Just like us humans, canines also suffer from problems like arthritis and joint pain as they age. This can make daily activities like walking, jumping, and even resting and sleeping very uncomfortable. If this is the case for your precious pooch, then purchasing an orthopedic dog bed is a great way to provide them with some much-needed relief.
Orthopedic dog beds are crafted using high-density memory foam that supports your dog’s body, reducing the amount of pressure on their aching, weak joints and making them feel more comfortable. Whether you have a senior canine or a large breed that’s prone to suffering joint issues, choosing one of the best orthopedic dog beds can make a significant improvement in their quality of life.
Be it the top-rated orthopedic Big Barker Dog Bed or the well-known Casper Dog Bed, every stellar option will have two primary things in common — they will be durable and will offer superior support even to the largest of dogs. Unlike the regular pet beds that you’d find on the market, orthopedic options are built to maintain their shape and structure in the long run, providing your fur baby with consistent joint relief.
Common Causes and Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs
Common Causes of Arthritis in Dogs
Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs
How Joint Pain Affects Canine Mobility and Quality of Life
Features That Set an Orthopedic Dog Bed Apart From Other Beds
How Orthopedic Dog Beds Provide Joint Pain Relief
Common Causes and Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis is a common condition in dogs, especially as they get older. It occurs when their joints become inflamed due to the deterioration of cartilage, and this leads to pain and stiffness. It’s important that pet parents understand the causes and symptoms of arthritis so that they can identify it early on and get their fur babies the help that they need.
Best Orthopedic Dog Beds
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Common Causes of Arthritis in Dogs
Aging
As dogs get older, it’s natural for their joint cartilage to start wearing down. This increases the risk of arthritis.
Genetics
There are a few breeds that are more prone to arthritis than others due to hereditary joint issues. Some of them are Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds.
Obesity
If a dog is overweight, there’s an additional amount of stress placed on the joints, which in turn speeds up cartilage breakdown.
Injuries
Ligament tears like ACL injuries, previous fractures, or joint trauma can lead to arthritis later on in a canine’s life.
Joint Abnormalities
Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are some conditions that may cause the joints to be improperly aligned, and this may cause the early onset of arthritis.
Infections
Bacterial and fungal infections in the joints can lead to inflammation and long-term joint damage.
Autoimmune Diseases
Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis cause the immune system to attack healthy joint tissues, which leads to arthritis.
Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs
Reduced Activity
You’ll begin to notice that your pet won’t run, jump, or play as much as they used to.
Limping or Stiffness
Your pooch will start using one leg more than the other. They might also find it difficult to get up after resting.
Swollen Joints
There will be visible swelling around the affected joints.
Difficulty Climbing
Climbing the stairs or getting into the car will be a struggle since these movements require the joints to be flexible.
Licking or Chewing at the Joints
Some dogs may keep licking and biting the areas that are sore, believing that it may relieve their discomfort.
Irritability or Aggression
Pain in the joints may make canines very sensitive to touch or how they’re being handled — you might notice them getting snappy.
Loss of Muscle Mass
Since dogs with arthritis won’t move as much, you may be able to notice that the muscles around the affected joints have shrunk. However, this is a symptom that will only be seen with time.
Changes in Posture
Sometimes, dogs with arthritis may start walking differently. They might also develop an arched back to deal with the pain.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your fur baby, we suggest that you consult a veterinarian at the earliest for a proper diagnosis and the right treatment. When you get them help in the early stages, their pain can be managed, and you can slow down arthritis progression, improving their mobility and overall comfort.
How Joint Pain Affects Canine Mobility and Quality of Life
Joint pain in dogs can have a significant impact on their mobility, making it increasingly hard for them to run, jump, and, in some cases, even walk. Conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, and ligament injuries can cause stiffness, swelling, and discomfort, leading to a reduction in your pet’s activity levels. As time goes by, this lack of mobility can make the muscles and joints even weaker, worsening the condition and leading to a decline in their overall health.
