Select the Best Dog Bed

by Johnathan Livingston

Dogs may be willing to sleep on the floor, but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t prefer dog beds. Consider that a bed will be more comfortable but also give your dog a sense of having his own space. Dogs need a sense of order, as they are pack animals.

Dog beds keep your dog or puppy warm by keeping him or her off the floor. This is especially nice during winter months, especially if your dog is old, fat, or arthritic.

Dog beds also give dogs a private space. Dogs are pack animals, and you’re the pack. You cannot be home at all times, even if you’re retired or work at home. However, in lieu of being with his master, your dog will appreciate having a ‘den’ to stay in. Dogs are territorial and appreciate having their territory clearly defined for them.

Dogs sleep more than humans. For this reason, it is essential that you select a bed that is suitable and comfortable for your dog. Dog beds are trickier to buy than human beds because you can’t have your dog test out several beds in the store and choose one, nor can you discuss beds with him.

Choosing Dog Beds to Fit

When choosing dog beds, make sure you select one that is big enough to give your dog ample room. Don’t shop for beds without measuring your dog. Don’t trust yourself to ‘eyeball it!’ You are making one of the most important decisions in your dog’s life. Give your dog room to grow if he or she is young. Also, if he or she is older, give your dog room to get fatter and to allow space for stiffer joints. Remember, dogs need enough room to turn around easily in their bed.

If your dog tends to curl up, that’s the time to measure him or her at the widest point. Also measure your dog from the top of his or her head to the point where the tail meets the buttocks. Add 15 cm to that and you will know the minimum size you need to think about when considering beds. If your dog tends to stretch out when sleeping, add another 25 cm to that.

If your dog likes to chew furniture, as many do, there are beds designed to resist damage. Outdoor dogs need beds that fit in their dog houses. Indoor dogs can accept beds of any size as long as the bed is big enough. Outdoor dog beds need to be able to endure weather and moisture, even if they will be located in dog houses.

Types of Dog Beds Available

Mattresses, balls, and nests are the main types of dog beds. These types are widely available in pet shops everywhere. Choose a bed type that is suitable for the way your dog sleeps. Nests or balls are the best style of dog beds to choose from. Nests provide extra insulation, good for dogs sleeping outdoors.

Dogs that sprawl or spread out when asleep need dog beds that give them room to move around, stretch, or sleep in whatever position suits them at any particular moment.

Pay Attention To How Dog Beds Are Constructed

Poly foam is a normal filler for dog beds. Look for dog beds with “high loft” stuffing, as they will be less likely to get squashed or otherwise lose their shape and fluffiness. Stuffing is more suitable for a small dog than a large one.

Solid foam beds are a better choice for larger dogs, and healthy older dogs. For a dog with serious back or hip problems, you should look into orthopedic foam dog beds. Be aware of the firmness or density of the foam. Firmness indicates how hard or soft the bed is, whereas density is the springiness. Better quality foam beds tend to have higher firmness and density.

Finally, you have no doubt noticed that dogs don’t clean themselves. Chances are, they won’t clean their beds either. You have to. Make sure you choose beds that are easy to clean.

About the Author:

Tags:

No Comments

Leave a reply

Name *

Mail *

Website