When we as humans think of blankets and the benefits they serve, the uses are many. Keeping us warm when the temperature drops, providing that little extra bit of "security" when a thunderstorm rolls through, protecting our furniture from spills or other accidents, keeping our fury friends comfortable during travel, or just something that feels good to have wrapped around you; the list goes on. Those same reasons can apply just as well to your pets.
Yes, sometimes an old towel or a worn blanket are enough to keep them happy and safe, but there are other dog blankets out there which are designed specifically with your furry friend in mind, through every stage of their life. Some might be extra tough to stand up to more active snugglers, while others provide more padding or a thicker design for extra comfort if used in a crate or on the floor, like the Aspen Pet Fleece Blanket for dogs or cats.
Some things to keep in mind when looking into choosing a dog blanket:
Depending on which direction you go, one thing to keep an eye out for – especially if you've spent some money on it – is your dog chewing on their blanket. While not an overly common behavior, it's generally considered to be the result of premature weaning from their mothers. Other factors could be teething in younger dogs or even an indicator of stress, especially if you notice accompanying whining or other signs of restlessness. Remember, just like us, blankets can sometimes provide that extra feeling of comfort and ease!
While chewing is a normal behavior in dogs, if what they've set their mind (and teeth) onto is something you'd rather not see set to tathers, a few simple options exist:
Back to the subject of cleaning; one of the concerns that any pet owner has is dealing with hair that can accumulate on blankets, or other items they might frequent.
While some breeds tend to shed more than others, there are a few helpful hints for keeping them as clean as possible:
For overall cleaning and dealing with odors that eventually make their pressence known, regularly vacuuming around areas where your dog likes to keep their blanket is a good habit to get into. Other ways to help combat could be sprinkling baking soda on or around the dog blanket, spraying diluted vinegar, or using a citrus and hydrogen peroxide mix, which acts as both a good cleaner in addition to neutralizing odors.
So, whether your dog is big or small, when looking for a dog blanket, don't forget, just like us, a blanket is oftentimes more than just "a blanket". Take some time to see what works and what they like; it'll go a long way towards having a happy pup and a cozy home.
Sources:
The Pros of Catnip for Cats
Adopting A Senior Cat
Common Canine Leg Injuries
Pet Strollers: Why Pet Parents Should Consider a Pet Stroller