Yes, most orthopedic dog beds are superior to regular dog beds due to the support they offer.<\/p>\n

The extra support helps to reduce load on your dog\u2019s joints. This additional support has long term benefits for senior dogs as well as working dogs.<\/p>\n

There is one caveat though.<\/p>\n

Any dog bed can be labeled as an \u201corthopedic\u201d bed, so it\u2019s very important to know the basics of what a \u201ctrue\u201d orthopedic beds is.<\/p>\n

So \u201cquality\u201d orthopedic dog beds<\/span> are better than regular dog beds for a number of reasons, mostly related to what they\u2019re made of. Let\u2019s explore what sets them apart:<\/p>\n

“Quality” Orthopedic Dog Beds Contain Better Materials Than Regular Dog Beds<\/h5>\n

Most regular dog beds are \u201cstuffed,\u201d kind of like a stuffed animal might be. They are cloth casings filled with fluff (foam, fiber, and sometimes even little foam beads), and don\u2019t offer much in the way of support.<\/p>\n

Often times, the foam \u201cfillings\u201d in these types of bed compresses with your dog\u2019s weight and stays compressed, leaving the bed flat, lumpy, and unable to offer much joint support.<\/p>\n

These beds, while perfectly suitable for a young puppy who is likely to soil their bed \/ chew it up, aren\u2019t as well suited for adult dogs who could use the extra comfort and support.<\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

Egg-Crate Foam<\/span><\/p>\n

Many orthopedic dog beds are made of egg-crate foam, which is found in many human grade mattresses.<\/p>\n

Egg crate foam is a good filling for dog beds because it offers many layers of joint-friendly support, and plenty of airflow, so they\u2019ll be nice and cool in the summer and toasty warm in the winter.<\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

Solid Memory Foam<\/span><\/p>\n

In terms of support, egg crate foam is not as a supportive as solid memory foam. But it does offer better temperature regulation and is a good choice for dogs that need \u201ccooler\u201d beds due to climate.<\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

Memory foam orthopedic dog beds are the best choice for superior support and comfort. This is the same memory foam material that is used in higher end human bed choices.<\/p>\n

The best orthopedic dog beds use thick, single layer slabs of memory foam<\/span><\/span> instead of thinner pieces of foam that is sometimes glued together.<\/p>\n

One disadvantage of memory foam is that it doesn\u2019t regulate heat as well as other foam beds. Additionally, memory foam beds are the most expensive of orthopedic dog bed optionss.<\/p>\n

Orthopedic Dog Beds Are Better Constructed and Last Longer Than Typical Dog Beds<\/h5>\n

Because orthopedic dog beds are made from more durable materials, they tend to last much longer than inexpensive dog beds.<\/p>\n

So while you\u2019ll likely spend more initially, orthopedic beds make up for their price by being long lasting and resilient.<\/p>\n

Orthopedic Dog Beds Provides Your Dog With a Better Night’s Sleep<\/h5>\n

When your Shiba sleeps contentedly, they\u2019ll sleep longer and better!<\/p>\n

Orthopedic dog beds offer everything from joint support to temperature control, and tend to be plusher, thicker, and more comfortable than standard dog beds.<\/p>\n

How Dogs Benefit From Orthopedic Beds<\/h5>\n

While all dogs will reap the benefits of a well-made orthopedic dog bed, they are especially useful for dogs that may not get a good night\u2019s sleep without one.<\/p>\n

The following are situations where an orthopedic dog bed can an invaluable investment into your dog\u2019s long term health:<\/p>\n

Older dogs:<\/span><\/p>\n

Our aging canine friends often suffer from a variety of age-related health concerns, such as arthritis, joint problems, weak hindquarters, and are generally are less flexible then their younger counterparts.<\/p>\n

If your Shiba Inu is a golden girl or boy, an orthopedic dog bed will offer them the extra joint support they need, as well help to keep their back aligned and their hindquarters supported.<\/p>\n

If you have an Shiba Inu that\u2019s getting on in years- they deserve the extra comfort!<\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

Dogs in Recovery:<\/span> <\/p>\n

Any dog that has undergone a surgical procedure will appreciate the extra comfort and support that orthopedic beds offer. <\/p>\n

If your Shiba has just been neutered, spayed, or has had any other type of procedure, an orthopedic bed will offer them a cozy place to recuperate.<\/p>\n

Heavy Dogs: <\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve got a chubby Shiba Inu on your hands, an orthopedic dog bed might mean the difference between a good night’s sleep and restless, uncomfortable sleep! <\/p>\n

And if your heavy dog hasn\u2019t slept well, how will they have the energy to walk off all those extra calories? <\/p>\n

If you\u2019re the proud dog parent of a shapely Shiba, an orthopedic dog bed will handle their extra weight much better than a regular dog bed.<\/p>\n

While regular dog beds tend to sink with the dogs mass (which means they\u2019re basically sleeping on the floor) orthopedic dog beds are thick and better distribute the dog’s weight.<\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

Indulged dogs \/ Spoiled Shibas:<\/p>\n

Does your Shiba Inu think they\u2019re royalty?<\/p>\n

Do you maybe treat them that way?<\/p>\n

We\u2019re not judging- we do the same!<\/p>\n

Spoiled Shibas will love the luxurious feel of an orthopedic dog bed.<\/p>\n

Long Term Preventative Support:<\/p>\n

In the long term, having your dog sleep on a supportive bed will provide long term health benefits that will make transitioning into old age easier on the dog.<\/p>\n

Supportive beds protect your dog\u2019s bones, joints and muscles. Additionally, beds help prevent calluses on dogs – especially heavier ones.<\/p>\n

Memory foam orthopedic beds provide additional warmth to your dog while sleeping.<\/p>\n

This warmth promotes good circulation that encourages healing which is ideal for arthritic and \/ or injured dogs.<\/p>\n

Some Shiba Inus suffer from hip dysplasia and will definitely benefit from a supportive orthopedic dog bed.<\/p>\n

For dogs with hip dysplasia, we always recommend orthopedic dog beds that are constructed with 100%, single slab, thick memory foam.<\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

Why Do Orthopedic Dog Beds Cost More Than Regular Dog Beds?<\/h4>\n

The main drawback to orthopedic dog beds is that they tend to cost quite a bit more than a regular dog bed would. <\/p>\n

While a stuffed dog bed at the pet store may run you $10-$20, orthopedic dog beds can easily cost double, triple, or even more.<\/p>\n

The higher price of orthopedic dog beds is mainly due to the higher costs of the materials used in these beds.<\/p>\n

Egg-crate foam is more costly than foam filling, while memory foam is more costly than egg-crate foam. <\/p>\n

Additionally orthopedic beds are usually constructed to be more durable than traditional dog beds.<\/p>\n

Beds made of one thick layer of orthopedic material tend to cost more than beds made up of many small individual layers, but all versions will be more expensive than a typical dog bed.<\/p>\n