By choosing the right dog bed for your puppy or dog, you can ensure that he will be content and comfortable. Dogs spend a lot of their time lying down relaxing or sleeping and you know they always choose a comfy spot. If he doesn't have his own bed, he'll just use your furniture instead.
When the time comes to choose a dog bed, there are a few important factors to consider. Let's take a look at some of these factors.
It won't be quite as simple as heading down to the closest pet shop and grabbing the first bed you see. With the huge variety in specialty pet beds, you will want to decide what type you want before you shop.
Most important is to choose a bed that will be large enough for your furry friend. Preferably, you should choose a bed that fits the size of your dog. Just as there are large breeds and even miniature breeds, there are also large dog beds and small ones. If for instance, you own a larger breed dog, he won't feel comfortable trying to stretch out on a small bed.
It's not as important if you have a smaller breed dog and decide on a larger bed. Even so there are some breeds that seem to prefer small and cozy over roomy. Puppies are the exception. If you buy a bed to fit your puppy, be aware that you'll have to buy another bed once he is full grown.
You will also want to think about the material that the bed is covered with. Almost any heavy duty material that will stand up to everyday wear and tear is suitable. Some of the more common choices are fleece or denim.
You may also want to consider your dog's breed, your area's climate, and where you will keep the bed. If you have a large breed dog, or one with a longer coat, cotton or canvas will be more comfortable to recline on, as it will be cooler. On the other hand, smaller dogs or those with short hair are more likely to more comfortable with a warmer material like fleece or suede.
If the bed is mainly for your pup to use outside, then fabric choice is especially important. This is not as much of an issue for beds used mostly indoors. But for inside beds, the temperature where the bed will be located should also be considered.
You will also want to choose a bed that fits the available space. If your dog sleeps in a crate, choose a crate style bed for the best fit. On the other hand, if space is limited, you may want to choose a corner style bed.
Whenever possible, narrow down your choices to washable dog beds. But if the bed you decide on cannot be laundered, your next best option is a washable bed cover. When the cover gets dirty or acquires a doggy smell, just throw in your washing machine to clean it up.
Perhaps one of the most important things to consider is the age and health of your beloved pet. Younger active dogs need a bed with at least a thin layer of high quality, dense foam. That way the bed will be comfortable while maintaining its shape.
It's especially important to choose a good quality bed for dogs that are experiencing any kind of joint pain. Orthopedic dog beds are made using special high density foam. This foam provides extra support and so may give some relief from joint pain. It's also easier for dogs to get up from an orthopedic bed because of the foam, so there is less pressure put on the joints.
These are some of the things you may want to think about when it's time to find a bed for your dog. Choosing the right dog bed for your adult dog or puppy, is one way of ensuring that your favorite furry friend is content and comfy.
A good dog bed should be a safe haven where your dog can comfortably snooze while dreaming of chasing the neighborhood squirrels. Dogs are naturally den animals. This basically means that they need their own haven where they can feel safe and sound. They need a place where they can go when they need rest or when they are feeling stressed. For many dogs, this sanctuary is usually their bed. If you don't provide your dog with a proper den of its own, it will usually find a way to create its own den, usually at the expense of your couch or favorite chair! In addition to being den animals, dogs sleep between 12-16 hours per day on average. Not only do they deserve a bed that is comfortable, but they will sleep much better when they feel snug and secure.
Nowadays there are many different styles of dog beds to choose from. But how do you choose? One important thing to consider is your dog's individual personality. Some dogs really like to curl up in their beds while others are usually stretched out and some do a combination of both. Another thing to consider is your own individual style. You shouldn't have any problem finding a good bed that matches well with your decor and furnishings. You will find that most beds come in a variety of colors, patterns and styles. Below is a list of 5 of the most popular dog beds and their advantages.
1. Bolster Dog Beds: Types of bolster beds include the donut bed, dog couch or any bed that has a raised padded exterior section. This is probably one of the most popular beds because the high back of the bed creates a very safe and cozy haven for the dog. They can really curl up and snuggle down in this bed. The covers are usually removable for easy washing and they come in a large variety of colors, patterns and styles. You'll often find many designer dog beds in this style.
2. Memory Foam Dog Beds: These orthopedic dog beds are excellent for the dog with arthritis or other joint problems. But they are also great for any dog and can help to maintain health by providing a supportive, comfortable surface to rest on. The major benefit of this bed is that the memory foam molds to the dogs body and so helps to relieve aches and pains while at the same time increasing circulation. This increased circulation can help reduce the time it takes to heal from injuries. In fact, many veterinarians recommend memory foam beds for dogs who have recently had surgery.
3. Raised Style Dog Beds: Also known as cot style, these are good outdoor dog beds that are ideal for dogs who spend a lot of their time outside. This style bed will keep your dog cool in summer and off the cold floor in winter. You can also purchase a separate mat to lay on top of these beds to add cushion for a more comfortable and secure feeling.
4. Nest Dog Beds: These smaller, round pillow type beds are great for the smaller dog who like to burrow in and nest. Like the bolster bed, dogs will really feel cozy and secure inside the plush walls. Dogs love the feeling of being surrounded by the nest bed's cushioned walls. These unique dog beds are ideal for the deep cuddler!
5. Pillow Style Dog Beds: These beds come in all sizes and shapes... round, rectangle, square. I have even seen one in the shape of a dog paw! These beds are fairly basic, but will provide the comfort your dog needs. These beds are great for the dog who really likes to stretch out when sleeping because there are no cushioned walls to confine him. One of the best things about these beds is that there are literally hundreds to choose from and most come with removable covers for easy washing. You'll also find a large selection of these beds with fabric that is made for the outdoors.
Since the above beds come in an array of sizes (with the exception of the nest bed) they are great dog beds for large dogs as well as for small dogs. Whichever bed you choose, know that you are providing a much needed haven for your pooch. It is not only a place where they can sleep, but it is also acts as their den where they know they are safe and secure.