Pet Animals - Dogs - 10 Types of African Dog Breeds
Dog Shedding
Shedding is a natural process for dogs — though sometimes it's frustrating for their humans. For most dogs, shedding is an essential part of their skin and fur health. Dogs rid themselves of old or otherwise damaged hair by shedding it.
The amount of fur a dog sheds depends on the breed of dog, the time of year, and whether they have a single or double layer of fur.
You can't keep a dog from shedding. But you can choose a dog that doesn't shed as much. There's no such thing as hypoallergenic dogs but some cause fewer problems than others. They have hair that is more similar to human hair, produce less dander than other dogs, and don't shed.
Because of this, they make ideal pets for people who experience allergies to pet dander or pet fur. They also make great companions for dog owners who don't like the mess that shedding can cause.
These dog breeds include the:
Many dog owners seek out dogs that are bred with these breeds, like the poodle. However, there is no guarantee that a "doodle" mix won't shed. It's likely, though, that they won't shed as much as most dogs.
While you can't stop shedding in any dog, there are steps you can take to make it manageable:
Brush your dog's coat. Every dog has a unique coat. It's important to choose the right brush for their particular fur:
Use a shedding tool. Shedding tools are useful whether your dog sheds seasonally or year-round. Shedding tools make it easy to remove dead hair from your dog before they become tumbleweeds in your home. Shedding tools are brushes with stainless steel tines, which are perfect for pulling up and removing your dog's extra undercoat fur. Using a shedding tool can help remove dead hair before it's shed from your dog. You must be careful using a shedding tool - if too much pressure is applied it can cause small scratches on the dog's skin.
Feed your dog a healthy diet. When your dog gets good nutrition, their hair follicles become more resilient. Strong follicles can help minimize extra shedding caused by undernourished fur.
Keep your pup hydrated. Make sure your dog always has fresh water. It's essential to their overall health, and it can also keep their skin hydrated. Dehydrated skin can exacerbate shedding and hair loss.
Bathe your pooch regularly. Bathtime not only keeps your dog clean, but it helps remove excess and dead hair before it falls. A de-shedding shampoo can help ease shedding even more.
For some dog breeds, excessive shedding is a part of their daily life! As a dog owner, pay attention to the seasonal changes in your dog's shedding, so you know when something is amiss with your pet.
Hair loss that reaches beyond your dog's normal shedding can indicate health issues such as:
Take your dog to the vet if you notice more hair loss than usual, inflamed skin, brittle fur, excessive scratching, or bald patches.
Shedding can be a nuisance, but spending time grooming your pup has benefits beyond just reducing the amount of fur in your home. Taking the time to brush and bathe your pup can be fun and gives you time to bond. It also gives you a great opportunity to check your dog for new bumps, parasites, or dry skin. The result of grooming is a happy, healthy dog — and less shedding.
11 Best Emotional Support Dogs
These dog breeds check off all the boxes for the ultimate emotional support dog—they're cute and cuddly and, most importantly, totally devoted to your comfort and happiness. What is an emotional support dog?
Emotional support animals (ESA) provide comfort and attention and can be any species from the animal kingdom. We're most familiar with dogs as being the primary animal to fill this role. When people care for their dog, whether feeding, grooming, or walking, it creates a sense of purpose and can distract attention away from the things causing anxiety and other mental health issues. And while dogs can't offer advice, they are excellent listeners (or at least appear to be)—and that's a tremendous help for those who want to talk it out without being judged. Whether they're a cute small dog breed or a lovable large one, they all add up to the most loyal and affectionate dog breeds you could ever ask for.
Service dogs vs. Emotional support dogsThe waters can get kind of muddy when determining the difference between a service and emotional support dog. The American Disabilities Act states, "A service animal means any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability."
Service dogs are trained to do specific tasks for the person with a disability. For example, a seeing eye dog helps people who are blind or have visual impairments travel safely, and a psychiatric service dog helps people with psychiatric episodes. The dog can remind a person to take their medicine or turn on lights and do safety checks for people with post-traumatic stress disorder. A service dog is virtually allowed anywhere the public is permitted.
