Choosing the Right Bed for Your Dog

Average:

Your rating: None Average: 4 (1 vote)

Dogs can spend up to 12 hours a day sleeping, so the right bed can have a big impact on their wellbeing. There are a few factors to keep in mind when making a selection:

· First, observe how your dog prefers to sleep. Does he like to sprawl on the floor, cuddle on the couch or rest on a pillow?

· Next, consider any special medical needs he might have, such as arthritis or joint problems.

· If you and your dog do a lot of traveling, another thing to keep in mind is the bed’s portability.

Common types of dog beds include:

The Pillow Bed

Pillow beds are the most common type of dog bed. Available in many shapes, sizes and colors, they’re perfect for dogs that like to stretch out. These beds often come with outer liners that can be removed for easy cleaning and are typically packed with Poly-fil®, chipped foam or a cedar chip mixture.

Fun fact: Cedar chips are a natural flea repellant.

The Bolster Bed

The bolster bed (or cuddler bed) is perfect for dogs that like to curl up on the couch. Bolster beds typically offer a full or partial wall for dogs to rest their heads on, and many include removable liners or pillow-top cushions that can be easily cleaned.

The Orthopedic Bed

Perfect for large breeds and older dogs prone to joint and hip disorders, the orthopedic bed contains a deep foam cushion that alleviates pressure points, allowing for a more comfortable sleep. Foam is the most durable of bed fillers, it insulates well in cold weather and it can help disperse body heat in the summer.

The Heated Bed

A heated bed is great for dogs plagued by arthritis or joint problems, as the therapeutic heat can assist with sore and stiff muscles. Thin-coated dogs also love curling up in these comfy, low-wattage beds.

Mats, Pads and Travel Beds

If you and your dog travel a lot – whether it’s to a friend’s house or camping in the great outdoors – you can create a comfortable, economical resting spot anywhere with a mat, pad or travel bed. Mats and pads are usually made of a firm polyfoam and covered in washable nylon fabric. Travel beds easily roll up and come in a wide variety of weather-resistant materials.

Tags: