Choosing the right dog bed for your pet can go a long way toward ensuring that he will be both happy and comfortable. After all, he will be spending a lot of time stretched out either sleeping or relaxing. Wouldn’t you rather he did this on his own bed rather than on your couch or bed?
When you decide to get your pet his own dog bed there are a few things to take into consideration before making your purchase. Let’s look at a few of these things.
It won’t be quite as simple as heading down to the closest pet shop and grabbing the first bed you see. With the huge variety in specialty pet beds, you will want to decide what type you want before you shop.
It’s really important to find a dog bed that is large enough for your pooch. Ideally you will want to get a bed that will fit your dog’s size. Just as there are large and small dogs, there are large and small beds. If your dog is a larger breed for example, he will be uncomfortable trying to squeeze onto a bed that is too small.
It’s not as much of an issue if you own a smaller dog and decide to get him a larger bed so he has lots of room. Some breeds though prefer sleeping quarters that just fit. The exception is for puppies. Here you will want to get a bed that will be large enough when he is full grown.
You will also want to think about the material that the bed is covered with. Almost any heavy duty material that will stand up to everyday wear and tear is suitable. Some of the more common choices are fleece or denim.
When you choose a fabric for your pet’s bed, think about his breed, the climate you live in, and where you will locate the bed. Larger breed dogs or those with heavy coats will find cotton or canvas to be cooler to lie on. Short haired or smaller dogs may find a material such as fleece to feel warmer.
If your pup will be using the bed primarily outdoors, fabric choice is important. It won’t be as much of an issue if the bed is mainly for indoor use. But with that said, inside temperature should also be taken into consideration when you decide on a bed.
You will also want to choose a bed that fits the available space. If your dog sleeps in a crate, choose a crate style bed for the best fit. On the other hand, if space is limited, you may want to choose a corner style bed.
Whatever kind of bed you decide on, if possible choose washable dog beds. But if the bed you have your heart set on is not washable, then simply put a machine washable cover on it. That way, when it gets soiled or smelly, you can take it off and toss it in your washer to freshen it up.
Last but certainly not least is to keep in mind the age and overall health of your beloved pet. For younger active dogs, a bed should have a good amount of high quality foam, so the bed maintains its shape and density.
A good quality bed is especially important for pets that may be experiencing joint pain for one reason or another. There are specially manufactured orthopedic dog beds to provide some relief. These beds are made using high density foam which provides better overall support. Dogs find it easier to get up off of an orthopedic bed, thereby putting less stress on the joints.
These are a few things to consider when looking for a bed for your dog. By taking the time to choose the right dog bed for your pet, you are helping to ensure that he will be happy and comfortable.
After introducing your new puppy to his new home, he will be ready for a snooze. Why not provide him with a cozy heated dog bed for inside. Even in summer, he’ll find his bed a warm spot in an air conditioned home. For outside, help him keep cool with a coolaroo dog bed. Coolaroo dog beds sit off the ground allowing for air flow underneath.
This entry was posted
on Thursday, June 24th, 2010 at 12:49 pm and is filed under puppies.
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