My 8-year-old Weimaraner, Billy, is a very scared, needy pup. Even though he’s around 45kgs, the rustle of a bush or a rain shower can lead to shaky legs.
The main problem with anxious Billy is getting him to stay home by himself. He gets the absolute princess treatment: lots of blankets, pjs and Muster Dogs on the TV. But it’s his calming dog bed that keeps him settled after we skip out for the day.
I don’t know the science behind his uber-comforting, ultra-fluffy bed, so I spoke to dog behaviour specialist Sarah Rutten to see whether they’re actually worth the investment.
What is a calming dog bed?
A calming dog bed is one that contains the following features:
- High or bolstered sides
- A fluffy, comforting material
- For older dogs, an orthopaedic bed with additional support for joints
- Sometimes a hood or cover that goes over the dog to increase security
Both of these things combined can create a feeling of safety and security for an anxious dog. Some refer to this feeling as reminiscent of being surrounded by a litter with a mother’s body curled around them.
Sarah explains that a dog can feel more supported when breathing with raised sides, as they are able to rest their head on a higher surface. The gentle enclosure of bolstered sides mean the nervous system has a better chance to settle, which allows for better quality sleep. This, like humans, is incredibly mentally and physically healing for dogs.
Are calming dog beds actually effective?
Sarah explains that while calming beds are not a standalone fix, they can be very effective for supporting more anxious dogs.
She describes the mental and physical state of feeling safe while sleeping as the ‘rest and digest’ state, where they can recoop and heal more easily.
While there is limited scientific research out there, many report the benefits of having a comfortable, ‘calming dog bed’ fo their anxious pups.
The best calming dog bed for anxious dogs
The Snooza Calming Cuddler dog bed
from $139.90, Snooza
In only one word, comfort. Since my pooch is an anxious little man, finding a sleeping apparatus that keeps him cosy and quiet throughout the night is a tricky task.
The bolstered sides and luxe vegan fur material are what make this bed so comforting. The inserts are squishy yet firm, fitting the Goldilocks-level requirements many high-anxiety dogs need when choosing bedtime sanctuaries.
One of the biggest saving graces from this dog bed is it’s machine washable cover and inserts. While, of course, we love the extreme comfort it provides, nothing is more comforting to a dog owner than knowing their dog products can be cleaned with no fuss.
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Colours: Silver Fox, Olive, Mink, Charcoal, Bliss
Materials: Polyester washable cover
Key features:
- Super soft long pile vegan faux fur paired with soft raised walls and a deep sleeping area provide the ultimate retreat for anxious pets and those that relish the feeling of safety and security.
- Invites hours of delicious snoozing and is fully machine washable (even the filling!).
- Features non-slip base and removable and washable covers on both the outer ring and cushion.
- Zippered access to the EcoFresh™* filled inners means you can top up your filling if you ever need to or make use of our Laundry Bag if your complete Cuddler doesn’t fit your washing machine.
Billy’s verdict of the Snooza Calming Cuddler dog bed
Our rating: 9.5/10
Since Billy can’t speak for himself, I’ve made the judgment that his Snooza calming dog bed is the best it can get for his comfort. Not only is he calmer when it’s time for bed, but if he’s feeling nervy we can simply put him in bed and wait til he feels safe and secure. This works well during storms and bad weather when he’s at his most jumpy.
Pros
- Higher sides mean a more cuddly feel
- Fluffy material adds to the comfort
- Machine washable: both the exterior cover and the interior filling
Cons
- The interior filling can’t fit in every kind of washing machine
- No flap or ‘cave’ feature
- The cover can lose some of it’s fluffiness after several washes
Other calming dog beds to give a go
Paws For Life hooded pet bed, from $49.99
Snooza Calming Hoodie Cuddler dog bed, from $129
Dsocool calming dog bed, from $47.99
Chill Kuzzi round bolster plush dog bed, from $62.99
How to tell if your dog is anxious
Anxiety can look a little different for every pet, but separation anxiety is most common for dogs. The clearer signs are destructive behaviour when left alone, but other signs include howling and barking, poor toileting behaviour, trembling and panting or even vomiting.
While tools like a calming dog bed, white noise machines and distraction can be enough for some dogs when you’re not in the house, it’s important to always check with your vet whether they’re in need of additional support.
If your dog is exhibiting any signs of anxiety that’s not related to separation, such as weather related stresses or noise phobias, it is recommended to see your vet.
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