Emotional support dogs and therapy dogs are not considered service animals under ADA because they don't have special training to perform specific tasks that assist people with disabilities. Emotional support dogs provide their human with love and companionship. By definition, they aren't considered pets, though they live with their human and typically live a pet's life. Therapy dogs are usually seen in hospitals and nursing rooms. They offer a pleasant distraction by lavishing affection and cuddling service to patients and clients who could use some encouragement. When the dogs are done "working," they go home with their handler and are treated as pets.
Can emotional support dogs really make a difference?Dog lovers inherently understand that dogs make people feel better. When we pet a dog, it brings a smile to our faces, our blood pressure goes down, and stress and anxiety fade into the background even during a chance encounter.
Even so, it's validating to know that some studies show companion dogs can decrease anxiety and depression and improve overall mental health. A 2018 review published in BMC Psychiatry included 17 studies that featured measurable evidence relating to the ups and downs of pet ownership, how people connect with pets, the multiple ways companion animals help mental health conditions, and the psychological impact of losing a companion animal. In a nutshell, the review found pets provide benefits to those with mental health conditions.
A more recent study conducted at the University of Toledo showed people who adopted companion animals experienced reduce depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Though more research is needed, so far, studies point to companion animals as being a beneficial partner in human health and well-being.
What makes a good emotional support dog breed?"The most important aspect to consider is the connection between the dog and the owner," says Angela Logsdon-Hoover, ABCDT, a certified dog trainer and canine behaviorist, and regional technician director with VCA Animal Hospitals.
In her experience, the person's current dog is the best fit for the person who needs an ESA. "The dog already has a strong bond and the dog likely already naturally picks up on the owner's stress response to triggers and can offer calm, comfort, and security," says Logsdon-Hoover. If a person doesn't have a dog, the connection factor is equally important when looking for an emotional support dog. Additionally, the dog should already have good doggy manners at home, in public, and with other people and dogs. If not, you can learn together with basic obedience training.
Ideally, emotional support dogs are tuned into their human and react accordingly to what their person says or does, whether that's with a celebratory dance, cuddling on the couch, or crying when they're having a tough time.
Emotional support dog breedsCalm dog breeds with easy-going personalities and loyal dog breeds who will never leave your side are naturally suited for emotional support dogs. With that in mind, our experts shared some of their favorites. Note that this is by no means an exclusive list. Any breed—or mixed breed for that matter, has the potential to be an excellent emotional support dog.
Cavaliers were initially created to be companions dogs, so their genetics run deep as warm-hearted comforters. They are undeniably cute, well-mannered, and petite in size, making them great apartment dogs. "For people who want the companionship of their emotional support dog in a metropolitan area, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is a good pick for a canine friend," says Stacy Chocznski Johnson, DVM, and veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance. They love adults, children, and animals and are "irresistible to pet on a city street," says Dr. Chocznki Johnson. They could act as an ice breaker and help socially awkward situations and reassure or console you when you're back at home.
As one of the most popular dog breeds in the country, it's no shocker the loveable Labrador retriever is also a top-notch emotional support dog. As temperament goes, they're happy, laid-back, and nothing seems to bother them much. They are trustworthy, dependable, and always there to lick your face—or your ice cream cone. "This breed is super food motivated," says Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer, and Pet Lifestyle Expert with Rover. Because of this, it's easy to train them and teach them helpful tasks, such as laying beside you, resting their head on you, or providing deep pressure therapy, which is used to help reduce anxiety. It can be brought about by hugging, weighted blankets, and yes, by brushing a dog or a dog laying across your body, Ellis explains.
"Corgis are happy, playful, easy-going dogs, making them a great choice for an emotional support dog," says Dr. Chocznski Johnson. "Watching a Corgi play can bring entertainment and joy to anyone. Seeing them zip around with their short legs and rotund hind ends can easily bring a smile to your face." And you can have your pick of two types of Corgis—the Cardigan Welsh Corgi or the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The Cardigan is slightly larger and has a fox-like bushy tail and the Pembroke, a docked tail. They do share similar temperaments—fun-loving, playful, clever, and affectionate with a touch of boldness. After all, they are classified as herding dogs and have a strong instinct to protect their human. If you're looking for a pup that stays small forever, read up on these adorable toy dog breeds.
