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Your dog's fur may keep him more comfortable in cold weather than you are, but dogs can still get cold, particularly if they sleep on a cold floor or an unsuitable bed. Just like humans switch their bedding when the weather turns cold, switching your dog's bed can help him stay cozy and comfy during the winter months.
Types of Warm Dog Beds
There are four main types of dog beds designed to help keep your dog warm:
1. Traditional Beds
Traditional beds help your dog stay warm by protecting him from the cold ground or floor. Choose a bed with 4 or more inches of stuffing and bolsters.
2. Self-Heating Beds
Self-heating beds use reflective metal film, similar to the material used to make survival blankets, to redirect your pet's body heat. These beds are affordable, provide a considerable amount of warmth and do not require any electricity to work. This makes them a great option for both indoor use and camping or other outdoor activities.
3. Enclosed Beds
Cuddler beds are like traditional beds with a roof. They help keep your dog warm in the same way that a dog house does because the enclosed space traps body heat. Dogs that enjoy burrowing may prefer this type of bed, while other dogs may not like to sleep in a covered bed.
4. Electric Beds
Electric beds function similarly to heating pads or electric blankets. These beds contain heating elements that warm up when the bed is plugged into a wall outlet. Some beds have a pre-set thermostat. Other beds feature an adjustable thermostat. These beds have the most warming ability, but require access to an electrical outlet and may not be safe for dogs that chew on their beds or electrical cords.
What To Look for in a Winter Dog Bed
There are several characteristics to look for when choosing a winter dog bed:
1. Thickness
Avoid beds made from cheap materials that flatten with use. Flat beds will not keep your dog as warm. Choose a bed that is at least four inches thick. For large dogs, the bed should be at least six inches thick.
2. Correct Size
If your dog's entire body doesn't fit on the bed, the bed won't keep him as warm as it could. Choose a bed your dog can lie on without his head or legs hanging off.
3. Washable and Removable Cover
This feature is important for any dog bed, but particularly for a winter bed because snowy and muddy conditions can make for messy paws. Choose a bed with a cover that you can remove and wash regularly.
6 Best Warm Dog Beds
There are a lot of great dog beds to choose from. These are some of the top models.
1. FurHaven Ultra Plush Deluxe Orthopedic Pet Bed
This orthopedic pet bed is nice and thick and comes in four different sizes. It features an egg-crate foam core, water-resistant base, a zippable and removable faux fur cover and an easy step-on design. This bed is a great choice for older or arthritic dogs because it supports joints and relieves pressure points.
2. P.L.A.Y. Kalahari Lounge Dog Bed
This lounge-style dog bed is seven to 10 inches high and will keep your pet well off the cold floor. It comes in four different sizes. It is made from ultra-soft velvet and has a lead-free zipper to keep it safe for chewers. It is filled with high-loft PlanetFill® filler to ensure it does not flatten with use. It features furniture-grade craftsmanship and even-basting stitches to ensure durability. It is machine washable and the filling is made from 100% post-consumer certified-safe recycled plastic bottles. The high-sides provide a place for your pet to rest his head and the cushions can be flipped to create four different looks.
3. Pet Life Touchdog Performance-Max Sporty Reflective Water-Resistant Dog Bed
This sporty dog bed is made from nylon and high-grade polyester. It features a built-in nylon handle and a reversible inner cushion. The insertable pad is washable. It is available in multiple colors and two different sizes. This water-resistant bed is easy to clean and has an attractive, modern look. The handle makes it easy to transport, so it is perfect for camping trips or vacations.
4. Hello Doggie Ritz Hideaway Dog Bed
If your dog loves to burrow under the covers at night, this burrow bed is perfect. It is handmade in the USA from luxury fabric with 100% poly fiber fill. The bed can be machine washed.
5. P.L.A.Y. Chevron Outdoor Dog Bed
This outdoor dog bed is ideal for your furry companion that likes to chill in the outdoors, literally. It is eco-friendly and eight to 11 inches thick. The lead-free zipper protects your dog from toxins. The bed is made from durable, high-performance 600-Denier PE fabrics and is filled with high-loft PlanetFill® filler. It features a removable and waterproof cover that is easy to clean. The material is UV-resistant to prevent fading.
6. Furhaven Thermapup Self-Warming Pad Insert for Dog Bed
If your pup already has a bed that he loves, you can warm it up with this self-warming pad insert. It is lightweight, portable and easy to clean and comes in four different sizes.
There are few things more enjoyable in winter than snuggling in a warm bed. Whatever your dog's size and sleeping style is, one of these warm pet beds is sure to be a great addition to his wintertime snoozing spot.
