Heated Dog Beds Buyer’s Guide
Some of the most important considerations to make when looking for a heated dog bed is the purpose and placement. That’s because three factors will affect the size, material, and performance of the bed you pick.
For instance, an elderly dog or one with certain medical needs will require a different heated bed than an active pup that’s always going outside. With that said, there are a few universal features that apply to all heated dog beds, and which you must consider when shopping for one.
Heat Source
Most heated dog beds come with a low wattage heater or a self-warming mechanism that’s designed to provide optimal temperature levels for your dog. Each option offers its benefits so the one you choose will depend on your preferences, but the most important thing is to make sure that it’s thermostatically controlled because that’s way easier to use.
Size
You need to make sure that you’re buying the right size of heated dog bed for your pet. A small bed may not be comfortable for a medium or large breed dog because it won’t be able to contain their frame. But, it won’t do to buy a large bed either if it doesn’t let your dog experience its full heating capabilities. Keep in mind that some of the dog beds featured here can only reflect your pet’s body heat, so it has to be the right size to do that effectively.
Also, understand that there are different types of dog beds available. For example, there are orthopedic dog beds, which specially made for dogs suffering from arthritis. Likewise, there’s also chew-resistant dog beds that are suitable for heavy chewers.
Safety
In addition to the thermostat, there are a few other safety features that are included in most heated dog beds. For instance, a heated dog bed requires constant and thorough testing to make sure it meets the required safety standards. Ideally, it should come with a chew-resistant cable, a waterproof and accident-proof cover and fire retardant materials.
Washable Covers
Of course, you want a heated dog bed that’s easy to maintain because you don’t want to be cleaning it regularly. That’s why it’s always a good idea to buy a model with a machine washable cover. The heating element should wipe clean with a simple damp cloth without getting damaged.
This is also true for other dog accessories such as dog car seat covers, dog couch covers and dog SUV cargo liners.
Non-Slip Base
A non-slip base is a must for pups that suffer from mobility issues. It makes it easier for them to step in and out of bed without experiencing accidents or any discomfort.
Why Buy A Heated Dog Bed?
The most obvious benefit of purchasing a heated dog bed is that it’ll keep your dog warm during icy cold weather conditions. It’ll also keep your dog away from your bed because they’ll have somewhere comfortable and better to lay in.
Here are a few other advantages of owning a heated dog bed that are worth noting.
Relieves Arthritis
Arthritis is a terrible condition to suffer from because it makes your dog’s joints stiff, painful and inflamed. Some of the most common symptoms include joint pain and swelling which can lead to stiffness, pain and joint degeneration.
Lying on a heated dog bed could play a huge role in easing these symptoms and making your dog feel comfortable as they transition through their elderly years. Some of the best heated dog beds even come with an orthopedic base for added support and full-body comfort.
Soothes Hip Dysplasia Pain
Hip dysplasia is another unfortunate condition for your pup to go through and it’s characterized by a misalignment in the socket joint and ball of your dog’s hip. Unfortunately, this is a part of the aging process and a majority of dogs go through it.
Hip dysplasia can make it extremely difficult for your dog to perform daily activities like standing and walking. A heated dog bed can reduce this discomfort by keeping the affected area nice and warm.
Reduces Back Pain
A heated bed can significantly reduce back pain, especially when paired with an orthopedic base or pillow. That’s because it releases your dog’s spinal muscles from spasms and contracting so that it’s easier for them to move without experiencing any pain.
Supports Senior Pets
Heated dog beds help to generate better circulation so that your dog is much more flexible. This can be a game changer for elderly dogs that are struggling to maintain mobility in their old age, and it’ll help to decrease the risk of getting injured.
You might also want to consider other accessories for senior dogs, such as:
Heated Dog Beds Types
Heated dog beds are available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and they’re further divided into self-warming and electrically powered models. Read on for a better explanation of how each type works.
Self-Warming Dog Beds
As the name implies, a self-warming bed is designed to maintain optimal temperature levels by reflecting your own dog’s body heat. These dog beds are typically made from the same materials that are used to make survival and space travel blankets. So you can rest assured that they’re safe and comfortable for your dog, and the best part is that they‘re not electrically powered.
Electrically Heated Dog Beds
At the bottom of an electric heated dog bed is a thermostatically controlled electric heater that helps to prevent overheating. That’s because the thermostat makes it that much easier for you to control the temperature according to your dog’s needs, and they’re also conveniently energy efficient.
