Tips and Ideas on How to Choose the Best Dog Bed for Your Furry Friend

Dogs are an important part of many households. They are warm, affectionate, and loyal creatures. Cuddling and snuggling are no doubt some of the best perks they come with, however, to ensure a happy and healthy life for your pet, there are other more important things to consider beyond water, food, and a collar. Your dog needs to feel comfortable above all. Hence, choosing the right dog bed is essential. Aside from keeping your furry friend warm, a dog bed can help support arthritic joints and prevent calluses.

Different Types of Dog Beds

Dog beds are an excellent way to make your furry friend feel loved and comfortable. After all, dogs are considered to be man’s best friends and they deserve all the love and care that they can get. Take a look at some of the most popular beds for dogs.

Cushioned Dog Beds

These come in a variety of different forms such as the oval, round or rectangular shapes. They are available in a wide range of fabrics ranging from cotton to waterproof materials. Some also include pillows that can be removed when washing.

Nest Beds

These are similar to cushion beds but with a scooped-out center to resemble a nest. Again, they come in a variety of different shapes and sizes as well as fabrics.

Gel-infused Foam

This is an excellent material for those dogs with joint problems as it is specially designed to provide support without being too hard on their joints and bones. It is also comfortable and soft for them to sleep on whilst still providing enough support for them.

Dog Hammocks

These come in a variety of different designs ranging from hanging basket style ones to hammocks that lay on the floor or suspended between two pieces of furniture such as chairs; the latter is particularly useful if you have limited floor space in your home.

Choosing the Right Material

There are also different types of materials used to make dog beds. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to examine each one before making a buying decision.

For example, if you have a dog that likes to chew, then you will want to consider a bed made from tough material. You can find an orthopedic bed that is made from memory foam or one that is waterproof. This type of bed is ideal for an older dog that has trouble getting up and down, a dog suffering from arthritis, or for a dog that is recovering from surgery.

Fleece and other synthetic materials can be washed and dried easily in the washing machine and dryer, which makes them convenient for those who are constantly washing their dogs’ beds in order to keep them clean. Some dogs may be allergic to some materials, so you will want to take this into consideration too. If your dog has allergies, then it would be best to buy a bed that is organic in nature or one that is made from cotton or wool.

Durability Is Key if You Have a Destructive Dog

Deciding on the right dog bed can be a challenging task, especially if you have a puppy or a particularly destructive dog. Because the right bed will last longer than a cheap one, it’s worth the extra money to invest in one that can withstand claws and teeth. The first step is to determine your pet’s chewing habits. If they’re only occasional chewers, then a basic bed is fine. For an aggressive chewer or digger, however, you’ll need to choose something much tougher.

Tough beds are usually made from canvas, ballistic nylon (which looks similar but has more give), or plastic panels that are screwed together. These beds can stand up to even the hardest chewers and diggers, but they may be less comfortable.

Consider the Size and Weight of Your Dog

The size of the dog bed is an important factor that needs to be taken into consideration when shopping for beds for dogs. This is because dogs come in various sizes and weights. For instance, a large dog would need a larger bed than a small dog. If you have an adult dog, then it is best to purchase a larger bed so that he will have enough space to fit comfortably and lie down conveniently.

The weight of the dog is also another vital factor you should take into consideration when shopping for a new pet’s bedding. Dog beds are designed differently depending on their weight and size. For instance, if your dog weighs more than 100 pounds, then it will be wise if you purchase an orthopedic bed that is designed specifically for large breeds.

If your canine friend weighs up to 30 pounds, then you may opt to buy a soft and thick pet bed made from memory foam or down feathers for your pet to sleep in. These types of beds are very soft and comfortable for dogs that weigh less than 30 pounds since they are lighter and don’t require support as much as bigger dogs do.

Choose a Dog Bed with a Machine Washable Removable Cover

You may want to consider choosing a dog bed with a machine-washable removable cover. This way, when your dog has an accident or simply gets dirty, all you have to do is take the cover off and throw it in the washing machine; thus, making cleaning quick and easy. Some dog beds also feature an inner cushion that can be removed as well if needed.

To Sum Up

At the end of the day, choosing a dog bed is more about your dog’s needs, than it is about your own personal preference. And while some dogs need just a couple of hours of sleep, others will be happier with a bed that can keep them cozy all night long. Do some research, ask around (from pet owners and pet professionals), and do some field testing before making your final decision. Good luck!