What bed firmness do dogs prefer?

The firmness needs of dog beds are primarily based on the weight and size of the dog. Small breeds of 25 pounds or less do well with softer, conforming foam, while larger dogs of 50 pounds or more benefit from a firm, high-density support. Correct matching of the density of the bed to the dog's body weight will reduce strain on the joints and improve the restfulness of sleep.

To protect the delicate joints of small dogs, a soft surface is required, memory foam of 1.8 lbs./cu. Ft. or less conforms to their light-weight frames. This avoids the pressure on the elbows and hips. My Chihuahua has developed fewer calluses since I switched to soft foam.

Big dogs need firm support for compression. The density of the foam, over 2.0 lb/ft³, helps maintain spinal alignment. Foam helps distribute weight across joints evenly, i.e., the weight is distributed outside the joints. Using correct firmness, my German Shepherd stopped limping in the morning.

Consider special cases, such as puppies and seniors. Growing puppies require a medium-firmness of 1.8 lb/ft³ for bone development. Arthritic dogs require therapeutic density to match their weight. Always modify for health conditions.

Wrong firmness causes health consequences. Too soft beds strain large dogs' joints. Unyielding surfaces can put pressure on the bones of small dogs. Match density precisely to body weight for optimal protection.

Demonstrate compression recovery before purchasing. Press firmly into the foam for approximately 10 seconds. Good foams recover completely within 15 seconds. A slow recovery time is a sign of limited support. It is also good to double-check the thickness with a ruler in advance of testing these beds.

Read the full article: Dog Bed Size Guide: Find the Perfect Fit