Things To Consider When Buying A Bed For Your Dog

Like humans, dogs also need to get ample sleep and quality rest for them to have the energy they need the next day. This entails the need for them to be comfortable in where they would spend the night. This article lists down some of the things that you need to consider when buying a bed for your dog.

Dog Sleeping Preferences

One of the primary things that you need to consider when it comes to buying a bed for your dog is his sleeping preferences. Dogs have varying habits and positions when it comes to sleeping and the best bed that you will be able to provide your pet should be aligned to how they sleep. For instance, if your dog is a light sleeper, which means that even the slightest movement can make him spring up, ready for action, then you should find him a bed that won’t restrict his movement while properly supporting him while he sleeps.

On the other hand, if your dog prefers to be curled up cozily in a ball when he sleeps, then a doughnut or bagel-shaped bed will be perfect for him. This will make it easier for your dog to walk around in circles around the bed before plopping down in his favored sleeping position. If not curled into a ball, your dog may prefer to sleep on his side like a slab or stretched right out. In this case, your best option is to get a bed with an oval shape to support their preferred sleeping position. You can also get a bolster that can serve as a comfortable back, neck, and headrest or a matted bed, which is a big square pad that can sit directly on the floor.

In case your dog prefers to hide away when he sleeps, then you should get him a covered bed that is also referred to as a tent or cave bed. This type of dog bed is also perfect for short-haired dogs that may get cold easily. Some dogs like to be off the ground because they intend to better survey their environment. For these dogs, the best bed is a raised dog bed that will help keep them off a cold floor.

Bed Cover

Another thing that you need to consider when it comes to buying a bed for your dog is the cover that comes with it. As much as possible, you want the bed cover to be soft and comfortable, but easy to clean as well. It is a plus if the bed cover is visually pleasing, complementing the interior design of your home. In this case, opt for removable washable covers that are made from natural fabrics and materials, in a shade that accentuates your home decor.

The Inside Material

Aside from the type of bed, as well as the cover that comes with it, you should also think about the inside material that the bed is composed of. In this case, you can generally choose between a solid foam pad or a dog bed with a loose fiber filling. In terms of the former, go for memory foam beds that are generally known for their remarkable ergonomic support, contouring well to the curves of your furry friend’s body. This proves to be beneficial especially to older dogs that may already be suffering from joint pains. On the other hand, younger dogs may prefer to sleep in a bed with a loose fiber filling which can be contoured based on their preferred sleeping position.

Size

You should also consider the size of the bed that you will get for your dog. What you can do is to first measure your dog from head to tail because this will prevent you from getting a bed that is neither too small nor too big for your furry friend. As much as possible, you need to get a bed that will be suitable for your dog to lie down in his natural sleeping position, regardless of whether he is curled up in a ball or stretched out.

Typically, small dog beds are perfect for dachshunds and french bulldogs while medium-sized dog beds are perfect for most spaniels and corgis. On the other hand, large dog bed sizes are best for regular-sized Labradors while extra large dog beds are perfect for German shepherds and greyhounds, as well as those dogs who like to sleep together.

Durability

Make sure to think about the durability of the dog bed that you are interested in because most dogs tend to chew, particularly when they are teething. Some of the older dogs chew to keep their teeth clean or their jaws strong. When they do it to their beds, then this behavior can be destructive or dangerous, particularly when they ingest the pieces they chew. If your dog is a chewer, then you may want to go for a PVC pipe or aluminum-type dog bed instead that is covered with a canvas-like fabric.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Finally, you should also consider the upkeep of the dog bed that you are interested in. As much as possible, go for a dog bed that can easily be cleaned, such as those with washable covers. In this case, you can either wash them in your machine at a low temperature. Nevertheless, you can also go for thick upholstery grade fabrics that can be dry-cleaned with a brush and vacuum. You should also opt for dog beds with hypoallergenic stuffing that won’t hold moisture, preventing the growth of bacteria.

When buying a bed for your dog, the first thing that you need to consider is the sleeping preferences of your furry friend. In parallel to this, you may also want to think about what the cover of the bed is made of, as well as the inside materials used. Make sure that you consider the size of the bed as well as its durability, along with the cleaning and maintenance that you have to go through to keep it comfortable for your dog. All these are geared towards ensuring that you will be able to provide your dog with a bed that he will be happy sleeping in.