Choosing a Dog Bed for Senior Dogs

As dogs get older, they require special care and start to have different needs than before. This includes their need for sleep. You might notice that your senior dog is uncomfortable at night. Perhaps you have even noticed that your elderly dog is suddenly sleeping on the floor instead of in your bed. Maybe they are going as far as peeing or pooping in the bed in their sleep. Whatever the case, the evidence is clear: your buddy may just need a new dog bed for senior dogs.

Understanding the Needs of Senior Dogs

As your dog gets older, they will begin to lose control of their mobility and motor functions. This is the time when they might develop joint issues and other age-related health issues. It will also be more difficult for them to get in and out of bed, use the stairs, and perform other everyday activities. This is especially true if their arthritis is inflamed. Your vet might even start them on pain medications to alleviate some of the age-related pain that elderly dogs suffer from. Ensuring that your loved one has a senior dog bed that provides relief for such ailments can make a huge difference in your elderly dog’s life.

Senior Dog Bed Behaviors

Sometimes a senior dog might lick, chew, scratch, or dig into their bed. If this is the case, then there are senior dog bed options out there which have scratch, dig, chew, and water-resistant covers on them. Other dog beds might be designed with these behaviors in mind and are created in specific shapes and with certain materials to protect the bed. For example, some beds are made to be chew-resistant for dogs using durable materials that can withstand teeth and nails. Other beds might be shaped in a way that can help with senior dog digging behaviors, especially if they are trying to dig in their sleep. Each senior dog bed is unique, and with proper research you can find the perfect option for your pooch and their doggy quirks.

Importance of a Good Dog Bed for Senior Dogs

You might be wondering, What type of bed is best for older dogs? The good news is there are plenty of great senior dog beds that you can choose from these days. For example, orthopedic beds for senior dogs allow better support for aging joints and bones. These beds are specifically designed to reduce pressure sores and the risk of injury thanks to their high-density foam. They also provide more warmth for dogs that need assistance with temperature regulation. Just make sure to get the correct size for your dog, as this will allow your buddy to obtain the necessary room and support for their overall health. 

Another great option for senior dogs includes the memory foam dog beds. Perhaps you’ve asked yourself before, Do memory foam beds help senior dogs with arthritis? The answer is yes, because these types of beds conform to the shape of a dog’s body and provide extra cushion for their sore spots. They even have some that are waterproof and have removable covers for dogs that struggle with bladder control and other incontinence issues. The same is true for orthopedic beds.

Senior dog beds like these play a crucial role when it comes to pain management for your buddy. In turn, your dog will be able to rest easier, and this will help aid them in maintaining their mobility and overall health throughout their golden years.

Senior Dog Bed vs. Regular Dog Bed

Regular dog beds do not have the same level of comfort as orthopedic dog beds. They are not made of materials which support joint health and provide relief for arthritis and other ailments. Furthermore, their design might not be suitable for aging dogs.

One example of a suitable design for older dogs is the height of the dog bed. Perhaps you have wondered, Are elevated dog beds good for senior dogs? Part of the appeal for senior dog beds is that they are usually at the appropriate height for dogs, such as a 7-inch high orthopedic bed for larger breeds. The bigger the dog, the higher the elevation can be. When a dog bed is elevated appropriately in accordance with a dog’s size, then this will provide them with extra cushion for support and alleviate joint pain. It will also be easy for them to get in and out of the bed without compromising their comfort. If the bed has raised edges or bolsters, then this can add an extra layer of security for your buddy. This is especially true if they like to curl up or need a headrest to lie on.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Bed for Senior Dogs

How do you determine which is the best bed for senior dogs? It is really going to be dependent upon your dog and their personal needs. Some factors you might consider are the following:

• Will this dog bed provide relief for my senior dog’s physical ailments, like arthritis? 
• Is this dog bed easy for my senior dog to get in and out? 
• Does this senior dog bed provide sufficient room for my dog? 
• If my dog has incontinence issues, then is this a waterproof senior dog bed? 
• Is this dog bed easy to clean? 
• Does this dog bed have other features that can assist with my dog’s comfort levels, such as heating elements and nonslip bottoms?

Knowing which health needs your buddy requires will assist you in finding the best bed for your senior dog. You can also talk to your vet who can help you explore your options further.

For more expert tips on caring for your senior dog, explore our other senior dog articles.