A Simple Guide to Choosing the Best Dog Bed for Your Pooch

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Length – Measure the length of your dog from nose to tail, and then add a few centimetres (10-15 cm) for larger dogs.
Weight – The weight of the dog will help you determine if you need extra support for the bed. If your dog is overweight, you may want to consider buying a sofa style pet bed as it will offer more support than traditional beds.
Sleeping position – Determine what sleeping position your dog uses when it sleeps. If he likes to stretch out at night and sleep flat on his stomach, then you will need a larger bed; however, if he sleeps curled up in a ball or on his side, then a smaller bed will be sufficient.

There are many dog parents out there who are unsure about which pet bed to purchase for their beloved furry pal. The main reason to pick one bed before another is comfort – a dog bed must be comfortable enough so that your furry friend can feel safe and sleep in it at night. Aside from that, it should also be durable and able to withstand your pet’s chewing habits so that you don’t have to buy a new one every single month or more often. 

That said, it can be overwhelming to find a good one, as there are so many choices. For that reason, if you’re looking for some advice on which pet beds are the best, read this simple guide that can make the task much easier for you. 

What Types of Dog Beds Are There to Choose From? 

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There are a variety of different types of beds that you can choose from. It’s important to understand that each has its own purpose and comes with specific features. Some examples are the many orthopedic, memory foam, heated, cooling, pillow top and waterproof dog beds on the market. Your choice should be based on your dog’s needs, its sleeping environment, as well as personal preference.

What Are Your Dog’s Sleeping Habits?

Start by thinking about your dog’s health state. Does he/she have any special medical needs that need to be addressed? – For instance, dogs with arthritis and other musculoskeletal diseases would benefit from orthopedic beds the most. Orthopedic beds are great for dogs who suffer from arthritis or other joint problems because they provide support where it’s needed most-around the hips and spine which reduces pressure points when sleeping.

Also, consider where your dog sleeps now. Does he sleep in his crate? If he does that may be a good place for him to have his own pet bed. Or if you have a favourite chair that your dog likes to sleep on, you can buy a pet bed that is similar in shape and size to that chair. 

Then, think about whether your pet likes to snuggle or stretch out. If your dog likes to curl up, choose a round or oval-shaped pet bed; it will give him more space to curl up against. A rectangular-shaped bed is better for dogs that like to stretch out when they sleep (like Greyhounds and Labradors).

These are all questions you need to ask yourself in order to find the best bed for your dog.

Picking the Right Material

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The material you choose will also somewhat depend on how your dog likes to sleep. If he/she prefers to sleep on the side or on the stomach then a soft fabric like fleece would work best. However, if he/she likes sleeping curled up then something like memory foam to sink in would be better suited to their needs.

You can also get beds made from a blend of materials such as cotton or polyester which are more durable but less breathable than other fabrics. They also come in various colours and patterns so there is something out there for everyone!

Bed Size Matters

Probably the most important thing you need to do when purchasing a new bed for your dog is to determine the size. To do so, start by measuring your dog and comparing the measurements with the dimensions of the beds offered. There are different methods of measurement, and you do not want to make an error in this area as it can result in a dog bed that is too small or too large for your needs. To measure your dog, you need to consider three things: length, weight, and sleeping position.

  • Length – Measure the length of your dog from nose to tail, and then add a few centimetres (10-15 cm) for larger dogs.
  • Weight – The weight of the dog will help you determine if you need extra support for the bed. If your dog is overweight, you may want to consider buying a sofa style pet bed as it will offer more support than traditional beds.
  • Sleeping position – Determine what sleeping position your dog uses when it sleeps. If he likes to stretch out at night and sleep flat on his stomach, then you will need a larger bed; however, if he sleeps curled up in a ball or on his side, then a smaller bed will be sufficient.

How Easy Is It to Clean?

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Dogs are dogs, so the bed will get dirty more often than you think. Especially if it’s meant to be used outside. That said, it’s recommended to consider the range of waterproof dog beds which are great for patios, decks and other outside areas as they can resist rain, splashes, and UV exposure. 

But even waterproof beds will get dirty, so it’s important that you can easily clean yours. If you choose a dog bed with a removable cover, you can simply throw it in your washing machine and wash it whenever it needs cleaning. This will keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come.

To Sum Up

Luckily for you, there are many dog beds out there to choose from! It’s really just a matter of finding the one that’s best for your pup. Do some research, talk to experienced pet parents, and think about what you and your dog would like. And once you’ve found a good fit, enjoy all the dog naps your dog can have on it!