How to Choose The Right Dog Bed

The right dog bed is one of the most important decisions you can make for your pet. A good bed will help it feel safe, warm, and comfortable. But there are so many options out there that choosing the best one for your pup can be overwhelming! That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you find the perfect match for your furry friend.

Dog beds are important for your dog because they provide comfort, warmth, and safety. This is true whether you’re talking about an outdoor dog bed or an indoor one. If you have a puppy, then you know that she probably doesn’t want to be without her chew toys. What better way to keep them nearby than by putting them in her dog bed? It’s way more fun than just lying around all day!

There are so many different types of dog beds on the market that it can be difficult to choose one. You have your choice between fabric or suede, I’ve even seen raised pet cots. Before you go on a shopping spree, make sure you take a moment to read our guide below. We’ve made the shopping experience easy by breaking it down into five steps. You can use this knowledge to choose the right dog bed for your precious pup.

How to Choose The Right Dog Bed

step 1. size

When it comes to dog beds, size is everything. If the bed is too small for your pet, he may not feel comfortable there. But if it’s too large, then you might as well throw the money in the trash because your pup won’t use it. So make sure you measure your dog before you even set out to purchase a bed. After that, take into consideration his sleeping habits. If he likes to curl up, then you need to get the smallest size possible. However, if he’s more of an all-around sprawler then it would be best for you to opt for something bigger.

step 2. type

Of course, once you’ve settled on size and your dog loves his new bed, there is still more to consider. After all, we all want our dogs to be happy – and styling matters! There are a variety of different styles in which you can purchase your dog bed in. You have the choice between fabric or suede. You can even purchase a raised cot to give your pet some elevation. The type of dog bed you choose will depend on the overall style and décor of your house.

For example, if you have plush furniture then perhaps getting a fabric dog bed would be best because it matches the overall decor. But keep in mind that fabric beds are not suitable for dogs who like to chew.

Suede beds, on the other hand, are perfect for pets who like to nibble on things since they tend to be more durable. They also come in a wide array of colors so you can even match them with your room’s color scheme!

step 3. price

There’s a never-ending number of dog beds to choose from, and they come in all different shapes, sizes, and prices. When it comes to price, you get what you pay for…but sometimes paying more doesn’t always mean getting a better product. So make sure that you check reviews online before pouncing on that deal. Generally speaking, more expensive beds have better quality materials and more advanced features. But if you’re on a strict budget, then don’t let that stop you from purchasing one for your pup.

step 4. add-ons

As I mentioned above, there are so many different types of dog beds available that it can be a bit overwhelming. You can find a bed that matches your home’s decor, one that comes with an elevated cot, and even ones that have built-in heaters! If you want to spoil your dog rotten then there are many add-ons available for purchase as well. For example, you can buy a memory foam insert or a heated bed. If you purchase a raised cot, then there are covers available as well.

step 5. size and location

Now this step is really important – and often overlooked! You see, many dog owners make the mistake of buying their pups a new dog bed and leaving it in the living room or kitchen. Though they might think they’re being considerate by not making their pup go upstairs to sleep, they’re doing a disservice to their pet. You see, dogs are den animals – so it’s very important that your dog has his own private space for resting and seclusion. Also, dogs like to sleep at the foot of the bed to keep an eye on what’s going on in the house. So to avoid feeling ignored, your dog needs to have his own bed that he can call his own. Like anything else you get for your pet, make sure you pick a size-appropriate location for their bed!

How to Choose The Right size of Dog Bed

1. Measure your dog while standing, with a tape measure.

2. Add five inches to the length and ten inches to the girth (width). This is your suggested bed size. Example: Your dog measures 30″ standing plus 5″ for extra space = 35″ x 10″ = recommended size of 40″.

3. When in doubt, select one size larger than the measurements.

4. Dog beds come in all shapes and sizes so it isn’t necessary to purchase a pet bed that is identical in size to your dog’s sleeping area at home. In fact, if you have a large breed dog it is recommended to purchase a pet bed with high sides so accidents are easily contained.

5. To determine if your pet bed is the right size, place it in their sleeping area and move around items until you can see how easily they fit. If there’s a lot of wiggle room, consider purchasing a smaller dog bed.

6. Select the location for your new pet bed carefully; make sure your pet has easy access to an outdoor or indoor bell. Always remember, if your pet bed is located in a high traffic area it will constantly be subjected to dirt and debris.

7. If you’re purchasing a low profile pet bed (especially for cats) make sure the sleeping surface is at least 12″ tall. This way, they won’t snore and wake you up in the night because their nose is too close to the ground.

8. If your bed has a removable cover, put it on before you place it into your pet’s sleeping area. This will ensure that the interior of the bed stays fresh and clean until its first use.

What kind of bed do dogs like?

A lot of beds on the market these days are cheap and flimsy. Dogs don’t care about what you paid for their bed – they will either love it or hate it based on two things:

• 1) The weight and shape of the bed, and
• 2) The material or fill inside it. If you have a heavy dog that likes to lie down and dig into the bed to get comfy – then you really want to invest in something that is filled with either memory foam, buckwheat hulls, or shredded foam rubber.

If you have a dog that likes to sleep on top of the bed rather than in it, then anything goes! Just make sure the weight/size of the bed is appropriate for your pet.

What to look for when buying a dog bed:

• The bed should be big enough for your pet to stretch out and lie down in, but not so big that it will overwhelm the space around it. It’s fine for a dog to share their bed with another animal as long as they get along well and don’t mind the close quarters.
• If you have a small dog or puppy, you may want to purchase an elevated bed so they don’t have to lay in the cold ground. A raised bed will also discourage them from laying on furniture which can lead to unwanted behavior problems.
• When it comes to shape, you’ll want something that is easy for your pet to get into and out of. This is more of a consideration for heavy dogs that have arthritis or other joint problems.
• Humans like to sleep with pillows and blankets, but many dogs will scratch and paw at their bedding until it’s dislodged from their sleeping area. If your pet does this, it may be time to invest in a dog bed with a waterproof lining. These beds have a higher quality of construction and are typically filled with memory foam, so your dog will enjoy being in it much more than other types of beds.

Sleeping area: (indoors)

·          A good location for the bed is where there’s enough light and airflow during the day, but private and away from high traffic areas.

·          The bed should ideally be in a location where your pet can see you and the rest of the family enjoying yourselves. This is especially important for dogs that suffer from separation anxiety or other behavioral problems commonly associated with their outgoing and affectionate nature.

Outdoor:

·          According to veterinarians, it is best if your pet has a yard and the option of going outside. This could be in a kennel or on a tether.

·          It’s also helpful for them to have an outdoor shelter that they can use when there’s inclement weather. Make sure it’s ventilated and elevated off the ground.

·          As some dogs tend to be active during the night, it is important that you make sure their bed is comfortable and filled with quality materials such as cotton or wool. This will help keep them warm and dry without adding too much weight.

Whether indoors or outdoors, I have reviewed the best dog beds for you here.