However, it goes so much beyond just mobility — joint pain also affects a canine’s quality of life. Engaging in the daily activities that they once enjoyed, along with social interactions, can become limited or non-existent. The energetic and playful fur baby that you once knew may become withdrawn, aggressive, irritable, or lethargic — all of this due to the discomfort they’re facing.
You’ll also notice that they may not sleep as well or as soundly, they won’t enjoy eating like they did before, and their behavior will be different — once again, all due to their chronic pain. This is why we recommend early detection and intervention to ensure their well-being.
Best Dog Beds for Your Pooch
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Features That Set an Orthopedic Dog Bed Apart From Other Beds
There are multiple features that set orthopedic beds apart from some of the other best dog beds; they are as follows:
Memory Foam Support
Orthopedic dog beds use high-quality, premium memory foam that takes the shape of your dog’s body, relieving pressure on the joints and improving spinal alignment. This can be very beneficial for senior doggos or those suffering from arthritis, aiding in the reduction of pain and stiffness.
Thicker, Denser Padding
You’ll usually find an orthopedic dog bed to be much thicker and denser than regular ones, offering superior comfort and making it more durable. The extra cushioning will make it very comfortable for your pooch, and it won’t get flat even after a long time.
Even Weight Distribution
Unlike standard beds, orthopedic beds evenly distribute your dog’s weight, preventing pressure points that can cause a lot of discomfort for your fur baby. This can help canines with mobility issues or large-breed dogs that are more prone to hip and elbow dysplasia.
Temperature Regulation
There are many orthopedic beds that use breathable materials or cooling gels to prevent dogs from overheating while they rest or sleep. This can be a boon for pets who have long, thick coats or those prone to overheating while they’re asleep.
Waterproof or Washable Covers
When you purchase a good, high-quality orthopedic bed, it will most probably come with a cover that’s machine-washable and waterproof, making it resistant to spills and accidents. This also makes it very easy for pet parents to clean, offering a hygienic sleeping environment for your doggo.
Supportive Bolsters
The majority of orthopedic dog beds come with raised bolsters or edges as a part of the design to offer additional head and neck support for your pet. Dogs who like to rest their heads on a pillow-like surface are going to love this feature!
Non-Skid Bottom
If you have smooth flooring at home, you must’ve witnessed your dog’s bed slipping and sliding around as they get into it or toss and turn. That’s why orthopedic dog beds come with a non-skid bottom, ensuring your pet’s safety, which is especially important if you have a senior pet or one with mobility issues.
Designed to Last
Orthopedic dog beds are made with longevity in mind — though they are on the expensive side, their high-density foam and durable stitching make it worth the price that you pay. Unlike the cheap, easy-to-find alternatives, you can trust that their shape and effectiveness are going to last for a really long time.
Hypoallergenic Materials
Most orthopedic beds are crafted with hypoallergenic and non-toxic materials with the purpose of reducing dust mites and allergens. If your dog has sensitive skin, then a hypoallergenic orthopedic bed is ideal.
Recommended By Veterinarians
Orthopedic dog beds are recommended by veterinarians if your four-legged companion is struggling with joint pain and arthritis or is recovering from surgery. The beds have a medical-grade design that you can trust to offer therapeutic benefits — something that a standard bed lacks.
How Orthopedic Dog Beds Provide Joint Pain Relief
After all the information provided above, we’re sure you must have a better idea of why an orthopedic bed is a smart investment, especially if you have a senior dog or a dog with mobility issues. However, let’s understand how exactly it can help pets who are suffering with the discomfort caused by joint aches.
For bigger breeds who are prone to joint issues, purchasing an orthopedic dog bed for large dogs is a necessity! They are built to offer extra thickness and are more durable — able to support larger frames while also preventing sagging, which is known to worsen joint pain. Orthopedic dog beds also offer consistent cushioning that won’t go flat, offering long-term comfort.
