Do Calming Dog Beds Really Work?

There are few things worse for dog owners than watching their beloved pets struggle with anxiety. Many dogs have anxiety, especially separation anxiety, which can cause a dog to become destructive when left alone.

For many dog owners, finding a solution to their pet's anxiety, especially when it is expressed when they are not present, can be a challenge. One thing that comes up is calming dog beds. Do these really work, and if so, how?

How Calming Dog Beds Work

Calming dog beds work by reminding your dog of what it was like to curl up next to its mother as a puppy. They do this by having an exterior made of faux fur that mimics another dog's coat. They are also donut-shaped, allowing your dog to find a comfortable position for their head or to feel as if they are being cuddled.

This can help your dog deal with anxiety. Also, some dogs simply find them more comfortable than other dog beds and may be more inclined to use them. This makes them one of the best dog beds out there.

Will a Calming Dog Bed Cure My Dog's Anxiety?

An anti-anxiety dog bed can help your dog's anxiety but will not cure it. You can make it more effective by putting it inside a den-like space. If your dog is crate trained, putting the dog bed inside the crate can help your dog feel particularly safe. Other things you can do for your dog include:

• Feeding calming supplements such as l-theanine, thiamine, and melatonin. You can also talk to your vet about options.
• Playing music when you leave the dog. Calming music can help your dog relax and also feel as if it has some company. Music reduces the stress hormone cortisol. Classical music is the best, but you may have to work to find the best option. Avoid heavy metal and rap, which some dogs like to join in with...by barking. A lonely dog might also appreciate human voices like talk radio or podcasts.
• Desensitization to help your dog learn that the anxiety-inducing stimulus is not so bad after all. For example, if your dog is afraid of vacuum cleaners, start by having it run in another room with treats, then gradually move it closer.
• Sufficient exercise to release endorphins and burn off energy.
• Obedience training to give the anxious dog something else to think about. Clicker training works well.
• An anxiety vest. These are best for specific anxiety-inducing situations such as thunderstorms, fireworks, etc. Anxiety vests are not good for long-term separation anxiety as they can chafe.

Be aware that some signs of anxiety can actually indicate a medical problem. If your dog is anxious when outside at certain times of the year, it could be a seasonal allergy. Repeat urination can mean your dog has a UTI (call the vet if they whine or show other signs of pain while peeing). Coprophagia, which is eating their own poop, can indicate a dietary deficiency.

Also, if nothing works, your vet can prescribe your dog anti-anxiety medications or give other advice to help them. Another potential cure for separation anxiety, but only if you can handle it, is another dog. Getting your dog a dog is worthwhile if you know you have the financial and other wherewithal to handle it.

So, the lowdown is. Anxiety beds for dogs do help many canines. While they do not cure anxiety, they can be part of an overall plan to help your dog. At Mushy Beds, our mission is to help dogs (and owners) overcome issues caused by separation anxiety. Our beds, blankets, and furniture protectors are expertly designed to be the perfect way to keep your dog cozy and relaxed.