Dirty Secrets: Is Your Dog’s Bed Putting Their Health at Risk?

Is Your Dog’s Bed Harming Their Health? Here’s What You Need to Know

As a loving pet parent, you want nothing but the best for your furry friend. You make sure they eat nutritious food, get regular exercise, and provide them with a cosy bed to rest in. But have you ever stopped to think if your dog’s bed is actually harming their health?

It’s true, your dog’s bed could be a potential source of health issues. In this article, we’ll explore why your dog’s bed might be harming their health and what you can do to ensure they sleep soundly and safely.

1. Allergies and Skin Irritations

Dog beds that are made of cheap materials or not properly cleaned can lead to allergies and skin irritations. Many dogs are allergic to dust, pollen, and mould, which can accumulate in the fibres of the bed. Additionally, the chemicals used to treat the bed may cause skin irritations or rashes.

To prevent these issues, opt for a bed made of natural, hypoallergenic materials, such as cotton or wool. Wash the bed regularly with a pet-safe detergent and allow it to dry thoroughly before use.

2. Joint and Muscle Pain

Just like humans, dogs can develop joint and muscle pain, which can be exacerbated by a poor quality bed. A bed that is too firm or too soft can cause discomfort and lead to long-term health issues.

Choose a bed that provides adequate support for your dog’s joints and muscles. Orthopedic beds are specifically designed to provide extra cushioning and support, making them an ideal option for dogs with joint issues or those who are older.

3. Bacterial Infections

Dog beds can be a breeding ground for bacteria, especially if they are not cleaned regularly. Dogs can pick up bacteria from their environment, which can then be transferred to their bed. This can lead to infections and illness, which can be costly and time-consuming to treat.

To prevent bacterial infections, wash your dog’s bed frequently and dry it thoroughly. Opt for a bed made of breathable materials that allow air to circulate and prevent the growth of bacteria.

4. Poor Spinal Alignment

Dogs sleep for an average of 12-14 hours a day, which means they spend a significant amount of time in their bed. If their bed does not provide proper spinal alignment, it can lead to back pain and other health issues.

Choose a bed that provides proper spinal alignment, such as an orthopedic bed or a bed with memory foam. These beds conform to your dog’s body shape, providing support where they need it most.

5. Ticks and Fleas

Ticks and fleas are a common problem for dogs, especially during the warmer months. These pests can easily make their way into your dog’s bed, where they can multiply and cause an infestation.

To prevent ticks and fleas, regularly wash your dog’s bed with a pet-safe detergent and vacuum it thoroughly. You can also use a flea and tick repellent spray on the bed to deter pests from making it their home.

In conclusion, your dog’s bed plays an important role in their health and well-being. By choosing a bed made of high-quality, hypoallergenic materials, providing proper support and alignment, and regularly cleaning and maintaining it, you can ensure your furry friend gets the restful and safe sleep they need.

Not all dog beds are machine washable, but many of them are. Whether or not a dog bed is machine washable depends on the specific materials and construction of the bed. Some dog beds have removable covers that can be washed in a washing machine, while others have covers that need to be hand washed or spot cleaned.

Some dog beds are made entirely of materials that cannot be washed in a machine, such as memory foam or orthopaedic foam.

If you’re unsure whether your dog’s bed is machine washable, check the care instructions that came with the bed or look for any tags or labels on the bed that provide washing instructions. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid damaging the bed or reducing its effectiveness.

Even if your dog’s bed is machine washable, it’s a good idea to remove any loose debris and spot clean any visible stains before washing to help prolong the life of the bed and ensure that it gets thoroughly cleaned.

What temperature to wash dog beds

The temperature at which you should wash your dog’s bed will depend on the specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer of the bed. However, in general, it’s best to wash your dog’s bed using a hot water cycle to help kill any bacteria, germs, and other contaminants that may be present. A hot water cycle typically involves using water that is 140°F (60°C) or higher.

Before washing your dog’s bed, check the care instructions that came with the bed or look for any tags or labels on the bed that provide washing instructions. Some dog beds may have specific temperature recommendations, such as “wash in cold water” or “wash in warm water.” It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid damaging the bed or reducing its effectiveness.

If the care instructions don’t provide specific temperature recommendations, it’s generally safe to wash your dog’s bed in hot water unless the materials used in the bed are particularly delicate or prone to shrinking. In this case, it may be safer to wash the bed in warm or cool water instead.