Your daily dose of doggy goodness!
Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!
Dog of the Day: Kobi!
Meme of the day: This counts!
No Flopping Out of Bed — Preventing Sleepytime Injuries
For many of us, sharing our bed with our furry best friend is one of life’s greatest comforts. The gentle rise and fall of their breathing, the soft warmth of their body curled up next to ours — it’s a bond like no other.
But if you’ve ever woken up to a thud followed by a startled yelp, you know the heart-stopping moment when your dog takes an unexpected tumble out of bed. Our editor knows this feeling all too well since their arthritic senior dog has balance issues. Luckily, there are several thoughtful and simple ways to keep your pup safe while still enjoying those cozy snuggles.
Create a Safe Sleeping Space
One of the easiest ways to prevent falls is by giving your dog their own dedicated sleeping area. Consider placing a plush dog bed right beside yours. For extra comfort, add one of your worn t-shirts to their bed; the familiar scent can be incredibly soothing. If your pup insists on being on the big bed, using a soft blanket or pet-safe bolster as a border can act as a gentle barrier to help prevent midnight mishaps.
Use a Bed Ramp or Stairs
For smaller dogs or those with mobility issues, bed ramps or stairs can be a game-changer. Not only do they prevent injury from jumping up or down, but they also make nighttime potty breaks much safer. Be sure to choose a model with a non-slip surface and take the time to train your dog to use it with treats and praise. They’ll be zooming on those stairs in no time!
Lower Your Bed
If your bed sits quite high off the ground, lowering it can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Alternatively, you can add a soft rug or cushioned mat on the floor next to the bed. This won’t stop a fall but will help soften the landing.
Consider a Bed Rail or Bumper
Much like a toddler bed rail, bed bumpers offer a little extra security for pups who tend to roll in their sleep. These soft barriers give peace of mind while letting your furry friend snooze nearby. Just be sure they’re installed correctly so your pup doesn’t get stuck between the bed and the railing.
Keep a Light On
The darkness adds another safety issue for senior dogs or dogs with poor eyesight. Try keeping a light on in the room so your pup can see the edge of the bed, even in the middle of the night.
Tune in to Your Dog’s Needs
Every dog is unique. Some may prefer sleeping at the foot of the bed, while others love curling up right next to you. Paying attention to their habits will help you create the safest sleeping arrangement. Consulting with your vet about the best sleeping solutions for older dogs or those with health issues can ensure they get the support and safety they need.
At the end of the day, keeping your dog safe and comfortable while sharing your bed is all about understanding their needs and making small adjustments. With a few thoughtful changes, you can both drift off into dreamland, knowing that each night is not just cozy but safe. Sweet dreams to you and your four-legged friend!
Family Photo of the Day: Rambo!
We want to feature your pup!
We want to share your pup with our pack. Email us your favorite doggy pic or video with your pup’s name, and we’ll try to feature it as a family photo in one of our upcoming newsletters or on our Facebook page.
Like newsletters? Here are some newsletters our readers also enjoy. Explore
Share our newsletter with your friends!
We’ll donate on your behalf!
🐶 Refer 10 people: we will donate a box of treats to an animal rescue 🐶
🐕️ Refer 50 people: we will donate a bag of dog food to an animal rescue 🐕️
🛏️ Refer 100 people: we will donate a dog bed to an animal rescue 🛏️
{{rp_personalized_text}}
Sources:
Dog of the day: IG corgi.kobi
Meme of the day: IG smileywileydog