"If you find stress relief in repetitive motions like hair brushing, this is the perfect breed, as they require a significant amount of grooming for their thick luxurious coat," says Dr. Choczynski Johnson. And at around 100 pounds, there's going to be a lot of hair. (If you're not keen on heavy shedding and brushing, consider one of these equally cute dog breeds that don't shed too much.) The Great Pyrenees is also exceptionally calm and mellow, and they're not particularly active, which makes them a good fit for someone who prefers a leisurely stroll over countless rounds of fetch.
Of the three sizes of poodles, the standard poodle is the largest at around 50 to 60 pounds. If you've ever seen a poodle in the show ring, you may think they look too "foo-foo" and self-absorbed to be emotional support dogs. Not a chance—they are actually quite lovey-dovey, eager to please, and easy to be around you 24/7. When it comes to grooming, poodles have hair that grows like humans. "These non-shedding dogs are often goofy and have an uplifting personality, which will surely rub off and brighten your day. They're also super smart and can usually read their pet parents," says Ellis. With proper care and nutrition, they'll be by your side for years to come because poodles are one of the dog breeds that live the longest.
The Great Dane makes quite an impression with its towering physique. That may be very appealing for someone who wants a four-legged bodyguard or a buffer zone when interacting with other people. The Great Dane is by no means unfriendly, but as a guard dog breed, their loyalty, protection, and affection lie with you first. They tend to be aloof with people they don't know, yet incredibly friendly with their human. "I love Great Danes, as they truly are gentle giants. Their affection and compassion is endless, and being so large a good snuggle can help with some deep pressure therapy," says Ellis.
If you're looking for a silky white pint-size cuddle bug with big expressive eyes, the Maltese might be the emotional support dog for you. When they're not cozying up on your lap, they are the life of the party, even if if it's just a party for the two of you. "The Maltese is a good choice for a single adult, as they tend to have a favorite person that they attach to," says Dr. Choczynski Johnson. They can't give therapeutic advice, but they'll comfort and soothe you with a lick or muzzle snuggle. As an emotional support animal, The Maltese is probably nearby most of the time. Still, keeping them in your sights is a good thing because they're one of the dog breeds that get stolen the most.
Looking for a soft and furry travel companion? The Havanese is an adaptable breed that is up for air travel or road trips alike. "Selecting a non-shedding dog that has a calm temperament will be courteous to other travelers and help to set the stage for ongoing airline industry accommodations," says Dr. Choczynski Johnson. Havanese and other small dog breeds who fit into a carrier can still fly with you when stowed under the airplane seat. Traveling or not, the Havanese is uber friendly, and effortlessly makes friends with everyone they meet, which takes the focus off you.
The golden retriever's number one skill set is loyalty, Dr. Choczynski Johnson. "Their classic cuddle involves a heart-melting heavy chin on the lap and an upward gaze. This form of bonding and emotional support, pair with unbridled enthusiasm when arriving home makes the golden retriever a great candidate," she says. A routine of feeding, walking, and grooming a dog provides stability. They are excited to see you, but like all dogs, also eager to stretch their legs and get some exercise—and after you take a pleasant stroll together and a few rounds of fetch, the golden will be content to hang out with you.
In addition to being one of the cutest lap dogs, the Yorkie is a blue-chip candidate as an emotional support dog for many reasons. For starters, Yorkies are portable. They're petite puptarts at just five to seven pounds and eight inches tall—perfect for when you need a spunky and confident sidekick to help you navigate social situations that make you feel uneasy. At home, they're playful, energetic, and oh-so affectionate snugglers. Yorkies aren't intimidating guard dogs by any means, but by nature, they are very protective of their human. As such, they are first-rate watchdogs and will alert you of anything suspicious with a hearty bark.
There's no getting around it. Mixed breed dogs are some of the cutest dogs on the planet and often the best of many breeds. In addition to being adorable, a mixed breed can check all your boxes, whether you want an active dog to get you out of the house or a champion napper for cozy nights in. They all have the potential to be loyal and affectionate. Plus, mixed breeds tend to be the healthiest of many breeds because they come from a wider gene pool and are less prone to hereditary issues. Adopting a dog from a shelter has surprising benefits for you too. "Rescuing a dog can sometimes have even greater meaning emotionally, as many times, after some time has passed, it may feel like they actually rescued you," says Ellis.
