Are Dog Anti-Anxiety Beds worth the money?
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There is a trend at the moment for big plush "snuggler" or "donut" style dog beds which completely envelope around your dog and allow them to bury themselves in the fur. These beds are often marketed as anti-anxiety beds or calming beds, but do they actually work?
The theory is that the beds simulate that safe, puppy-like feeling (and memory) of being cuddled up with their mum and their puppy brothers and sisters.
Do dog anti-anxiety beds actually work?
The short answer is, maybe. How effective an anti-anxiety bed is for your dog depends upon what the root causes of your dog's anxiety are. Many dog owners find that these beds can help to soothe and calm their dog if the cause of their anxiety is separation from you, or if their dog prefers the peace and quiet of their own space, away from hustle and bustle. However, if your dog has other triggers such as sudden, loud noises these beds may prove to be less effective. We would always recommend checking the washing instructions before buying any dog bed as you will need to wash your dogs bed regularly to keep it clean to avoid it becoming dirty or smelly.
Will an anti-anxiety bed help my dog?
As with the above, it depends on what is causing your dog's anxiety and stress. We would suggest that due to the fluffy nature of the bed it might not be suitable for some dogs. For example, it might not be suitable for a puppy who is very destructive and likely to chew it to bits, likewise it might not be suitable for an incontinent dog or a dog that isn't toilet trained as you don't want to have to clean the bed constantly. If this sounds familiar, you might opt for a snuggling calming blanket instead. These beds are comforting, but are less supportive than other beds, so might not be suitable for an older dog, dogs with joint problems, or dogs that have recently undergone surgery, in this occasion an orthopaedic or memory foam bed would be better, or a vets' fleece.
Best Anti-Anxiety Dog Beds
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Dog Calming blanket
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Sound Sleep Donut Blanket, Anti-anxiety snuggler £17.99 |
Orthopaedic Dog Beds
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Vets' Fleece
A “vetbed” is suitable for most dogs and can be reassuring for puppies and prevent sores in older dogs, this could be a sufficient bed in itself or be used to line a separate bed or be used to line a crate. They are also hygienic, machine washable, non-allergic and resistant to chewing. It is advisable to have at least 2 beds so that you have a spare when washing and ironing their bed.
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Vetfleece Non-slip Pet Bedding 48" x 30"- Charcoal with Grey Multi-paws |
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Luxury High Density Marbled Vet Bed 60" x 40"-various colours and sizes |
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See also:
How can I reduce my dog's anxiety?
Are there ways of calming my dog without medication?
Do Dog Appeasing Pheromones (DAPs) work?
How to desensitise your dog to loud noises
Do Dog Anti-Anxiety (Calming) Beds work?
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