Just like people, dogs sometimes suffer with anxiety. If you’ve ever seen your pup so frightened that they shake during a thunderstorm, you know this to be true. While every dog is different, many dogs can struggle with stress in regard to things like separation anxiety, loud noises, new people, and changes in their surroundings. Again just like people, dogs deserve to have their anxiety taken seriously and managed so they can live a happy and healthy life. For some, the answer is an anti-anxiety dog bed.
Does your dog get anxious about things like loud noises or new people? If so, it’s time to find out how you can help. Many dog owners swear by certain beds to help ease their furry friend’s anxiety. How are calming dog beds different from other dog beds? And do they actually work to help your pup calm down? Let’s answer those questions now!
What are Calming Dog Beds?
Calming dog beds are specifically designed to alleviate stress in our furry friends. These beds facilitate stress relief by providing dogs with a sense of security. If your dog were one of his ancestors in the wild millions of years ago, he would dig and burrow into the ground to feel safe and secure. For this reason, calming dog beds have raised edges to create a cozy experience. Raised rims and cave-like structures make your pup feel protected, calming their overloaded sensory behaviors. These are great for dogs who feel safer curled up or leaning against something while they sleep.
Do Calming Dog Beds Work?
The short answer is yes. According to the anecdotal reports from dog owners, as far as reducing anxiety symptoms, calming dog beds do work. That being said, there have not been research studies done on the subject in order to “prove” it. According to canine experts, it’s likely a matter of conditioning where the dog comes to associate the bed with relaxation. Just like you have come to love your nighttime routine of a hot shower and reading a book in bed until lights out, your dog will begin to associate feeling calm and sleepy in his or her new dog bed.
It’s worth noting that they have the most benefit when used in combination with training. Even though calming dog beds are designed to reduce anxiety, this type of bed will not be a solution for the problem by itself. You can help calm your dog for bed and promote relaxation by gently stroking down the side of his face or chest in a circular motion. All pups love their mommy or daddy massaging their ears too. If you do this while he lies in his bed, he’ll begin to associate the bed with feeling relaxed, safe, and happy.
Dog Beds with Calming Power
Here at City Mattress, we offer several calming dog beds in our online catalogue. Martha Stewart’s Bella Memory Foam Pet Bed offers luxurious, orthopedic ease with two conforming layers. With a layer of gel-infused memory foam over sturdy, solid foam and pillow bolsters surrounding the edges of the sleep surface, this bed is both comfortable and enhances relief for a feeling of safety. This memory foam dog bed comes with a machine-washable, removable cover. Martha Stewart’s Luna Denim Pet Bed is another great option. It allows you to give your furry friend a soothing sense of security thanks to four overstuffed walls and a super-soft feel. This high-quality design creates the perfect sheltered snuggling place for your pup.
One last piece of advice- when you order your new anti-anxiety dog bed, make sure you get a large enough size for your dog to circle around inside, but not too large that it loses its “cocooning effect.” You want your dog to feel nice and cozy, which means getting a snug size. Bigger isn’t always better!
Certain situations, like thunderstorms, fireworks, or being in a new environment, can be very stressful for dogs. For many, a calming dog bed is a fantastic way to help. Patience and a combination of positive training and the right products will go a long way! With a calming dog bed and a bit of effort on your part, you can rest assured that your pup is on the road to living a happier, more relaxed life.