Breeds to avoidWe can't emphasize this enough—all dogs are individuals. Purebreds, mixed breeds, or rescue dogs all have the capacity to be loving, affectionate, and intuitive, emotional support dogs. That said, some breeds such as the Chow Chow, Boerboel, and Tibetan Mastiff might not be suitable for this role simply because they are naturally independent, dignified, or strong-willed. Other breeds, such as the Australian cattle dog, German Pinscher, or Bergamasco sheepdog are perpetually in "work mode" and hard-wired to be vigilant, fearless, and tenacious watchdogs or herding dogs. And some breeds with a high prey drive, such Kerry blue terrier, Saluki, or rat terrier, could be more interested in chasing a squirrel than consoling you when you're having a hard day.
How to make your dog an official emotional support animalYou might want your dog to be officially recognized as an emotional support animal to enjoy some legal rights. However, though there are websites that will "register" your dog, there is no official database to register your dog or certification program. To make it official, you must obtain a letter from a licensed mental health professional that clearly states your need for an emotional support animal. You can use your own mental health professional or an emotional support animal service such as ESA Doctors, Emotional Pet Support, or Certapet. These companies can connect you with a mental health pro for the required mental health evaluation needed to get the emotional support animal letter.
What rights do ESA dogs have?Service dogs are allowed virtually everywhere. However, emotional support dogs don't receive the same accommodations as service animals. You may already know the U.S. Department of Transportation ruling effective January of 2021 that no longer requires airlines to accommodate emotional support animals. Most major airlines followed suit, but a few airlines, including Volaris and Westjet, still accommodate emotional support dogs. (You can still travel with animals, but they must be stowed in a pet carrier under the seat or in a crate in the cargo area. When it comes to rental housing and campus housing under the Fair Housing Act, a person with a support animal may make an accommodation request so the dog can live in the apartment and/or on-campus and request any pet fees be waived as emotional support animals are technically not classified as pets.
Read on to find out what a yellow ribbon on a dog's collar really means.
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15 Best Dog Bed For Shedding Dogs In 2023
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Did you know that nearly 60% of households in the United States own a dog? With such a high prevalence of canine companions, it's important to address the unique needs of different breeds, especially when it comes to shedding. In fact, around 70% of dogs shed to some extent, leaving behind fur that can be both bothersome and unsightly. In this article, we have curated a list of top-quality dog beds that offer exceptional comfort, durability, and easy maintenance, ensuring a clean and cozy haven for your shedding pup.
15 best dog bed for shedding dogs in 2023Pupper Dog Bed
INVENHO Small Dog Bed
Sycoodeal Dog Bed
PETCIOSO Super Soft Dog Bed
CozyLux Dog Beds
Bedsure Calming Dog Bed
Hoopet Dog Beds
Furhaven Medium Orthopedic Dog Bed
WNPETHOME Dog Beds
JEMA Dog Beds
Blue-9 Pet Products Restore+ Double Dog Bed
Yiruka Dog Beds
EMPSIGN Fancy Dog Bed Mat
KISYYO Dog Beds
Lesure Dog Beds for Large Dogs
As a pet owner, it can be a real struggle to keep up with the constant shedding of our furry friends. This is why investing in a high-quality dog bed for shedding dogs can make all the difference. The Pupper Dog Bed is a great option that provides both comfort and functionality. The bed is made with durable materials that can withstand even the most active and heavy-set pups, while also being easy to clean when shedding gets out of hand. It also features a unique design that helps to reduce excessive fur buildup, making it a go-to choice for pet owners looking to minimize mess and maximize comfort for their furry friend.
INVENHO Small Dog BedIf you're the proud owner of a small dog that constantly sheds, you know how important it is to have a dog bed that can keep up with the fur. The INVENHO Small Dog Bed is an excellent option for dogs who are known to shed frequently. Its plush, high-quality material can handle shedding while providing your furry friend with a soft and comfortable place to rest. Additionally, the bed's compact size makes it perfect for small apartments or rooms. The INVENHO Small Dog Bed is the perfect solution for pet owners who want a comfortable, stylish, and durable bed for their shedding dog.
