Anti-stress beds for dogs - what they are, benefits and best models

Of course, these beds are not the best solution for a dog suffering from anxiety, but they can be of great help. In them, dogs can experience an increased sense of security and comfort and therefore enjoy a really restful sleep.

In this article, we are going to tell you in detail about soothing dog beds, their features and the specific benefits they bring.

What are anti-stress dog beds

Anti-stress dog beds are not fundamentally different from regular beds, but they are designed to promote a sense of relaxation and safety in your dog.

Although there are many different models of relaxation beds, they usually share common features and elements, in particular, they are especially soft and comfortable, with soft texture around the edges and at the base to keep your dog as comfortable as possible. They usually have a raised edge, as soft as the base, so that the dog can lay his head down, or snuggle completely in it if he is stressed.

Many anti-stress beds have a long coat, which gives extra softness and comfort. They have non-slip bases to prevent unexpected movement or slipping when the dog climbs in or out of it.

There are many different models of anti-stress beds, but all are designed to be especially comfortable and convenient.

If you live with an anxious dog and are in doubt, it is always advisable to consult the salesperson about the characteristics of their product. And it is important to remember that an anti-stress bed, however effective it may be, can by no means be the only solution for a dog suffering from anxiety or overstress. You just have to consider it as another addition.

Thus, you should always first seek the help of a veterinarian or professional trainer to advise you on how to help your dog.

What types of anti-stress beds for dogs are available

As we said earlier, you can find all kinds of models of anti-stress beds on the market with different characteristics. In any case, the most common ones are the following:

- Round doughnut type beds: these are probably the best known anti-stress beds. They are shaped like a donut and in many cases have slightly raised edges. Like all beds of this type, they are made of soft and comfortable materials.

- Orthopedic dog beds: these are beds specifically designed to provide comfort and rest for older dogs or dogs with joint problems, spine problems, etc. These models usually have an adaptable memory foam base. They also usually have raised edges on only two or three sides so that dogs with worse mobility can get in and out unimpeded.

- Cave-style beds: in addition to comfort, these "caves" provide anxious dogs with extra security due to the small ceiling.

- Anti-stress beds with high tops: these are beds with particularly raised tops, ideal for dogs who prefer to sleep very tightly.

- Heated dog beds: these beds are usually of a simple design and are more like large pads, but they can be wired and even programmed. They are suitable for dogs who are always looking for warmth in the house.

Each model of anti-stress bed has its own features and benefits. You will need to choose according to your dog's needs and behavior. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian.

How to choose the best anti-stress bed for your dog

When choosing an anti-stress bed, like any other fixture, you need to consider the characteristics and preferences of the dog that is going to use it. No two dog beds are alike, so a bed that one refuses to use may become another's favorite nook. In any case, we advise you to consider the following factors:

• - Fill thickness and comfort: since the main purpose of these bedding is to make your dog comfortable, it is important to make sure that the bed has enough filler and that it is of good quality.
• - Cleaning: dog bedding often gets dirty due to contact with paws, hair, etc., so ease of cleaning is definitely an issue to consider. In this regard, keep in mind that some models have removable covers, while others fit entirely in the washing machine.
• - Size: not surprisingly, not all beds are suitable for all dogs. In general, large dogs are most comfortable on oval beds and small dogs are most comfortable on round beds. Also, the heavier the dog, the sturdier the bed should be.

Other features: non-slip base, odor-resistant, waterproof... Many anti-stress beds offer additional features that may be of interest depending on what your dog looks like, what room he will be sleeping in, what your lifestyle is like, etc. Before you buy, look carefully at the features of the bed.