage your dog to use it, and maintain it for long-term use.
Proper Bed Placement
Place the calming bed in an area where your dog already feels safe and comfortable. Common spots include:
- A quiet corner of the living room.
- Your bedroom.
- Near where the family congregates.
Avoid busy areas or places with a lot of foot traffic. This helps to reduce distractions and stress.
Make sure the spot is warm and free from drafts. If your dog has a crate, placing the bed inside the crate can provide an added sense of security and enclosure.
Encouraging Bed Use
Introduce the bed to your dog gently. Steps to encourage use include:
- Placing their favorite toys on the bed.
- Using treats as positive reinforcement.
- Spending time near the bed to show it is a friendly place.
Avoid forcing your dog onto the bed. Let them explore it at their own pace. You can lay a piece of clothing with your scent on the bed to make it more inviting. Gradually, your dog will associate the bed with comfort and relaxation.
Maintaining The Bed For Longevity
Keep the calming bed clean to ensure it remains inviting and comfortable.
Inspect the bed periodically for wear and tear.
Replace the bed if the filling becomes lumpy or the fabric tears.
Wash the cover on a regular basis.
Proper upkeep will keep the calming bed cozy and supportive for your dog’s needs.
Calming Beds For Dogs
Here are a few examples of calming beds for dogs available. Product information is according to the manufacturer.
Best Friends By Sheri Original Calming Dog Bed
- Available in multiple colors.
- Comes in a variety of sizes.
- 7 inch tall bolster.
- High loft, high density polyfill.
- Entire bed can be machine washed.
- Dry on low heat.
Furhaven Calming Cuddler Dog Bed
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Comes in various colors.
- Bolstered sides.
- Plush vegan fur.
- Machine washable.
Vintage Large Cozy Calming Sofa Dog Bed by Funny Fuzzy
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Comes in 2 colors.
- Thicker backrest for greater comfort.
- Outer layer is made of suede.
- Inner layer is corduroy.
- Non-slip bottom.
- Machine washable.
Calming Bed by The Mellow Dog
- Available in 2 colors.
- Comes in multiple sizes.
- Machine washable.
- Dryer safe.
- High raised rim.
- Made of vegan fur.
- Cushions are also machine washable.
Pettycare 2-in-1 Calming Dog Bed
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Comes in 2 colors.
- Removable cover.
- Machine washable cover.
- High density egg crate.
- Cooling memory foam.
- Certi-Pur US certified.
- Anti-slip bottom.
- Waterproof fabric.
- Calming faux fur shag.
- 4 raised sides.
No one wants to see their dog suffer from anxiety or stress for any reason. Calming beds for dogs offer a place for your dog to feel safe, comforted, and relaxed. The plush materials and high sides provide your dog with a feeling of being cuddled, hopefully reducing any anxiety or stress they are experiencing.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.