Sycoodeal Dog BedIf you're a pet owner, you know how difficult it can be to keep your home clean when your furry friend is shedding. The Sycoodeal Dog Bed is the solution you've been looking for! This dog bed is specially designed for dogs that shed, providing a comfortable place for them to rest without leaving behind a mess. The bed's cover is made from a durable and easy-to-clean material that traps loose fur and dander, making cleaning up after your pet a breeze. Plus, the bed's soft foam cushion provides the perfect amount of support for your pup's joints, ensuring they get a good night's sleep. Say goodbye to pet hair on your sofa and bedspread, and welcome a cleaner and more comfortable living space for both you and your furry friend!
PETCIOSO Super Soft Dog BedFor dog owners, nothing is more important than the comfort and happiness of their furry friends. That's where the PETCIOSO Super Soft Dog Bed comes in. Designed specifically with shedding dogs in mind, this bed makes cleaning up after your pet a breeze. The bed is made with soft, durable materials that can withstand even the most playful pups, providing a cozy space for them to rest and relax. Don't let shedding get in the way of your pet's comfort – invest in the PETCIOSO Super Soft Dog Bed today and watch your doggo drift off into sweet slumber.
CozyLux Dog BedsInvesting in a high-quality dog bed is an excellent way to show your furry friend that you care about their comfort. If you have a shedding dog, it's essential to find a bed that can withstand the mess. That's where CozyLux dog beds come in. These luxurious dog beds are designed with your pup's ultimate comfort and your convenience in mind. The unique microfiber cover doesn't just provide a soft and plush sleeping surface for your dog - it also resists shedding and hair buildup. Plus, the removable cover is easy to clean, so you won't have to worry about constantly battling dog hair on your furniture or floors. CozyLux dog beds are a win-win for you and your shedding dog.
Bedsure Calming Dog BedFinding a dog bed that offers comfort and support for your furry friend while also reducing shedding and allergies can be a challenge. That's where the Bedsure Calming Dog Bed comes in. This cozy and stylish bed design is perfect for dogs who tend to shed and for pet owners who are looking for a comfortable and relaxing space for their pup. The high-quality materials used in the design of this bed offer a soft and warm sleeping surface that is perfect for dogs who need a little extra comfort and support to get a good night's rest. Not only does this bed provide maximum comfort for your pup, but it also functions as an effective solution for reducing shedding, making it an ideal choice for pet owners who suffer from allergies or who simply want to keep their homes cleaner. Invest in the Bedsure Calming Dog Bed today and let your pup experience the ultimate in comfort and relaxation!
Hoopet Dog BedsIf you're a dog owner with a furry friend that sheds, you know how difficult it can be to find a dog bed that can keep up. That's where Hoopet dog beds come in. These comfortable and durable dog beds are made specifically for shedding dogs, with materials that are easy to clean and won't hold onto pet hair. Plus, Hoopet offers a variety of sizes and colors to fit your pooch's preferences. With a Hoopet dog bed, you can finally provide your pup with a cozy space to rest without worrying about constantly cleaning up after them.
Furhaven Medium Orthopedic Dog BedIf you are the owner of a shedding dog, you know how important it is to have a dog bed that can handle the mess. The Furhaven Medium Orthopedic Dog Bed is specifically designed with shedding dogs in mind, making it an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a durable and long-lasting bed for their furry friend. Not only does this bed come with a removable cover that is easy to clean, but it also features a solid orthopedic foam base that provides excellent support and comfort for dogs of all shapes and sizes. With the added bonus of a non-skid bottom, the Furhaven Medium Orthopedic Dog Bed is sure to become a favorite spot for your pup to snuggle up and relax.
WNPETHOME Dog BedsFor pet owners, keeping a clean and comfortable home for their furry companions can be a challenge. Dogs who shed frequently can add to this challenge, and finding a dog bed that can handle shedding can be even more difficult. This is where WNPETHOME comes in with their dog beds specifically designed for shedding dogs. Not only are these beds comfortable and durable, but they are also incredibly easy to clean and maintain. Made with high-quality materials that won't trap hair or cause any irritation to your pup's skin, a WNPETHOME dog bed is the perfect solution for pet owners looking for a bed that can withstand even the heaviest shedders. So, if you're tired of constantly cleaning up after your furry friend and want to give them a comfortable place to rest without worrying about excess fur, a WNPETHOME dog bed may just be the answer.
