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Dog Bedding - Which Dog Bed Best Suits Your Pup?
Dogs today enjoy more luxuries than their canine ancestors. From gourmet snacks and days at the spa to designer paw booties, no need goes unfulfilled.
However, no canine product can compete with the number of designs available for dog beds. No longer are dog beds simply a larger version of a pillow. The loving dog owner can choose from a wide variety of dog bed styles, including chaises, hammocks, swings or canopy beds. Dog beds can cost well over $1,000, redefining the image of a pampered pooch.
However, will your dog even use the dog bed you choose, or will he still prefer that well worn spot on the carpet? Here are some tips on whether you need a dog bed and how to choose the best one for your royal canine.
Does Fido Need a Dog Bed?
Dog owners disagree on the necessity of owning a dog bed. Some dogs will use them constantly, sitting only in rooms where they have their own special bed. Other dogs will initially resolutely stay off of them - or instantly tear each dog bed to shreds the minute they are left alone.
However, generally speaking, dogs inherently appreciate a bed, which is a place they can call their own. Dogs are den animals, meaning they are genetically accustomed to having a small space to which they can retreat.
Most dogs will use a dog bed at least occasionally, especially if it allows them to be close to you. This can be very helpful if you have a large dog who prefers sleeping as close to you as possible, such as in your bed. By placing a dog bed alongside your own bed and spending the first few nights reassuringly reaching down to pet them frequently, you can generally convince your canine that this is an acceptable sleeping arrangement and reclaim your own mattress for human use.
Also, smaller dogs frequently enjoy the comfort of curling up in a small space, and a bed sized just for them with padded sides can allow them to quietly pass the time that you are away from the home.
What to Look For in Dog Beds
No matter how pampered your pooch is, they will get muddy paws, become sick on occasion, and chew their bones in their dog bed. Therefore, colors and patterns that hide stains are always preferable, as are stain-resistant fabric options. A dog bed with a 100% washable cover can significantly extend the life of the bed, and you may even be able to replace just the cover periodically.
You should also ensure that the seams have double-stitching, as well as a synthetic zipper - all which will add to the longevity of your dog bed.
The sizing of your dog bed is quite important, as you want to ensure that your best friend is comfortable. There are several elements to consider in choosing the appropriately sized dog bed:
- Measure your standing dog from his nose to his tail's base. Then measure your dog from the floor to his shoulders. This will give you a general estimate for the width and length of the dog bed. If you are considering a mattress type of dog bed, you can add twelve inches to give your pooch sufficient space to stretch out and be comfortable.
- If your dog likes to nest or curl into a ball to rest, then you can consider buying beds that have edges. In this scenario, measure the overall length of your dog from his head to his hindquarters while he is curled up and sleeping. Add another eight inches to these measurements, and this will give you a general guide for what type of nesting bed to buy.
If you have a bigger dog, a bed that allows them to stretch out comfortably is more likely to be used than a bed that does not fit them well. The reverse is true for smaller dogs, especially toy breeds, who tend to want to feel cuddled and safe.
There is also the consideration of what type of filler you should choose for your dog bed. From the traditional foam to advanced memory foam, each filler material presents its own benefits.
- Solid Foam: This is the material traditionally found in dog beds, and the firmer and denser the foam, the better the quality. Solid foam dog beds are ideal for older canines who generally have good health, as well as larger breeds. These are not ideal for dogs who may have arthritis or any joint issues.
- Poly-Fill Foam: In these dog beds, small pieces of foam make up the filler. The quality of these poly-fill foam options ranges, and you want to ensure that you buy one that uses only "high loft" foam, which will ensure that the dog bed maintains its volume.
- "Memory Foam" Material: Similar to the orthopedic memory foam used in human mattresses, this material can also be found in dog beds. This type of foam will mold to your dog's body, making it a comfortable choice for dogs that may have back, hip, knee, or joint problems, as well as arthritis.
Of course, there are dog beds that do not have any particular filling, such as the Kuranda dog beds, which are ideal for dogs that have proven their desire to chew foam-filled beds to shreds.
What to Avoid in Dog Beds
Almost every option available to humans in bedding is available in a dog version. This includes hammock beds, heated beds, inflatable beds that can be tailored to your dog's comfort level, organic options, and velour covers.
Keep in mind that most dogs prefer an option that keeps them close to the floor and close to you. Beds that are on platforms or hang will likely go unused and can be dangerous for older animals. Anything inflatable around an animal with claws and teeth is guaranteed to be a perishable item.
A heated bed is almost always unnecessary. An animal's fur can cause them to get overheated easily, and if they decide to chew on their bed, they can bite into the cord and get severely shocked. If you want a heated bed because the room where your dog sleeps is cold, you may want to reconsider if that room is safe for your dog to stay in for extended periods. Some older animals with arthritis can benefit from a heated bed, but consult your veterinarian first.
Your dog appreciates a space to call his own. Bringing home a suitable dog bed will help your dog rest comfortably in his very own "den".
About the Author Chris Smith is a well respected dog trainer and long time owner of many dog breeds. For further dog training and dog health care advice (and a free ebook) visit - Dog Bedding Store
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