Weighted blankets are becoming more and more popular, and many people use them as a way to relieve stress and improve sleep.
Just like humans, our dogs have triggers for fear and anxiety. These triggers can be anything from being left alone, loud noises (like thunder or gunshots), traveling, etc.
This is where the weighted blanket comes in.
If you have a pet that frequently exhibits signs of stress, such as a decrease in appetite, fur loss, and/or shaking, there are definite benefits to trying this method.
Similarly to deep pressure therapy, which works by evenly distributing weight across your body, simply wrapping a weighted blanket around a frightened pup can provide him with a sense of security and safety, and may help him rest better at night.
Moreover, it can help reduce symptoms of separation anxiety, as well as build up a gradual tolerance to fear and phobias.
In fact, weighted blankets are a great natural alternative to anti-anxiety medications, which can make your dog lethargic and might even have some negative side effects.
Note: If your dog is displaying signs of anxious behavior, it’s always a good idea to get him checked out by a vet first.
Below are the best weighted blankets for dogs.
What Are the Best Weighted Blankets for Dogs?
1. BUDDYREST Anti-Anxiety Weighted Dog Blanket
Specifically designed to relieve stress and anxiety in dogs, this weighted blanket isn’t only helpful, but it’s extremely comfortable as well.
Made in the USA, the blanket features non-toxic beads, and while one side is lined with K9 suede, the other side is made of a luxuriously soft fleece, which means your dog will likely love cuddling up in it.
Furthermore, the blanket is available in different sizes, making it easier for you to select the appropriate one for your anxious furry friend.
While it can be wiped down, it’s also perfectly safe to throw in the washing machine, so your pup won’t ruin it if he happens to lay down with wet fur or muddy paws.
Pros
- Reduces stress and fear
- Extremely comfortable
- Made in the USA
- Non-toxic beads
- Available in different sizes
- Machine washable
Cons
- Can be a bit tough to clean
2. Canine Coddler Anti-Anxiety Blanket Wrap
Approved by veterinarians, this weighted blanket gently swaths your dog in a cocoon-like cloud of soft material to keep anxiety, stress, and over-excitement at bay.
It’s filled with non-toxic PVC pellets that are separated into different pockets, so you don’t have to worry about them bunching up on one side or in the corner.
The blanket comes in two different weights: 5lbs and 7lbs, one of which is best for small and medium-sized dogs, and the other being suitable for dogs over 50 pounds.
If it gets dirty, you can simply remove the outer cover and throw it in the washer to make it as good as new. Additionally, there’s a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.
As an added bonus, a proceed of all the company’s sales goes to contributing to vet bills for pet owners with financial difficulties.
Pros
- Provides comfort and calming
- Non-toxic pellets
- Available in two sizes
- Washable cover
- Money-back guarantee
Cons
- May be too heavy for very small dogs
3. ComfyCalm Kids Calming Weighted Blanket
The application of constant, gentle pressure exerted by this blanket is a blessing for helping dogs calm down in a stressful situation.
It has a non-toxic filler that’s made from a combination of smooth glass beads and polyester, which are divided into pouches and provide an even weight distribution.
On top of that, the blanket has sturdy stitching that’s highly durable, and it weighs 5 pounds, which is ideal for small to medium-sized dogs up to 55lbs.
Its large size (36 x 48 inches) is great for pooches who might feel too constricted with smaller blankets, as they have plenty of room to move around as they please.
Cleanup is easy as well—simply wipe it down or put it in the washing machine whenever needed. You also get a moneyback guarantee, so if you’re not totally happy, you can return the blanket for a full refund.
Pros
- Relieves anxiety and stress
- Non-toxic filler
- Larger size provides freedom
- Easy to clean
- Money-back guarantee
Cons
- A little too light for larger dogs
4. Fabula Life Weighted Blanket
Even though this product is originally designed for children, a number of pet owners have found that it works very well for alleviating their dog’s stress and anxiety, too.
It’s eco-friendly and easy to clean, with an outer layer that’s made from pure cotton and inner filler which contains non-toxic, odorless glass beads.
In addition, the square compartment design is similar to a giant quilted pattern, so the filler stays in place and evenly distributes weight rather than allowing it to fall to one side or the other.
The blanket comes in various sizes and weights between 5lbs to 25lbs, so you can tailor it to your dog’s precise weight and preference.
Finally, there’s a one-year warranty included with purchase, as well as an initial 30-day period where you can return it if you’re not totally satisfied.
Pros
- Alleviates stress and anxiety symptoms
- Eco-friendly
- Non-toxic glass beads
- Various sizes
- Customer satisfaction guarantee
Cons
- Not specifically designed for dogs
Best Duvet Cover for Weighted Blankets
YEMYHOM Removable Duvet Cover
Keep in mind that this isn’t an actual weighted blanket in and of itself, but rather, a 100% cotton duvet cover.
It comes in a multitude of colors and patterns, all of them are soft to the touch and are impossible to resist. Besides, you can tie it to the four separate corners in order to prevent any kind of slipping from your dog’s paws or moving around.
Thanks to exquisite stitching and four sizes, you can simply cover on and off your dog’s weighted blanket, easily changing and washing it as though it were a pillowcase.
It also comes with customer support that’s available any time of day if you have problems or questions, and if you’re not convinced, you can always return the product for a full refund.
Pros
- 100% cotton
- Different colors
- Easy to clean
- Satisfaction guaranteed
Cons
- Corner ties can be flimsy
Are Weighted Blankets Safe for Dogs?
If you’re going to use a weighted blanket, you need to be sure that you’re using a size that’s appropriate for your pet.
Keep in mind that most human weighted blankets are simply too heavy for smaller dogs, and using a blanket that is too heavy can cause them discomfort, injure their joints, or irritate the skin.
Tip: Look for something that weighs around 10% of your dog’s total body weight. This will provide the sensation of comfort and security, while ensuring he doesn’t feel constricted or bogged down.
Note that if your dog is a chewer, you need to keep a close eye on him or avoid weighted blankets that contain micro glass beads as a filler, which looks similar to salt.
Not only are these a huge pain to clean up, but they can also cause stomach upset or intestinal blockage if he happens to ingest any of them.
As long as you’re sure you’re not using something that’s not too heavy and monitor your pup closely until he gets used to it, a weighted blanket should be perfectly safe.
Weighted Blankets vs Thunder Shirts
Though they both serve the same basic function, weighted blankets aren’t the same thing as Thunder Shirts.
While a weighted blanket uses its heaviness to promote calmness, a Thunder Shirt is a lightweight vest that wraps securely around your dog’s body to form gentle pressure.
Obviously, it’s much easier to use a shirt when you’re riding in the car, or visiting the veterinary clinic.
That said, if your canine companion is already anxious, nervous, or uneasy it may not be as simple as covering him with a blanket.
In very small dogs, however, Thunder Shirts are sometimes preferable to weighted blankets, since they can easily move along with the dog and don’t make him feel as though he’s being constricted.
