Rug Or Pillow: Which One To Choose For The Dog?
Carpet or pillow? This is perhaps the most frequent question pet owners ask themselves. After all, the comfort of our best friends is one of the most important factors for them to have a happy life.
If you have dogs, you’ve probably seen them sleep in almost any position. From small dog balls to the head hanging down, as well as sideways, face down, belly up… The list is endless.
However, dogs, like humans, certainly feel better when they can sleep well. However, sleeping is much more than closing your eyes and entering the dream state. Sleeping also involves getting plenty of rest and getting your energy back.
For humans, pillows are an almost indispensable part of a good night’s rest. Pillows help keep the spine properly aligned, thus preventing pain and cramps.
Human beings have very heavy heads in relation to the rest of the body because our brains are large. However, the physiology of dogs is a little different.
Proportionately, dogs’ shoulders are quite narrow, allowing them to sleep on their side without additional neck support. However, this does not mean that it is not more comfortable for them to have some support for the spine.
When choosing between a mat or a pillow, you should keep in mind that each dog is unique. So the choice will only be clear when you know your dog’s resting habits.
Teach your dog to use a pillow… if he wants to
There are two types of pillows you can offer your dog : a small pillow to support his head or a large pillow so that he can lie down with his entire body.
The small pillow works in a similar way to human pillows: a neck and head support. On the other hand, a large pillow should be one size larger than your dog’s body.
On a large pillow, your dog can lay his entire body on top of it. In that case, the pillow will work the same way as mattresses for humans.
Pillows can help keep your puppy warm and comfortable during nights and cold seasons. However, not all dogs are comfortable using pillows, although you can only find out when you offer them one.
In general, small and medium dogs prefer large pillows where they can rest their whole body. Large dogs, on the other hand, generally prefer small or medium pads.
Just like humans, dogs can sleep on the floor. However, this does not mean that this is the preference of all dogs. Pillows are ideal to relieve certain pain that your dog may be feeling in the body.
Is a rug the right choice?
Mats are an ideal choice for a dog in warmer places. Because they are closer to the ground, mats allow the animal to maintain a pleasant body temperature.
Another advantage of using mats is portability. If you travel frequently or usually camp on weekends, it’s a good idea to have a mat for your dog. That way, even if they change their environment, your dog will know where he belongs. This will give him peace of mind and allow him to sleep more comfortably.
Many dogs like challenges. Even if you don’t see it that way, a pillow is the perfect challenge for a bored dog. When a dog is bored, he can spend his time tearing at the pillow, much to the horror of his owners.
A mat completely reduces the risk of your dog ending up swallowing bits of cotton or polyester. Also, a rug is very easy to clean and reduces possible allergies caused by dust mites.
Carpet or pillow? How to know if your dog is comfortable
A comfortable dog is a dog that changes position while resting. If your dog is in the same position for several hours, he is probably uncomfortable.
If possible, give your puppy at least two different areas where he can rest. That way, he can change his resting position whenever he wants.
Your dog’s preference for a mat or pillow can vary throughout the year and is related to temperature. In the winter months, many dogs can be seen curled up into a ball. This behavior occurs because the animal is trying to minimize contact with the ground to maintain body heat.
On the contrary, in hot months, the dog often stretches as much as possible. During this time, pets prefer to stay in the shade and on cooler surfaces to reduce body heat a bit.
Therefore, in the warm months, your dog will probably prefer to use mats, while in the cold months he will prefer the pillows.
Remember that a resting area for your dog, whether with a mat or pillow, should allow him to stretch out fully. If your dog doesn’t have enough room to stretch out, he can develop medical problems. Scoliosis and nervous irritation in the back, as well as muscle compression, are real problems that affect pets.
Whether it’s a rug or a pillow, your dog will always need a bed that’s all his own. Don’t make the mistake of sleeping with your dog – this will only result in uncomfortable sleep for both of you.
