An Orthopedic Dog Bed Is Best for This Breed!

Introduction

The best dog beds for German Shepherds takes into account their health and personal preferences. An orthopedic dog bed is the best choice for this breed. Orthopedic beds are best for health reasons. German Shepherds are renowned for their loyalty and versatility, stand tall as one of the most beloved dog breeds.

Originally bred for herding sheep, their intelligence, strength, and unwavering dedication have led them to excel in various roles. These roles include police and military work to service and search and rescue missions.

With their distinctive appearance marked by a strong, muscular build and a noble, alert expression, German Shepherds exude confidence and grace. Their keen intellect and eagerness to please make them highly trainable companions, cherished for their protective instincts, boundless energy, and enduring devotion to their human families.

The best beds for this breed are orthopedic because of their health issues. By knowing their sleeping position, will help you determine which bed to buy. For this breed of dog, we can recommend bolster, elevated and rectangle dog beds.

Bolster beds are for dogs that like to lay their head on something and body for support while sleeping. Rectangle beds are for dogs that like to stretch out when sleeping. Elevated beds provide air circulation to help keep them cool during hot summer days.

Regardless of which type of bed you choose these beds helps dogs with joint pain and arthritis.

Facts About German Shepherds

Below are some interesting facts about the German Shepherds you may not know.

• Popularity: This breed of dog is the 4th most popular in the United States in 2023, according to the American Kennel Club.
• Costs: The average cost of a German Shepherd puppy is between $450 – $1900. Monthly average upkeep costs $50-$149.
• Colors: Black & Red, Black & Tan, Blue, Isabella, Silver, Grey, Sable, Black, Bi-color, Liver, Panda, Black & Silver, and white.
• Average Lifespan: The average lifespan of German Shepherds are between 9 – 13 years.
• Average Growth: Both males and females can grow up to 3 years of age.
• Average Height: Males 24 – 26 inches Females 22 – 24 inches.
• Average Weight: Males 55 – 88 lbs. Females 49 – 71 lbs.
• Average Length: Between 36 – 42.5 inches.
• Versatility: They are one of the most versatile dog breeds, excelling in various roles including police and military work, search and rescue, therapy, guide dogs for the visually impaired, and competitive obedience.
• Intelligence: German Shepherds are highly intelligent, ranking third in Stanley Coren’s list of the most intelligent dog breeds.
• Trainability: Their intelligence coupled with their eagerness to please makes them highly trainable, capable of learning complex tasks and commands quickly.
• Athleticism: They are known for their athleticism and endurance, making them well-suited for active lifestyles and demanding jobs.
• Protective Instincts: German Shepherds are naturally protective of their families and territory, making them excellent guard dogs.
• Health: While generally healthy, they are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy, emphasizing the importance of responsible breeding and regular veterinary care. More about health issues below.
• Coat and Colors: They have a double coat that can be either short or long, with color variations which include black and tan, sable, and solid black.

Common Health Issues

Below we share some of the most common health issues that German Shepherds can experience throughout their lifetime.

• Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to issues with mobility and pain.
• Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord that leads to hind limb weakness and paralysis.
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): In this condition, the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes, leading to malabsorption and weight loss.
• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): This is commonly known as bloat. This is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow.
• Degenerative Joint Disease (Osteoarthritis): German Shepherds are prone to developing arthritis, especially as they age. This can cause pain and stiffness in the joints.
• Allergies: German Shepherds can be prone to skin allergies, which may manifest as itching, redness, and skin infections.
• Panosteitis: Also known as “growing pains,” this condition causes lameness and pain, particularly in young, rapidly growing German Shepherds.
• Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint, causing lameness and arthritis.

Regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, exercise, orthopedic bed, and responsible breeding practices can help mitigate the risk of these health issues in German Shepherds.

Best Dog Beds for German Shepherds

When you are looking for a dog bed for German Shepherds, it is essential to choose a bed that offers ample support, durability, and comfort, given their size and potential joint issues.

• Orthopedic Dog Beds: Look for an orthopedic bed with memory foam or supportive foam filling. These beds provide excellent support for your dog’s joints, especially if they have arthritis or hip dysplasia.
  • Tip: When shopping for orthopedic bed be sure to look for the CertiPUR-US seal. This means the foam used in making the bed does not contain any harmful toxins or chemicals which can be harmful to pets and humans.

• Large Size: German Shepherds are large dogs, so ensure the bed is spacious enough for them to stretch out comfortably. Look for beds labeled as “large” or “extra-large” to accommodate their size.
• Durable Materials: Choose a bed made from durable materials that can withstand your German Shepherd’s weight and activity level. Rip-resistant fabrics like ballistic nylon or heavy-duty canvas are good options.
• Waterproof or Water-Resistant: Consider a bed with a waterproof or water-resistant cover. This is especially if your German Shepherd tends to drool or has accidents indoors. This makes cleaning easier and prolongs the bed’s lifespan.
• Elevated Bed: Some German Shepherds may prefer elevated beds, which allow for better airflow and can help keep them cool, particularly in warmer climates.
• Washable Cover: Look for a bed that has a removable, machine-washable cover for easy cleaning and maintenance.
• Raised Edges or Bolsters: This type of bed that has raised edges or bolsters provides a sense of security and can serve as a pillow for your German Shepherd to rest their head on and body against.
• Chew-Resistant Features: If your German Shepherd is prone to chewing, consider a bed with reinforced seams or chew-resistant materials to prevent damage.

By considering these factors, you can choose a dog bed that provides your German Shepherd with the support, comfort, and durability they need for a good night’s sleep and cozy lounging during the day. Be sure to place the dog bed out of heavy traffic areas of the house. Your dog should have a place he can go to without any interruption. Also, place the bed in a non-drafty area as this will aide them in sleeping or resting comfortably.

Conclusion

By performing regular groom, watching their diet and regular vet visits, you can keep your dog healthy for a long time. Providing them with a good bed, such as an orthopedic, you will help in extending his life span.

Knowing his health issues, you keep you alert if any of the conditions occur. By knowing his full adult size and sleeping position will help you in selecting the proper size dog bed. This breed of dog is highly intelligent and will be easy to train.

Don’t forget to provide plenty of planned exercises for them every day so they don’t develop separation anxiety. With his health in mind and his preferences, you should be able to find a good orthopedic dog bed to provide them comfort and support. Don’t forget to place the bed out of drafty and heavy traffic areas of the house.

You can read about our other dog breed information articles by clicking HERE!

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