JEMA Dog BedsJEMA Dog Beds are a great option for those who own shedding dogs. Their dog beds are designed to be easily cleaned, with a removable and machine-washable cover. The cover is also made with a special fabric that repels dog hair and keeps it from sticking, making it easier to maintain a clean and fresh sleeping area for your furry friend. Not only are JEMA Dog Beds convenient for pet owners, but they are also comfortable for dogs to sleep in with a plush and supportive mattress. Invest in a JEMA Dog Bed and provide your shedding dog with both comfort and cleanliness.
Blue-9 Pet Products Restore+ Double Dog BedAre you tired of constantly cleaning up your furry friend's shedding hair from your furniture and floors? Look no further than the Blue-9 Pet Products Restore+ Double Dog Bed. Specifically designed with shedding dogs in mind, this bed features a patent-pending hair-catching system that collects loose hair and prevents it from falling onto your floors. Not only is it practical, but it's also stylish with its sleek design and various color options. Your pup will love the comfortable foam insert and you'll love the easy-to-clean cover. Say goodbye to constant cleaning and embrace a hassle-free home with the Blue-9 Pet Products Restore+ Double Dog Bed.
Yiruka Dog BedsFor dog owners who have shedding pets, finding a dog bed that can withstand constant fur shedding can be a challenge. Thankfully, Yiruka Dog Beds provide an ideal solution for this concern. Made with high-quality materials that resist fur buildup, Yiruka beds ensure a comfortable and clean rest for your furry friend. Additionally, these beds offer orthopedic support and shape retention, making them great for all dogs, especially those with joint pains. With stylish and modern designs, Yiruka Dog Beds are not only functional but also add to any room's aesthetics. Invest in a Yiruka Dog Bed today and give your pet the comfort and durability they deserve.
EMPSIGN Fancy Dog Bed MatFor pet owners with shedding dogs, finding the right dog bed can be a challenge. Luckily, EMPSIGN has created the Fancy Dog Bed Mat, specifically designed with shedding dogs in mind. The bed mat is made from easy-to-clean and durable materials, making it simple to maintain even with frequent use. With its soft and comfortable texture, your faithful companion will love to curl up and rest on the Fancy Dog Bed Mat. Additionally, the eye-catching design will complement any home décor, adding a touch of class to your space. If you're in the market for a dog bed that is both practical and stylish, the EMPSIGN Fancy Dog Bed Mat is worth a closer look.
KISYYO Dog BedsAs pet owners, we know that dogs shed. It's a natural part of their daily life and there's not much we can do to stop it. But when it comes to keeping a clean and comfortable home, it can be a challenge. That's where KISYYO dog beds come in. Designed specifically with shedding dogs in mind, these beds feature a unique fabric that repels pet hair and makes cleanup a breeze. Not only are they practical, but they're also stylish and comfortable, giving your furry friend the perfect place to snooze after a long day of playing and shedding. Investing in a KISYYO dog bed is an investment in your pet's happiness and your own peace of mind.
Lesure Dog Beds for Large DogsAs pet owners, we want our fur babies to be as comfortable as possible. For large dogs, finding the right bed is crucial. Lesure has designed a dog bed specifically for larger breeds, providing ample support and space for them to rest and stretch out. But what sets Lesure apart is their attention to detail for shedding dogs. Their beds feature removable covers that are easy to clean and help reduce excess shedding. The bed's inner lining is also constructed with hypoallergenic materials to keep allergy-prone humans happy. With Lesure, you can rest easy knowing your big pooch is happy, comfortable, and leaves a minimal mess behind.
ConclusionIn conclusion, finding the right dog bed for your shedding companion is crucial for their comfort and peace of mind. With a staggering 70% of dogs shedding to some degree, it's clear that managing fur can be a challenge for pet owners. However, by investing in one of the 15 best dog beds we've highlighted, you can provide your furry friend with a cozy retreat while minimizing the accumulation of loose hair in your home. Remember, a comfortable and supportive dog bed not only helps reduce shedding but also promotes healthy sleep and overall well-being for your beloved pet. So, choose wisely and give your shedding dog the gift of a comfortable snooze space they deserve.
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