Many people don't think animals need beds, especially not orthopedic dog beds. Whether they're animals lovers who think that "animals are people, too" or someone who's never owned an animal, it's easy to see why they might not think Fido needs a special sleeping spot of his own. They seem to be able to sleep anywhere-on the hard kitchen floor, in a chair, on a sidewalk, or outside in the grass. They hardly seem picky. Special resting spots don't seem like necessary supplies for them, but experts know that the proper place to sleep is as important for them as it is for humans.

A sleeping pooch often gets woken and shooed out of chairs and couches so people can sit down. With a special place of his own for him to sleep, that won't happen. He'll have an added sense of security and feel more confident about his place in the home when he realizes that he's got his own special spot he can't be forced out of at any time.

Orthopedic dog beds keep your pooch off the floor. They don't have to sleep on a hard surface any more because some have such soft and comfortable surfaces, they mold right around the animal, making his sleeping spot extra soft and snuggly. Special units are designed to give more stretch-out room to larger breeds, and some are designed for smaller breeds who need even more warmth and security.

Orthopedic dog beds are perfect for aging or mature animals. They come down with the same chronic conditions people do. Stiff joints, arthritis, inflammation and difficulty moving right after waking up and during periods of damp weather are common problems in aging animals. Orthopedic dog beds can help old Fido feel better. They'll cushion older bones and joints, relieve pressure in sensitive areas and provide maximum comfort at the same time.

Larger breeds should always have orthopedic dog beds, because their large frames tend to make their joints wear out much quicker than smaller breeds. Fat animals or those who've had injuries or surgeries in their history can benefit greatly from orthopedic dog beds, as well. Some orthopedic dog beds are even heated, because the added heat can help greatly with join pain and stiffness.

Orthopedic dog beds help humans, too. If your four-legged friend always sleeps in one place instead of whichever chair or part of the couch is available, then any dirt and hair will pretty much be confined to just one spot. Many are made with washable covers to offer you even more convenience,and most are made of easy to clean materials that are comfortable, but stain resistant.

Any animals can benefit from orthopedic dog beds, but if they've been injured or they're older, there's another good reason to consider purchasing one besides the extra cushioning: having a special sleeping spot on the floor can prevent the injuries caused by jumping down from furniture. Pets who sleep in chairs and on couches have to jump down after waking when joints are most stiff. Orthopedic dog beds keep them from having to do that, so less jumping down from furniture means less chance your four-legged friend can get hurt.

Orthopedic dog beds are even more important for animals who spend lots of time outside. Many pups spend hours outside, where the weather can change quickly and cause even more joint pain. A bed keeps your animal off the cool and damp ground, giving him a dry place to snuggle up and snooze. Many beds are designed to be used both indoors and outdoors, and can easily move back and forth with your pooch.

No matter what your friend's age or physical condition, orthopedic dog beds can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness, and maybe even delay or prevent those problems in an aging pet. And it'll give your four-legged family member a comfy spot of his own and make him feel more loved and secure.