As your dogs gets older, their needs change.
While a young puppy may be content laying on a soft blanket on the floor, as dogs age they begin to need specialized sleeping spaces.
One of the best things you can do for your aging pet is provide them with an orthopedic bed or bedding that is designed to offer enhanced support for their achy joints and muscles.
Orthopedic dog beds can help your older pet sleep better by easing common aches and pains associated with age.
A good sign that your pet needs a new bed is if he or she is having trouble moving or getting up, particularly after sleeping.
If you notice that your four-legged friend is having difficulty getting out of their regular bed, it may be time to consider looking at an orthopedic bed.
These specialized pet beds help eliminate stress on joints by distributing your pet's weight over a larger surface area.
Typically, these orthopedic pet beds are made of a special foam material that is comfortable and supportive.
Though they look the same as the regular beds, an orthopedic dog bed provides the support and comfort your older hound's needs.
When choosing an orthopedic dog bed for your aging canine companion, look for a bed that is the appropriate size for your dog.
Avoid buying a bed that is too small or too large, as your dog will not get the maximum benefit from the wrong size bed.
Carefully consider the height of the bed as well, and purchase a bed that's easy for your pet to get in and out of.
Depending on the climate you live in, you may also want to consider using a heated dog bed.
Dogs who suffer from canine arthritis, hip dysplasia, or even just achy muscles or joints, benefit greatly from the heat that keeps their joints from locking up and causing them more pain.
K&H Pet Products makes some excellent climate controlled or heated pet beds.
Alternatively, if your pet loves his or her existing bed, but that lacks heating, you can purchase heating pads or heated pillows that fit inside your pet's bedding.
Memory foam dog beds, while not technically orthopedic, provide much of the same benefits that a regular orthopedic bed will offer.
Some pet product manufacturers, such as Bowsers dog beds, offer a type of foam that simulates memory foam, but which is cheaper and holds up well in when used for pets.
Some examples of these are the Indoor/Outdoor Contour Lounger by Bowsers dog bed.
Carolina Pet Co.
is another manufacturer that makes some excellent memory foam products for pets.
You should notice an improvement in your dog's condition after they start using an orthopedic bed.
If they still seem to be struggling, consider adding a heating pad to their bed.
Your pet should show signs of improving, however, if they still seem to be experiencing some pain, check with your vet about additional supplements which can use be used in conjunction with the new bed to help make your canine companion more comfortable and enhance his quality of life.