Tips for Finding the Right Bed for Your Dog

Most of our dogs lead active lives and need a comfortable sleep. If you are one of many dog owners who opt for dog beds then today you have many more choices than you did in the past. There are many designs of dog bed out there and one that is perfect for the breed, size, health and age of your pup. Even if you do not plan to buy online ;shopping online will give you an idea about the different types of beds available for your dog.

Outdoor Dog Beds

Many breeds of dogs live outside year long. Most will have a dog house and you may have had problems with mildewing or excessively dirty dog bedding. Some folks will be content to throw straw in the dog house, but today there is a nice selection of outdoor dog beds available.When looking for an outdoor dog bed , you need to consider the barrier that keeps dampness from the ground away from your dog. Older dogs can have stiff joints aggravated by long exposure to cold and wet environments.

To help your dog stay dry during the wet months and cool during the hot months you may want to consider a style of dog bed that is off the ground and allows air to circulate underneath.

Like all outside beds , elevated outside dog beds should be water proof. Even if the dog house is providing the bed and your dog some protection from the elements it should be water proof and have at least a cover that is machine washable or even better than can be hosed off.

Beds made for puppies are tricky. They love soft surfaces ,but most puppies chew and you might want a bed that you can easily stick away during play time. Puppy beds also may be subject to soiling accidents. It is best to choose a puppy bed with a machine washable cover. Avoid beds with fringe or other decorations that might pose a choking risk to a young dog . Provide you chewing fur ball pup with lots of chew toys so their bed is a less tempting chewing target.

Orthopedic beds

Many aging dogs appreciate the comfort of an orthopedic dog bed. Many of these beds are made of memory foam and will actually mold to the body shape of your dog. Some orthopedic beds come with optional heating elements. Again make sure your aging dog will not bite into any electrical wires that are used to heat the bed. Again since many older dogs have digestive issues or problems with incontinence it is best to buy a bed with a washable cover.

Designer Beds

There are designer dog beds but they are more for the owners than the dog. Many toy and miniature breeds of dogs sleep happily in designer dog bed. They endure the laughter of the household cat that makes fun of their little frilly beds. Again , you should avoid beds that have hanging decorations that could pose a choking hazard to the dog or the jealous cat.

There are some common sense basics you should consider when buying a dog bed. You need to consider the size and health of your dog. Dogs have preferences to. A friend of mine has a beagle who only wants to sleep in a dog bed most humans would judge too small for the dog. If you dog will corporate take the dog to the pet supply store and see which size bed the dog is attracted to. If you Lab try to sleep in a cat bed human intervention is needed , but if not let your dog picks their own size bed.

Look at where your dog takes their nap now. If they sneak up into your bed or the sofa they will want a softer bed. If they are content on the floor then a firmer bed might serve their needs. Also if you dog spend time outside you may want an outdoor and an indoor bed. If you travel with your dog you may want a travel bed that is easy to transport.

Think about what the bed is filled with. Some beds are filled with cedar chips to repel fleas. If the cover just machine washable or can you throw the whole bed into the laundry. Knowing how dirty your dog is likely to get the bed will also help you pick the right dog bed. Be aware that if you are a new dog owner you may end up accepting the fact that your bed will become the dog bed.

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