Top tips for buying a dog bed

When buying a dog bed consider the same factors you use when buying a mattress for yourself.

Are you thinking about buying a new bed for your dog?

When you buy a bed for yourself, you take time to consider the firmness of the mattress, the materials used, the size of the bed, and more. Well, the same attention should be given when buying a dog bed.

An adult dog needs anywhere from 12 to 14 hours of sleep per day. Therefore, you want to make sure your pup has a comfy place to sleep!

But how do you pick the right dog bed? Check out this guide to learn how it’s done.

1. Consider the shape

First things first, you need to look at the shape of the bed. When it comes to choosing the shape, your dog can help you make the right decision. The next few times your dog takes a snooze, observe his or her sleeping position.

Does he lean back, curl up, or sprawl out? After observing your dog sleep, here are the shapes you have to choose from:

• Curler: If your dog curls up when sleeping, then they’ll likely be happiest with an oval doughnut bed or a cozy round bed with raised edges
• Burrowers: If your dog likes to dig and then go undercover, then we suggest choosing a cave or nest-style bed
• Sprawlers: To give sprawlers the freedom they need to spread out, we suggest a large, rectangular pillow
• Leaners: Leaners will enjoy the support of a dog couch or bolster-style bed

You can check out the Pet Life website to find the right bed shape for your pup.

2. Consider the support

If your dog is young and healthy, then it should have no trouble slumbering on a bed that’s made from resilient, high-quality polyfill, poly fiberfill, or foam.

However, if your dog is aging or suffering from a chronic illness, then they may require the type of support that only an orthopedic bed can provide. If your dog is arthritic, suffering from hip dysplasia, or recovering from a severe injury, then we recommend opting for an orthopedic bed.

These beds are made from high-density foam that can soothe aches and pains, reduce stress on the joints, and provide superior support. For exceptional therapeutic relief and comfort, we recommend looking for an orthopedic bed that’s made from NASA-certified memory foam.

When buying a dog bed consider your dog’s weight when choosing the right size.

3. Consider the size

Size is also a significant factor to consider when choosing a dog bed. To choose the right size, consider the weight of your dog. Follow these general guidelines:

• Small beds: These are best for dogs up to 40 pounds
• Medium beds: Best for dogs up to 60 pounds
• Large beds: Best for dogs up to 120 pounds
• Extra-large beds: Best for dogs 120 pounds and over

You should also measure your dog, as this will help you determine how much surface area he needs to get a good night’s sleep. Measure your dog when he’s sleeping, starting at the tip of the nose and measuring all the way to the end of their bum.

Then, measure your dog from the crown of its head to its paws. Ideally, you’ll want to obtain this measurement while your dog is standing. Jot these measurements down, and then make sure the bed size you choose gives your dog enough wiggle room when sleeping.

4. Consider the design

Remember, your dog’s bed is going to be a part of your home decor, so make sure you choose a design that reflects the style of your home. Luckily, there are all sorts of styles to choose from, so you should have no trouble finding the right one.

Consider buying a dog bed that’s completely washable or that has a removable cover so you can keep your pup’s bed clean and fresh.

5. Look for other added features

Additionally, there are some other added features that you want to keep your eye out for. These include:

Washability

As we mentioned earlier, your dog spends 12 to 14 hours per day sleeping. In addition to shedding fur, your dog picks up much and dirt throughout the day that’ll eventually wind up in their doggy bed.

This is why it’s smart to choose a dog bed that’s entirely machine washable. Or, at the very least, choose a dog bed that can have a cover put over it so you can easily remove the cover for washing.

Waterproof

Waterproof dog beds or waterproof bed liners are also something to consider buying. If you and your pet live in a wet, rainy climate and your dog spends a lot of time outside in the rain, then a waterproof liner is definitely something you’ll want to invest in.

Heating

While most dogs have no trouble staying warm thanks to their coats, if your home is in a colder climate, purchasing a heated dog bed may help your pup get through those cold winter months.

6. Consider the material

When you buy a mattress for yourself; one of the top things you consider is the material. Well, you also want to be mindful when choosing the material for your dog’s bed. Here are some of the top choices:

Memory foam

While many people think that memory foam beds are just for dogs with orthopedic problems, this isn’t the case. A memory foam bed is great for any dog that needs extra support.

Just like memory foam mattresses, memory foam dog beds also help dogs maintain their body temperature, preventing them from overheating. Not to mention, this bedding material is super comfortable.

Polystyrene pellets

This material is best for dogs that don’t have joint or pain issues. Polystrene pellets allow your dog to “dig in” before sleeping

The pellets are also shape-conforming and warming. Some of these beds also have cedar chips placed inside them, which keeps the bed smelling fresh while repelling insects. However, if you have a hunting dog, cedar chips are not recommended as they can interfere with your dog’s ability to track a scent.

Spun-polyester fill

This is a soft and cozy hypoallergenic material that is great for dogs that don’t have any special needs.

With these tips, it should be easy to find the right bed for your dog! 

What does your dog’s sleep position mean?

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