Dog Bed Guide: Picking a Dog Bed

Some dogs are content to sleep on a rug or the floor. Others prefer to have their own bed to snooze on. The best bed for your dog depends on your dog's breed, size, age, habits, coat and your preferences.

Reasons To Purchase a Dog Bed

Even if your dog seems comfy on the floor or you let him sleep on your bed, there are benefits to providing your dog with his own bed. Consider all of the benefits when deciding whether to purchase a dog bed:

Provides a sense of comfort and security
Reduces the amount of dirt and pet hair on your furniture
Provides your dog with a place that is his own

Selecting the Right Size Bed

Dog beds come in many different sizes. Beds are often rated by the approximate weight of the size dog it can accommodate. Small beds are usually for dogs up to 40 lbs. Medium beds are for dogs up to 60 lbs. Large beds will hold up to 120 lbs and dogs over that weight need an extra-large bed.

These ranges should work for most dogs; however, some breeds have dimensions that make their weight not the best way to choose their bed. For these dogs, try measuring their length from nose to tail and height from the crown of their head to the pads of their feet.

Choosing the Right Shape Bed

Dog beds primarily come in round and rectangular shapes. If your dog tends to curl up in a ball when he sleeps, then a round bed may be the best choice. If your dog prefers to sprawl out on his side or sleeps on his back, then a rectangular bed is probably the best choice. Rectangular beds may also work better for aging dogs who no longer have the flexibility to curl up. If your dog doesn't always sleep in the same position, a rectangular pillow-style bed may work best or you can buy multiple beds in different shapes.

Choosing the Right Filling

Dog beds are available with a variety of fill materials that each have their own advantages. Polyester fill is soft and hypoallergenic and works well for most dogs. Memory foam is a good choice for dogs with orthopedic problems. This material is also a good choice for dogs who tend to overheat because it helps maintain body temperature. Polystyrene pellets work well for dogs without joint issues who like to dig in before going to sleep. However, it is not recommended for dogs who like to chew.

Choosing the Right Design

Pillow-style beds feature an open design that comes in both round and rectangular shapes. This design works well for most dogs and in most spaces. Bolster beds have pillows or rolls on three sides. These beds are good choices for dogs who need a little extra comfort and security or like to have a place to prop their heads. However, this style of bed takes up more floor space than the pillow style. Wraparound beds are enclosed on all sides. These beds provide the most security, but may not be appropriate for dogs with mobility issues.

Choosing a Bed for a Dog With Special Needs

If you have a dog who is a tough chewer, you may need to select a bed specifically designed to be difficult to destroy. A traditional bed made from puncture-resistant fabric may be a good choice. You may also want to consider a raised dog bed . If you need a bed that can go outdoors, look for a model that is designed to be weather-resistant .

Consider a Dog Cot

Dog cots are elevated off the floor, which can help keep your dog at a comfortable temperature. They also provide a firm, even support. While dog cots may take up more floor space than traditional beds, they are sometimes easier to move, because they are not as heavy. These beds are also easy to clean and weather-resistant, making them ideal choices for outdoor beds. Finally, because they don't have any stuffing, an elevated bed can be a good choice for a dog who likes to destroy traditional beds.

Consider a Crate Mat

Crate mats are similar to traditional dog beds, except they are usually less bulky and are specifically designed to fit inside dog crates. Crate mats help make your dog's crate more comfortable to sleep in. They also make the crate easier to clean. This is particularly important if you are training a puppy who might have an accident in the crate. Crate mats can also be used as portable dog beds or regular beds for dogs who don't care for beds with a lot of stuffing in them.

Consider Dog Furniture

Dog furniture comes in many different varieties, from pieces that are designed to complement the owner's home decor to novelty designs . Whether you are looking for something elegant or something fun, there is probably a piece of dog furniture out there to suit your needs. However, you should make sure the furniture is something your dog will want to lie on and not just something you find aesthetically pleasing.

Dog beds come in many different shapes, sizes, materials and patterns. Your top priority should be choosing a bed that fits your dog's needs and habits. However, with so many options to choose from, it should not be difficult to find something that both you and your pet enjoy.