It’s a good job I have no problem admitting that I’m a crazy dog lady, as the latest product we’ve been sent to review from the lovely people at Hot Dog Pet Products, an orthopedic heated dog bed, has pushed Poppy’s bed count into double figures! [That doesn’t even take account of the two beds she’s got stowed away at Granny and Grandpaw’s for high days and holidays!]
However, this new luxury bed comes with a difference, it is centrally heated! Yes, you read that right, Hot Dog Beds (as their name would suggest) come with their very own heat pad to keep your dog warm and toasty.
My gorgeous Pops isn’t getting any younger, and since her cruciate injury two years ago, I am very conscious of doing everything in my power to look after her joints.
Years of chasing a tennis ball at one hundred miles an hour have taken their toll and without various herbal supplements and her daily laser treatment, I’m sure she wouldn’t be in such good shape.
Therefore, when we were asked if we’d like to review one of Hot Dog’s Centrally Heated dog beds, I couldn’t wait to put it to the test.
What are the benefits of a heated dog bed?
Hot Dog Beds are designed primarily for more mature dogs, or dogs with health conditions, such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, joint pain, or those recovering from surgery.
When we humans are suffering from aching muscles, the first thing we reach for is a hot water bottle to soothe and ease our symptoms.
The application of heat helps to alleviate discomfort and promote healing. It works to reduce stiffness and muscle spasms, which in turn increases the blood flow to the affected area, thus relieving pain.
Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis is one of the most common causes of pain in older dogs and it can affect a staggering four out of five of our more mature canine companions. Whilst predominantly a disease associated with old age, it can also affect dogs who are as young as one. Therefore, it’s always worth knowing how to recognise the signs and to put things in place when they’re younger to lessen their chances of suffering in older age.
The disease is progressive and unfortunately, there is no cure for it. In fact, it’s not even clear what causes Arthritis. However, as we know from the human form, it is incredibly debilitating leaving the individual in chronic pain. Sadly, it continues to be one of the major causes of euthanasia, as dogs can eventually lose all quality of life if the arthritis is not managed and treated effectively.
Dogs don’t tend to show discomfort as we do. They will rarely yelp in agony or even limp to show they are in pain, therefore spotting the signs can be difficult. There is an excellent website called Canine Arthritis Management, or CAM for short, which gives dog owners excellent advice when it comes to identifying and alleviating arthritic pain.
If you spend a lot of time with your dog, as I do with Pops, it can be difficult to spot changes in your dog’s behaviour, as they can be subtle and develop over time. However, here are some of the key signs to look out for:
- a reluctance to exercise
- their usual routine of stretching, rolling, or scratching appears less frequent
- licking their front paws or licking the joints that are causing them discomfort
Orthopedic Heated Dog Bed – Heat Pad Technology
Unlike other dog bed manufacturers, the Hot Dog Orthopedic Heated Dog Bed comes with its own mains powered central heating system. It operates on a low voltage thermostat control which prevents it from overheating. The cable runs from the plug socket to the heat pad which sits neatly under the main cushion of the bed. Whilst Hot Dog has done everything in their power to make the cable ‘teeth resistant,’ by using an armored cable and a chew-resistant metal, it’s worth being vigilant and leaving it unplugged when your dog is home alone.
With seven different heat settings to choose from, ranging in temperature from 25°c to 55°c, the heat pad is activated by pressure. When your dog snuggles down on the bed, the temperature will rise to that set on the controller.
When the bed is vacant, the temperature will revert to an ambient level.
Hot Dog Pet Products – More than just health benefits
However, the benefits don’t stop at your dog’s health. As you’d expect from a quality, high-end product everything has been considered. The beds are aesthetically pleasing and functional too.
They are available in a range of fabrics, all of which are ethically and sustainably sourced and filled with a recycled fibre filling that works in harmony with your dog’s body temperature.
The beds are designed to not absorb water and, apart from their wax range, they are fully washable and are designed to complement the soft furnishings in your home.
All the fabric choices boast subtle earthy colour tones that will blend into the background. [You see no one will notice that extra dog bed in our house after all!]
The Best of Both Worlds – Orthopedic Heated Dog Bed
The heat pads are available as an optional extra, however, even without the heat pad, the beds are incredibly snuggly and certainly get the paw of approval from Pops.
She loves beds that provide support, and make her feel safe and secure, and being as Hot Dog Beds are filled with a cosy thermal filling, it provides the perfect nest in which to slumber the day away!
After all, our canine companions do spend over half their lives snoozing. [It sounds idyllic – I’m convinced I’m half dog!]
Hot Dog Pet Products – Made in Britain
Hot Dog Pet Products is a family-run business based in Northallerton, North Yorkshire. Their entire range of thermal and centrally heated beds are designed and produced here in the UK. They also have a rather impressive range of thermal walking accessories for us humans which are most definitely worth a look!
Having just returned from a very chilly dog walk [yes, I probably looked like the Michelin woman all wrapped up in any warm item of clothing I could lay my hands on!] a heated coat sounds very welcome indeed.
So, are Hot Dog Beds worth the money?
Hot Dog beds start at £149.99 for a heated Pillow Bed. The orthopedic heated dog beds are not cheap by any means, but they are of the best quality and I am a firm believer that you get what you pay for in life.
I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending one to anyone who has an older or injured dog. After all, you cannot put a price on your dog’s health and well-being, and anything that helps our furry friends to feel more comfortable is worth every penny in my opinion.
A huge thank you to Hot Dog Pet Products for gifting us one of their fabulous beds in return for an honest review. It’s a definite hit with Pops – in fact getting her out of the bed is now my main problem!
If your dog suffers from Arthritis or joint pain, we’d love to know what you recommend to help alleviate their discomfort. Please let us know in the comments below.
Woofs and Wags
Kate and Pops
xox
Hi, is it possible to order?