One of our favorite things about dogs is that they are warm and snuggly. But for your long term comfort and theirs, they need to sleep in their own bed (at least, most of the time). Here are the top 5 reasons why your dog should have his own bed.
1. Dogs Need Plenty of Sleep
Depending on the level of activity in your home, your dog could sleep 13 or more hours in one day. Where he sleeps will greatly affect the quality of his sleep intervals. Just like humans, dogs need uninterrupted deep sleep periods for REM (rapid eye movement) or a deep dream state. If your tossing or turning or they’re ‘running’ during REM neither one of you will sleep well or get enough sleep.
2. A Dog Bed Provides Comfort and Nesting
Many dogs will prefer a bed that provides comfort and is easy to get into and out of. Joint pain, arthritis, age, and weight can all hinder a dog’s ability to get comfortable while sleeping. They also limit your dog’s ability to jump up on your bed or climb stairs. The right dog bed is easy to get into and out of, provides comfort and warmth and is specifically designed for nesting.
3. A Place of Their Own - Safety and Security
Whether your new puppy started out in a crate or has always slept with you, it’s important for dogs to have a place all their own. Dog beds define a safe and secure spot where the dog can rest and sleep.
4. They’ll Love You More For It
We can’t forget about the pack issue. It’s been suggested that sleeping on the same level as your dog, like with you in bed, is confusing the pack mentality of dogs. The hierarchy is simple; the leader sleeps in the highest position. Having a dog bed on the floor, or downstairs while your family sleeps upstairs reinforces the fact that you are the pack leader.
5. You Have Plenty of Options
Today, there are so many options for dog bedding, that there is no excuse to find the one that’s right. Many fabrics are durable, washable and available in today’s popular colors and patterns. You can also choose dog beds that are made from eco friendly material, look like actual furniture, are elevated, have bolsters or are made from memory foam.
Most people are surprised at how well dogs take to their own beds. It really makes a difference in a good night’s sleep.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
Is Fur Enough? Why a dog needs another coat.
When the fall and winter weather gets here it can be winding, chilly, snowy, wet, icy or any combination of bad weather. A dog’s natural fur coat may not be enough protection. Here’s why you want a coat for your dog and how you might go about selecting the best option.
Dog Coats Offer Protection
Some dogs spend a majority of their time outdoors, naturally love colder climates, or have thick, dense, long coats that enable them to be comfortable outdoors in the winter. Older dogs, dogs with medium or short hair, puppies, and dogs that have recently been ill or have a chronic disease such as osteoarthritis need protection from cold winds, dampness, ice and snow. These dogs are susceptible to frostbite, chapping and hypothermia. It can take over a month for an indoor dog to fully adjust to the drop in temperatures outside.
Outdoor Clothing Options for Dogs
Raincoats offer the best protection in cooler, damp climates. When a dog gets wet, they can quickly begin to loose body temperature. You’ll know because your dog will shiver in response to being cold. Many raincoats for dogs provide protection for their back, neck and sides and are waterproof or water resistant. Raincoats with hoods can be beneficial in protecting ears.
If it’s cold, then you’ll want a coat that is not only waterproof or water resistant, but has some form of a heat retentive lining such as fleece or berber. Barn coats and quilted vests are a good choice. If you just want to protect against the cold than suede jackets and warm sweaters will provide the total coverage and warmth your dog needs.
Since a dog naturally keeps warm by moving, very active outdoor dog coats are now being made of special material that is thin, provides full body coverage, is wind and water proof, and has special heat regulating and Teflon coating materials. These coats are imperative for dogs that go hiking or on long walks with you during the winter season.
Dog Coats Offer Protection
Some dogs spend a majority of their time outdoors, naturally love colder climates, or have thick, dense, long coats that enable them to be comfortable outdoors in the winter. Older dogs, dogs with medium or short hair, puppies, and dogs that have recently been ill or have a chronic disease such as osteoarthritis need protection from cold winds, dampness, ice and snow. These dogs are susceptible to frostbite, chapping and hypothermia. It can take over a month for an indoor dog to fully adjust to the drop in temperatures outside.
Outdoor Clothing Options for Dogs
Raincoats offer the best protection in cooler, damp climates. When a dog gets wet, they can quickly begin to loose body temperature. You’ll know because your dog will shiver in response to being cold. Many raincoats for dogs provide protection for their back, neck and sides and are waterproof or water resistant. Raincoats with hoods can be beneficial in protecting ears.
If it’s cold, then you’ll want a coat that is not only waterproof or water resistant, but has some form of a heat retentive lining such as fleece or berber. Barn coats and quilted vests are a good choice. If you just want to protect against the cold than suede jackets and warm sweaters will provide the total coverage and warmth your dog needs.
Since a dog naturally keeps warm by moving, very active outdoor dog coats are now being made of special material that is thin, provides full body coverage, is wind and water proof, and has special heat regulating and Teflon coating materials. These coats are imperative for dogs that go hiking or on long walks with you during the winter season.
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