Heated Dog Bed Recommendations for Large Dogs 

Heated Dog Bed Recommendations for Large Dogs


There’s a good chance that you will need a heated dog bed at some point, if any of the following characteristics describe your dog: 

  • Cold-natured
  • Short haired
  • Injured
  • Ill
  • Arthritic
  • Aging

You may also buy a heated bed if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, especially if you live in a colder climate. Indoor dogs also enjoy these beds if they’re cold natured or are facing special circumstances that make it difficult for them to maintain a comfortable body temperature. In some cases, you may need a cooling dog mat in your home as well.

Types of Heated Dog Beds

The most important feature of a heated bed is the heating element. These beds aren’t all designed the same, and the amount of heat produced will vary. There are three basic types of heated large dog beds that you will find on the market today:

  • Self-Heating Beds: These beds utilize your dog’s body heat to generate additional heat. These are the safest options, and they won’t run up your electric bill. You also don’t have to worry about the use of batteries with this type of pet bedding.
  • Energized Beds: An energized dog bed will either include electrical components that allow you to plug a mat into the wall, or they will operate with batteries. This type of pet bed may generate more heat than a self-heating bed, but they will cost more as you use your home’s electricity or buy replacement batteries.
  • Microwave Heat Pads: These are heated pads that you buy separate from your dog bed. You place them in the microwave, and then slip them under the cover of the bed. This will generate heat for a short period of time, and then you will need to reheat the pads. This is the most affordable option, especially if your dog will only need the heat while recovering from illness or an injury.

Not all heated beds are designed with thick, high-density memory foam that provides adequate support for a large dog. If you’re concerned about support for long-term use, you may want to go with microwave heat pads. You may need multiple pads to keep your big dog warm, but they will allow you to select your dog’s bed for support while adding the heat feature as needed.

Think Long Term about a Heated Dog Bed

Your dog may not always need a heated dog bed, so you might want to keep an additional bed in your home. This will give your pet an option to use the bed that best fits their needs at any given moment. You might also need a heated dog bed out in the dog house or on a screened porch while an unheated bed is suitable for use inside your home.

Don’t be surprised if cats and other smaller companions are drawn to your big dog’s heated bed. Providing a warm, soft, cuddly bed is one of the best ways to encourage all of your pets to get along.

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